Haryana Tourism

One of the northern most states of India, Haryana is adjacent to national capital Delhi. Surrounded by Uttar Pradesh in the east, Punjab in the west, Himachal Pradesh in the north and Rajasthan in the south, the history of Haryana goes back to the period of Mahabharata. Haryana is one of the most industrialized states of India. The name Haryana itself means “The Abode of God” from Hari (the Hindu God Vishnu) and ayana (home).

People and Culture
Haryana has witnessed many rulers from other lands in the past, yet the locals have joie de vivre in their attitude and celebrations that are unmatched. Being an agricultural community, the festivals of Haryana are majorly related to sowing and reaping of the crops. The women assist the men folk by tending to the cattle and helping on the farms. The head of the village is usually an elder and his decision is respected and implemented by the younger generation.

Fairs and Festivals
The state of Haryana celebrates various festivals that reflect the jovial nature of the locals here. Lohri is one of the most popular festivals in Haryana. The festival marks the end of the winter season and marks the season of fertility. Lohri is celebrated every year on 13th January, just before Makar Sankranti.

Among the most exciting festivals of Haryana is the Haryana Day, celebrated on 1st September every year. The day marks the birth of Tourism in Haryana, as this is when the Haryana Tourism Corporation came into existence. Celebrated with lot of zest, a number of events are held at different parts of the state.

Another popular festival here is the Pinjore Heritage Festival, celebrated in Pinjore. Home to some of the best terraced gardens in the country, Pinjore is located at a distance of 20 kilometers from Chandigarh. These gardens belong to the Mughal era in India and were planned by Fidai Khan during the reign of Jehangir.

Another major festival here is the festival of Gangore, dedicated to Gauri, the goddess of abundance. People take out processions carrying the idol of Gangore, from one village to another, and finally immersing it into the river. This festival is specially meant for young girls who pray for good husbands. Married ladies also pray for the well being of their partners.
Baisakhi is also a major festival celebrated in Haryana. The festival of Baisakhi marks the beginning of the Punjabi New Year, and is celebrated in April every year. On this day all the Sikhs visit the Gurdwaras and pray for peace and happiness.
Gugga Naumi is a festival which is unique to Haryana. A religious festival of Haryana, it has a connection with snake worship. Observed in the months of August- September, people worship Gugga Pir or Zahir Pir (the saint) reputed for having the power of curing people of dangerous snake bites.

One of the major fairs of Haryana is the Surajkund Fair, which is a popular art and craft fair. The fair is held every year in the month of February, and highlights the finest handloom and handicrafts produced in the country. The objective of the fair is to educate both foreign and domestic patrons about the various technique and skills applied behind the creation of the crafts.

Attractions
Sharing the capital of two states of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is a major attraction among the travelers. Considered as a best planned city, Chandigarh is also known as the City Beautiful, and is one of the modern cities of India. Designed by the French architect Le Carbusier, Chandigarh got its name from a temple “Chandi Mandir” located near the city.

The historical place of Kurukshetra is another major attraction of Haryana. It is a place with religious importance. Every year lakhs of people come to take a holy bath at Brahma Sarovar Visting Palce is Brahma Sarovar, Sannihit Sarovar, Jyotisar.

Panipat is another city in Haryana which is of major attraction. It was one of the five cities founded by the Pandava brothers during the times of Mahabharata. The historic name of the city is Paneprastha. The Panipat city was declared as a District on 1, Jan 1992. It is the city of textile and carpets, and is also known for its world famous pickle ‘Pachranga International’. The main places of attraction here are the Graves of Ibrahim Lodhi, Kabuli Bagh, Devi Mandir, Kala Amb, Salar Gunj Gate, and Tomb of Bu-Ali Shah Kalandar.

Weather condition in Haryana
October to March is the best time to visit Haryana, owing to the favourable weather conditions during this time. It starts getting colder and pleasant around this time making it a perfect time for venturing out for sightseeing.

How to reach
By Air – The main domestic airport in Chandigarh is served by the national carrier and is connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Leh.
By Train – Haryana is very well connected by convenient trains from all over India with many long distance trains crossing the state as they link up the east-west and the north and south regions of the country.
By Road – All along the highways, there are well maintained tourist rest houses with restaurants and rest rooms. The state roadways and private bus services are regular and connections good.