Haryana

Overview
Making its presence felt fast with its spectacular development in last few decades, Haryana is the 16th largest state in India that is gaining popularity with time. The state touches the national Capital, New Delhi on three fronts of its territory, thereby making it very accessible.

The state has seen major turnaround in last few years and today bears a spectacular fertile geography, thus earning the name ‘Green Land of India’. Despite having no major river to its credit, Haryana has emerged as a major contributor to India’s annual agricultural production.
The state enjoys a decent literacy rate of 71.4% and has Hindus in majority of the entire population. The state is also the only exception to India’s states and shares its capital, Chandigarh, with another state, Punjab. Most of the people speak in Haryanvi, English or Punjabi and usually have no problem understanding Hindi either.

Talking about the history, Haryana is stated to be the birthplace of Hinduism if the mythologies are to be believed. The remains of the settlements from Ghaggar Valley in Haryana are believed to be from before 3000 BC. In addition, Bharata Dynasty, the one from where India’s Hindi name ‘Bharat’ originated, ruled on this very state for decades. Haryana also happens to find its mention in the mythological legend, Mahabharata. Kurukshetra in Haryana was the place where Kauravas and Pandavas had their epic battle of truth and justice.

The weather can get pretty extreme while in Haryana sometimes. The proximity to the mountain range in the north causes freezing winters during December-January and extreme summers during May-June rule the state. People here are known for their simplicity and hard-working behavior. Most of the population still resides in the rural regions even though it is one of the top milk and food gain producing states in India.

Badkhal Lake
The lake is one of the most popular weekend getaway options and has a number of entertainment options for its tourists such as angling, boating and swimming.

Panipat
This is a place known for the landmark place that witnessed three historic battles in the history of India. The city also finds mention as one of the cities established by the Pandavas in the Hindu mythology epic, Mahabharata. It’s a popular tourist destination and has a number of forts and temples to visit.

Kurukshetra
The place holds a significant importance in the mythological legend, Mahabharata of Hindu religion. This was the place where the battle between Pandavas and Kaurvas was fought, which fought the basis of the epic. Some of the famous tourist attractions here include Sri Krishna Museum, Brahma Sarovar, Jyotisar and Sannihit Sarovar.

Saras
Saras complex is a perfect retreat for locals seeking a recluse from urban life as well as tourists. The place offers an amazing mix of lush greenery, Aravalli range and Sylvan Lake.

Sohna
This is a great place to enjoy with family or on a day outing. Offering a cultural mix, the place has Sohna Hills Resorts which are pretty popular with all tourists. Damdama Lake is nearby.

Tourist Attractions

• Badhkal Lake
• Damdama Lake
• Karna
• Kurukshetra
• Magpie Surajkund
• Morni Hills
• Panchkula
• Panipat
• Prithaviraj Ki Kutchery
• Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary
• Thaneswar
• Tilyar Lake
• Yadavindra Gardens

Shopping Attractions
Colourful traditional attire

Known for

Typical cuisine- kadhi pakora, besan masala roti, bajra aloo roti, churma, kheer, Bathua raita, methi gajar, singri ki sabzi, and tamatar chutney.

For Emergency
Fire: 101
Police: 100
Emergency (civil hospital): 01681-245722

Best time to visit
October-March

How to reach
Air: The main domestic airport is in Chandigarh that connects to all the major towns and cities.
Rail: A good network of trains connects all the major places to Haryana.
Road: Haryana has an excellent road networks; there are a number of state highways and national highways.