While on the one hand, Haryana houses the bustling tech city of Gurugram, on the other hand, it stores some of the oldest historical monuments from diverse epochs and regimes up its sleeves. With a geographical richness rendered full of culturally diverse monuments, it is a perfect destination for wanderlusts chasing historical tidbits. The table-topper of the Sustainable Development Goals Index in 2022, Haryana now looks towards expanding responsibly along the lines of culture and heritage. Budgeting a trip to the place during this time will prove to be both a clever financial investment and a lesson in culture and heritage.
Journey through time with a visit to these 5 historical sites in Haryana. Immerse yourself in the fascinating stories and architectural marvels that have shaped the state's past. From ancient temples and fortresses to archaeological wonders, these sites offer a glimpse into Haryana's rich heritage and cultural tapestry.
Built in the Hindu architectural style, the Asigarh Fort of Hansi dates back to the 11th century. It was constructed by the founders and rulers of Delhi, the Tomar Rajput king, Anangpal Tomar. Asi, which translates to 'sword', hints at the famous legend that claims of a sword manufacturing company that exported to the Middle East established by King Prithviraj Chauhan. Demolished in 1857 and restored by the Archeological Survey of India in 1937, the ruins bear witness to events of historical importance. Incidents ranging from the era of early 11th century rulers to the Mughals and their conflicts with Sikhism and action during the Revolt of 1857 are known to have unfolded at and around the Asigarh Fort. A rostrum structure around its area, the district of Hisar arranges itself at the foot of the visitor when on top of the fort, giving way to a satisfying panorama. Here, the budding foodies must remain mindful not to miss the peda (a milk based dessert) which is a speciality of the place.
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm all week except Sundays.
The Firoz Shah palace complex, built in the Indo-Islamic style in 1354 AD, stands as a testament to the early parochial aesthetics of Muslim rule in the subcontinent. The complex houses several structures such as the Lat-ki-Masjid and Gujari Mahal whose historical contexts promise to satiate the appetite of history buffs and romantics alike. The Lat-ki-Masjid derives its name from laat, which translates to ‘stick’, named so as a lower portion of Ashoka’s sandstone pillar bearing Mauryan Brahmi script was used at the site. The story of Gujari Mahal remains more amusing as it was a gift of love from Feroz Shah to Gujari Rani whom he fell in love with on one of his hunting expeditions. The complex is also an abode to several taikhana (basement cellar) which adds to the thrill of exploration. Furthermore, Hisar houses the village of Rakhigarhi – the largest Harappan site in the Indian subcontinent where excavations led to the discovery of artefacts dating back to 5000-5500 BC.
Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Entry fee: Rs. 15 for Indian national and Rs. 200 for foreign visitors.
The magnificent temple of Agroha of Hisar district is traced back to the 3rd century and is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Mahalakshmi and Maharaja Agrasen. Communities such as Agrawal and Agrahari claim their origins in Agroha. It has references in Ain-i-Akbari (the courtly Mughal document) while excavations led to ancient structures, pot-shards, coins and seals to surface from the site. The temple is home to several caves, among which are the longest caves in India. Around the Agroha temple, travellers can enjoy boating and benefit from the nearby park for picnicking, reading under a tree and lying on the grass.
Timings: 5 am to 9 pm
Rai Bal Mukund Das Ka Chatta or Birbal Ka Chatta (Birbal’s Terrace) was built by Ray-i-Rayan Mukand Dass, the superintendent of Emperor Shahjahan. It is an exquisite example of Mughal architecture with mindfulness for seasonal adaptation. History buffs and urban enthusiasts will revel at the five-storeyed complex which flaunts amenities such as fountains and springs as well as several halls, rooms and pavilions.
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
The brilliant structure of Jal Mahal was built by Shah Quli Khan, the governor of Narnaul during the period of Emperor Akbar. Though now it serves only as a tourist attraction, it used to be a fortification with an artificial lake in the medieval era. With the water having receded exposing lush greenery around the structure, the palace tends to delight visitors, especially when you have an intimate accomplice.
Timings: 10 am to 6 pm all week except on Sundays.