Every year during the initial two weeks of February, a riot of colors, beating of drums, and joyful life converge on Surajkund in Faridabad, Haryana. The annual award-winning Surajkund International Craft Festival kicks off on February 1, celebrating India’s folk traditions and cultural heritage.
It has earned its place in the international tourist calendar, with over a million tourists flocking to Merah in two weeks, including thousands of foreign tourists. Surajkund Mela of Delhi is unique as it boasts the richness and diversity of Indian handicrafts, looms, and cultural materials and is the largest craft fair in the world.
About Surajkund Mela
Surajkund Mela Authority and Haryana Tourism, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Culture, and Ministry of External Affairs, organize the meal.
Many well-known national and international folk artists and cultural groups perform daily at the Chaupals Amphitheater on the Mela grounds. The main Chaupal also hosts an engaging cultural evening program each Mela night.
Mela is indeed the custodian of traditional craftsmanship, which is disappearing due to cheap machine-made imitations, and has designated a special space to showcase this traditional craftsmanship. There are designated amusements, adventure sports, and fun rides, making it a must for teenagers.
In 2013 the show was upgraded internationally, and in 2015, 20 countries participated in the Mela (more than ever), with Lebanon as a partner country and the thematic state of Chhattisgarh.
The Importance of the Fair
Every year in the first two weeks of February, a riot of colors, rhythmic drums, and joyful life gathers at Surajkund in Faridabad, Haryana.
Mela glorifies the unique Indian diversity of traditions and cultures in an atmosphere that represents rural India. Surajkund International Crafts Mela showcases some of the best looms and handicrafts in India. Handmade fabrics infused with ethnic colors provide an eye-catching display for visitors.
The multi-cuisine food court offers ethnic cuisines from around the world and is popular with tourists. A brilliant folk performance by the two “Chaupals” and a haunting evening recital by “Natyashala” upped the entertainment quotient.
As mentioned earlier, In 2013, the exhibition was transformed into an international exhibition and renamed “The 28th Surajkund International Crafts Mela”. In 2014, more than 15 countries from the European and African continents participated in Mela, including SAARC countries. More than 20 countries are expected to participate in the upcoming Surajkund International Crafts Mela.
Theme for Surajkund Mela 2023
The Organizing Committee chooses a presentation theme each year, which it will also choose in 2023. The motivation behind the move is to highlight India’s multicultural history and make it more visible among other countries.
In 2019 the thematic state of Mela was Maharashtra, and in 2020 it was Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights of Surajkund Mela of Delhi
India showcases its vibrant culture masterfully at Surajkund Mela. Together with partner countries, the organizers cheer up visitors with delicious ethnic dishes, affordable paintings, ancient stone carvings, and fun rides that will keep even the little ones entertained, just like the MoJoland water park.
Wealth adds to the excitement of Mela, making it an unforgettable experience. Besides tasting delicious traditional dishes and buying local art, you can also enjoy wonderful folk dance and music performances in the open-air theatre.
As a cultural spirit, Surajkund Mela of Delhi offers an amazing insight into the historical background and traditional beauty of hidden India. Each state showcases some of its cultures in Mela, which provides an aesthetic treat for Indian and foreign tourists.
If you’re looking for a rural experience that showcases both local talent and the open-minded culture of locals, then Surajkund Mela should be on your bucket list.
How to get to Surajkund Mela?
Surajkund is a unique festival held in the famous Faridabad area of Haryana, conveniently located. The nearest metropolis to Surajkund is New Delhi. Just 8 kilometers from South Delhi, you can choose from a variety of travel options to suit your budget.
By road
If you are coming from another state, State Road is a well-constructed 4-lane road with many restaurants offering food like Chola kulcha and paranthas. Surajkund is a comfortable and well-connected route to Delhi, Faridabad, and Gurgaon. You can opt for tourist taxis or even drive your own car as there is ample parking in the Mela area.
By Rail
New Delhi (NDLS) is the closest railway station to Surajkund.
Metro
If you are already in Delhi and planning to travel to Surajkund from there, the Delhi Metro is a great transportation option for you. Take the metro from the Central Secretariat via Sarita Vihar and Mohan Estate to Badarpur. Badarpur is the closest metro station to Mela.
All metro stations have very important English and Hindi route maps for outbound travelers.
By Air
Surajkund is an easy and hassle-free ride. Just 35 minutes drive from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and 25 kilometers from Palam Airport.
Surajkund Mela 2023 Dates
The celebration will last for two weeks, from Friday, February 3 to Thursday, February 9, and visitors will be able to take part in traditional folk dances, musical performances, and even performances of puppets.
Surajkund Mela 2023 Time and Tickets
Mela takes place daily from 12:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Weekday ticket price: INR 120/-
Weekend ticket price: INR 180/-
Surajkund International Handicrafts Fair 2023 tickets are readily available on all major online booking platforms and even on the spot.
Every year, the council introduces new discount options for tourists, but these are some of the standard discounts offered by the Government of Haryana.
Elementary and middle school students who hold valid ID cards will receive a 50% discount on the ticket price on weekdays.
50% off admission price for seniors, disabled, and military.
Conclusion
Mela offers ample parking for passenger vehicles. Golf carts and electric rickshaws are also available on request to take you to the festival grounds and parking lot. Amenities such as male and female electronic toilets and drinking water filters are regularly installed on the mela grounds.
All in all, Surajkund Mela of Delhi is a delightful experience that perfectly captures the essence of rural India and amplifies the cultural fusion of different traditions from around the world. If you truly want to indulge in Indian culture, visiting this mela is a must for you!