Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar unveiled a new chapter in Haryana's tourism offerings by inaugurating the hot air balloon safari in Pinjore. Adventure enthusiasts can now experience the thrill of a hot air balloon ride for INR 13,000.
Chief Minister Khattar embarked on the inaugural hot air balloon safari accompanied by Haryana Assembly Speaker Gian Chand Gupta and School Education and Heritage and Tourism Minister Kanwar Pal.
Expressing the immense potential for tourism in Haryana, Khattar highlighted the state government's commitment to expanding tourism activities. Initiatives include not only the hot air balloon safari but also a push towards water and adventure sports, such as paragliding, water sports, jet scooters, para sailing, trekking, and more. The Tikkartal area near Morni Hills now offers a range of thrilling activities, with plans for eco-tourism in Morni Hills involving the Forest Department.
The Chief Minister emphasised the strategic development of the Shivalik and Aravalli regions, with comprehensive roadmaps designed to attract global tourists. A significant undertaking is the creation of the world's largest jungle safari park, spanning 10,000 acres in Gurugram and Nuh districts within the Aravalli mountain range. This ambitious project aims to preserve the natural beauty of the Aravalli mountain range while boosting tourism in Gurugram and Nuh areas.
Pinjore Gardens: Designed by Fidahi Khan, a trusted lieutenant of Aurangzeb, these terraced gardens boast the Rajasthani Mughal style, featuring the Sheesh Mahal, Rang Mahal, and the Jal Mahal with cascading waterfalls and fountains.
Sheesh Mahal & Rang Mahal: Once the residence for women during their garden visits, Sheesh Mahal offers a panoramic view of the entire landscape. On the next level, the Rang Mahal, the Maharaja of Patiala's residence, provides a breathtaking vista of the gardens and surrounding orchards, especially under the moonlight.
Bhima Devi Temple: Adjacent to Pinjore Gardens, the Bhima Devi Temple stands as a testament to artistic brilliance. Dating back to the 8th-11th century AD, this temple is a protected monument featuring erotic sculptures arranged in an open-air museum format. The temple showcases idols of Apsaras, Gandharvas, gods, goddesses, animals, and captivating images of contemporary life, with the idol of Lord Shiva as its centrepiece.
Pandava Cave: Part of the "Karol ka Tibba" trek, this mysterious cave connects Solan to the Bhima Devi temple complex in Pinjore. Nestled amid grasslands, dense forests, and small ponds, the cave is believed to be the oldest and longest in the Himalayan region, shrouded in an atmosphere of intrigue and ancient allure.