Surajkund Crafts Mela

Surajkund which is an ancient reservoir has today become a popular tourist destination of Haryana. Surajkund literally means ‘lake of the sun’. It is in fact an artificial reservoir (that’s why it is called kund) built in the backdrop of the picturesque Aravalli hills. Each year it attracts a large number of both domestic as well as foreign tourists, especially during the Surajkund mela.

About Surajkund Mela

The Surajkund fair or mela is the highlight of the region during the spring season. It is held each year from 1 – 15 February. The fair was first held in 1981 and ever since it has become an integral part of the rich cultural heritage of the region. It is organized by the Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Culture – Government of India in close collaboration with Haryana Tourism.



The entire area turns into a riot of colors during the fair. Craftsmen and artisans showcase their craft in the allotted makeshift stalls. From exquisite handicrafts to premium handloom, you name it and you can find it in Surajkund mela. The other things that one can shop for include – textiles, paintings, pottery, ivory work, bamboo and cane work, terracotta, stone work, lacquer  work, mirror embroidery work, traditional shawls, wood carved show pieces, oxidized metal jewelry, seashell show pieces and jewelry, rugs and carpets, handlooms from various states, silk and cotton sarees, precious gems, metal and care ware, bangles and accessories, ethnic jewelry, lace work, silk fabrics, traditional toys, musical instruments, handmade fabrics etc.

Apart from these, the various product categories are –

• Women
• Men
• Personal care
• Fashion accessories
• Health care
• Fragrances
• Home furnishings
• Gift packaging
• Kitchen
• Home décor

Potters, weavers, painters, metal workers, wood carvers and handloom makers from all over the country, especially the rural parts head to Surajkund fair to exhibit their art forms and crafts. The government has given them a great platform which not only gives them a means of livelihood but also encouragement and motivation.

It is also interesting to know that the fair is not just limited to art and crafts exhibition. It has something for everyone. Every day there are different types of theatre workshops and music and dance events organized. Also the fair has a great food fair that offers lip smacking delicacies from all over the country.

Handicrafts from Different States

The Surajkund crafts mela is certainly a shopper’s delight. It is a great place for people to buy handicrafts and handlooms from all over the country. From traditional sarees to shawls, you’ll get them all in the fair.

When at the fair, look out for the following –

• Phulkari work of Punjab
• Chikri woodcraft of Kashmir
• Intricate rosewood carving, inlay wood work, cane craft and sandalwood from South India
• Kantha work of West Bengal
• Sholapith and Shital Patti work of Assam and West Bengal
• Chikankari work of Lucknow
• Phad paintings of Rajasthan
• Banjara and Bunni embroidery work of Rajasthan and Gujarat
• Suzni work of Kashmir
• Kalamkari of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
• Temple paintings of Odisha
• Madhubani from Bihar

Entertainment at Surajkund

The fair has a high entertainment quotient. Folk dancers, musicians, magicians and acrobats make the event all the more engaging and lively. Every day there are different kinds of performances at the Natyashala – the open air theatre. The fair is a perfect amalgamation of cultures and traditions. It offers a great opportunity to witness the varying art forms, cuisines and crafts of the entire country at a single place.

In addition to dance and music, the open air theatre also witnesses dramas and plays exhibiting myriad aspects of Indian culture. The frequently participating entertainment groups in the fair include –

• Kaal Belia from Rajasthan
• Octave dance group from Northeast
• Siddi Goma from Gujarat
• Brij ki holi and Charkula from UP
• Bhangra from Punjab
• Been Sapera and Banchari from Haryana

In addition to these regional groups, one can also see international groups performing in the fair. Some of the most popular ones are – Tajik Dances, Thai Traditional Dances, Egyptian Tannoura Dances etc.

Surajkund Fair – a paradise for foodies!

As mentioned earlier there is something for everyone at the effervescent Surajkund fair. Adding to the fun and frolic of shopping, culture and entertainment is the wide variety of delicacies that are the fair offers. The food fair is an integral part of the main Surajkund fair. It sees food stalls offering cuisines from different states of India. So whether it is the mouthwatering Biryani and Kebabs or momos and thukpa, you’ll find it all. North Indian, South Indian, street food etc. there are numerous food stalls that offer delicious treats.

Fair Timings

The fair is held annually for a fortnight in the month of February or March

How to reach

Surajkund is an integral part of Faridabad, which in turn forms an important part of the national capital region. It is very well connected to Delhi, Gurgaon and Noida through road network. The fair is easily accessible by both public as well as private vehicles.

Buses – There are special buses available from various parts of Delhi like Connaught Place and South Delhi that would take you to Surajkund fair.

Metro – One can also consider the option of taking the metro. Take the Violet Line of Delhi Metro and get down at Tughlakabad station. From there you can easily take an auto-rickshaw or a cab and reach the fair easily.