Dhakoli, Zirakpur

Dhakoli is a locality situated in Zirakpur of Mohali district in Punjab. Its PIN Code is 140603. The locality primarily caters to the residential needs of the locals. Zirakpur’s Dhakoli are well-suited for mid-income families, who are looking for an affordable segment of housing facilities. Apart from being well-connected to nearby localities, Dhakoli also enjoys easy access to the central areas of Chandigarh and the neighbouring state of Haryana.

Up until recent years, Dhakoli was primarily recognised as a village with a rurally inclined lifestyle. Its success, however, lies in its rapid infrastructural growth in the past few years which has converted it into a thriving semi-urban centre. The housing facilities in this area are well-supplied with all the modern amenities and facilities. The neighbourhoods also feature thriving commercial zones along with these residential spaces. Further, Dhakoli also boasts a well-planned transport network which facilitates daily inter and intra-city commutes.

The recent infrastructural boom is complemented by a simultaneous expansion of social facilities as well. Multiple restaurants, shopping complexes and cultural landmarks make for a rich social life in Dhakoli. Future investments from the government and other developmental authorities only hint at further growth for the locality.

Residentially, Dhakoli makes multiple rewarding offerings to its residents. The primary advantages are affordable property and living costs. Housing facilities in this area are characterised by a variety of choices and latest amenities. Facilities like schools, colleges and hospitals are readily accessible, enhancing its overall residential appeal. On the commercial front, local shops and businesses thrive on the streets of this area. Several commercial properties are available in the locality for rent and ownership purposes.

Everyday connectivity in Dhakoli is enhanced by the well-laid road and public transport network. The Ambala-Chandigarh Highway and Patiala-Shimla Highway are among the popular road routes. Local buses operated by PEPSU Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) are preferred channels of daily commutes. Multiple malls, entertainment and recreational facilities have sprung up in Dhakoli in recent years. These developments, in combination with pleasant living conditions, offer a high livability index in this area.

Punjab is a major influence on the entire North-Indian food tradition. The following restaurants in Dhakoli offer the various flavours of Punjab, ranging from daily breads to savoury street food.

• Mughlai Mahal Club House
• Full On Punjabi Dhaba
• Autrin Hash Restaurant
• GupShup
• Punjabi Rasoi
• The Urban Restaurant
• Grilled N Chilled
• Grill INN
• CRAVES - Chinese Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlour
• Down Town Granny’s
• Amritsar Grill & Snacks

• Punjab National Bank
• Bank of Baroda
• IndusInd Bank
• HDFC Bank
• Union Bank ATM
• State Bank of India ATM
• Axis Bank ATM

• Chandigarh Junction Railway Station
• Ghaggar Railway Station
• SAS Nagar Mohali Railway Station

• Pabhat Bus Stop
• Zirakpur Bus Stop
• Victoria Enclave Zirakpur
• Nabha Village 
• Patiala Chowk
• Air Force Station

• Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh

• Anand Bhawan Park
• Nine Acre Park
• Park Baltana
• Vasant Vihar Park
• Kid Small Park
• Monument Park
• Green Valley Park
• Park Jamuna Enclave
• Krishna Enclave Park
• Sunview Park

The following road channels in and around Dhakoli facilitate daily road commutes.

National Highways: NH-5 and NH-7 are closely located near Dhakoli. Both these highways are easily accessible via local roads. NH-5 is a vital route for north and north-eastern connectivity from Dhakoli, while NH-7 is a crucial link to Southern and Central India.

Himalayan Expressway: Part of the National Highway 5, the Himalayan Expressway connects to the mountainous regions of Himachal Pradesh. The route is heavily used during vacation periods for smooth travel to hill stations and their nearby attractions.

Local Roads: Roads like K-Area Road and Vasant Vihar Road among others facilitate intra-locality commute and connect to its various residential pockets.

Owing to its developing status, Dhakoli has garnered an overage average rating of 3.7/5. Such a rating implies a mix of positives and negatives in the locality. Among the primary benefits of this locality is its connectivity. The residents not only enjoy easy access to nearby localities in Mohali but also to the state of Haryana. Further, residents enjoy access to all the necessary facilities - from nearby banks, ATMs, gyms etc. On the other hand, recreational facilities in the locality are still limited. Further, aspects like public cleanliness, waste management and others still require improvement.

Here are the most commonly used road, rail and air routes to visit Dhakoli in Zirakpur, Punjab.

Visitors from states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and others can use NH-5 to visit this locality. Visitors from states like U.P, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and others can use NH-7 to easily reach Dhakoli.

The Chandigarh Junction Railway Station is roughly 8-10 kilometres away. Visitors can easily reach the locality from the railway station via local transport.

Visitors flying into this locality can get down at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport. Roughly, 10-11 kilometres away, it offers domestic as well as international connectivity to Dhakoli.

Steeped in rich history and culture, the Fateh Burj is one of the foremost attractions in Mohali and the tallest tower in the world. ‘Fateh’, literally translating to victory, represents the victory of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur over Wazir Khan. The minaret is, thus, also referred to as Victory Tower. Lush green spaces encircling the iconic minaret, or the Burj, make for perfect picnic spots. Visitors across cities visit the historic village of Chappar Chiri, where the Burj is located. Residents of Dhakoli can use NH 7 to comfortably visit this landmark.

Gurudwara Sri Amb Sahib holds immense historical and religious significance. The Gurudwara is associated with the revered Sikh Guru, Guru Har Rai Ji. It's known for the miraculous 'Ber Tree', which is believed to bear fruit out of season at the Guru's command. The gurudwara's peaceful ambience offers a tranquil retreat, ideal for reflection and prayer. The melodious devotional hymns impart teaching the Sikh philosophy, offering soul-enriching respite from daily hustle. The Ambala-Chandigarh Road can be used to easily visit this getaway from Dhakoli.

Sri Mata Mansa Devi Temple, located near Dhakoli, Zirakpur, is a revered Hindu shrine and a captivating destination for spiritual and cultural enthusiasts. Constructed between 1811 and 1815 by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Mani Majra, the temple complex comprises two temples, including the Patiala temple built in 1840. Dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti, it is a significant religious site.  The temple’s appeal increases multifold during the Navaratri celebrations. The serene surroundings and the temple's historical and spiritual significance make it a peaceful getaway for visitors seeking a blend of devotion and tranquility​.

Siswan Dam, near Dhakoli, Zirakpur, is perfect for those who enjoy calm and scenic locations. This dam, surrounded by majestic Shivalik Hills and built on the Siswan River, is not just a crucial water resource but also a popular tourist spot. It offers a peaceful retreat with lush greenery and a serene lake, making it ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and recreational activities like boating and fishing. The dam's surroundings are also great for hiking and trekking, inviting visitors to explore the scenic trails and pathways.

Chhatbir Zoo, also known as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, is a prominent zoological park covering about 20 km from Chandigarh. Opened in 1977, it houses a vast variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The zoo is renowned for its large walk-in aviary and a diverse collection of wildlife, including Asian palm civets, Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, and gharials. It's a great destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a close encounter with nature and an educational experience​. The zoo opens on all days, except Monday, from 9 am to 5 pm.

Dhakoli in Zirakpur enjoys easy access to multiple neighbouring localities, such as Sector 20, Kishanpura, Preet Colony and Peer Muchalla among others. Each of these localities offers its own distinct characteristics. In contrast to the residential and commercial mix of Dhakoli, Sector 20 primarily caters to only residential requirements. While Kishanpura and Preet Colony are still developing localities where infrastructure is still evolving. Peer Muchalla, on the other hand, mirrors Dhakoli in terms of development, featuring many modern residential complexes and commercial areas.

Dhakoli is a suitable locality for mid-income families looking for a residentially and commercially thriving space. With its semi-urban lifestyle, Dhakoli ensures comfortable and convenient living for its residents. Additionally, the locality's evolving infrastructure and connectivity continue to attract investment and growth, marking it as a burgeoning hub in the Punjab.