Wondering which tourist places to visit in Haryana? Boasting a wealth of iconic destinations, including historical monuments, religious places and architectural marvels, creating an itinerary to explore Haryana can feel overwhelming. So, here’s our guide to some of the most famous tourist places and nearby attractions to explore in Haryana.
From Kurukshetra to Karnal, many famous tourist places in Haryana boast a Mahabharata connection, making them a must-visit for travellers inclined towards mythology. For more inspiration, explore our selection of the biggest forts in India.
Traveller Tip: The Chandigarh International Airport, about 15 km from the city centre, is well-connected to most destinations in Haryana. As Chandigarh is the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, you can plan a long vacation covering popular tourist places in both these states. Also, Chandigarh is approximately 244 km from Delhi, and you can add iconic spots in the capital city to your Haryana itinerary too.
Best time to visit Haryana
The best time to visit most tourist places in Haryana is during the winter months from November to February for pleasant weather. However, hilly regions like Morni Hills and Panchkula can be explored during the monsoon months of July and August, perfect for rain lovers. As the summer season can get extremely hot, travellers should avoid planning a visit to the state between March and June.
Explore more with our selection of the best places to visit in July in India.
Iconic tourist places to visit in Haryana
Brahma Sarovar, Kurukshetra
Brahma Sarovar, Kurukshetra | Image credit: Sourabh Patiyal Designs/Shutterstock
Surrounded by many legends, Kurukshetra’s iconic Brahma Sarovar is believed to be sacred, and taking a dip in its holy waters is said to be equivalent to many Ashvamedha Yajnas. According to legend, King Yudhisthira built a tower on the island in the middle of Brahma Sarovar to mark his victory in the battle of Mahabharata in Kurukshetra. With a religious connection to Lord Brahma, Brahma Sarovar is often visited by spiritual travellers. Located nearby, the Sarveshwar Mahadev temple is also thronged by Lord Shiva devotees.
Explore more historical places near Delhi for a weekend getaway.
Nearby attractions: Sri Krishna Museum, Kurukshetra Panorama & Science Centre, Bhishma Kund, Kalpana Chawla Memorial Planetarium, Jyotisar, Bhadrakali Temple (Shri Devi Koop) and Sheikh Chehli Mausoleum
Where to eat: Saffron, Golden Saras, Mr. Chicken and Golden Sweets
Where to stay: Everland Sanjog Resorts
How to reach: Brahma Sarovar is approximately 160 km from Delhi and about 98 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
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Dhosi Hill, Narnaul
Chyavan Rishi Temple at Dhosi Hills, Narnaul | Image credit: AshishTheTraveler/Shutterstock
Known to be the origin of Chyavanprash, a popular Ayurvedic immunity-boosting concoction, Dhosi Hill is about 8 km from central Narnaul. Nestled amidst the Aravallis near the Haryana and Rajasthan border, Dhosi Hill or Dhosi Ka Pahad is an extinct volcano. Adventure enthusiasts can trek uphill to the top for a stunning view of the surrounding villages, and explore the way ruins of an old fort dating back to 500 years.
Nearby attractions: Chyavan Rishi Temple, Dhosi Hill Sarovar, Tripolia Gateway, Jal Mahal, and Modawala Mandir
Where to eat: Hotel Dev Restaurant, PR Sweets and Restaurant, and Rangla Punjab Restro
Where to stay: Kesar Resort Midway
How to reach: Dhosi Hill is approximately 160 km from Delhi and about 320 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
Book your stay at Kesar Resort Midway on Agoda
Devi Temple, Panipat
Devi Temple, Panipat | Image credit: Government of Haryana
Best for a visit during the vibrant Navratri celebrations, the Devi Temple in Panipat dedicated to Maa Durga is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Haryana. The town’s Ramlia, the musical play narrating the life of Lord Rama, has been performed here during the festivities for the last 100 years. Situated along the banks of a drought pond, the beautiful temple is said to be over 250 years old.
Nearby attractions: Panipat Museum, Tomb of Bu-Ali Shah Kalandar, Kabuli Bagh Mosque, and Salar Gunj Gate
Where to eat: Thikana ‘The Food Cafe’, Hangries Panipat, Narang Hotel since 1960 and Lazeez Affaire Panipat
Where to stay: Hotel Viasora and Little Acre Hotel, Panipat
How to reach: Devi Temple is approximately 86 km from Delhi and about 160 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
Book your stay at Hotel Viasora on Booking.com
Firoz Shah Palace Complex, Hisar
Firoz Shah Palace Complex, Hisar | Image credit: Rinku Dua/Shutterstock
Built under the reign of Firoz Shah Tughlaq, the Sultan of Delhi from 1351 to 1388 AD, the palace is one of Haryana’s most revered architectural marvels. Commonly known as Firoz Shah’s Palace and Tahakhanas, its sandstone pillars add to its timeless charm. While major portions of the palace are just ruins now, it is still a popular attraction in Hisar and one of Haryana’s must-visit tourist places.
Nearby attractions: Blue Bird Lake, St. Thomas Church, Lat Ki Masjid, Gujri Mahal and Barsi Gate
Where to eat: Pahadi Restaurant, Double Spoon, and Big Mugs
Where to stay: Pink Mango – A Boutique Hotel and Lemon Tree Hotel, Hisar
How to reach: Hisar is approximately 170 km from Delhi and about 250 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
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Karna Lake, Karnal
Karna Lake, Karnal |Image credit: Jagdeep Singh Gill/Shutterstock
Legend has it that Kunti’s eldest son, Karna, who fought by the Kauravas side, used to bathe here. It was here that Karna gave up his protective armour to Lord Indra, Arjuna’s godfather, disguised as a monk. It is said that the city of Karnal gets its name from Karna-Taal, meaning Karna Lake. A popular tourist place to visit in Haryana and perfect for a day trip from Delhi, you can also enjoy night boating in the lake.
Explore more with our selection of serene hill stations near Delhi.
Nearby attractions: Babur’s Masjid, Gurudwara Manji Sahib, Kalander Shah’s Tomb, and Durga Bhavani Temple
Where to eat: Black Monk, Divine Cafe & Party Lounge, Pepper & Mint and Spice & Ice
Where to stay: The Vivaan Hotel & Resorts Karnal and Hotel Leela Grande
How to reach: Karna Lake is approximately 126 km from Delhi and about 118 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
Book your stay at The Vivaan Hotel & Resorts Karnal on Booking.com
Kotla, Nuh
Kotla Fort, Nuh | Image credit: Arnav Pratap Singh/Shutterstock
An erstwhile capital of Nuh, the historic village of Kotla also boasts an important Mahabharata connection. It is home to the famous Shiva Temple, believed to be one of the places where the Pandavas stayed during their 14-year exile. Located at the foothills of the Aravallis, it offers breathtaking vistas of the surroundings, including the Kotla Lake and the stunning fort.
Nearby attractions: Chui Mai Pond, Sheikh Musa, and Temple of Hathor
Where to eat: Delhi 6 Restaurant, Saini Dhaba, and Sufra Restaurant
Where to stay: StayVista at Maple Farms and ELIVAAS Mansa Villa
How to reach: Kotla is approximately 95 km from Delhi and about 80 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
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Morni Hills, Panchkula
Morni Hills, Panchkula | Image credit: The Storygrapher/Shutterstock
Located in Panchkula, Morni Hills is perhaps Haryana’s only hill station, offering a respite from the city hustle to residents and tourists alike. One of the most popular tourist places to visit in Haryana, this tranquil hill station near Chandigarh offers majestic views of the Shivalik Ranges, ideal for picnics and short weekend getaways amidst lush greens. The iconic Morni Fort Lake is one of its major highlights. You can also visit the beautiful Pinjore Gardens, about 30 km away. Morni Hills is approximately 50 km from Mohali.
Nearby attractions: Burj Kotian Waterfall, Tikkar Lake, Mata Baglamukhi Mandir, and Karoh Peak
Where to eat: Patio Terrasse, Riverside Cafe and Serenade
Where to stay: DM Farms Morni Hills Panchkula and StayVista’s L Amore – Hillside Retreat
How to reach: Morni Hills is approximately 254 km from Delhi and about 42 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
Book your stay at DM Farms Morni Hills Panchkula on Booking.com
Nahar Singh Mahal, Faridabad
Nahar Singh Mahal, Faridabad | Image credit: Government of Haryana
Also known as Raja Nahar Singh Palace, Ballabhgarh’s Nahar Singh Mahal has now been converted into a hotel and restaurant under Haryana Tourism. It is ideal for a November visit as the annual Kartik Cultural Festival is held at the palace during this month. Boasting exquisite architecture, this palace exudes an old-world charm, perfect for a heritage stay, and is one of the best tourist places in Haryana.
Nearby attractions: Baba Farid’s Tomb, Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple and Surajkund
Where to eat: Daawat Restaurant, Desi Dhaba Faridabad, Garden Grills and The Great Kebab Factory Radisson Blu Faridabad
Where to stay: Vivanta Surajkund, NCR and Radisson Blu Faridabad
How to reach: Nahar Singh Mahal is approximately 52 km from Delhi and about 290 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
Book your stay at Vivanta Surajkund NCR on Booking.com
Panjokhra Sahib Gurudwara, Ambala
Panjokhra Sahib Gurudwara, Ambala | Image credit: Manojkhurana/CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Dedicated to the eighth guru of Sikhs, Guru Sri Harkrishan Sahib Ji, Panjokhra Sahib Gurudwara in Ambala is a revered shrine, often frequented by spiritual travellers. Located on the Ambala-Naraingarh road, it is believed that he visited this place on his way to Delhi to spread the universal message of Guru Nanak. You can also head to another iconic Sikh shrine, Anandpur Sahib, approximately 125 km away.
Nearby attractions: Rani Ka Talab, Sanjay Dhawan Art Gallery, Holy Redeemer Church, and Gurudwara Manji Sahib
Where to eat: USA Gardens In Town, Stovehouse Café, Restaurant & Inn, Royal Pakwan and The Grand Haveli
Where to stay: Regenta Central City Vilas Palace Ambala
How to reach: Panjokhra Sahib Gurudwara is approximately 202 km from Delhi and about 60 km from Chandigarh
Location on map
Book your stay at Regenta Central City Vilas Palace Ambala on Booking.com
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Gurugram
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Gurugram | Image credit: Dheeraj Arora/Shutterstock
Located close to Delhi, the Sultanpur National Park & Bird Sanctuary in Gurugram is a popular picnic spot for residents and tourists alike. Home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna, including over 90 species of birds, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary often attracts avian enthusiasts and nature lovers. It also houses an informative Educational Interpretation Centre and a comfortable Tourist Complex equipped with all necessary amenities for visitors.
Nearby attractions: Sheetla Mata Mandir (most of the popular attractions near Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary are over 20 km away)
Where to eat: Biryani By Kilo – Sector 86 Gurgaon, Khaan Paan – House Of Taste and Kitchen District
Where to stay: LohonoStays Bamboo House Sadhana Bagh and Sunahari Bagh – Pool Farm Retreat @ Gurgaon
How to reach: Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is approximately 42 km from Delhi and about 288 km from 298 Chandigarh
Location on map
Book your stay at LohonoStays Bamboo House Sadhrana Bagh on Booking.com
(Feature image credit: The Himalyan Lens/Shutterstock)
Related: Exploring Mohali: Your Guide To The Best Places To Visit In This Beautiful Indian City
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Question: When is the best time to visit Sultanpur National Park?
Answer: The best time to visit Sultanpur National Park is between October and March.
Question: Which are the best lakes to visit in Haryana?
Answer: Some of the popular lakes to visit in Haryana include Surajkund, Karnal, Damdama and Tikkar.
Question: Which are the best malls in Haryana?
Answer: Ambience Mall in Gurugram and Crown Interiorz Mall in Faridabad are two of the best malls in Haryana.
Question: What can you buy from Haryana?
Answer: Some of the best things to buy from Haryana include phulkari dupattas, furniture, woodcarving, brass sculptures and oxidised jewellery.
Question: What are the best unique cultural experiences in Haryana?
Answer: Surajkund International Crafts Mela is one of the best unique cultural experiences in Haryana.
Question: Is Haryana safe for a solo trip?
Answer: While some parts of Haryana are safe for a solo trip, few remote locations should be ideally visited with a group or avoided.
Question: Which are the best offbeat places to visit in Haryana?
Answer: The Heritage Transport Museum in Tauru, near Manesar and Museo Camera Centre for the Photographic Arts in Gurugram are some of the best offbeat places to visit in Haryana.
