Best time to visit : October to March
Kurukshetra, the famous holy town for Hindus, is located in the North Indian state of Haryana. The famous battle of Mahabharata is believed to have been fought on the soil of this sacred city. This is the place where Lord Krishna delivered the lessons of Karma to Arjun during the battle. These lessons are contained in the Holy text, Bhagwad Gita. Due to the religious significance and presence of over 360 pilgrim spots related to Mahabharata, Kurukshetra attracts lots of tourists throughout the year.
Facts
Apart from being a holy city, Kurukshetra also holds an archaeological significance as it is believed that the city existed even before the Harappa Civilization. Popularly called Dharmakshetra (Spiritual City), it is extremely hot during summers and enjoys pleasant winters.
'Baajre ki roti' and 'singri ka saag' are the two most special dishes of Kurukshetra. These are served with chilled buttermilk known as kacchi lassi. You will get these dishes at any restaurant or a roadside dhaba in Kurukshetra. Chole bhathure and puri are other popular preparations. Multi-cuisines restaurants and fast food joints are also located in the city.
Blankets, embroidered shawls and other woven garments (especially those in Phulkari Style) are the most special items that you can buy from Kurukshetra. One can also find beautiful pottery items like utensils and vessels as well as toys in the city.
Nearby Places:
- Thanesar (about 6 km.): The most famous attraction of Thanesar is the Sthaneswar Mahadev temple. The Mahadev temple holds a great religious importance as it is believed that Lord Brahma himself laid the first Linga of Lord Shiva here. Gurudwara and Ma Bhadra Kali Temple are other popular attractions.
- Amin (about 11 km.): Popular for an ancient fort which is believed to be of Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna (in the Hindu Epic). The holy spot called Surya Kund is another notable attraction.
- Pehowa (about 30 km.): Another holy destination of the Hindus, it is believed that the priests here store the family records of all the people in the world. The popular Arunai Shiva Temple is also nearby.
- Karnal (about 40 km.): Popular for the attractions like Durga Bhawani Temple, Karna Lake, Atal Park, Karnal Fort and Babur’s Mosque.
- Panipat (about 72 km.): The historical significance extends to Panipat, which accommodates attractions like tombs, monuments, temples, Kabuli Bagh and Panipat Museum.
- Chandigarh (about 94 km.): Popularly called the City Beautiful, this modern city is well-known for its cleanliness, lake, gardens and a number of temples in its close vicinity.