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Famous Landmarks in Faridabad

Famous Landmarks in Faridabad

Faridabad Haryana, India Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

Faridabad's most recognized landmarks offer a glimpse into its past and present, pulling in visitors with their unique stories.

Distinguished landmarks include the historic Surajkund Lake and the grand Raja Nahar Singh Palace.

Sites

  • Surajkund Lake & Mela Ground: This 10th-century artificial reservoir takes the shape of a rising sun. It hosts the every-year Surajkund International Crafts Mela.
  • Raja Nahar Singh Palace: In Ballabgarh, presents a blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, reflecting cultural synthesis.
  • Badkhal Lake: Formerly a natural lake, now mostly dry due to environmental factors. Offers scenic views of Aravalli Hills.
  • Anangpur Dam: Ancient structure near Surajkund, attributed to the Tomar dynasty. Demonstrates early water conservation efforts.

Visitor Information

Surajkund Lake & Mela

  • Hours: Lake area: Generally daylight hours (sunrise to sunset). Mela: Check Haryana Tourism for annual dates (typically February) and timings.
  • Fees: Lake area: Usually free. Mela: Entry fees apply during the festival.
  • Guided Options: No formal guided tours for the lake. Mela has cultural performances and demonstrations.
  • Mela Information: Check Haryanatourism.gov.in for specific Mela dates, timings, and ticket prices.

Palace & Badkhal Lake

  • Raja Nahar Singh Palace: Hours vary; parts used for government offices. Inquire locally or check with Haryana Tourism.
  • Fees (Palace): Nominal or no entry fee for public access areas.
  • Badkhal Lake: Accessible during daylight hours. No entry fee.
  • Photography Tips: Visit Surajkund early morning/late afternoon for soft light. Mela bursts with color. Check palace photography guidelines.

If you visit during the Surajkund Mela, wear comfortable shoes. You will do a lot of strolling, and the grounds are extensive.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Major Museums: Faridabad does not have major standalone museums. For comprehensive experiences, a day trip to Delhi is recommended.
  • Art Galleries: Limited dedicated art galleries. Small area art galleries may exist within educational institutions or cultural centers.
  • Exhibition Spaces: Surajkund International Crafts Mela acts as a temporary exhibition space for classic and contemporary Indian art and crafts.
  • Special Exhibits: The Mela is the main platform for special exhibits, cultural demonstrations, and live acts.

Cultural Centers & Events

  • Local Cultural Centers

    Local centers, community halls, and auditoriums sometimes host events, plays, or performances. Check local listings.

  • Performance Venues

    Surajkund Mela grounds feature open-air stages with folk dances, music concerts, and theatrical performances from various states and countries.

  • Local Programming

    Occasionally, local organizations or schools might host art exhibitions or cultural programs. Look for information in local newspapers.

  • Surajkund Mela Highlight

    The Surajkund International Crafts Mela (February) is the main venue for cultural performances and showcases, offering a rich display of India's diverse artistic heritage.

Historical Sites

Faridabad's historical sites provide tangible hyperlinks to its past, from ancient reservoirs to Mughal-era shrines and traditional architecture.

Archaeological & Historical Areas

  • Archaeological Sites

    Surajkund Lake (10th-century artificial reservoir) is the most significant. Anangpur Dam (ancient Tomar dynasty structure) demonstrates early how water is managed.

  • Historical Districts & Architecture

    Old Faridabad (around Old Faridabad Market) offers a glimpse into older urban architecture and traditional bazaars. Raja Nahar Singh Palace blends Mughal and Rajput styles.

  • Religious & Spiritual Sites

    Baba Farid's Tomb (Chilla Baba Farid) is a spiritual site from which the city derives its name. Shri Hanuman Mandir and Sai Baba Temple are significant Hindu religious sites. Various mosques and gurdwaras also can be found.

  • Places Of remembrance

    Smaller local memorials and statues dedicated to historical figures exist for community remembrance. Raja Nahar Singh Palace serves as a de facto memorial.

  • Industrial Past

    Faridabad has a strong manufacturing history post-independence, shaping its identity. No prominent military heritage sites are open to tourism.

  • Visiting Religious Sites

    When visiting religious sites, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and remove your shoes before entering. Observe local customs and maintain a respectful demeanor.

Surajkund Lake

A 10th-century artificial reservoir and significant archaeological site.

Raja Nahar Singh Palace

An architectural blend of Mughal and Rajput styles in Ballabgarh.

Baba Farid's Tomb

A spiritual site from which the city derives its name, attracting devotees.

Natural Attractions

Faridabad's natural side offers serene escapes and opportunities to connect with the ancient Aravalli landscape.

  • Parks and Gardens: Town Park (Sector 12) is a large local park. Leisure Valley Park (Sector 21A) and Shriram Park (Sector 17) offer green spaces.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: The Aravalli Hills offer scenic views, especially during and after monsoon. Explore informal viewpoints around Surajkund and Dhauj.
  • Wildlife Viewing Areas: Dhauj Lake is good for birdwatching. Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary (Delhi-Faridabad border) offers birdwatching and local wildlife (requires permits).

Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known sites, Faridabad holds less crowded spots and local favorites that give one-of-a-kind experiences.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Discover tranquil spots away from the usual tourist trails.

Unexplored Locales

  • Dhauj Lake & Village: The small village offers a glimpse into rural Haryanvi life. The lake is known for birdwatching.
  • Anangpur Village & Dam: A less-visited historical site near Surajkund with an ancient dam.
  • Local Stays On a farm: Some farms regarding the city's periphery might offer informal experiences into farming methods.

Local Favorites

Experience authentic local life and community spaces.

Community & Culture

  • Sector Markets: (e.g., Sector 15, 16) Offer a genuine slice of local life, diverse shops, street food, and a lively atmosphere.
  • Local Temples & Gurdwaras: Numerous smaller neighborhood religious sites provide a peaceful setting for reflection.
  • Aravalli Foothills Nature Trails: Emerging for informal nature walks and birdwatching among locals, offering eco-tourism potential.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture the beauty of Faridabad from several perspectives.

Scenic Shots

  • Surajkund Lake at Sunrise/Sunset: Soft light creates stunning reflections on the water, and the historical steps offer compelling foregrounds.
  • Surajkund Mela: The diversity of crafts, art of the peopleists, and colorful costumes provides endless photographic subjects.
  • Aravalli Landscapes: The rugged beauty of the hills, especially after monsoon, offers picturesque backdrops for landscape photography.

These locations offer both natural beauty and cultural vibrancy.

Old Faridabad Market

Explore the back lanes of Old Faridabad Market for an authentic local experience.

Market Wonders

  • Traditional Artisans: Discover local craftsmen and their unique goods.
  • Bustling Atmosphere: Experience a lively environment distinct from modern shopping areas.

A genuine slice of local life awaits in this market.

Surajkund Lake Steps

The ancient steps of Surajkund Lake reflect the ingenuity of past civilizations.

Historical Engineering

  • Unique Structure: Witness the unique stepped structure, a testament to ancient water management.
  • 10th Century Origin: Learn about its origins as a water harvesting structure from the Tomar king Surajpal.
  • Recreational Spot: Enjoy a walk around this historical and recreational site.

A beautiful blend of history and natural scenery.

Aravalli Hills - Geological Feature

Dominant Feature

The Aravalli Hills are the dominant geological feature of the region, forming a backdrop to parts of Faridabad.

Ancient Origin

One of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, predating the Himalayas, with a geological history dating back billions of years.

Landscape

Their ancient, eroded peaks and rocky outcrops define the western landscape of Faridabad, especially picturesque after the monsoon.

Local Insight

The historical steps of Surajkund Lake offer a compelling visual and are especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset, with soft light creating stunning reflections.
Famous Landmarks in Faridabad. Attractions, Monuments, Sightseeing