Popular Religious Sites in Haryana

Haryana is an Indian state deeply rooted in its history, heritage, and culture. The land is deeply rooted in spirituality and religious sentiments as well. Kurukshetra, a pivotal location in the Bhagavad Gita, is situated here. In addition, other popular religious sites in Haryana include Brahma Sarovar, Jyotisar, Bhishma Kund, and many more. The popular religious sites in Haryana are closely associated with several religious festivals as well. When you are on a pilgrimage to the popular religious sites in Haryana, do note a few special occasions. Geeta Jayanti Mahotsav, Surajkund Mela, Navratri Celebrations, Baisakhi, and Lohri are famous in Haryana.

Karnal

Karnal is a famous city believed to be founded by Karna and is connected to the Mahabharata. Thanks to the abundant production of rice, the city is called the rice bowl of India. Historically and culturally, the city stands out to welcome visitors. Apart from that, the city also houses several popular religious sites in Haryana.

Karneshwar Mahadev Temple, Karnal

Karneshwar Mahadev Temple is the top attraction in the city. The current structure of the Temple was built in 1984. However, the faithful believe that the origin of the temple dates back to the period of the Kaurava-Pandavas. The temple, built in white marble, is visited by a good number of devotees daily. The key attraction in the expansive temple complex is the Panchmukhi Shivalinga. Besides the Shivalinga, there are statues of other deities too. Devotees throng to the temple to get a sight of the Panchmukhi Shivalinga and the stone floating in the nearby pond. When considering a visit to the temple, note that Mahashivratri is the main festival here. Also, during July and August, special prayers and rituals are conducted. On these days, the presiding deity is bathed with water, milk, curd, ghee, sugar, honey, Gangajal, or sugarcane juice.

Sita Mai Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Sita is the Sitamai temple, which is another notable centre of worship in Karnal. Believed to be one of the very few temples dedicated to Goddess Sita, the Sita Mai temple is deeply embedded in mythology. The original structure, which was built with bricks, was dismantled by invaders. However, it was rebuilt with bricks again. The current edifice is over 500 years old. The marble idol of Goddess Sita, placed in the inner sanctum in a standing position, is a notable attraction in the temple. The side walls are ornamented with paintings of stories from the Ramayana. Just like the captivating craftsmanship inside the temple, the location of the temple is an equally soothing sight. Diwali is a famous festival at the temple.

Cantonment Church Tower

Another popular religious site in Haryana is the Cantonment Church Tower in Karnal. A 20th century structure, originally a part of the St. James’ Church it was built by the British. What is to be noted is that the church had been dismantled a long time ago. However, the tall tower was left alone. With a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles, the structure stands at a height of 35 meters. It is one of the popular sites in the region. Apart from the religious significance, the architecturally impressive structure stands as a testament to the rich history and culture of Karnal.

You can reach all the spots in Karnal easily by road or rail. Karnal is located on the Delhi and Chandigarh National Highway 1, making it an easy access point by road. The nearest bus stand and railway station are located within a distance of 20 kilometres from the spot.

Savithri Shakti Peeth, Kurukshetra

known as Shakti Peethas of Maa Sati, the exact period of the construction of the temple is not known. However, the beautifully built temple dedicated to Ma Kali is one of the 51 such temples. Among them, this particular temple is one of the first ones to be dedicated. The current structure is a mortar-constructed temple in a typical Hindu Mandir style. The main structure of the temple has three towers. At a height of almost a hundred feet, one of them remains taller than the other two. The main idol of the goddess Ma Kali is depicted on the lotus. There are also other idols of gods and goddesses you can worship even before you step inside the main temple. A legend has it that Mata Sati’s right ankle fell into the well in front of this temple. As such, there is a marble structure of the right ankle. More idols, including that of the Lord Vishnu, Rudra, and a Shiv Linga, can be spotted inside the temple.

Durga Puja, Diwali, and Navaratri are the main festivals. And these are the occasions that attract a large number of visitors to the temple.

The temple is 3 Km away from Kurukshetra Railway Station. And it is well connected by road.

Bhuteshwar Temple, Jind

Bhuteshwar Temple is dedicated to Bhuteshwar, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. It is also known as Rani Talab, as the temple is situated in the middle of a large water pond. Built during the reign of King Raghbir Singh in the 19th century, the temple reflects the architectural skills of the era. The overall structure of the temple and its interior follow South Indian, Mughal, and Rajasthani architectural styles. What is more fascinating about the temple is that the Shiva Lingam kept in the sanctum sanctorum is considered one of the oldest in the country. Moreover, the idol has a distinct appearance that is not commonly found. There are different stories linked to the existence of the pond around the temple. Taking a holy dip in the pond is considered auspicious by the devotees. Apart from Maha Shivaratri, Karthik Pournima, Navratri, and Diwali are celebrated with great devotion.

The nearest railway station is at Jind, located less than five kilometres away from the temple. And the temple can be easily accessed by road.

Holy Redeemer Church, Ambala

The British constructed the church in 1848. After it collapsed, a new structure was erected at the same place in 1902. The present structure of Holy Redeemer Church showcases Gothic architecture. High ceilings, stained glass windows, and ornate decorations highlight the attractions of the church. Inside the church, you can marvel at the intricate sculptures at the altar and pulpit. Also interesting to note are the remnants of colonial-era structures inside the church. Two rooms were used by the British troops. A memorial stone erected on the church campus is another attraction here. The church is quite popular in the area thanks to its community service and activities. It is one of the most visited places in Haryana during the Christmas season.

Ambala is well connected by road and rail.

Bhima Devi Temple, Mata Mansa Devi Temple, Sheetla Mata Mandir, Shri Dakshinmukhi Hanuman Mandir, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, and many more can be added to the list. Although a small state in terms of its land mass, popular religious sites in Haryana make it one of the important destinations for a religious pilgrimage.