Haryana Bucket List, What To See, Eat, Experience, Buy And More

Haryana is a state where ancient history, rustic charm, and unexpected bursts of urban energy come together. Since it shares borders with Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh, it is often overlooked by travellers. Little things like a folk song on a festival night, a hot cup of chai at a highway dhaba, or a farmer's field at dawn, everything adds up to make the expedition through the state unforgettable. This guide is all you need to know about what places to visit, what foods to eat, and what to shop here.

Must See

Visiting Haryana should be about exploring every inch of the state, including Kurukshetra, where the mythical battle of the Mahabharata between Pandavas and Kaurvas took place, picturesque Damdama Lake, and click-worthy Sultanpur National Park.

• Kurukshetra- A place mentioned in ancient Hindu texts, Kurukshetra is profoundly spiritual. Explore the Sri Krishna Museum, which showcases a seamless blend of mythology, art, and history in ways you have never imagined. Stop by Jyotisar, where Arjuna is believed to acquire the knowledge of Gita from Lord Krishna, and visit Brahma Sarovar, where, according to the Mahabharata, Duryodhana hid himself on the concluding day of the battle to avoid Bhima.
• Panipat- It is referred to as the city of weavers and the battlefield of empires. Don't miss the tranquil tomb of Bu Ali Shah Qalandar or the Panipat Museum that narrates the war stories and artifacts. A subtle touch of Indo-Afghan history is added to the cityscape by the Kabuli Bagh Mosque.
• Morni Hills- It is the only hill station in Haryana, and is located close to Panchkula. As you traverse through the spiral roads and dense forests, you come across serene views that will make you stop the vehicle to experience a moment of tranquility. You will hear birds chirping rather than honking vehicles in the city.
• Sultanpur National Park- This destination is a haven for birdwatchers. Several migratory birds fill this wetland reserve with a burst of colours during winter. Sit motionless and listen to animals and birds communicate with each other, and bring binoculars to see warblers you have never seen before.
• Damdama Lake and Kalesar National Park- Trek through the Shivalik foothills in Kalesar, where rivers flow through sal forests, witness leopards roaming around, or paddle through the Damdama Lake during sunset. Both serve as an escape from the hustle and bustle in cities.
• Manesar- It is a village that has gradually become a well-liked destination for people who wish to experience farm life. Come for a stroll through blooming mustard fields, stay for pottery demonstrations, or participate in cultural workshops.

Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Must Eat

Haryanvi cuisine is not only impressive, but it is wholesome, flavourful, and packed with nutrients. Since the state is known for its agrarian community, regional dishes are a must-try for foodies.

• Mixed Dal- At least three different types of lentils are used to make mixed daal, which is later tempered with jeera and ghee. It is served with roti or rice and some raw onion and green chilli on the side.
• Churma- Crushed roti sweetened with ghee and jaggery is called churma. It's a simple dish that can leave you in a food coma and is often served during festivals or with spicy kadhi.
• Kadhi Pakora- A curry made with tangy buttermilk, besan, and soft fritters. It is best enjoyed with achar and steamed rice, particularly on rainy days.
• Haryana’s Bajra Khichdi- Earthy, hearty, and delicately spiced, this khichdi flaunts rustic notes.  It is incredibly filling, and it's eaten with a dollop of white clarified butter or ghee.
• Alsi Ki Pinni- This is a winter treat, which is made with flaxseeds, wheat flour, and ghee. It is believed to increase immunity and vitality. Locals vouch for it as a nutritious snack that can help improve your overall well-being.
• Singri Ki Sabzi- A regional speciality from the drier regions of the state, singri ki sabzi is a desert bean cooked with spices and occasionally with potatoes.
• Meethe Chawal- Meethe chawal is a dish made by tossing rice with dry fruits, sweeteners, and saffron. It is served on special occasions, but you can enjoy it on a regular day and uplift your mood.

Image Credits: Freepik

Must Experience

Some experiences cannot be described in words, like witnessing locals celebrate Baisakhi in the spring season or Teej during monsoon. Unless you have spent time with people of Haryana and participated in the gatherings, you cannot truly perceive the culture.

• Teej Festival- Teej Festival is incomplete without flower-adorned swings, vibrant glass bangles, folk songs, and traditional sweets. Women welcome the monsoon, get their hands painted with mehendi, and dress up in hues of green to pray for the long lives of their husbands.
• Surajkund Mela- Every February, the Surajkund Mela in Faridabad is a cultural fair that features handicrafts from all over India. Anticipate metalwork, embroidered shawls, and a crowd-pleasing street food trail.
• Baisakhi- Haryana's agricultural new year celebrations kickstart with Baisakhi. Villages organise communal feasts, dancing events, and musical gatherings. If you are invited for dinner or lunch, don't think twice before accepting the invitation.
• Aravalli Ranges: Drive or hike through the rugged Aravallis in the state's southern region. These picturesque hills offer unique vistas and are a must-explore for travel and adventure enthusiasts.
• Rural Visits: Spend a day in a local village to get the hang of the Haryanvi culture, enjoy a homemade meal or a traditional thali with them, sit under the shade of trees, work with people on a farm, and enjoy a lesson in slow living.

Image Credits: Freepik

Must Do

You haven’t explored Haryana unless you have been to the most popular and lesser-explored tourist spots. You have not tasted local food unless you have stopped near a roadside dhaba for a bite.

• Go to Sheetla Mata Mandir in Gurugram, a place of quiet contemplation and faith.
• Visit Lohagarh Farms to experience local cuisine, tractor rides, and village games.
• Bird watchers will enjoy the early morning hours at Damdama Lake, where they can go boating or take a nature walk.

Image Credits: Freepik

Must Buy

When a travel or foodie visits a new place, they stock up on local ingredients, sweets, and souvenirs. You bring these homes to share your experience with friends or family, or adorn your living room or wardrobe with handloom textile or a vintage purchase. Here are a few things you should get from Haryana.

• Handwoven goods with vibrant designs
• Punjabi Juttis (which are vibrant, hand-stitched shoes)
• Plates, bowls, and diyas, made of brass, have a timeless charm
• Clay pots and decorative items from Jhajjar Shawls and dupattas made by phulkari and zari artisans. These pieces take weeks to complete

Also Read: Delhi Bucket List: What to Eat, See, & Experience

Best Time

July to September – Enjoy the green fields and the festival season.

October to March – Experience pleasant weather and witness migratory birds.

Number Of Days Needed

Recommended Stay: 10- 15 days at least

It's sufficient time to see one historic town, go hiking for a day, eat some regional cuisine, and still do some leisurely exploring.

Travel And Food Tips

• Summers can be hot and dry, so always carry a water bottle with you.
• Wherever possible, try local cuisine. To travel between cities, use Haryana Roadways, and authorised cab or auto booking applications
• Haggle gently in markets, especially for handicrafts.
• Breakfast is a treat here, with options ranging from chai at roadside stalls to parathas in dhabas.

Image Credits: Freepik

Bonus Tip: Top Cities In Haryana For Food Lovers

• Gurugram: Try international dishes, breweries, and high-end cafés.
• Faridabad: Experience late-night restaurants, street food, and Punjabi dishes.
• Murthal: Come hungry because Murthal is known as the undeniable king of paratha.
• Karnal: Try robust Haryanvi cuisine at eateries like Indian dhaba.
• Panchkula: Enjoy the fusion of Himachali and Punjabi flavours.
• Rohtak and Hisar: Pick up sweets, devour thalis.

Conclusion:

From its historical landmarks like Kurukshetra to its mouthwatering cuisine, which includes dishes like Besan Masala Roti and Singri ki Sabzi, Haryana has a lot to offer. The state's lively markets and folk dances showcase its rich cultural heritage, and its talented craftsmen produce magnificent phulkari dupattas, brass sculptures, and woodcarvings. A visit to Haryana promises a unique and unforgettable experience.