Top 10 Places to Explore in Haryana

1. Gurgaon Tourism

Overview of Gurgaon

Gurgaon, formerly a boring and relatively obscure suburb of the national capital region, is now not only one of India’s most urbanised cities, but it also has a skyline that rivals that of Hong Kong and Singapore. Gurgaon, which is easily accessible from Delhi and Noida, is quickly gaining popularity as a tourist destination. Gurgaon has everything you need, from natural wonders to a thriving lifestyle and a dynamic nightlife. Despite being a landlocked city, Gurgaon features a number of nature-related attractions. The Sultanpur National Park and Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a diverse range of unique flora and wildlife as well as bird species, is a great spot to unwind and rest in nature. Sohna Lake is another renowned tourist attraction, named after a stream whose sand is thought to contain gold particles (thus the name ‘Sohna’). Sohna Lake, which offers a picturesque view of the Aravalli Alps, is a popular picnic spot for both locals and tourists. Damdama Lake, the city’s largest natural lake, not only provides a relaxing environment but also offers adventure sports such as kayaking, rock climbing, boating, and valley crossing. You may even relax and fish on the lake while watching the sunset behind the Aravallis, which paints the sky in spectacular red and orange.

2. Kurukshetra Tourism

Overview of Kurukshetra

Kurukshetra, also known as Dharmakshetra, is a city in Haryana that is referred to as the “Land of the Bhagavad Gita”. The region, located 170 km north of Delhi, is notable for the fight between the Kauvaras and the Pandavas in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. It is said that Lord Krishna recited the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna at this location. Kurukshetra was formerly a major site for both Vedic civilisation and education. Lord Buddha and various Sikh Gurus are recorded to have visited and stayed in Kurukshetra. The area contains a vast number of religious centres, holy shrines, and kunds dating back to the epic eras and the early Indian civilisation. Archaeological evidence suggests that this city existed before Harrapan times.Kurukshetra was also known as Thanesar or Sthaneswar, which means ‘place of God’. Archaeological evidence shows that Ashoka, the Mauryan king, established Kurukshetra as a centre of learning for people from all across the world. The area is well-known for its temples, lakes, and museums that preserve the heritage of pre-Harappan and Harappan civilisations. Amin, a village a few kilometres from Kurukshetra, contains vestiges of a fort thought to be Arjun’s son, Abhimanyu’s fort.

3. Panipat Tourism

Overview of Panipat

Panipat, 90 kilometres from Delhi, is famous for the three historical battles that took place there. Panipat, Haryana, is a popular tourist destination due to its numerous monuments, forts, temples, and wonderful historical ties. This city, also known as the ‘City of Weavers’ and ‘Textile City’, is important for textile manufacture. Panipat was one of five cities (prasthas) established by the Pandava brothers during the Mahabharata era. The remnants of the Islamicate-era Old Fort, the Kabuli Shah Mosque, Ibrahim Lodhi’s grave, and the tomb of Bu Ali Shah Kalandar are guaranteed to pique your interest in archaeology and educate you with some amazing historical splendour.

4. Morni Hills Tourism

Overview of Morni Hills

Morni Hills is a hill station on the borders of Panchkula, Haryana, close to Chandigarh. Being Haryana’s sole hill station, it is a favourite picnic place for both residents and tourists. The hills are 1,220 metres tall and have some truly breathtaking views to offer. In addition to being a spectacular vista point, Morni Hills is an important archaeological site, with engravings dating back to the 7th century discovered in the Thakur Dwar Temple. It’s also an excellent area to go trekking and bird watching. Popular birds seen here include the Wallcreeper, Crested Kingfisher, Bar-tailed Treecreeper, Blue Peafowl, Kalij Pheasant, Red Junglefowl, Grey Francolin, Quails, Himalayan Bulbul, and Oriental Turtle Dove. The entire journey from Chandigarh to these tiny hills, which are only 45 km away, is breathtaking. Before arriving at Morni Hills, you will pass through forests and magnificent pine trees on your route to the Shivalik foothills. There are two lakes here as well, which are interconnected despite the presence of a mound in between, so that the water level in both remains constant. The lake is considered auspicious by locals and serves as a focal point for numerous festivals. The Morni fort’s remains can also be found near the hills. In addition to the environment, there is a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts. Morni Hills, a hidden gem of nature, is a must-see for anyone searching for a quick weekend escape from Chandigarh.

5. Kalesar National Park Tourism

Overview of Kalesar National Park

Kalesar National Park is a protected region in Yamuna Nagar, Haryana, spanning 13,000 acres (53 km²). It is ideal for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Because of its natural scenic splendour and incredible flora and wildlife, the park is also an excellent tourist and picnic destination for families. Leopards and panthers are easy to spot. Bird lovers also enjoy the area, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds fill the skies with brilliant colours. The park is not just limited to this. You can also wear camouflage clothing and go on exhilarating wildlife expeditions.

History

The area was designated a national park on December 8, 2003. It was named after the Kalesar Mahadev temple, which is located within the park’s grounds. Previously, monarchs of the Mughal and British Raj used the area for hunting. They primarily hunted tigers. Around 1892, the number of tigers in the area decreased dramatically. Hunting was forbidden in the park in the early twentieth century after the numbers plummeted to an alarming low.

6. Chandigarh Tourism

Overview of Chandigarh

Chandigarh, India’s first planned city and a union territory, serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. Designed by renowned architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s, Chandigarh elegantly integrates traditional Punjabi culture with modernism, providing tourists with a vivid and dynamic experience. Chandigarh, located around 265 kilometres from Delhi, is a popular weekend destination as well as an important transit point for travellers heading to Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. Chandigarh, with its well-planned layout, open areas, and modernist architecture, exemplifies northern India’s urban design and innovation. A quiet boat ride on Sukhna Lake provides a peaceful respite, while must-see attractions include the Rock Garden, a tribute to creative reuse, and the expansive Leisure Valley, which has Asia’s largest rose garden. The Capitol complex, also known as the Le Corbusier Centre and now a museum, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells Chandigarh’s rich history through architectural brilliance. The Capitol also houses the state’s Vidhan Sabha, High Court, and Secretariat. The city provides calm respites amidst urban activity, and its diversified culinary scene tantalises taste buds with Punjabi and foreign flavours. Chandigarh’s appeal goes beyond its architecture and food; its lively nightlife and bustling markets, such as Sector 17, add to its allure. The city’s closeness to the Himalayan foothills, which provides opportunities for trekking and hiking, is consoling for adventure seekers. Chandigarh’s pleasant climate and lively atmosphere entice visitors to experience a fusion of modernity, culture, and natural splendour.

7. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary Tourism

Overview of Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a fantastic weekend escape from Delhi, especially for those who enjoy the outdoors and birdwatching. It is home to many migratory birds and is a great place to spot the various species, especially during the winter months. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is located on the Gurgaon-Farukh Nagar Road, 40 kilometres from Dhaula-Kuan in Delhi. During the peak season, which is September and during the winter, there are an astounding 250 species of birds here. The Haryana government proclaimed Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary a National Park, and it is home to a diverse range of resident and migratory species. Various types of migrating birds flock here after travelling long distances from Europe, Siberia, and Central Asia. To facilitate bird observation, approximately four towers have been erected at various sites on this land.

8. Karnal Tourism

Overview of Karnal

Karnal, a city in the Indian state of Haryana, has a rich history dating back to the Mahabharata. Karnal, located on the banks of the sacred Yamuna River, is famously known as the ‘Rice Bowl of India’ because to its huge rice fields. Karnal, located in the National Capital Region, offers a limited number of tourist attractions, the most popular of which is Karna Lake. It is claimed that the mythological hero Karna, after whom the city is called, distributed alms to the destitute here. Karnal is home to numerous world-class R&D institutes, including the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) and the Directorate of Wheat Research (DWR). The best way to experience this town is to take a leisurely walk while indulging in local cuisine.

9. Rohtak Tourism

Overview of Rohtak

Rohtak, the heart of Haryana, is located just 70 kilometres from Delhi, the heart of India, and is part of the National Capital Region (NCR). There have been many rumours about the city’s name and origins, and evidence suggests that the old town is as old as the Indus Valley Civilisation. Rohtak District is separated into two parts: Rohtak and Meham. However, Rohtak lies 250 kilometres south of the state capital Chandigarh on the NH9. Rohtak joined the NCR to secure cheaper infrastructure financing. This has allowed for gradual development while also retaining the City’s historical significance. Rohtak is a city with a vast history, which is maintained in its abandoned but cultivated ruins. Rohtak boasts some of the most beautiful lakes, including Bhindawas Lake and Tilyar Lake. Tilyar Lake Complex has a zoo within its enormous campus, which makes for an excellent outing. Rohtak also caters to the fun-loving crowd with the Splash Water Park, which promises to provide endless entertainment. Rohtak is not well-known in Indian tourism, but its celebrations and traditions are waiting to be discovered by the world’s tourists.

10. Faridabad Tourism

Overview of Faridabad

Faridabad is Haryana’s largest city and also a major industrial hub. Faridabad is the principal city of the Faridabad district, which is divided into two parts: Faridabad and Ballabgarh. The city borders New Delhi to the north, Gurgaon to the west, and Uttar Pradesh to the south-west.