Haryana to Develop Mahabharata Sites in Kurukshetra to Boost Tourism

In a major push to promote Haryana's historical heritage, the state's Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, announced plans to develop Kurukshetra and nearby areas as top tourism destinations. Known for its historical and mythological significance, especially in connection to the Mahabharata, Kurukshetra and surrounding districts will be part of a new tourism initiative termed the ‘Mahabharata Circuit.’ Dr. Sharma shared this vision at the second Mahabharata Circuit Conference held in Karnal, where officials from both Haryana Tourism and the Union Ministry of Tourism discussed the region’s development potential. The Union Ministry of Tourism hosted the conference with the goal of turning historic locations in Kurukshetra, Karnal, and Panipat into popular tourist destinations. Dr. Sharma proposed Kurukshetra may provide comparable facilities to Vrindavan, which attracts thousands of pilgrims, in order to accommodate a greater number of tourists. This initiative seeks to improve infrastructure, create better visitor facilities, and highlight the area's deep cultural roots. The Union Ministry of Tourism's Northern Regional Director, R K Suman emphasised that the ministry is committed to elevating Kurukshetra as a global pilgrimage destination. The Mahabharata Circuit follows the government’s successful establishment of the Ramayana and Krishna Circuits in other parts of northern India, with INR 200 crores invested so far. The project aims to revive and promote religious and historical tourism, attracting pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and international tourists alike. As per the reports, more than 130 industry participants attended the three-day Mahabharata Circuit Conference and Familiarisation Tour in Kurukshetra as part of this endeavour. The aim of this event was to highlight Kurukshetra's historical significance and provide strategies to boost tourism.