In Haryana, a state bursting with vibrant colors, the past and present coexist harmoniously. The region is renowned for its historical gems, cultural tapestry, natural beauty, and delightful climate. Marvel at breathtaking sunsets, impressive architecture, upscale hotels, verdant fields, and flourishing farms. Essentially, Haryana is a complete package for the perfect tourist destination. Furthermore, Haryana’s identity as the “Land of Milk and Butter” beckons you to explore its diverse temples and lakes, expanding your horizons.
Best Places to Visit in Haryana
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary
The internationally renowned Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary was initially explored by the renowned ornithologist, Peter Jackson. Encompassing an expansive 400-acre area, this lake sanctuary boasts a diverse avian population of over 100 species hailing not only from the local environs but also from Europe and beyond. Every year, from October to February, the sanctuary becomes a nesting ground for birds including those from far-flung Siberia.
The central feature of this sanctuary is the sprawling 150-acre jheel (lake), which serves as a haven for numerous duck species such as ruddy shelducks, mallards, pochards, shovellers, teals, gadwalls, greylag and bar-headed geese. Adding to the spectacle are the arrivals of flamingoes, pelicans, and delicate demoiselle cranes from distant lands. The skies also welcome avian visitors from nearby regions: painted storks, spoonbills, white ibises, herons, grand cormorants, egrets, red-wattled lapwings, and plovers. Undoubtedly, the sanctuary stands as a prime tourist attraction in Haryana.
Panipat
An historic site where some of the most intense battles in Indian history unfolded. Throughout the annals of Indian history, this region has stood witness to monumental clashes between powerful empires vying for supremacy. Landmarks such as the Grave of Ibrahim Lodhi, Kabuli Bagh Mosque, and Devi Temple stand as poignant testaments to this history. These attractions constitute some of the primary reasons to explore this area, firmly establishing it as a key tourist destination in Haryana.
- Salar Gunj Gate
- Old Fort
- Panipat Museum
- Kabuli Bagh
- Devi Temple
- Kabuli Shah Mosque
- Grave Of Ibrahim Lodhi
- Kala Amb Tree Site
- Bu Ali Shah Kalandar
Surajkund
Every February, Surajkund in Faridabad, Haryana becomes a vibrant hub of color, rhythmic drum beats, and unbridled joy. The Surajkund International Crafts Mela, starting on February 1st, celebrates India’s folk heritage and crafts, drawing over a million visitors including international tourists. This grand event, the world’s largest crafts fair, is a testament to India’s diverse handicrafts and handlooms and is a collaborative effort by the Surajkund Mela Authority and Haryana Tourism. With participation from numerous countries and all Indian states, it has grown into a global cultural extravaganza.
Renowned folk artists and cultural groups grace open-air theaters during the day, offering captivating performances, while the evenings host cultural programs that continue to captivate. Amidst the celebration, a special section is dedicated to preserving fading heritage crafts threatened by machine-made imitations. The Mela experience is enriched with a diverse multi-cuisine Food Court, amusement zones, and adventure sports, making it a truly inclusive event. What began as a local fair has transformed into an international phenomenon since 2013, and its ever-increasing participation reflects its significance on the global stage.
