Kurukshetra, one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimage destinations, is where ancient spirituality converges with modern comforts, writes Santanu Ganguly
Though Kurukshetra is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and is located close to Delhi, it has not always attracted large numbers of visitors. Mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, particularly the Mahabharata, Kurukshetra holds great spiritual importance. According to Acharya Some Nath Gautam, priest at the Katyayani Temple, visiting all the ancient temples here would require at least a year. This journey, known as the Kurukshetra 84 Kos Parikrama, encompasses numerous sacred and historical sites. However, modern pilgrims often focus on the most important temples, holy places, and archaeological monuments due to time constraints.
The city offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly 2- and 3- star hotels to numerous dharamshalas. For those seeking luxury, the Noormahal Palace in Karnal stands out as Haryana’s only 5-star hotel, offering exceptional amenities such as a spa, jacuzzi, modern gym, and fine dining. Blending heritage with modern comforts, this ultra-luxurious hotel features the Frontier Mail restaurant, housed in a life-sized train compartment from the historic Frontier Mail. The restaurant’s ambience evokes the 19th century, with interiors reflecting the Mumbai-Peshawar route.
A visit to Kurukshetra typically begins at Brahma Sarovar, Asia’s largest man-made water body, stretching 3,600 feet long, 1,500 feet wide, and 45 feet deep. According to Hindu mythology, the lake was created by Lord Brahma at the dawn of the universe. Brahma Sarovar, along with the nearby Sannihit Sarovar, is fed by underground channels from the Bhakra Nangal Dam. The ancient Shiva Temple here is believed to have been established by Lord Shiva himself. Between the two lakes lies the Mata Katyayani Temple, which features an impressive bronze sculpture of Arjuna and Lord Krishna on a chariot, crafted by renowned sculptor Ram Vanji Sutar. This sculpture has become a popular photography spot. Another notable site is the ancient Chandra Kup, a well where, according to legend, water turns into milk during a lunar eclipse. It is also said to be the place where Draupadi washed her hair after the infamous bloodshed by Dushasana.
The Kali Kamli Temple, built by Kali Kamli Baba of Bengal in the 19th century, is a siddha peeth located near Brahma Sarovar. Devi Kup, also known as the BhadraKali Temple, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and Haryana’s only such temple. Pandit Satpal Sharma explains that the temple holds significance for Lord Krishna and Balarama, who visited before the Kurukshetra War. Devotees continue to donate clay, ceramic, or silver horses here, a tradition rooted in sacred history. Special pujas for Maa Kali and Lord Shani are held every Saturday.
The Sthanu Mahadev Temple is another important site, where Lord Krishna and the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings before the war. Nearby, the historical Harsh ka Tilla and Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb offer fascinating insights into the region’s past. History enthusiasts can also explore the Sri Krishna Museum and Kurukshetra Panorama, which showcases key artifacts. For children and astronomy lovers, the Kalpana Chawla Planetarium provides a fun and educational experience.
In the coming years, the ISKCON Temple, currently under construction and expected to be completed by 2026, will be a must-visit site. At Jyotisar, where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, visitors can enjoy an impressive light and sound show, which reflects on the water of a fountain, creating an unforgettable experience. Additionally, the 50-foot Vishwarup Darshan statue of Lord Krishna, designed by Ram V. Sutar comes alive every evening for visitors.
For a 2-3 day weekend trip, Kurukshetra offers the perfect blend of spiritual significance, historical landmarks, and modern luxury, making it an ideal destination for travellers.
