Surajkund Lake is a renowned tourist spot, located 8 km away from Delhi. The reservoir is built in the scrim of Aravalli Hills with a semi-circular embankment. This lake covers a total area of about 99 acres. In fat, it has been built in the shape of the sun with an arc facing the east direction. Hence, the lake is named as Surajkund which means “Lake of the Sun”. This reservoir was built to fulfill the irrigation needs of the surrounding areas at times of water scarcity. Monsoon water is stored in this reservoir for later use. The premises of the lake encompass a beautiful garden and a pool called Siddha Kund. It is developed and managed by the Haryana Government. Surajkund Lake is a wonderful place for recreation as well. Tourists can enjoy different kinds of water activities like boating and sailing here. The deep blue water of the lake presents a spectacular sight. Surajkund is famous for its Surajkund Crafts Mela which is organised in the month of February. So February is the best time to visit this place. You will find exquisite artistic samples of handicraft, clothes, jewellery, artefacts, and other ethnic articles. The Surajkund Lake is an ideal holidaying spot with family and friends.
Things To Do at Surajkund
This place is a dream come true for birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts, as several species of local flora and fauna can be spotted here on a regular basis. Lovers of adventure sports are in for a surprise as this destination also offers water sports such as kayaking. A bonus is the well-developed roadways and other means of transport that link the destination to both Delhi and Gurgaon in Haryana. Perhaps the most famous aspect of this tourist attraction is the annual fair by the name of the 'Surajkund International Craft Mela' that is held here every year. The fair takes place in February and is visited by millions of visitors, both national and international.
Few attractions such as the Surajkund hot spring, Anagpur Dam and the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary are also located close by, and it is a good idea to visit them in combination with Surajkund. The Sidhha Kund, which is a natural spring, is also located to the south of Surajkund and is frequently visited by pilgrims. Other activities such as Kayaking are also common at Surajkund.
History of Surajkund
It is widely believed that the Tomar Kings initially lived near the Aravalli hills, but later on constructed the Lal Kot near Surajkund and shifted there. On the basis of specific ruins, archaeological excavations have revealed that there existed a Sun Temple in the area. Historians also claim that King Surajpal, son of Anang Pal I, built the lake in 686 A.D. for his daughter, and it is probably after his name that the lake is called so.
Another theory about the name of the reservoir is that the kund or lake is named after the Sun Temple that existed on the eastern side of the lake. During the rule of Feroz Shah Tughlaq, who belonged to the Tughlaq Dynasty, the reservoir was renovated, and the steps and terraces were rebuilt with stones in lime mortar. A cave like structure was also built on the western side of the reservoir, close to the Sun Temple.
How to Reach Surajkund
Auto rickshaws and taxis from all parts of Delhi and Gurgaon are readily available and are convenient modes of attraction to take you to this attraction. Regular buses also ply between Delhi and Faridabad. The nearest metro station to Surajkund is the Badarpur Metro Station on the Violet Line, from where Surajkund is 14 kilometres away.