Chandigarh, a bustling metropolitan, serves as the common capital of Punjab and Haryana whilst maintaining its status as a union territory. Bordered by Punjab to its sides and Haryana to the east, it links the satellite towns of Panchkula and Mohali, forming the larger Chandigarh Capital Region. Originally planned by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, the city reflects international architectural standards integrated with modern urban design. The Capitol Complex, a noted World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2016, is one of Chandigarh's treasured landmarks designed by Le Corbusier.

Bestowed with one of the highest per capita incomes and an impressive Human Development Index in India, Chandigarh resonates with prosperity. It is recognised for its resident contentment, topping the list as India's happiest city in a 2015 LG Electronics survey. The city's nomenclature finds its roots in the ancient Chandi Mandir, a temple to honour the Hindu deity Chandi. This self-proclaimed 'City of Beauty' is built on the principles of the City Beautiful movement, an urban design philosophy that Chandigarh has embraced.

Constructed post the 1947 partition, Chandigarh was made the capital of Punjab. Encircled by lush parks and vibrant attractions such as the enchanting Zakir Hussain Rose Garden and intriguing Rock Garden, it's a green urban sanctuary. Predominantly a Hindu society, it also hosts Sikh and Muslim communities lending to the city's diverse and rich cultural backdrop. Governed by its civic administration led by a Municipal Commissioner, Chandigarh as a union territory falls under the direct control of the central government.