Crafts and Culture: Surajkund’s Vibrant Essence
Surajkund Haryana
Surajkund is a well-known tourist destination located in the Faridabad district of Haryana, approximately 8 kilometers from the city of Faridabad and around 20 kilometers from Delhi, the capital city of India. Surajkund, located in the state of Haryana, India, is renowned for its annual Surajkund International Crafts Mela, a vibrant cultural fair that attracts visitors from around the world. The Surajkund Mela is organized by the Haryana Tourism Department in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Tourism.
Surajkund also famous for Surajkund Lake, is an ancient reservoir believed to have been built in the 10th century by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar dynasty. The lake, surrounded by lush greenery and hills, offers a serene and picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks
Surajkund has historical and cultural significance, with references dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have been named after the Sun god (“Suraj” means sun, and “kund” means reservoir or pond). The region is known for its rich heritage, traditional arts, and craftsmanship, which are showcased prominently during the Surajkund Mela.
Apart from the Mela, Surajkund offers opportunities for nature walks, birdwatching, and boating on the lake. The Surajkund area also has resorts, hotels, and restaurants catering to tourists and visitors who wish to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
1. Surajkund Mela
The Surajkund Mela, also known as the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, is an annual cultural extravaganza held in Surajkund, Haryana. The Surajkund Mela was first organized in 1987 by the Haryana Tourism Department to showcase traditional Indian arts, crafts, and culture. It was conceptualized as a platform to promote and preserve India’s rich heritage of handicrafts and to provide a market for skilled artisans from different regions of the country.
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The Surajkund Mela takes place at the Mela Grounds, located near the historic Surajkund Lake in Faridabad district, Haryana. The sprawling venue is transformed into a vibrant fairground, with colorful stalls, pavilions, and stages set up to accommodate exhibitors, performers, and visitors. The Mela is typically held annually from February 1st to February 15th, coinciding with the first fortnight of February. The duration of the Mela may vary slightly from year to year, but it usually spans around two weeks.
Attractions
Handicrafts: The Mela features a wide array of traditional Indian handicrafts, including pottery, textiles, metalwork, woodwork, leather goods, and more. Cultural Performances: Visitors can enjoy live music, dance performances, folk art demonstrations, and other cultural events showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of India. Food: A variety of regional Indian cuisines are available at food stalls, offering visitors a chance to sample authentic flavors from different parts of the country. Workshops and Demonstrations: Artisans conduct workshops and demonstrations, providing insights into their crafts and allowing visitors to learn traditional techniques firsthand.
2. Surajkund Lake
Surajkund Lake is a historic reservoir located near the Surajkund Mela Grounds in the Faridabad district of Haryana. The Lake is believed to have been built in the 10th century by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar dynasty, after whom the lake is named. The lake was constructed to provide water for irrigation and agricultural purposes in the region. The Lake is situated amidst picturesque surroundings, surrounded by lush greenery and undulating hills. It is located approximately 8 kilometers from the city of Faridabad and around 20 kilometers from Delhi, the capital city of India.
Surajkund Lake offers a serene environment, making it a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, with pedal boats and rowing boats available for hire.
How to Reach Surajkund
The nearest airport to Surajkund is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is approximately 25-30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the place. The nearest railway station to Surajkund is the Faridabad Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. From Faridabad Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Surajkund.
Surajkund is easily accessible by road and is well-connected to nearby cities and towns by state highways and national highways. You can reach the place by bus, taxi, or private vehicle from cities like Delhi, Faridabad, Gurgaon, and Noida.
