Faridabad, the district as well as the largest and leading industrial city in Haryana, acquires its name from the revered 12th century Sufi saint Sheikh Farid. There are several places to visit in Faridabad, ranging from historical sites to beautiful lakes.
Although Faridabad has everything to keep visitors entertained, tourists exploring the National Capital Region often restrict themselves to the best places to visit in Delhi and Gurgaon. However, things are changing of late with more and more visitors including a sightseeing tour of Faridabad in their itinerary. In case you too are planning to visit this industrial hub, do explore the following popular places to visit in Faridabad.
Places to Visit in Faridabad (List):
Surajkund Lake | Surajkund |
Baba Farid’s Tomb | Old Faridabad |
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple | Sector 16A |
ISKCON Temple | Sector 37 |
CITM Lake | Surajkund Road |
Nahar Singh Cricket Stadium | New Industrial Town |
Dhauj Lake | Ballabhgarh |
Raja Nahar Singh Palace | Ballabhgarh |
Badkhal Lake | Badkhal |
1. Surajkund Lake, Faridabad
One of the most popular places to visit in Faridabad is the 10th century reservoir Surajkund, which means Lake of the Sun. The lake was built by the Tomar dynasty ruler Suraj Pal, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Sun and hence constructed a Sun temple (in ruins now) on its western bank apart from a garden and a pool.
This artificial reservoir with the serene Aravallis in the backdrop has a semi-circular embankment similar to an amphitheatre where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful views while picnicking here. It is the venue of the world renowned Surajkund International Crafts Mela, which is held during the first fortnight of February. You can see the finest of Indian traditional handicraft, handloom and folk art, including dance and music – making it a must visit if you are in Faridabad in February.
- Location: Surajkund, Faridabad
- Timings: 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
2. Baba Farid’s Tomb, Faridabad
Baba Farid was a revered Sufi saint of the 12th century and the city of Faridabad is believed to have been named after him. Built by the Mughals in the 13th century, the tomb has two gateways – Nuri Darwaza (Gate of Light) in the east and Bahishthi Darwaza (Gate of Paradise) in the west.
There are two graves here – one of the Sufi saint and the other of his elder son. Pilgrims from near and far come to this religious site to pay their homage by offering chaddars and flowers on the graves; however, entry of women is restricted here. Visitors also come in large numbers to attend Mehfil-e-Sama, which is a Qawwali musical programme organised on every Thursday evening.
- Location: Old Faridabad, Faridabad
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm (Mehfil-e-Sama on every Thursday evening)
3. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Faridabad
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Faridabad is one of the most popular religious sites in the city that attracts visitors year-round. Built over an area of 3 acres, the beautifully designed temple with the main shrine and a large hall is made of white, green and yellow coloured marble stones.
Apart from the 5.25 feet tall marble statue of Sri Sai Baba, the temple also has idols of Dwaraka Mayee and Dhuni. The day begins with the holy bath of Baba, followed by prayers that are held five times daily, Satyanarayana Katha and Sai Naam Jaap. Every Thursday, bhandara (free food distribution) is organised that registers the highest weekly footfall of devotees at the temple.
- Location: Sector 16A, Faridabad
- Timings: 5 am to 9 pm
4. ISKCON Temple, Faridabad
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as Sri Radha Govind Temple, is dedicated to Hindu God Krishna and Goddess Radha. Other presiding deities of this temple are God Ram, Goddess Sita, God Laxman and God Hanuman.
The temple boasts of a splendid architecture that beautifully blends modern and traditional elements. All Hindu festivals, especially Janmashtami, are celebrated with great religious fervour. After paying reverence at the main shrine, you can visit the shops to buy books, idols, etc. You can also relish simple yet tasty vegetarian snacks served at the cafeteria within the temple premises.
- Location: Sector 37, Faridabad
- Timings: 4:30 am to 1 pm & 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm
5. CITM Lake, Faridabad
CITM Lake is one of the best spots in Faridabad for nature lovers and photographers because of its stunning landscape, serene atmosphere and rich flora and fauna. This serene lake with clean blue water is formed by the rainwater that collected in deep rugged topography of the stone mines. Thus, you must refrain from swimming in the lake even along the banks because of the sharp edges; however, it is a great place for cycling.
Since this site has not yet been fully commercialised, it is preferred by picnickers who wish to spend quality time with their loved away from the maddening city crowd. There are a few food stalls, where you can relish local dishes in case you want to avoid the hassle of preparing or carrying picnic lunch.
- Location: Surajkund Road, Faridabad
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
6. Nahar Singh Cricket Stadium, Faridabad
Nahar Singh Cricket Stadium is one of the popular places to visit in Faridabad that attracts visitors year-round, especially cricket buffs. Named after the famous Indian rebellion of 1857, the stadium was built in 1981 with 6 centre and 3 practice pitches and a seating capacity of 25,000 spectators.
The stadium hosted its first ever match in the following year – 1982 Ranji Trophy between Haryana and Services, and the first one-day international (ODI) match in 1987. It was also the venue of the last ODI match of the living cricket legend Kapil Dev – India vs. West Indies in 1994. Currently, renovation work is in progress to get the stadium ready for hosting matches again after a sabbatical of over 13 years.
- Location: New Industrial Town, Faridabad
- Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
7. Dhauj Lake, Faridabad
Dhauj Lake is quite popular among visitors, especially adventure seekers as it is one of the best places in the entire region to indulge in exciting adventure sports like rock climbing and trekking. The charming beauty and the serene atmosphere of this naturally formed lake amidst the scenic Aravallis also earns it brownie points with nature lovers. Picnicking and camping both attract visitors to this tranquil site, close to which lies the renowned Camp Dhauj that has numerous eco-lodges and safari tents for people looking for a unique recreational holiday.
It is best to visit the lake with a small artificial dam during the rainy season or right after monsoons to relish the sight of the swelled-up waterbody, which unfortunately dries up during the hot summer season.
- Location: Near Mangar Village, Faridabad
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
8. Raja Nahar Singh Palace, Faridabad
Raja Nahar Singh Palace, also known as Ballabhgarh Fort Palace, is a heritage property named after the legendary Indian rebellion of 1857. The construction of this double-storeyed sandstone structure with Darbar-e-Aam, Rang Mahal, minarets and cupolas began during the reign of the Jat king Bao Balram in the 18th century and continued in phases till the mid-19th century.
After the restoration work done by the well-known architectural restorer Aman Nath and his French partner Francis Wacziarg, this historical property has been converted into a popular motel-cum-restaurant that provides you a glimpse into the regal past of this region. The Kartik Cultural Festival held during the autumn season at this fort palace is a major crowd puller.
- Location: Ballabhgarh, Faridabad
- Timings: 9 am to 11 pm
9. Badkhal Lake, Faridabad
Badkhal Lake was once a popular recreational spot where visitors could enjoy picnicking, boating, birdwatching, etc, which however is now possible only during the monsoon season when the rainwater fills up the dried-up lake. Ironically, the lake derives its name from the Persian word Bedkhal which means something that is far from intervention; however, due to unchecked mining things deteriorated and the lake dried up.
Nonetheless, recreational activities like camel riding and horse riding can be done nearby, besides exploring the beautiful Peacock Lake in its vicinity. You can also attend the colourful and vibrant Flower Show held here during the spring season.
- Location: Badkhal, Faridabad
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Apart from visiting these popular tourist attractions, you can pay obeisance at Shiva Temple in Sainik Colony in Sector 49, relish picnic brunch with friends and family at Town Park in Sector 12, or tee-off at the 18-hole Aravalli Golf Club, which is the first golf course of Faridabad. Other popular places to visit in Faridabad include Mughal Bridge in Sarai Khwaja, Rose Garden in Sector 17, SSB Museum in Railway Colony and Parson Temple, also known as Maharishi Parashar Tapo Bhumi, near Badkhal Lake. With such varied sightseeing options, Faridabad effortlessly succeeds in keeping visitors entertained during their visit to the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Faridabad:
Q: Is Faridabad accessible by air?
A: Faridabad doesn't have an airport of its own. However, the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is around 40 km from the city and serves as the nearest air gateway to Faridabad.
Q: How to reach Faridabad by train?
A: Many trains to Agra, Mathura and other nearby cities originating from or terminating at Delhi halt at Faridabad railway station. You can also take a train to New Delhi Railway Station (35 km) and from thereon, travel to Faridabad via EMU trains, buses or cabs.
Q: What is the condition of public transport in Faridabad?
A: Public transport in Faridabad is restricted to auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws. You can also book app-based cabs or rent a self-drive car to get around the city.
Q: Where to shop in Faridabad?
A: Many sectors in Faridabad have a market of their own, the most popular ones being Sector 17, Sector 15, Ballabgarh and NIT. You can also explore malls like Crown Interiorz and Parsvnath City while shopping in Faridabad.
Q: Where can I go in Faridabad for a drink with friends?
A: There are many microbreweries in Faridabad including Folks, Tama, Catalyst, Dears on Beers and Brew N Barrel that are perfect for hanging out with friends. Veranda, Zenba, Easy, Hangout, Geoffrey's, On The Rocks and Mint are other popular bars and pubs in Faridabad.
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