During the Mahabharata period, Haryana's geography and territory served as a battlefield. This state is known for its arts, music, archaeological history, food, colourful festivals, and shopping. This state in India has a rich and distinguished history that dates back to the Vedic era. It is called "The Abode of God" for a multitude of reasons. Veda Vyasa penned the Mahabharata in this region.
Haryana is a small state in North India that covers 44,000 square kilometres and is located in the Aravalli mountain range's foothills. It was formed in 1966 when the previous state of Punjab was divided into Haryana and the new Punjab. Haryana, which literally translates to "Home of Hari" (goddess Vishnu), has a long and storied history that dates back to the Vedic era. On its mainland, many empires have risen and collapsed.
The battle between the Kauravas and the Pandavas described in the epic Mahabharata is thought to have taken place near modern-day Kurukshetra in Haryana. The Bhagavad Gita's teachings were first presented to Arjun, the Pandava warrior, here. Haryana is a prospering state that has managed to preserve the best of both worlds: a rich and ancient history as well as a bright future.
Haryana is known for being a land of immense cultural diversity, a place often lauded for its cordial and amicable atmosphere, and a state where acres and acres of green fields, vibrant sunsets, and a rich culture that radiates from every nook and cranny are as important as modern buildings and landmarks.
There are around 10 to 12 tourist attractions to visit in the state of Haryana. There are sights to view, history, culture, tombs, towers, parks, temples, lakes, folklore, bird sanctuaries, and more. It's a wonderful city that's well-planned and, because of the residents' attitude, has a brazen air to it. You can enjoy trekking and rafting along the Yamuna River's banks, boating or fishing in Damdama or other lakes, and golfing in Karnal.
From natural beauties to a bustling lifestyle and a dynamic nightlife, this city has it all. In reality, despite the fact that it is a landlocked region, it has a lot to offer nature enthusiasts. In the heart of the city, the Sultanpur National Park and Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a vast range of flora and wildlife as well as bird species, is a terrific location to sit and relax. The lakes of Sohna and Damdama are popular picnic spots that also provide a variety of adventurous sports.
Chandigarh is India's first planned metropolis, with a traditional Punjabi heart and a healthy dose of modernism. It is a union territory that is the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. Boating on the lovely Sukhna Lake is a popular sport for inhabitants of Chandigarh. The Rock Garden, Leisure Valley, and Rose Garden are among the city's other significant attractions. Another popular tourist destination in Chandigarh is the Capitol complex, popularly known as the Le Corbusier Centre. Tourists are permitted to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was originally Le Corbusier's residence and is now a museum. The Capitol houses the Vidhan Sabha, the High Court, and the State Secretariat.
It was one of the Pandava brothers' five cities (prasthas) founded during the Mahabharata. The Old Fort's Islamicate remnants, the Kabuli Shah Mosque, Ibrahim Lodhi's cemetery, and Bu Ali Shah Kalandar's mausoleum are guaranteed to arouse your inner archaeologist and educate you with some stunning historical magnificence. Three major battles took place in Panipat, making it famous. Due to its various monuments, forts, and temples, as well as its amazing historical linkages, Panipat in Haryana is a fascinating tourist destination. This important textile-producing metropolis is also known as 'Textile City' and 'City of Weavers.'
Kurukshetra was a major centre of Vedic civilization and education. Lord Buddha and other Sikh Gurus are reported to have visited Kurukshetra. Kurukshetra, also known as Dharmakshetra, is the "Land of the Bhagavad Gita," and is located in Haryana. Temples, lakes, and museums commemorate the pre-Harappan and Harappan civilisations' history in the area. A few kilometres from Kurukshetra is the town of Amin, where there exist vestiges of a fort thought to be Arjun's son, Abhimanyu's fort. Brahma Sarovar, Sheikh Chilli's Tomb, Bhishma Kund, Krishna Museum, Kalpana Chawla Planetarium, Bhadrakali Temple, Birla Mandir and other popular attractions can be found here.
The city is a historically significant location. It appears to have been inhabited from the Paleolithic epoch, for example. During the British colonial period, Ambala was a significant player in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Ambala is divided into two sections: Ambala Cantonment and Ambala City. As a result, it has earned the moniker "Twin City." The cloth market in Ambala is a well-known shopping location.
Manesar is a remarkable blend of ancient and contemporary lifestyles. Manesar is a fast changing industrial area that is quickly becoming a popular rural retreat. Regardless, the area is recognised for its rustic lifestyle and breathtaking vistas of the Aravali Mountains. In Manesar, there are a few resorts that offer a Haryana countryside feel.
The historic town of Narnaul in Haryana's Mahendergarh district claims to be one of the Mahabharata's main sites during the Dwapara yuga. Narnaul is noted for its numerous tombs and historical sites dating from the Mughal and Rajput ages, as well as the Prince of Jaipur and Patiala reigns. Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan monarch who shook the Mughal empire to its foundations, was born there. Birbal, one of Akbar's Navratnas (ministers), was born in this city. The Tomb of Ibrahim Khan Suri, Jal Mahal, Khalde Wale Hanumanji, Chamundi Temple, Chor Gumbad, and other places of significance are also worth seeing.
The Panchkula district is a magnificent place that should be included in your Haryana tourism itinerary because of its immense natural beauty and cultural legacy. In and of itself, Panchkula is a planned city. It is one of the three cities that make up the "Chandigarh Tricity," which also comprises Chandigarh and Mohali. The Pinjore area, which is part of this district and near to the Shivalik foothills as well as several other hill stations, is very beautiful.
In Haryana's Mewat region, the city of Nuh, which dates back to the Aryan culture and later the Tughlaq dynasty, is a humble home to various historic buildings and ruins and is a day journey into history. The Trembling Monument, the Chui Mai Pond or tank, the settlement of Sheik Musa, Kotla, and the religious structures are among the site's architectural marvels with carvings on red sandstone and grey quartzite.
The state is rich in folklore. The people of Haryana have their own rituals. Meditation, Yoga, and Vedic Mantra Chanting are all ancient practises that are still practised by the public. Haryana stands out from the throng as a mystical state immersed in the Vedic Period's rich cultural legacy.
Haryana is one of India's wealthiest states and one of South Asia's most economically developed regions, with hookahs and charpoys, vibrant fairs, and swaying paddy fields. Haryana is one of India's wealthiest states and one of South Asia's most economically developed regions, with hookahs and charpoys, vibrant fairs, and swaying paddy fields. Haryana's people have maintained their ancient religious and social traditions. Haryana has a unique culture and sense of humour.
Haryana is home to a variety of dialects, with Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, and English being the most common. Almost the majority of them, however, are based on Hindi. The bulk of Haryana's schools also teach Sanskrit. English is still the home language in towns and villages, while Hindi is spoken in a hazy blend. Haryana's greatest distinguishing feature is its language, or rather, the manner in which it is spoken. It's also referred to as Harayanvi, Bangaru, or Jatu, and it's a bit vulgar, but full of earthy humour and directness. As a result of increased urbanisation and its proximity to Delhi, Haryana's cultural components are gradually taking on a more modern colour.
Brightly coloured skirts are popular among women. 'Damaan,' 'Kurti,' and 'Chunder' make up the basic trousseau. The 'chunder,' a long, colourful piece of cloth with shiny laces that covers the head and is drawn in the front like the saree's 'pallav,' is a long, colourful piece of cloth with shiny laces that covers the head and is drawn in the front like the saree's 'pallav.' A kurti is a blouse-like shirt that is usually white. The 'Daaman' is a vibrantly coloured flared ankle-length skirt. Men typically wear a white kurta over a dhoti, or wrap-around fabric, tucked in between their legs. Pagri, the traditional men's headdress, is now largely worn by older peasants. Wearing all-white clothing is a status symbol for men.
Traditional dance genres such as Ghoomar, Gangaur, and Khoria are among the most well-known. Traditional folk music in Haryana is separated into two types: classical and rural. Country music consists of songs sung in Hindustani style with diverse ragas, whereas classical music is associated with famous legends. Pahari, Kafi, Bhairavi, and Malhar music genres are among these ragas.
Fairs and Festivals of Haryana:
Every festival is celebrated with zest and fervour in the customary manner. They participate actively in Saangs, Dramas, Ballads, and Songs, which are examples of their culture and popular art. Haryana is a state that has a diverse cultural heritage. Eid, Christmas, and New Year, as well as Hindu festivals like Baisakhi, Rakhi, and Holi, are all celebrated in the state.
Haryana's cuisine is simple, but delicious. There are various reasons to travel to Haryana, particularly Gurgaon, and Haryanvi cuisine is one of them. Although each hamlet has its distinct cuisine, below is a list of some of the most well-known Haryanvi dishes.
In terms of both geography and economy, Haryana is a rapidly growing metropolis. It is the epicentre of banking, business, and a plethora of tourist sites that draw enormous crowds. Even if some shopaholics only venture to different streets once in a while, the distance travelled and time spent are unquestionably not worth the money saved.
By Air – Haryana's major airport is located in Chandigarh. The Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport also serves Haryana's neighbouring territories for local and international flights. Civil airports may be found in Pinjore, Karnal, Hisar, Bhiwani, and Narnaul.
By Railway – Haryana is well connected by railways from across India, with several long-distance trains travelling through the state on their way to connect the country's east-west, north-south, and north-south regions. The Shatabdi Express connects Ambala and Chandigarh to New Delhi. There are also more superfast/express trains that run between the two locations.
By Road – The most convenient way to enter Haryana is by road from one of its neighbouring states. The approach roads are in great condition, and driving is usually enjoyable. Along the roadways, there are well-kept tourist rest areas with eateries and facilities. Both public roadways and private bus services are dependable and have excellent connections.