Haryana Travel Guide

Explore the culture, heritage, and natural beauty of Haryana with our comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Haryana, along with safety tips and transportation options.


Introduction to Haryana

Haryana is a state in North India, bordered by Rajasthan to the south, Himachal Pradesh to the north, and Uttar Pradesh to the east. The state covers an area of 44,212 square kilometers and has a population of 28.2 million. Haryana is one of India’s wealthiest states and is also known for its agricultural development.

List of Places to Visit in Haryana

From ancient temples and museums to scenic lakes and valleys, Haryana has an abundance of tourist attractions. Below are some of the must-visit places in Haryana.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kurukshetra: Known for its association with the epic Mahabharata, Kurukshetra is a sacred place for Hindus. It’s home to several temples, including the Bhadrakali Temple, Hanuman Temple, and Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple.
  • Sultanpur National Park: Spread over an area of 1.43 km², Sultanpur National Park is a popular birdwatching destination. The park is home to over 250 species of birds, including migratory birds like Siberian cranes and gadwall.
  • Pinjore Gardens: Also known as Yadavindra Gardens, Pinjore Gardens is a stunning Mughal garden. Spread over an area of 100 acres, the garden is home to several fountains, lawns, and pavilions.
  • Karnal Fort: Built in the 18th century by Raja Gajpat Singh, Karnal Fort is an excellent example of Mughal architecture. The fort is now a museum that houses several ancient artifacts and displays of Haryana’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Haryana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bhindawas Lake: Bhindawas Lake is the largest natural lake in Haryana, covering an area of 2,413 hectares. The lake is home to over 250 bird species and is a famous birdwatching destination.
  • Damdama Lake: Damdama Lake is a popular picnic spot and adventure destination. The lake is perfect for water sports, including boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
  • Morni Hills: Morni Hills is a picturesque hill station in Haryana. The hills are home to several ancient temples, including the Morni Fort and Tikkar Taal.
  • Sohna: Sohna is a beautiful town located in the foothills of the Aravalli Range. The town is known for its hot spring, which is believed to have medicinal properties.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Haryana

Haryana has several hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the state’s natural beauty. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary Trail: The Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary Trail is a 9-km trail that takes you through the Sultanpur National Park. The trail is perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts.
  • Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary Trail: The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary Trail is a 6-km trail that takes you through the sanctuary, which is home to several wild animals such as leopards, hyenas, and Indian gazelles.
  • Damdama Lake Trail: The Damdama Lake Trail is a 14-km trail that takes you around the beautiful Damdama Lake. The route is perfect for biking enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Haryana: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the tourist attractions, there are several fun activities and tours you can indulge in while in Haryana. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Heritage Walk in Kurukshetra: Take a guided tour of the ancient town of Kurukshetra and explore its rich heritage and culture.
  • Wildlife Safari in Sultanpur National Park: Take a wildlife safari in the Sultanpur National Park and observe the beautiful birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride in Sohna: Get a bird’s eye view of Haryana’s stunning landscape with a hot air balloon ride over the town of Sohna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Haryana

To help you plan your trip to Haryana, below is a week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Pinjore Gardens
Day 2 Heritage Walk in Kurukshetra
Day 3 Wildlife Safari in Sultanpur National Park
Day 4 Drive to Sohna and take a hot air balloon ride
Day 5 Trek to Morni Hills
Day 6 Visit Karnal Fort
Day 7 Relax at Bhindawas Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Haryana

Haryana’s food and drink scene is dominated by its rich agricultural produce. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kachri ki Sabzi: Made with wild berries, Kachri ki Sabzi is a popular dish in Haryana.
  • Bajre ki Khichdi: Made with pearl millet, Bajre ki Khichdi is a nutritious and delicious dish.
  • Kadhi Pakodi: Made with gram flour, Kadhi Pakodi is a tasty yogurt-based dish.

Local Beverages

  • Lassi: A popular yogurt-based drink, Lassi is a refreshing drink perfect for hot summers.
  • Buttermilk: Made with yogurt, buttermilk is a cooling and healthy drink.
  • Chaach: Made with buttermilk and spices, Chaach is a popular drink in Haryana.

Where to Stay in Haryana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Haryana has several options for accommodation, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the popular options include:

  • Taj Chandigarh: A luxurious 5-star hotel located in Chandigarh, the Taj Chandigarh offers world-class amenities and services.
  • Haveli Heritage: Located in Panchkula, the Haveli Heritage is a beautiful guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and personalized service.
  • Hotel Seventeen: A budget hotel located in Chandigarh, Hotel Seventeen offers comfortable rooms and amenities at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Haryana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Haryana is known for its handicrafts, traditional textiles, and agricultural produce. Some of the items you can buy as souvenirs and local products include:

  • Phulkari: A traditional embroidery technique, Phulkari is famous in Haryana and makes for beautiful souvenirs.
  • Wooden Handicrafts: Haryana is known for its skilled artisans who create beautiful wooden handicrafts.
  • Basmati Rice: Haryana is one of the largest producers of Basmati rice in India, and you can bring home some of the delicious and aromatic rice as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Haryana

Haryana has a rich and diverse culture that is influenced by its agricultural heritage. The people of Haryana are known for their hospitality and warmth. Some of the traditional customs and practices in Haryana include:

  • Agricultural Festivals: Haryana celebrates its agricultural heritage with several festivals, including the Harvest Festival and the Teej Festival.
  • Folk Music and Dance: Haryana has a rich tradition of folk music and dance, including the famous folk dance of Haryana, the Ghoomar.
  • Sports and Fitness: Haryana is known for producing some of the best athletes and wrestlers in India, and sports and fitness play an essential role in the state’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Haryana

The best time to visit Haryana is between October and March when the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures are mild. Summers in Haryana can be scorching, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C. Monsoons in Haryana are also hot and humid, making it difficult to explore the state’s beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Haryana

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Haryana, here are some Do’s and Don’ts:

Do:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious places.
  • Carry plenty of drinking water and wear sunscreen and a hat when exploring in the hot weather.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water, always go for bottled water.
  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Take photographs of people without asking for permission.

Safety and Health

Below are some safety and health tips to keep in mind when visiting Haryana:

Safety in Haryana

  • Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
  • Keep your valuables safe and secure, and avoid carrying too much cash.
  • Be cautious while buying things from street vendors, always bargain to avoid overpaying.

Health in Haryana

  • Drink only bottled water and avoid eating street food.
  • Carry a first-aid kit with you, including items like antiseptic, bandages, and painkillers.
  • Don’t forget to take your medication if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to Haryana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Haryana is well-connected to other parts of India, and there are several ways to reach the state. Below are some transportation options:

Airports Near Haryana

  • Chandigarh International Airport: Located in Chandigarh, the airport is the nearest international airport to Haryana.
  • Indira Gandhi International Airport: Located in Delhi, the airport is a major international airport and is well-connected to Haryana.

Bus Stations Near Haryana

  • Chandigarh Bus Stand: Located in Chandigarh, the bus stand offers regular bus services to various parts of Haryana.
  • Delhi Bus Stand: Located in Delhi, the bus stand offers regular bus services to various parts of Haryana.

Other Options

  • Train: Haryana is well-connected by train to other parts of India, with several major railway stations located in the state.
  • Private Taxi: You can also hire a private taxi to travel to Haryana from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Haryana

Haryana has several transportation options to get around, including local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. You can also rent a car or a bike to explore the state’s beauty at your leisure.

Where to Go Next from Haryana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Haryana is well-connected to other parts of India, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions you can take from Haryana. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Chandigarh: Located only 45 km away, Chandigarh is known for its beautiful gardens, museums, and shopping malls.
  • Delhi: Located 250 km away, Delhi is the capital of India and is famous for its historic landmarks, markets, and food.
  • Jaipur: Located 270 km away, Jaipur is known as the Pink City of India and is famous for its palaces, forts, and vibrant culture.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Haryana has something to offer everyone. From ancient temples and Mughal gardens to scenic lakes and valleys, the state is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored. With its rich heritage and culture, warm hospitality, and picturesque landscape, Haryana is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India.

Haryana on map of India Haryana on map of India


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