Tourist Attractions in Karnal Haryana

Karnal, located in the northern state of Haryana, is a city that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. This ancient city, steeped in history, has a plethora of attractions that captivate both domestic and foreign travellers. Karnal has it all, from stately palaces to tranquil lakes and sacred shrines. 

Karnal Fort: Karnal Fort, which dates back to the 13th century, is a tribute to the city's rich past. Raja Gokula erected this spectacular palace, which is an architectural masterpiece with Rajput and Mughal influences. As you immerse yourself in the regal aura of this mediaeval fort, explore the towering entrances, stately halls, and lovely gardens.

Karna Lake: Nestled among thick foliage, Karna Lake is a lovely retreat that provides tranquillity and serenity. According to mythology, the renowned warrior Karna of the Mahabharata used to swim in this tranquil lake. Enjoy boating, nature walks, or simply relaxing by the lake as you take in the breathtaking grandeur of this natural wonder.

Kalander Shah's Tomb: No trip to Karnal would be complete without a visit to the majestic Kalander Shah's Tomb. This magnificent mausoleum, dedicated to Sufi saint Kalander Shah, is known for its elaborate architecture. The exquisite marble work and delicate carvings make it a wonderful work of art. The serene ambiance of the surroundings enhances the spiritual experience.

Cantonment Church Tower: A visit to the Cantonment Church Tower is a must for history buffs. This tower, built during the British colonial era, serves as a reminder of Karnal's link with the British Raj. Climb the tower for sweeping views of the city and insights into its colonial history.

Pukka Pul, commonly known as the "Concrete Bridge," is a well-known landmark in Karnal. This architectural masterpiece spans the Western Yamuna Canal and demonstrates the city's engineering skill. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge to snap stunning canal vistas, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Bhima Devi Temple: About 20 km from Karnal, Bhima Devi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with enormous historical and religious value. The beautiful stone sculptures on this 11th-century temple complex are dedicated to Goddess Bhima Devi. The architecture of the temple, together with the tranquil surroundings, provides a genuinely mesmerising experience.

Atal Park: Escape the city's hustle and bustle with Atal Park, a beautifully designed green space. This well-kept park has lush gardens, strolling routes, and children's play areas. Enjoy a quiet picnic, participate in outdoor activities, or simply rest in nature's embrace.

Karnal Museum: The Karnal Museum is a must-see for history and art fans alike. This museum has an extensive collection of artefacts such as ancient sculptures, coins, manuscripts, and paintings. Explore the many galleries to learn more about the region's rich cultural legacy.

When is the best time to visit Karnal?

The winter season, from October to March, is the greatest time to visit Karnal. The weather is nice and comfortable during these months, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The chilly and moderate environment is great for exploring outdoor sites and participating in a variety of activities.

Winter visitors to Karnal can fully experience the city's historical attractions, lakes, and gardens without the discomfort of severe heat or humidity. It is also the time of year when the region receives the least amount of rain, ensuring that your sightseeing activities are not hampered by bad weather.

In addition, Karnal hosts the famed Kisan Mela (Agricultural Fair) in February, which draws visitors from all around India. This fair provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about agricultural advancements, watch cultural performances, and sample local food.

If, on the other hand, you love a cheerful environment and lively celebrations, you can consider visiting Karnal during the Navratri festival, which takes place between September and October. The city comes alive with colourful decorations, music, dance, and religious rites at this season, creating a lively and joyous ambiance.

Summers in Karnal, from April through June, may be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching far above 40°C (104°F). Rainfall and thunderstorms are common during the monsoon season, which lasts from July through September and might hamper outdoor activities. As a result, unless you are prepared for the weather, it is best to avoid visiting Karnal during these seasons.

How to Get There: Karnal

Karnal is well-connected to major Indian cities via air, rail, and road. Here are the various means of transportation available to go to Karnal:

By Air: The nearest airport to Karnal is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, about 125 kilometres away. To get to Karnal, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked cab from the airport. The drive from the airport to Karnal takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.

By Train: Karnal has its own railway station that connects to major cities around India. The Delhi-Karnal-Ambala line is served by several trains, including express and superfast trains. The rail ride from Delhi to Karnal takes about 2-3 hours. When you arrive at Karnal Railway Station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to your selected destination within the city.

By Road: Karnal is easily accessible by road from neighbouring towns and states due to its strong road connectivity.

Karnal is around 125 kilometres from Delhi, and the drive takes approximately 2-3 hours. To get to Karnal, take the NH44 (Delhi-Ambala Highway) or the NH709A (Delhi-Karnal Highway).

Karnal is around 130 kilometres distant from Chandigarh. To get to Karnal, take the NH5 (Chandigarh-Ambala Highway) or the NH44 (Ambala-Delhi Highway). The road trip takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic circumstances.

From other cities: A network of national and state highways connects Karnal to other cities in Haryana, Punjab, and neighbouring states. Karnal can be reached via private buses, taxis, or your own vehicle.

Local Transportation: Once you are in Karnal, you may easily travel the city by using auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, or taxis. These types of transportation are widely available and allow easy access to the city's various tourist attractions.

Karnal is a well-known food.

Karnal's rich and diversified food culture provides a pleasant culinary experience. Here are some of the notable cuisine things you should taste if you visit Karnal:

Karnal ka Kachori: Karnal is well-known for its tasty and crispy kachoris. Deep-fried pastries filled with a spicy blend of lentils, onions, and aromatic spices. These kachoris, served with sour chutneys, are a favourite snack among both locals and visitors.

Paneer Tikka: A famous vegetarian appetiser, Paneer Tikka, is a must-try in Karnal. Fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes are marinated in a spicy yogurt-based concoction before being skewered and grilled to perfection. The smokey and delicious paneer tikka is a delectable delight.

Karnal's specialty is Dahi Bhalla, a classic Indian street meal. Bhallas are soft lentil fritters soaked in creamy yoghurt and topped with sweet and tangy chutneys, roasted cumin, and chopped coriander leaves. This dish's diverse flavours and textures make it a pleasant choice for a quick snack.

Amritsari Kulcha: Although not indigenous to Karnal, the city is known for its excellent Amritsari Kulchas. These stuffed bread treats are created with mashed potatoes, spices, and herbs. Amritsari Kulchas are a hearty lunch when served with tangy chole (chickpea curry) and a splash of butter.

Butter Chicken: If you enjoy North Indian food, don't pass up the chance to try Karnal's famed Butter Chicken. Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a creamy, delicious tomato-based sauce. This rich and decadent dish is best served with naan or roti (Indian bread) and is popular among non-vegetarians.

Rabri Faluda: Rabri Faluda is a favourite dish in Karnal for individuals with a sweet tooth. Rabri, a sweet and creamy condensed milk dish, is stacked with faluda (vermicelli noodles), rose syrup, and nuts and dry fruits. This chilled dessert is a delightful and filling way to end a meal.

Thandai: During festivities such as Holi, Thandai is a traditional drink enjoyed by Karnalites. This refreshing beverage is made by combining milk, almonds, pistachios, poppy seeds, and aromatic spices such as cardamom and saffron. Thandai is well-known for its distinct flavour and is an excellent way to beat the summer heat.

Karnal activities and sightseeing

When it comes to activities and sightseeing in Karnal, the city has a variety of possibilities to suit a variety of interests. Here are some activities and attractions to enjoy when visiting Karnal:

Explore the old Karnal Fort, which features a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Admire the fort complex's massive entrances, rich carvings, and lovely gardens. It's an excellent site to learn about the city's fascinating history.

Relax at Karna Lake: Spend a calm day at Karna Lake, taking in the stunning beauty and tranquil surroundings. Take a boat ride on the lake, go for a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, or simply rest and absorb in the serene ambiance.

Explore Kalander Shah's Tomb: A mausoleum dedicated to the Sufi saint Kalander Shah, the magnificent Kalander Shah's Tomb is a must-see. Admire the beautiful architecture and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Take a stroll across the Pukka Pul, a concrete bridge that spans the Western Yamuna Canal. Take in the breathtaking views of the canal and its surrounds. The bridge is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bhima Devi Temple, which is located near Karnal. Learn about the historical and religious significance of the ancient temple complex noted for its beautiful stone sculptures.

Visit Atal Park: Take a break in Atal Park, a well-kept green park in Karnal. Enjoy a leisurely walk, a picnic, or other outdoor activities surrounded by gorgeous gardens and refreshing surroundings.

Explore Karnal Museum: Visit the Karnal Museum to immerse yourself in the rich cultural legacy of Karnal. Discover an eclectic collection of artefacts such as ancient sculptures, coins, manuscripts, and paintings.

Explore the busy local markets in Karnal to learn about the local culture and shop for traditional handicrafts, fabrics, and regional specialties. Popular shopping areas include Gharaunda Market, Karnal Main Market, and Anaj Mandi Market.

Attend Agricultural Fairs: If you're lucky, you might be able to attend the Karnal Kisan Mela (Agricultural Fair). During this lively event, you may learn about agricultural advancements, watch cultural performances, and sample local cuisine.

Indulge in Local Cuisine: Don't pass up the opportunity to sample Karnal's outstanding street cuisine and traditional specialties. To tantalise your taste buds, try Karnal ka Kachori, Dahi Bhalla, Amritsari Kulcha, and other local delights.