Photo Essay : Rooted in time, Chandigarh’s peepal trees, ‘living giants,’ tell a story

Chandigarh, the City Beautiful: Renowned for its meticulously planned layout, lush green landscapes and tree-lined avenues, the city continues to live up to its title as the ‘City Beautiful.’ The city's abundant green cover, well-maintained parks and rich biodiversity not only enhance its visual appeal, but also provides a healthy and sustainable environment for its residents and visitors.

Among its greatest natural assets are the majestic mature trees that have stood for decades, silently witnessing the city's journey since its inception. These towering trees are more than just part of the landscape — they are living heritage, serving as significant green landmarks and playing a vital role in preserving Chandigarh's ecological balance and unique character.

In this special photo feature, our Principal Staff Photographer captures some of Chandigarh's most iconic heritage trees, showcasing the city's rich natural legacy. The collection includes the nearly 350-year-old Bargad at Punjab Engineering College, Sector 12; the 300-year-old Bargad in Dadu Majra village; the 250-year-old Peepal at the MC Park, Sector 9; the 200-year-old Peepal at the Basanti Devi Sheetla Mata Temple, Sector 24-B; the 170-year-old Banyan Tree at the Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Sector 18-D; and the 150-year-old Peepal along the Sukhna Lake walkway in Sector 1.

Each image reflects the timeless beauty, grandeur and historical significance of these living monuments, which continue to enrich Chandigarh's green landscape and reinforce its identity as one of India's finest garden cities.