Haryana's Mahabharata Circuit: A New Tourism Hub in Kurukshetra-Brahma Sarovar, Sri Krishna Museum, Bhishma Kund and Jyotisar

#1 Haryana Launches The Mahabharata Circuit In Kurukshetra, Transforming Historic Sites Into Major Tourist Attractions

In the Article

1. Kurukshetra as a Global Pilgrimage Center
2. Showcasing Kurukshetra's Heritage Sites
3. Extending the Circuit to Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand

Haryana’s Vision for the Mahabharata Circuit to Boost Tourism : Expanding Haryana’s Historical Tourism

Haryana's Heritage and Tourism Minister declared plans to evolve Kurukshetra and its adjacent regions into a solid tourist destination: 'Mahabharata Circuit'. The aim is to enhance tourism by building infrastructure and attractions of the region's historical heritage linked to the epic that could be appealing both to pilgrims and history lovers.

As part of a move towards strengthening Haryana's historical heritage, Heritage and Tourism Minister in the State, Dr Arvind Kumar Sharma, presented a proposal for promoting Kurukshetra and other adjoining regions as preferred tourist locations. Kurukshetra and the surrounding areas, known for historical and mythological associations-especially with the Mahabharata-will figure in the new concept of 'Mahabharata Circuit'.

This was revealed by Dr. Sharma at the Mahabharata Circuit Conference held at Karnal, where representatives from Haryana Tourism and the Union Ministry of Tourism sat a talking table to discuss the region's development potential in general

#2 Kurukshetra as a Global Pilgrimage Center

Kurukshetra as a Global Pilgrimage Center

Organized by the Union Ministry of Tourism, the conference was mooted to position historic sites in Kurukshetra, Karnal and Panipat as attractive tourist spots. Dr Sharma proposed that Kurukshetra should strive to provide amenities on par with Vrindavan, that attracts thousands of pilgrim heads, to increase tourists also. The plan includes infrastructure development, improvement in visitor facilities and strengthening of regional cultural depth.

R. K. Suman, Northern Regional Director of the Union Ministry of Tourism, explained that the ministry is working toward putting Kurukshetra on the world map. "We have invested INR 200 crores so far," he said. "It will help rejuvenate and promote religious and historical tourism in this region for its pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and international tourists

#3 Showcasing Kurukshetra's Heritage Sites

Showcasing Kurukshetra's Heritage Sites

As per the reports, Over 130 industry professionals attended the three-day Mahabharata Circuit Conference and Familiarization Tour in Kurukshetra, which was focused on the historic significance of the region and ways to promote tourism. Among the notable sites within Mahabharata Circuit are:
Brahma Sarovar - It is said that this is a sacred water body connected to Lord Brahma. Sri Krishna Museum-Holding an artifact linked with the life of Lord Krishna.
Bhishma Kund – Associated with the famous legend of Bhishma lying on a bed of arrows.
Bhagavad Gita Jyotisar Kurukshetra - Famous for being the spot where Bhagavad Gita was given.
Other attractions include Sheikh Chilli's Tomb, Gurudwara Navi Patshahi Sahib, Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple, and Bhadrakali Temple.

#4 Extending the Circuit to Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand

Extending the Circuit to Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand

The Mahabharata Circuit stretches beyond Haryana into Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, encompassing various historic and religious sites in Hastinapur, Mathura, and Badrinath, among others. According to Haryana’s tourism department, Kurukshetra itself spans approximately 147 sq km and is rich with temples, holy places, and ancient tanks linked to the Mahabharata War and its legendary characters.