One of the holy cities of Haryana, Kurukshetra has a whole lot of significance in Indian history. It is known as the Land of Bhagwat Gita which is the holy book of the Hindus, and even the epic Mahabharata revolved around Kurukshetra.
The city has been named after King Kuru who was the ancestor of Kauravas and Pandavas, as depicted in the epic. Also, the historic Kurukshetra War of Mahabharata was fought on this land only. Apart from that, it’s exactly where Lord Krishna recited Bhagwat Gita for the first time.
There can be no other holy place with such great significance and rich history for the Hindu devotees than this one. According to ancient texts, Kurukshetra is not just a city but an abode for Lords and Kings. It is a Hindu pilgrimage destination that has immense importance and a lot of devotees visit here to explore temples, pilgrimage centres, and other holy sites.
History of Kurukshetra
The ancient Hindu texts have the mention of King Kuru on many occasions. He was the one who used to rule the Bharata Dynasty which was also considered as the ancestral origin of Kaurava and Pandavas (two groups of brothers during the time of Epic Mahabharata).
The Puranas also talk about the great battle of Mahabharata which was fought on the land of the city of Kurukshetra.
Later in the history, Kurukshetra was conquered by the Mauryan Empire in the late 4th century BCE and subsequently became a centre of Buddhism and Hinduism. However, the history of Kurukshetra is little-known amid the collapse of the Mauryans and the rise of the Kushans who later conquered the region.
After the decline of the Kushan power in the region, Kurukshetra became independent only to become conquered by the Gupta empire in the early 4th century CE. Under Gupta rule, Kurukshetra experienced a cultural and religious revival and became a centre for Hinduism. After the fall of the Gupta, the Pushyabhuti dynasty ruled over Kurukshetra.
In 736, the Tomara dynasty was founded and they took over the region. Around the early 9th century, Kurukshetra lost its independence to Bengal. Mahmud of Ghazni sacked Kurukshetra in 1014 and Muslim raiders sacked it in 1034. Kurukshetra was incorporated into the Delhi Sultanate in 1206. Other than a short moment of independence from the result of a rebellion within the Sultanate in 1240, Kurukshetra was under the control of Delhi until 1388.
Kurukshetra became part of the Mughal Empire after Babur quashed a local rebellion in 1526. Under Akbar, Kurukshetra once again became a spiritual center not only for Hindus but also for Sikhs and Muslims.
Between the late 17th and early 18th centuries, Kurukshetra was controlled by either Mughal or Sikh forces, until the British took over Delhi in 1803. In 1805, the British took over Kurukshetra after defeating the Sikh forces who were controlling the city.
Since 1947, Kurukshetra has become a popular spiritual center and has seen much infrastructure development and restoration of old structures.
Places To Visit In Kurukshetra 2025
1. Brahma Sarovar
Dedicated to Lord Brahma, what is really worth knowing about this place is that the Lord created Mother Earth from this particular Sarovar. Moreover, it has also been mentioned in the memoirs of Al Beruni, who had mentioned this water tank to be 1800m deep and 1400m wide.
2. Krishna Museum
This museum was founded in 1987 and houses various artefacts of Lord Krishna and his incarnations from the 1st century AD to the 11th Century AD. Another fact that you must know is that this museum also houses six galleries that specifically showcase the statues in the forms they are depicted and described in the Bhagavata Purana as well as the Mahabharata. There is no doubt, this is one of the best places to visit in Kurukshetra.
3. Sannihit Sarovar
550 ft in width and around 1500 ft in height, the Sannihit Sarovar is believed to be the point where the seven tributaries of the Saraswati River meet. And this is also the very place which is considered as the home of Lord Vishnu.
4. Jyotisar
This place is associated with the legend of Mahabharata and is considered as a sacred site, located in Kurukshetra. This is considered as the place where Lord Krishna had recited the Bhagwad Geeta under the shade of Banyan tree to Arjuna, to prepare him for the war against the evil.
5. Bhadrakali Temple
It is believed that it was this temple where the Pandavas had offered their prayers to God before waging a war against the Kauravas.
6. Bhishma Kund
This place is associated with one of the most amazing parts of Mahabharata. Bhishma Kund is the same place where, it is believed, that Bhishma Pitamah was laid on the bed of arrows which was made by none other than Arjuna himself. Later, Arjuna established this Kund when Bhishma Pitahmah requested for water.
7. Kurukshetra Festival
The Kurukshetra festival is one of the major festivals in which a great number of pilgrims gather around to take a holy dip in the Brahma Sarovar. The waters of this place are more or less considered quite sacred. Overall, it is a great option to explore and experience.
Things to Do in Kurukshetra
- Visit the Holy Sarovars – Take a ritual bath in Brahma Sarovar and Sannihit Sarovar, believed to purify the soul.
- Explore Mahabharata Sites – Stop by Jyotisar, where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita, Bhishma Kund, and the immersive Kurukshetra Panorama and Science Centre.
- Attend Gita Jayanti Celebrations – Experience the grand annual festival filled with spiritual discourses, cultural programs, and exhibitions.
- Explore Museums – Learn about Krishna and the epic at the Shri Krishna Museum and local heritage at the Dharohar Museum.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine – Savour Haryanvi favourites like Bajra Roti, Kachri ki Sabzi, Methi Gajar, and a refreshing glass of Lassi.
- Visit Sheikh Chehli's Tomb – A Mughal-era architectural marvel with a peaceful garden and great photo opportunities.
- Walk through Kalpana Chawla Planetarium – Dive into astronomy shows and exhibits dedicated to India’s space icon.
- Stroll in Krishna Museum Park – A quiet green space perfect for relaxing after sightseeing.
- Shop for Local Handicrafts – Explore local markets for juttis, embroidered textiles, and brass artefacts.
- Visit Bhadrakali Temple – One of the Shakti Peethas, where it's believed the ankle of Goddess Sati fell.
Travel Tips for Visitors to Kurukshetra
- Visit during Gita Jayanti (November–December) to witness the spiritual and cultural vibrancy at its peak.
- Start your day early to explore temples and sarovars in the calm morning atmosphere.
- Dress modestly as most attractions are religious sites. Comfortable cotton clothes are ideal in warmer months.
- Hire a local guide at Jyotisar or Panorama Museum for deeper mythological insights.
- Carry drinking water and snacks, especially when visiting multiple historical sites in a day.
- Use local auto-rickshaws for short distances; they’re affordable and easily available.
- Stay near Brahma Sarovar for easy access to key sites and peaceful evening walks.
- Respect local customs during temple visits—remove shoes and maintain silence.
- Check weather conditions—summers can be hot, so plan indoor visits during peak afternoon hours.
- Avoid Mondays and major holidays for museum visits, as some places may be closed or overcrowded.
Best Time to Visit Kurukshetra 2025
- October – March (Winter & Spring) - Pleasant weather for temple visits and sightseeing.
- April – June (Summer) - Hot and dry; not ideal for travel.
- July – September (Monsoon) - The greenery enhances the beauty of the temples and lakes.
How to Reach Kurukshetra
To reach Kurukshetra, you need to cover an approximate distance of 155, 1,564, 1,672, 2,317 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Following are the travel details on how you can easily reach Kurukshetra via different modes of transportation.
By Air
The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) which is located at a distance of 91km from Kurukshetra. Another nearest airport that also has good international flight connectivity is Indira Gandhi International Airport situated (approx) 169.9 kilometres away from the city. Once you deboard at either of the airports as per your convenience, you can easily get local means of transport to reach your destination.
- From Ahmedabad - Board Spicejet, Vistara, Air India flights from Ahmedabad Airport. The airfares start from INR 3,000-4,000
- From Patna - Board IndiGo, Air India flights from Patna Airport. The airfares start from INR 5,000-6,000
- From Jaipur - Board Air India, IndiGo flights from Jaipur Airport. The airfares start from INR 4,000-5,000
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Kurukshetra
By Train
If planning a trip via train then deboard at Kurukshetra Railway Station. The railway station is well-connected to major cities of India offering overall good train connectivity to the passengers. After deboarding at the station, you can continue your journey via some means of public transport.
By Road
The overall connectivity via road network is quite good as well. Frequent public and private buses are available. Also, if you belong to neighbouring states or cities, you can easily enjoy a road trip via your personal motor vehicle. Thus, if you are planning a road trip then it would prove to be a convenient experience for you.
- From Ludhiana - 158 km via NH44
- From Patiala - 103 km via NH44
- From Panipat - 70-80 km via NH44
Conclusion
Kurukshetra is more than a spiritual destination—it's a walk through epic history, sacred rituals, and timeless legends. Whether you're here for faith, curiosity, or culture, this city leaves you with stories worth remembering.
Get in touch with Adotrip and enjoy amazing flight deals, Tour Packages, hotels and other bookings that will make your trip to this magnificent city memorable.
With us, nothing is far!
Frequently Asked Questions about Kurukshetra 2025
Q. Why is Kurukshetra so famous?
A. Kurukshetra is renowned as the battlefield of the Mahabharata, the epic war between the Pandavas and Kauravas. It's also where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. The city is a major pilgrimage site, attracting visitors for its sacred lakes, temples, and historical landmarks rooted in Vedic history.
Q. Is Kurukshetra soil still red?
A. Yes, parts of Kurukshetra still have distinct reddish soil, believed by many locals and pilgrims to be coloured by the bloodshed of the Mahabharata war. While it’s more symbolic than scientific, the red soil adds to the city's mythical aura.
Q. Where is Kurukshetra War Ground now?
A. The Kurukshetra War Ground is believed to have been spread across what is now modern-day Kurukshetra in Haryana, particularly around areas like Jyotisar, where Krishna is said to have given the Gita. Today, the region includes temples, memorials, and marked spots that represent key moments from the epic.
Q. Is there any proof of Mahabharata in Kurukshetra?
A. While there is no scientific proof confirming the events of Mahabharata as historical fact, there are archaeological findings and oral traditions that support its deep cultural roots. Sites like Jyotisar, Bhishma Kund, and artefacts unearthed in the region suggest a civilisation dating back to the Mahabharata period.
Q. What are the main tourist attractions in Kurukshetra?
A. The main tourist attractions in Kurukshetra include the Brahma Sarovar, the Sannihit Sarovar, the Jyotisar Light and Sound Show, the Bhishma Kund, and the Kurukshetra Panorama and Science Centre.
Q. What is special about Jyotisar in Kurukshetra?
A. Jyotisar is the exact spot where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. A sacred banyan tree stands here, believed to be present since ancient times.
Q. Is there an entry fee for Brahma Sarovar?
A. No, entry to Brahma Sarovar is free for all visitors. It is open for pilgrims throughout the year.
Q. How many days are enough to explore Kurukshetra?
A. A 2-day trip is sufficient to visit major attractions like Brahma Sarovar, Jyotisar, Shri Krishna Museum, and Bhishma Kund.
