Overview
Capital: Chandigarh (shared with Punjab)
Largest City: Faridabad
Best Time to Visit: October – March
Official Language: Hindi
Known For: Historical sites, cultural festivals, handicrafts, and vibrant rural tourism
Haryana, meaning “the abode of God,” is where the Mahabharata was fought (Kurukshetra). Today, it’s a land of ancient history, spiritual heritage, and emerging modern cities like Gurugram and Faridabad.
Top Tourist Destinations
1. Kurukshetra
- The legendary battlefield of the Mahabharata.
- Major Attractions:
- Brahma Sarovar
- Jyotisar (where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita)
- Kurukshetra Panorama & Science Centre
- Sannihit Sarovar
2. Pinjore Gardens (Yadavindra Gardens)
- Located near Panchkula.
- A Mughal-style terraced garden built in the 17th century.
- Famous for the Pinjore Heritage Festival and evening light shows.
3. Gurugram (Gurgaon)
- Haryana’s modern hub — shopping malls, nightlife, and technology parks.
- Highlights:
- Kingdom of Dreams
- Cyber Hub
- Leisure Valley Park
- Ambience Mall
4. Hisar
- Known as the “Steel City” and a center of archaeological sites.
- Must-Visit:
- Firoz Shah Palace Complex
- Agroha Dham
- Blue Bird Lake
5. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary
- Near Gurugram; paradise for bird watchers.
- Over 250 species of migratory and resident birds including flamingos and cranes.
6. Panchkula
- A planned city with temples, gardens, and scenic hills.
- Key Spots:
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Morni Hills (ideal for trekking and boating)
- Cactus Garden
7. Morni Hills
- The only hill station in Haryana.
- Great for trekking, boating, bird watching, and nature walks.
8. Narnaul
- Rich in history from the Mughal and Rajput eras.
- Top Attractions:
- Jal Mahal
- Chor Gumbad
- Tripolia Gateway
Popular Experiences
- Rural Tourism: Experience village life at Surajkund, Sohna, or Rewari.
- Adventure: Paragliding at Morni Hills, nature treks, and eco-camps.
- Festivals:
- Surajkund International Crafts Mela (February)
- Pinjore Heritage Festival (December)
- Gita Jayanti Mahotsav (Kurukshetra)
Cuisine Highlights
- Simple, hearty, and flavorful rural dishes.
- Must-try items:
- Bajra Khichdi, Kachri ki Sabzi, Bhutte ka Kees, Roti with Ghee, Lassi, Churma, Methi Gajjar.
Shopping
- Handlooms, pottery, wooden crafts, and phulkari embroidery.
- Best places: Surajkund Mela, Gurugram markets, Kurukshetra handicraft shops.
How to Reach
- By Air:
- Nearest major airport – Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi)
- Domestic airports – Hisar, Chandigarh (shared)
- By Rail:
- Major junctions: Ambala, Kurukshetra, Rewari, Rohtak, Hisar
- By Road:
- Excellent connectivity via NH-44, NH-48, and NH-9
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Oct – Mar | Best for sightseeing & festivals |
| Summer | Apr – Jun | Avoid heat, except hill areas like Morni |
| Monsoon | Jul – Sep | Green landscapes, fewer tourists |
Travel Tips
- Carry light woollens in winter.
- Respect local customs in villages and temples.
- Ideal base cities for tourists: Gurugram, Kurukshetra, and Panchkula.