10 Places to Visit in Kurukshetra

One of the most revered sites in Kurukshetra, Jyotisar is famed as the birthplace of the Bhagwad Geeta. Legends say, Lord Krishna recited the Bhagwad Geeta to Arjun for the first time under a Banyan tree in Jyotisar. Hence, it is a sacred destination that you shouldn’t miss during your tour. What’s more exciting is the splendid light and sound show which is organised here periodically by the Haryana Tourism Department. This captivating show narrates the epic story wonderfully and will leave you spellbound.

Get ready to soak in divinity, the light of diyas and the sound created by chants at the Bhadrakali temple. One of the Shakti Peeths, the Bhadrakali temple is the most revered pilgrimage site in Kurukshetra. Dedicated to Goddess Kali and her incarnations, this shrine is visited by thousands of pilgrims to offer prayers. There is another reason why it is considered a significant temple. Mythology says that Pandavas performed prayers and rituals at this temple before their final battle against the Kauravas. That is why devotees flock to the Bhadrakali temple in large numbers to seek blessings before any important event.

Dedicated to Lord Brahma, this ancient sarovar has found its mention in various historic scriptures and texts. Though centuries old, this reservoir is still preserved as one of the holiest sites in the region. As per legends, a dip in its water during a solar eclipse can provide salvation. Also, there is a shrine to Lord Shiva on the banks of the sarovar. According to mythology, Lord Brahma places the Linga at the shrine himself. Besides the religious and mythological significance, this site is also known for its surreal beauty and tranquil surroundings. While in Kurukshetra, don’t forget to miss the aartis conducted here during sunrise and sunset.

One of Kurukshetra famous places, Sheik Chilli’s Tomb, had to be on this list! As the name suggests, it consists of the mortal remains of Sheik Chilli, a celebrated Sufi saint. This magnificent wonder stands as a testament to the Persian style of architecture, attracting tourists from far and wide. Within the complex, there is a madrasa, a museum, a beautifully-manicured Mughal garden and a tomb dedicated to the saint’s wife. Believe us, a visit to this incredible site is truly an unforgettable experience.

If you are intrigued with science and its wonders, Kurukshetra Panorama & Science Centre is an unmissable spot for you. A unique centre showcasing the blend of technology with Indian culture and history, it is a paradise for science lovers. While there are a number of science exhibits spread over different floors, the panoramic display of the battle of Mahabharata steals the limelight. This incredible display offers scientific justifications about different episodes that occurred during the battle. If this isn’t the most fascinating thing to explore, what else would be?

Our list of the best places to see in Kurukshetra will remain incomplete without mentioning the Sannihit Sarovar. This sacred water reservoir is devoted to Lord Vishnu and is at the confluence of the seven tributaries of River Saraswati. Devotees hold a firm belief that a dip in its holy waters on the day of Amavasya can bring fortune equivalent to Ashvamedha Yajna (a prominent ritual). Also, you can visit the small shrines located alongside the reservoir. There are shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Laxmi Narayan, Dhruv Narayan, Goddess Durga and Lord Hanuman.

Set up by the government of Haryana to honour Kalpana Chawla, this one-of-a-kind planetarium has found its spot on every itinerary. The building has digital and optomechanical projectors and sound systems to offer an unmatched experience. Some of the popular interactive astronomy exhibits include Seasons on Earth, Day and Night, Our Address in Universe and Our Solar System. If you are fascinated by interesting and unique exploration tours, a visit to Kalpana Chawla Memorial Planetarium will not disappoint you!

Another mystical museum that must be on your Kurukshetra travel list is the iconic Sri Krishna Museum. This site showcases the wonders and adventures of Lord Krishna from the Mahabharata and the Bhagavata Purana. There are six galleries in the complex with tons of stone sculptures, miniature paintings and bronze castings. If you wish to get an insight into the multi-faceted personalities of Lord Krishna and their mythical adventures, this museum is a must-visit site for you.

Your Kurukshetra sightseeing tour will not be complete without touring the ancient Raja Karna ka Kila. Though now in ruins, the fort still tells the glorious tales of the bygone era. The artefacts recovered from the site are believed to be from the 4th century BC to the 3rd century BC. With so much to explore, this site is an excellent place for history buffs. Even if you are not an avid history lover, we still recommend visiting this ancient site to make the most of your trip.

Another magnificent shrine in Kurukshetra, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to various legends, the temple dates back to the era of Mahabharatha. It is the temple where the Pandavas along with Lord Krishna prayed to Shiva for their victory in the battle. No wonder why it is regarded as a celebrated pilgrimage site by the devotees.

We can sense the excitement in you already. So, go ahead and get ready for an unbeatable mythological and historical expedition at Kurukshetra on your next vacation.