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{{Short description|Hindu Pilgrimage}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2017}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2017}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2017}}
{{More citations needed|date=July 2016}}
{{More citations needed|date=July 2016}}


[[File:48_kos_parikrama.jpg|thumb| Map with description of 48 kos parikrama (approx. 96 miles circle) around the holy city of Kurukshetra, displayed at [[Kurukshetra#Places of interest|Ban Ganga/Bhishma Kund]]]]
[[File:48_kos_parikrama.jpg|thumb| Map of the 48 kos parikrama (approx. 96 miles circle) around Kurukshetra (at [[Kurukshetra#Places of interest|Ban Ganga/Bhishma Kund]])]]


'''48 kos parikrama''' is a [[Hindi]] phrase meaning a 48 [[Kos (unit)|kos]] circumambulation [[parikrama]] ([[pilgrimage]]) of various [[Mahabharata]]-related and other [[vedic period|vedic]] era [[Tirtha (Hinduism)|tirthas]] ([[Hindu]] sacred sites) around the holy city of [[Kurukshetra]] in the state of [[Haryana]], India.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/MAPs/ReligiousMap/map.jpg |title=Kurukshetra map |website=kurukshetra.nic.in |access-date=24 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625103022/http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/MAPs/ReligiousMap/map.jpg |archive-date=25 June 2016 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref name="hartour">{{cite web | url=http://haryanatourism.gov.in/showpage.aspx?contentid=5106 | title=Haryana Tourism | access-date=24 July 2016}}</ref><ref name="cmhry">{{cite web | url=http://haryanacmoffice.gov.in/newsupdates/details/id/737 | title=Development of all pilgrimage sites located within a radius of 48 kos (miles) of Kurukshetra would be carried out |date=11 October 2015| publisher=Chief Minister's Office, Haryana | access-date=24 July 2016}}</ref><ref name="harekrsna">{{cite web | url=http://www.harekrsna.com/sun/features/05-12/features2460.htm | title=The 48 Kos Kurukshetra Region | publisher=harekrsna.com | access-date=24 July 2016}}</ref> There are several pilgrimages around the city of kurukshetra and a complete parikrama means to visit all these pilgrimages. The picture depicts the complete map of all these sites.
The '''48 [[Kos_(unit)|kos]] parikrama''' is a [[parikrama]] (a circumbabulatory [[pilgrimage]]) of various ''[[Mahabharata]]''-related and other [[Vedic period|Vedic-era]] [[Tirtha (Hinduism)|tirthas]] ([[Hindu]] sacred sites) around the Hindu holy city of [[Kurukshetra]] in the state of [[Haryana]], India.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/MAPs/ReligiousMap/map.jpg |title=Kurukshetra map |website=kurukshetra.nic.in |access-date=24 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625103022/http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/MAPs/ReligiousMap/map.jpg |archive-date=25 June 2016 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref name="hartour">{{cite web | url=http://haryanatourism.gov.in/showpage.aspx?contentid=5106 | title=Haryana Tourism | access-date=24 July 2016}}</ref><ref name="cmhry">{{cite web | url=http://haryanacmoffice.gov.in/newsupdates/details/id/737 | title=Development of all pilgrimage sites located within a radius of 48 kos (miles) of Kurukshetra would be carried out |date=11 October 2015| publisher=Chief Minister's Office, Haryana | access-date=24 July 2016}}</ref><ref name="harekrsna">{{cite web | url=http://www.harekrsna.com/sun/features/05-12/features2460.htm | title=The 48 Kos Kurukshetra Region | publisher=harekrsna.com | access-date=24 July 2016}}</ref>


Since this is a site associated with the [[vedic era]] Lord [[Krishna]] and [[mahabharata]], it is an important place of [[pilgrimage]] for [[Hindu]]s. It is one of 3 main pilgrimage sites related to ''"Krishna"'' circuit, namely ''"48 kos parikrama of Kurukshetra"'' in Haryana, ''"[[Vraja Parikrama|Braj parikarma]]"'' in [[Mathura]] in [[Uttar Pradesh]] state and "''[[Dwarkadhish Temple#Pilgrimage|Dwarka parkarma]]"'' (Dwarkadish yatra) at [[Dwarkadhish Temple]] in [[Gujarat]] state.
Associated with [[Krishna]] and the ''Mahabharata'', it is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus. It is one of three major pilgrimages related to Krishna in North India, the others being the ''"[[Vraja Parikrama|Braj parikarma]]"'' in [[Mathura]] in [[Uttar Pradesh]] state and "''[[Dwarkadhish Temple#Pilgrimage|Dwarka parkarma]]"'' at [[Dwarkadhish Temple]] in [[Gujarat]] state.


==Kurukshetra Development Board ==
== Kurukshetra Development Board ==
{{ anchor | Kurukshetra Development Board | KDB }}
{{ anchor | Kurukshetra Development Board | KDB }}


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===Hindu and Jain pilgrimage===
===Hindu and Jain pilgrimage===
[[Brahma Sarovar]] is the focal site of this circuit, which can be subdivided into various other itineraries.


⚫
Within Kurukshetra, along with Brahma Sarovar, other important sites are [[Jyotisar]] (place of ''"Gitaupadesha"'' - the first [[Upadeśa]] or discourse of [[Bhagavad Gita]] by Krishna)<ref>[http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/014-joytisar/index.htm Jyotisar] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180419185214/http://kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/014-joytisar/index.htm |date=19 April 2018 }} Kurukshetra district website.</ref><ref>{{cite web | title = Jyotisar | publisher=[[Haryana Tourism Corporation Limited]] | url = http://haryanatourism.gov.in/showpage.aspx?contentid=5326 | access-date = 2014-08-08 }}</ref> and [[Sannihit Sarovar]] ([[Hindu genealogy registers at Kurukshetra, Haryana|Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra]] are kept here).<ref name=gene2>{{cite web| title = Tirath in Kurukshetra - Sannehit Sarovar| publisher = Kurukshetra district website| url = http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/011-sanhitsarovar/index.htm| access-date = 2014-08-08| archive-date = 6 August 2014| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140806210713/http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/011-sanhitsarovar/index.htm| url-status = dead}}</ref> Pilgrims also visit the Bhishama kund, Surya kund and [[Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple]] (where [[Pandavas]] along with [[Krishna]] prayed to [[Shiva]] to receive his blessings for victory in the battle of [[Mahabharata]])<ref name="Prasad2010">{{cite book|author=Dev Prasad|title=Krishna: A Journey through the Lands & Legends of Krishna|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0_5caqiUH0C&pg=PT216|year=2010|publisher=Jaico Publishing House|isbn=978-81-8495-170-7|pages=216–}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title = Religious Places in Kurukshetra: Sthaneswar Mahadev Mandir | url = http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/029-stahniswar/index.htm | publisher = Kurukshetra District website | access-date = 2014-08-08 | archive-date = 22 August 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140822130435/http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/029-stahniswar/index.htm | url-status = dead }}</ref>
Lord Krishna, [[Kaurava]] and [[Pandava]] visited and lived in this area, and it is revered as their [[Karma]] [[Bhūmi]] (most sacred land of virtuous deeds) also related to the [[Classical element#Classical elements in Hinduism|five classical elements of Hinduism]] called [[Pancha Tattva (Vaishnavism)|Pancha Tattva]]. [[Brahma Sarovar]] is the focal site of this circuit, which can be subdivided into various other itineraries.


⚫
In addition, pilgrims also visit [[Pehowa]], where the most revered sites are [[Pehowa#Sarasvati Temple|Saraswati tirtha]] and [[Pehowa#Prithudak Teerth|Prithudak tirtha]]. Pehowa is an ancient city and its religious significance is mentioned in several [[puranas]], such as [[Skanda Purana]] (1st to 5th century CE), [[Markandeya Purana]] (4th to 6th century CE) and [[Vamana Purana]] (5th to 11th century CE).<ref>[https://www.jagran.com/haryana/kurukshetra-kurukshetra-development-board-can-get-the-responsibility-of-saraswati-tirtha-18917222.html Kurukshetra Development Board can get the responsibility of Saraswati Tirtha], Dainik Jagran, 4 Feb 2019.</ref>
⚫
Within Kurukshetra, along with Brahma Sarovar, other important sites are [[Jyotisar]] (place of ''"Gitaupadesha"'' - the first [[Upadeśa]] or discourse of [[Bhagavad Gita]] by Lord Krishna)<ref>[http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/014-joytisar/index.htm Jyotisar] Kurukshetra district website.</ref><ref>{{cite web | title = Jyotisar | publisher=[[Haryana Tourism Corporation Limited]] | url = http://haryanatourism.gov.in/showpage.aspx?contentid=5326 | access-date = 2014-08-08 }}</ref> and [[Sannihit Sarovar]] ([[Hindu genealogy registers at Kurukshetra, Haryana|Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra]] are kept here).<ref name=gene2>{{cite web | title = Tirath in Kurukshetra - Sannehit Sarovar|publisher=Kurukshetra district website | url = http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/011-sanhitsarovar/index.htm | access-date = 2014-08-08 }}</ref> Pilgrims also visit the Bhishama kund, Surya kund and [[Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple]] (where [[Pandavas]] along with [[Krishna]] prayed to [[Shiva]] and received his blessings for victory in the battle of [[Mahabharata]])<ref name="Prasad2010">{{cite book|author=Dev Prasad|title=Krishna: A Journey through the Lands & Legends of Krishna|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o0_5caqiUH0C&pg=PT216|year=2010|publisher=Jaico Publishing House|isbn=978-81-8495-170-7|pages=216–}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title = Religious Places in Kurukshetra: Sthaneswar Mahadev Mandir | url = http://www.kurukshetra.nic.in/tour/Religious/tirath/Kurukshetra/029-stahniswar/index.htm|publisher=Kurukshetra District website| access-date = 2014-08-08 }}</ref>


⚫
In [[Yamunanagar district]], [[Kapal Mochan]] (Kapal Mochan (visited by Rama)<ref>[http://yamunanagar.nic.in/km/hist.asp yamunanagar.nic.in]: ''History of Kapal Mochan''</ref> and [[Adi Badri, Haryana|Sri Sarasvati Udgam Tirath at Adi Badri]] (place where deified mother goddess [[Sarasvati]] is revered because the sacred [[Sarasvati River]] enters the plains from the foothills of [[sivalik Hills|shivalik]] range) are also important sacred sites.
⚫
In addition, pilgrims also visit [[Pehowa]], where the most revered sites are [[Pehowa#Sarasvati Temple|Saraswati tirtha]] and [[Pehowa#Prithudak Teerth|Prithudak tirtha]], which is an ancient city and its religious significance is mentioned in several [[puranas]], such as [[Skanda Purana]] (1st to 5th century CE), [[Markandeya Purana]] (4th to 6th century CE) and [[Vamana Purana]] (5th to 11th century CE).<ref>[https://www.jagran.com/haryana/kurukshetra-kurukshetra-development-board-can-get-the-responsibility-of-saraswati-tirtha-18917222.html Kurukshetra Development Board can get the responsibility of Saraswati Tirtha], Dainik Jagran, 4 Feb 2019.</ref>

⚫
In [[Yamunanagar district]], [[Kapal Mochan]] (Kapal Mochan (visited by Lord [[Rama]])<ref>[http://yamunanagar.nic.in/km/hist.asp yamunanagar.nic.in]: ''History of Kapal Mochan''</ref> and [[Adi Badri, Haryana|Sri Sarasvati Udgam Tirath at Adi Badri]] (place where deified mother goddess [[Sarasvati]] is revered because the sacred [[Sarasvati River]] enters the plains from the foothills of [[sivalik Hills|shivalik]] range) are also important sacred sites.


Many pilgrims like to trace their genealogy going back hundreds of generation, trace prior visits by their ancestors and record their own visit in the [[Hindu genealogy registers at Haridwar#Kurukshetra, Haryana|Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra]] and [[Pehowa#Genealogy registers|Hindu genealogy registers of Pehowa]] maintained by ''Pandas'' (professional genealogists).<ref name=gen2>[http://www.overseasindian.in/2007/dec/news/20072712-183237.shtml Tracing your Asian roots] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170426041339/http://www.overseasindian.in/2007/dec/news/20072712-183237.shtml |date=26 April 2017 }} www.overseasindian.in.</ref><ref name=gen3>[http://www.movinghere.org.uk/galleries/roots/asian/countries/lds.htm Hindu Pilgrimage Marriage Records] ''www.movinghere.org.uk''.</ref><ref name=gen4>[https://www.indiatimes.com/culture/travel/10-places-across-the-world-that-help-you-trace-your-ancestors-249825.html 10 Places Across The World That Help You Trace Your Ancestors], India Times, 29 Jan 2016.</ref>
Many pilgrims like to trace their genealogy going back hundreds of generation, trace prior visits by their ancestors and record their own visit in the [[Hindu genealogy registers at Haridwar#Kurukshetra, Haryana|Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra]] and [[Pehowa#Genealogy registers|Hindu genealogy registers of Pehowa]] maintained by ''Pandas'' (professional genealogists).<ref name=gen2>[http://www.overseasindian.in/2007/dec/news/20072712-183237.shtml Tracing your Asian roots] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170426041339/http://www.overseasindian.in/2007/dec/news/20072712-183237.shtml |date=26 April 2017 }} www.overseasindian.in.</ref><ref name=gen3>[http://www.movinghere.org.uk/galleries/roots/asian/countries/lds.htm Hindu Pilgrimage Marriage Records] ''www.movinghere.org.uk''.</ref><ref name=gen4>[https://www.indiatimes.com/culture/travel/10-places-across-the-world-that-help-you-trace-your-ancestors-249825.html 10 Places Across The World That Help You Trace Your Ancestors], India Times, 29 Jan 2016.</ref>
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===Buddhist pilgrimage===
===Buddhist pilgrimage===


{{ see | History_of_Haryana#Buddhism | l1= Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Haryana }}
{{ further | History_of_Haryana#Buddhism | l1= Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Haryana }}


[[Buddha]] had visited Sthaneshwar and gave discourse on the banks of Brahma Sarovar where a [[Bodh Stupa]] was built.<ref name=":0"/> Stupa has five structures of brunt brick, first three from [[Kushan Empire|Kushana]] period, 4th from [[Gupta Empire|Gupta]] period, and the last from [[Vardhana dynasty|Verdana]] period and later medieval period. During [[Harshavardhana]] reign, a 3 meters wide compound wall was built.<ref name=":0" />
[[Buddha]] had visited Sthaneshwar and gave discourse on the banks of Brahma Sarovar where a [[Bodh Stupa]] was built.<ref name=":0"/> Stupa has five structures of brunt brick, first three from [[Kushan Empire|Kushana]] period, 4th from [[Gupta Empire|Gupta]] period, and the last from [[Vardhana dynasty|Verdana]] period and later medieval period. During [[Harshavardhana]] reign, a 3 meters wide compound wall was built.<ref name=":0" />


For the [[Buddhist]] pilgrims, the most important sites are Brahma Sarovar and the [[Bodh Stupa]] on its northwestern flank. Other [[History of Haryana#Buddhism|Buddhist pilgrimage sites]] nearby Buddhist sites include Chaneti, Topra, and [[Adi Badri, Haryana|Adi Badri Sharirika stupa]]. Many pilgrims prefer to follow the path taken by Buddha along [[Grand Trunk Road]] in Haryana. [[Stupa]]s, [[pagoda]]s and places in the order of travel by Lord [[Buddha]] are:
For the [[Buddhist]] pilgrims, the most important sites are Brahma Sarovar and the [[Bodh Stupa]] on its northwestern flank. Other [[History of Haryana#Buddhism|Buddhist pilgrimage sites]] nearby Buddhist sites include Chaneti, Topra, and [[Adi Badri, Haryana|Adi Badri Sharirika stupa]]. Many pilgrims prefer to follow the path taken by Buddha along [[Grand Trunk Road]] in Haryana. [[Stupa]]s, [[pagoda]]s and places in the order of travel by [[Buddha]] are:
* From [[Mathura]] in Uttar Pradesh, Buddha travelled along [[Grand Trunk Road]] in Haryana (also see [[History of Haryana#Buddhism|Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Haryana]]).
* From [[Mathura]] in Uttar Pradesh, Buddha travelled along [[Grand Trunk Road]] in Haryana (also see [[History of Haryana#Buddhism|Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Haryana]]).
* [[Kumashpur#Pagoda|Kamashpura Aastha Pugdal Pagoda]] (Kumashpur) in Sonipat city, the place where Buddha gave [[Mahasatipatthana sutta]].<ref name=kamas2>[https://patthana.dhamma.org/en/dhamma-patthana/ Dhamma patthana], dhamma.org.</ref><ref name=kamas1>[http://sdbst.org/Kumaspur.aspx Aastha Pugdal Pagoda at Kumaspur (Kamas Nigam in Sonepat], SDBST.</ref>
* [[Kumashpur#Pagoda|Kamashpura Aastha Pugdal Pagoda]] (Kumashpur) in Sonipat city, the place where Buddha gave [[Mahasatipatthana sutta]].<ref name=kamas2>[https://patthana.dhamma.org/en/dhamma-patthana/ Dhamma patthana], dhamma.org.</ref><ref name=kamas1>[http://sdbst.org/Kumaspur.aspx Aastha Pugdal Pagoda at Kumaspur (Kamas Nigam in Sonepat], SDBST.</ref>
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===Sikh pilgrimage===
===Sikh pilgrimage===


Several [[Sikh gurus]] had visited Sthaneshwar, Pehowa and Kapal Mochan for the holy dip.
Several [[Sikh gurus]] had visited Sthaneshwar, Pehowa and Kapal Mochan for the holy dip.

In Kurukshetra, [[Sikh]] pilgrims visit Brahma Sarovar and the ''"Gurudawara Pehli Patshai"'' (just next to [[Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple]] on the south bank of Brahma Sarovar where the ninth Guru [[Tegh Bahadur]] stayed at). Following the trail of Sikh gurus, the pilgrims also visit [[Pehowa]] as well as Kapal Mochan. Kapal Mochan was visited by [[Guru Nanak]] and [[Guru Gobind Singh]] after [[Battle of Bhangani]] in 1688 CE.<ref name=GS>{{cite book|title=Sikh shrines in India|last=G.S.|first=Randhir|year=1990|publisher=The Director of Publication Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India|location=New Delhi|pages=42–43}}</ref><ref>Charitar 71, Charitar of Kapal Mochan, Charitropakhyan, Dasam Granth, Guru Gobind Singh</ref>
In Kurukshetra, [[Sikh]] pilgrims visit Brahma Sarovar and the ''"Gurudawara Pehli Patshai"'' (just next to [[Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple]] on the south bank of Brahma Sarovar where the ninth Guru [[Tegh Bahadur]] stayed at). Following the trail of Sikh gurus, the pilgrims also visit [[Pehowa]] as well as Kapal Mochan. Kapal Mochan was visited by [[Guru Nanak]] and [[Guru Gobind Singh]] after [[Battle of Bhangani]] in 1688 CE.<ref name=GS>{{cite book|title=Sikh shrines in India|last=G.S.|first=Randhir|year=1990|publisher=The Director of Publication Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India|location=New Delhi|pages=42–43}}</ref><ref>Charitar 71, Charitar of Kapal Mochan, Charitropakhyan, Dasam Granth, Guru Gobind Singh</ref>


Other important Sikh pilgrimage sites are [[Sadaura#History|Sadaura]], [[Lohgarh (Bilaspur)|Lohgarh]] (capital of [[Banda Singh Bahadur]])<ref>{{Cite book|first=Dr. Ganda |last=singh|title=Banda Singh Bahadur(in Punjabi|publisher=Sikh Itihaas Research Board, SGPC, AMRITSAR|year=1964}}</ref> and Badkhalsa in Sonipat (where [[Kushal Singh Dahiya|Bhai Kushal]] offered his head to retrieve Guru Teg Bhadur's head beheaded by [[mughals]] so that it can be taken to [[Anandpur Sahib]]}.<ref name="pioneer">{{Cite news|url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2017/state-editions/cm-unveils-statue-of-kushal-singh-dahiya.html|title=CM unveils statue of Kushal Singh Dahiya|last=Pioneer|first=The|work=The Pioneer|access-date=2018-11-27|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9oYHCC7FTYwC&pg=PA171|title=Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur|last=Singh|first=Darshan|date=2003|publisher=Anamika Publishers & Distributors|isbn=9788179750322|language=en}}</ref>
Other important Sikh pilgrimage sites are [[Sadaura#History|Sadaura]], [[Lohgarh (Bilaspur)|Lohgarh]] (capital of [[Banda Singh Bahadur]])<ref>{{Cite book|first=Dr. Ganda |last=singh|title=Banda Singh Bahadur(in Punjabi|publisher=Sikh Itihaas Research Board, SGPC, AMRITSAR|year=1964}}</ref> and Badkhalsa in Sonipat (where [[Kushal Singh Dahiya|Bhai Kushal]] offered his head to retrieve Guru Teg Bhadur's head beheaded by [[mughals]] so that it can be taken to [[Anandpur Sahib]]}.<ref name="pioneer">{{Cite news|url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2017/state-editions/cm-unveils-statue-of-kushal-singh-dahiya.html|title=CM unveils statue of Kushal Singh Dahiya|last=Pioneer|first=The|work=The Pioneer|access-date=2018-11-27|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9oYHCC7FTYwC&pg=PA171|title=Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur|last=Singh|first=Darshan|date=2003|publisher=Anamika Publishers & Distributors|isbn=9788179750322|language=en}}</ref>


===Genealogy registers ===
=== Genealogy registers ===
{{ Anchor | Gene | Genealogy | Registers | Genealogy registers | Genealogy Registers }}
{{ Anchor | Gene | Genealogy | Registers | Genealogy registers | Genealogy Registers }}
{{ see also | Indian_rituals_after_death#Genealogy | l1 = Genealogy registers of Indian-origin religions }}
{{ see also | Indian_rituals_after_death#Genealogy | l1 = Genealogy registers of Indian-origin religions }}
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[[Hindu genealogy registers at Kurukshetra, Haryana|Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra]] are kept at [[Pehowa]] and [[Sannihit Sarovar]].<ref name=gene2/>
[[Hindu genealogy registers at Kurukshetra, Haryana|Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra]] are kept at [[Pehowa]] and [[Sannihit Sarovar]].<ref name=gene2/>


===Number of visitors ===
=== Number of visitors ===
{{ Anchor | Visitors | No | Footfall }}
{{ Anchor | Visitors | No | Footfall }}
{{ see also | Yatra }}
{{ see also | Yatra }}
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In 2019, over 40 lakh (4 million) people had attended the Gita Mahotsav festival in December.<ref name=tir16/>
In 2019, over 40 lakh (4 million) people had attended the Gita Mahotsav festival in December.<ref name=tir16/>


==Tirtha development ==
== Tirtha development ==
{{anchor | Dev | Development | Tirtha development }}
{{anchor | Dev | Development | Tirtha development }}


Govt is undertaking steps to [[Adi Badri, Haryana#Revival|revive ancient Sarasati river]], develop [[ghat]]s and in-situ plantation of [[Sacred trees#Panchavati|panchavati trees]].<ref name=tree1/> Visitors facilities such as roads, shades, water, toilet, landscaping, parking, cafe, interpretation centres etc. are also being developed.
Govt is undertaking steps to [[Adi Badri, Haryana#Revival|revive ancient Sarasati river]], develop [[ghat]]s and in-situ plantation of [[Sacred trees#Panchavati|panchavati trees]].<ref name=tree1/> Visitors facilities such as roads, shades, water, toilet, landscaping, parking, cafe, interpretation centres etc. are also being developed.
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The Panchavati trees, are [[sacred trees|trees scared]] to Indian-origin religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, such trees are the Vata ([[ficus benghalensis]], Banyan), Ashvattha ([[ficus religiosa]], Peepal), Bilva ([[aegle marmelos]], Bengal Quince), Amalaki ([[phyllanthus emblica]], Indian Gooseberry, Amla), Ashoka ([[Saraca asoca]], Ashok), Udumbara ([[ficus racemosa]], Cluster Fig, Gular), Nimba ([[Azadirachta indica]], Neem) and Shami ([[prosopis spicigera]], Indian Mesquite).<ref name=vati1>[https://greenmesg.org/nature/trees/sacred/panchavati_trees.php Panchvati trees], greenmesg.org, accessed 26 July 2021.</ref> See also [[sacred groves of India]].
The Panchavati trees, are [[sacred trees|trees scared]] to Indian-origin religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, such trees are the Vata ([[ficus benghalensis]], Banyan), Ashvattha ([[ficus religiosa]], Peepal), Bilva ([[aegle marmelos]], Bengal Quince), Amalaki ([[phyllanthus emblica]], Indian Gooseberry, Amla), Ashoka ([[Saraca asoca]], Ashok), Udumbara ([[ficus racemosa]], Cluster Fig, Gular), Nimba ([[Azadirachta indica]], Neem) and Shami ([[prosopis spicigera]], Indian Mesquite).<ref name=vati1>[https://greenmesg.org/nature/trees/sacred/panchavati_trees.php Panchvati trees], greenmesg.org, accessed 26 July 2021.</ref> See also [[sacred groves of India]].


From June 2014 to July 2021, ₹31.48 crore have been spent by the Haryana government on the development and upgrade of 81 tirathas of '48-kos parikrama'. Improving the standard of cleanliness of tiraths has been raised an issue. [[Ghat]]s, and visitor facilities, such as toilet, shelter, water, parking, etc. are being developed.<ref name=d21>[https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/cleanliness-of-tiraths-a-challenge-in-haryana-101627412369348.html Cleanliness of tiraths a challenge in Haryana], Hindustan Times, 27 July 2021.</ref>
From June 2014 to July 2021, ₹31.48 crore have been spent by the Haryana government on the development and upgrade of 81 tirthas of '48-kos parikrama'. Improving the standard of cleanliness of tiraths has been raised an issue. [[Ghat]]s, and visitor facilities, such as toilet, shelter, water, parking, etc. are being developed.<ref name=d21>[https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/others/cleanliness-of-tiraths-a-challenge-in-haryana-101627412369348.html Cleanliness of tiraths a challenge in Haryana], Hindustan Times, 27 July 2021.</ref>


In 2021, it was announced that to develop Kurukshetra as a cultural hub, the by the [[Government of India]] will develop the [[Buddhist_pilgrimage_sites_in_India#Haryana|Buddha Haryana circuit]] and a Sikh museum in Kurukshetra as all 10 [[Sikh gurus]] and Lord [[Buddha]] had made [[yatra]] (pilgrimage) to Kurukshetra.<ref name=d21/>
In 2021, it was announced that to develop Kurukshetra as a cultural hub, the by the [[Government of India]] will develop the [[Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India#Haryana|Buddha Haryana circuit]] and a Sikh museum in Kurukshetra as all 10 [[Sikh gurus]] and [[Buddha]] had made [[yatra]] (pilgrimage) to Kurukshetra.<ref name=d21/>


==List of pilgrimage sites in 48 kos parikrama==
==List of pilgrimage sites in 48 kos parikrama==


At least 134 [[Tirtha (Hinduism)|Tirthas]] {sacred sites) have been identified.<ref name=tree1>[https://m.jagran.com/haryana/panchkula-scheme-for-students-in-haryana-plant-trees-get-10-extra-marks-21865531.html Scheme for students in haryana plant trees get 10 extra marks], Dainik Jagran, 26 July 2021.</ref> Some of the pilgrimages are listed below:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kurukshetra.nic.in/bulkdata/pdf/tirthalist.pdf |title=Tirthas of dist. Kurukshetra |website=kurukshetra.nic.in |access-date=24 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305091416/http://kurukshetra.nic.in/bulkdata/pdf/tirthalist.pdf |archive-date=5 March 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
At least 134 [[Tirtha (Hinduism)|Tirthas]] (sacred sites) have been identified.<ref name=tree1>[https://m.jagran.com/haryana/panchkula-scheme-for-students-in-haryana-plant-trees-get-10-extra-marks-21865531.html Scheme for students in haryana plant trees get 10 extra marks], Dainik Jagran, 26 July 2021.</ref> Some of the pilgrimages are listed below:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kurukshetra.nic.in/bulkdata/pdf/tirthalist.pdf |title=Tirthas of dist. Kurukshetra |website=kurukshetra.nic.in |access-date=24 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305091416/http://kurukshetra.nic.in/bulkdata/pdf/tirthalist.pdf |archive-date=5 March 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


===Tirthas of [[Kurukshetra district]]===
===Tirthas of [[Kurukshetra district]]===
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11. [[Sannihit Sarovar]], Kurukshetra:<br/>
11. [[Sannihit Sarovar]], Kurukshetra:<br/>
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12.[[ Bhadrakali Temple, Kurukshetra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
12.[[Bhadrakali Temple, Kurukshetra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
13. Aditi Tirtha and Abhimanyu ka Tila, [[Abhimanyupur]]<br/>
13. Aditi Tirtha and Abhimanyu ka Tila, [[Abhimanyupur]]<br/>
14. [[Jyotisar]]: The famous site where SGitaupadesha ([[Bhagavad Gita]] was revealed) to Arjuna under the tree.<br/>
14. [[Jyotisar]]: The famous site where SGitaupadesha ([[Bhagavad Gita]] was revealed) to Arjuna under the tree.<br/>
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17. Galav Tirtha, [[Guldehra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
17. Galav Tirtha, [[Guldehra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
18. Saptasarsvta Tirtha, [[Mangna]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
18. Saptasarsvta Tirtha, [[Mangna]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
19. Brhma Tirtha (Brahma Sthan), [[Thana, Kurukshetra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
19. Brhma Tirtha ([[Brahma Sthan]]), [[Thana, Kurukshetra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
20. Som Tirtha, [[Gumthala Garhu]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
20. Som Tirtha, [[Gumthala Garhu]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
21. Manipurak Tirtha, [[Murtjapur, Kurukshetra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
21. Manipurak Tirtha, [[Murtjapur, Kurukshetra]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
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43. Sarpadadhi tirtha, [[Safidon]]: by 2021 ₹1.08 crore was spent on Hansraj tirtha development at Safidon.<ref name=d21/><br/>
43. Sarpadadhi tirtha, [[Safidon]]: by 2021 ₹1.08 crore was spent on Hansraj tirtha development at Safidon.<ref name=d21/><br/>
44. Hansraj tirtha, Safidon: by 2021 ₹1.08 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/><br/>
44. Hansraj tirtha, Safidon: by 2021 ₹1.08 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/><br/>
45. Khatwanesghwar, [[Narwana]]: by 2021 ₹1 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/><br/>
45. Khatwanesghwar, [[Narwana]]: by 2021 ₹1 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/>


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55. Pundrik tirtha, [[Pundri]]<br/>
55. Pundrik tirtha, [[Pundri]]<br/>
56. Trivishtap tirtha, [[Tyontha]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
56. Trivishtap tirtha, [[Tyontha]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
57. Kotikut tirtha, Kyodak / [[Keorak]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.02 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/><br/>
57. Kotikut tirtha, Kyodak / [[Keorak]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.02 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/>


58. Banteshwar tirtha, [[Barot, Haryana]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
58. Banteshwar tirtha, [[Barot, Haryana]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
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65. [[Kaithal#Shree Gyarah Rudri Mandir|Gyaraharudri tirtha]], Kaithal<br/>
65. [[Kaithal#Shree Gyarah Rudri Mandir|Gyaraharudri tirtha]], Kaithal<br/>
66. Aapga tirtha, [[Gadli]]<br/>
66. Aapga tirtha, [[Gadli]]<br/>
67. Juhomi tirtha,[[ Hajwana]]<br/>
67. Juhomi tirtha, [[Hajwana]]<br/>
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68. Vishnupada tirtha, [[Barsana, Kaithal]]<br/>
68. Vishnupada tirtha, [[Barsana, Kaithal]]<br/>
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75. Havya tirtha, Bhana<br/>
75. Havya tirtha, Bhana<br/>
76. Chakramani tirtha, [[Sherda]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1 crore was spent on tirtha development, second phase of which was still underway.<ref name=d21/><br/>
76. Chakramani tirtha, [[Sherda]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1 crore was spent on tirtha development, second phase of which was still underway.<ref name=d21/><br/>
77. Rasamangal tirtha, [[Songhal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.30 crore was spent on development of Kukrityanshan and Rasamangal tirhtas. Ghats conference hall, toilet were built.<ref name=d21/><br/>
77. Rasamangal tirtha, [[Songhal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.30 crore was spent on development of Kukrityanshan and Rasamangal tirhtas. Ghats conference hall, toilet were built.<ref name=d21/>


78. Mukteshwar tirtha, [[Mator, Kaithal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.92 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/><br/>
78. Mukteshwar tirtha, [[Mator, Kaithal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.92 crore was spent on tirtha development.<ref name=d21/><br/>
79. Sritirtha, [[Kasan, Kaithal|Kasan]],
79. Sritirtha, [[Kasan, Kaithal|Kasan]],
80. Srikunja tirtha, [[Banpura]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
80. Srikunja tirtha, [[Banpura]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
81. Ekshumati tirtha, [[Theh Polar]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
81. Ekshumati tirtha, [[Kaithal district#Theh|Theh Polar]] partially excavated ancient archaeological mound associated with the [[rishi]] [[Pulastya]].<ref name=asin1>Monuments & Sites in Haryana, Archaeological Survey Of India, page 34-35.</ref><br/>
82. Sutirtha tirtha, [[Sontha]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
82. Sutirtha tirtha, [[Sontha]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
83. Brahmavarta tirtha, [[Brabhavat]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
83. Brahmavarta tirtha, [[Brabhavat]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
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91. Devi tirtha, [[Kalsi, Kaithal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
91. Devi tirtha, [[Kalsi, Kaithal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
92. Dhruvakunda tirtha, [[Dherdu]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
92. Dhruvakunda tirtha, [[Dherdu]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
93. Kukrityanashan tirtha, [[Kaukat]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.05 crore was spent on development of Kukrityanshan and Rasamangal tirthas.<ref name=d21/><br/>
93. Kukrityanashan tirtha, [[Kaukat]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->: by 2021 ₹1.05 crore was spent on development of Kukrityanshan and Rasamangal tirthas.<ref name=d21/>


94. Kavya tirtha, [[Karoda]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
94. Kavya tirtha, [[Karoda]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
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109. [[Assandh#Assandh Stupa|Jarasandha ka kila, Assandh]]<br/>
109. [[Assandh#Assandh Stupa|Jarasandha ka kila, Assandh]]<br/>
110. Vimalsar tirtha, [[Saga, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
110. Vimalsar tirtha, [[Saga, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
111. Dasaratha tirtha/Raghvendra tirtha/Surya kund,[[ Aaugandh]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
111. Dasaratha tirtha/Raghvendra tirtha/Surya kund, [[Aaugandh]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
112. Prithavi tirtha, [[Balu, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
112. Prithavi tirtha, [[Balu, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
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117. Brahma tirtha, [[Sawant, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
117. Brahma tirtha, [[Sawant, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
118. Akshyavata tirtha, [[Badthal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
118. Akshyavata tirtha, [[Badthal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>
119. Falgu tirtha, [[Fafdana]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
119. Falgu tirtha, [[Fafdana]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

120. Jyesthashrama tirtha, [[Borshyam]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
120. Jyesthashrama tirtha, [[Borshyam]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

121. Koti tirtha, Borshyam<br/>
121. Koti tirtha, Borshyam<br/>
122. Surya tirtha, Borshyam<br/>
122. Surya tirtha, Borshyam<br/>
123. Vishnuhrad (Vishnupad) Vamnak tirtha, Borshyam<br/>
123. Vishnuhrad (Vishnupad) Vamnak tirtha, Borshyam<br/>
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124. Brahma tirtha, [[Rasalwa]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
124. Brahma tirtha, [[Rasalwa]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

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125. Anjani tirtha, [[Anjanthali]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
126. Jamdagni tirtha, [[Jalmana]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
125. Anjani tirtha, [[Anjanthali]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

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127. Sudin and Narvada tirtha, [[Omkar ka Khera]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
128. Tripurari tirtha, [[Tigri, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
126. Jamdagni tirtha, [[Jalmana]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

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129. Som tirtha, [[Samana Bahu]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
130. Chuchukaranva tirtha, [[Chorkarsa]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
127. Sudin and Narvada tirtha, [[Omkar ka Khera]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

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131. Koti tirtha, [[Kurnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
132. Panchdeva tirtha, [[Pada, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>: by 2021 ₹64 lakh was spent on tirtha development for construction of five ponds, a ghat and shelter.<ref name=d21/><br/>
128. Tripurari tirtha, [[Tigri, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

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129. Som tirtha, [[Samana Bahu]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

130. Chuchukaranva tirtha, [[Chorkarsa]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

⚫
131. Koti tirtha, [[Kurnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

132. Panchdeva tirtha, [[Pada, Karnal]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/>: by 2021 ₹64 lakh was spent on tirtha development for construction of five ponds, a ghat and shelter.<ref name=d21/>

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133. Prokshini tirtha, [[Patnapuri]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

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134. Kaushiki tirtha, [[Koyar]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->

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135. Kultaran tirtha, [[Karsa Dod]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.-->


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133. Prokshini tirtha, [[Patnapuri]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
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134. Kaushiki tirtha, [[Koyar]]<!-- As per wikipedia guidelines, retain the redlink to encourage article creation.--><br/><br/>
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==Festivals ==
== Festivals ==


Majority of the tourists visit Kurukshetra during sacred events, specifically [[Amavasya|Somvati Amavasya]], [[solar eclipse]], [[Gita Mahotsav]] and to perform post-death rituals only.<ref name=tir16/>
Majority of the tourists visit Kurukshetra during sacred events, specifically [[Amavasya|Somvati Amavasya]], [[solar eclipse]], [[Gita Mahotsav]] and to perform post-death rituals only.<ref name=tir16/>


===Gita Mahotsav ===
=== Gita Mahotsav ===


[[Gita Mahotsav|International Gita Mahotsav]] (on varying dates in November or December based on the [[Vikram Samvat]] lunar calendar), [[Saraswati|Saraswati Jayanti]] (also known as the [[Vasant Panchami]], on the fifth day of spring around February or March) and [[Holi]] festivals are celebrated at [[Brahma Sarovar]] every year. During the International Gita Mahotsav, more than 300 national and international stalls are set up around the Brahma Sarovar.<ref name=asiankuru1>[https://www.asianage.com/travel/101219/the-kurukshetra-trail.html The Kurukshetra trail!], Asian Age, 10 Dec 2019.</ref>
[[Gita Mahotsav|International Gita Mahotsav]] (on varying dates in November or December based on the [[Vikram Samvat]] lunar calendar), [[Saraswati|Saraswati Jayanti]] (also known as the [[Vasant Panchami]], on the fifth day of spring around February or March) and [[Holi]] festivals are celebrated at [[Brahma Sarovar]] every year. During the International Gita Mahotsav, more than 300 national and international stalls are set up around the Brahma Sarovar.<ref name=asiankuru1>[https://www.asianage.com/travel/101219/the-kurukshetra-trail.html The Kurukshetra trail!], Asian Age, 10 Dec 2019.</ref>
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{{ see also | List of Hindu festivals }}
{{ see also | List of Hindu festivals }}


Historically each of more than 134 tirthas in the 48 Kos Parikrama of Kurukshetra use to have own unique festival. With passage of time, several of this tirthas have faded into oblivion and several such festivals have become extinct. To conserve the religious and cultural heritage these tirtha-specific festivals and fairs will be revived. This will also boost the local economy. In order to revive, the Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) is identifying the fairs and religious events held at each tirthas (pilgrimage sites).<ref name=tir16>[https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/fairs-at-tirthas-in-five-haryana-districts-to-be-revived-300872 Fairs at ‘tirthas’ in five Haryana districts to be revived], The Tribune, 23 Aug 2021.</ref>
Historically each of more than 134 tirthas in the 48 Kos Parikrama of Kurukshetra used to have its own unique festival. With passage of time, several of this tirthas have faded into oblivion and several such festivals have become extinct. To conserve the religious and cultural heritage these tirtha-specific festivals and fairs will be revived. This will also boost the local economy. In order to revive, the Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) is identifying the fairs and religious events held at each tirthas (pilgrimage sites).<ref name=tir16>[https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/fairs-at-tirthas-in-five-haryana-districts-to-be-revived-300872 Fairs at ‘tirthas’ in five Haryana districts to be revived], The Tribune, 23 Aug 2021.</ref>


=== Kurukshetra Prasadam - Channa laddu speciality prasadam ===
=== Kurukshetra Prasadam - Channa laddu speciality prasadam ===
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{{see also | Bhog | Naivedya | Geographical indication }}
{{see also | Bhog | Naivedya | Geographical indication }}


Just like [[Mathura peda]] as [[prasāda]] (consecrated food offered as blessing) is a specialty of Braj Krishna circuit in Mathura area, the sweet ''[[laddu]]'' made from the roasted ''[[Chickpea#desi|channa]]'' (Indian chichpea) will be used as the geo-[[specialty food]] prasāda of various tirthas within ''48 kos kurukshetra prikarma''. This will be called '''Kurukshetra Prasadam'''. Compared to other sweets such as [[barfi]] or [[peda]], the laddu does not spoil easily and has a longer shelf life at room temperature. Kurukshetra Developent Board {KDB) has advised all the sweet shops if any tourist or pilgrim asks for prasad then only chana laddoo must be given. KDB will open 5 shops of its own to sell ''channa laddu'' as ''Kurukshetra Prasadam''.<ref name=tir14>[https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/chana-laddoo-to-be-kurukshetra-prasadam-49618 Chana laddoo to be ‘Kurukshetra prasadam’, The Tribune, 1 March 2020.]</ref>
Just like [[Mathura peda]] as [[prasāda]] (consecrated food offered as blessing) is a specialty of Braj Krishna circuit in Mathura area, the sweet ''[[laddu]]'' made from the roasted ''[[Chickpea#desi|channa]]'' (Indian chichpea) will be used as the geo-[[specialty food]] prasāda of various tirthas within ''48 kos kurukshetra prikarma''. This will be called '''Kurukshetra Prasadam'''. Compared to other sweets such as [[barfi]] or [[peda]], the laddu does not spoil easily and has a longer shelf life at room temperature. Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) has advised all the sweet shops if any tourist or pilgrim asks for prasad then only chana laddoo must be given. KDB will open 5 shops of its own to sell ''channa laddu'' as ''Kurukshetra Prasadam''.<ref name=tir14>[https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/haryana/chana-laddoo-to-be-kurukshetra-prasadam-49618 Chana laddoo to be ‘Kurukshetra prasadam’, The Tribune, 1 March 2020.]</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
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* [[Kapal Mochan]]
* [[Kapal Mochan]]
* [[Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]
* [[Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]
* [[Yatra#Famous_yatras|Famous Hindu yatras]]
* [[Yatra#Famous yatras|Famous Hindu yatras]]
* [[List of Hindu festivals]]
* [[List of Hindu festivals]]
* [[Padayatra]]
* [[Padayatra]]
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* [[Cemetery H culture]]
* [[Cemetery H culture]]
* [[Painted Grey Ware culture]]
* [[Painted Grey Ware culture]]
* [[Historicity of the Mahabharata]]


== References ==
== References ==
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[[Category:48 kos parikrama of Kurukshetra| ]]
[[Category:48 kos parikrama of Kurukshetra| ]]
[[Category:Hindu pilgrimages]]
[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]
[[Category:Hindu pilgrimage sites in India]]
[[Category:Kurukshetra]]
[[Category:Kurukshetra]]

Latest revision as of 02:11, 4 October 2024

Map of the 48 kos parikrama (approx. 96 miles circle) around Kurukshetra (at Ban Ganga/Bhishma Kund)

The 48 kos parikrama is a parikrama (a circumbabulatory pilgrimage) of various Mahabharata-related and other Vedic-era tirthas (Hindu sacred sites) around the Hindu holy city of Kurukshetra in the state of Haryana, India.[1][2][3][4]

Associated with Krishna and the Mahabharata, it is an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus. It is one of three major pilgrimages related to Krishna in North India, the others being the "Braj parikarma" in Mathura in Uttar Pradesh state and "Dwarka parkarma" at Dwarkadhish Temple in Gujarat state.

Kurukshetra Development Board

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Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) was established to develop the 48 Kos Parikrama of Kurukshetra, its tirthas and related activities.[5]

Main sites

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Hindu and Jain pilgrimage

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Brahma Sarovar is the focal site of this circuit, which can be subdivided into various other itineraries.

Within Kurukshetra, along with Brahma Sarovar, other important sites are Jyotisar (place of "Gitaupadesha" - the first Upadeśa or discourse of Bhagavad Gita by Krishna)[6][7] and Sannihit Sarovar (Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra are kept here).[8] Pilgrims also visit the Bhishama kund, Surya kund and Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple (where Pandavas along with Krishna prayed to Shiva to receive his blessings for victory in the battle of Mahabharata)[9][10]

In addition, pilgrims also visit Pehowa, where the most revered sites are Saraswati tirtha and Prithudak tirtha. Pehowa is an ancient city and its religious significance is mentioned in several puranas, such as Skanda Purana (1st to 5th century CE), Markandeya Purana (4th to 6th century CE) and Vamana Purana (5th to 11th century CE).[11]

In Yamunanagar district, Kapal Mochan (Kapal Mochan (visited by Rama)[12] and Sri Sarasvati Udgam Tirath at Adi Badri (place where deified mother goddess Sarasvati is revered because the sacred Sarasvati River enters the plains from the foothills of shivalik range) are also important sacred sites.

Many pilgrims like to trace their genealogy going back hundreds of generation, trace prior visits by their ancestors and record their own visit in the Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra and Hindu genealogy registers of Pehowa maintained by Pandas (professional genealogists).[13][14][15]

List of most important sacred sites
  • Kurukshetra: Brahma Sarovar, Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple, Sannihit Sarovar, Jyotisar, Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra
  • Pehowa: Saraswati tirtha and Prithudak tirtha
  • Yamunanagar district: Kapal Mochan and Adi Badri

Buddhist pilgrimage

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Further information: Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Haryana

Buddha had visited Sthaneshwar and gave discourse on the banks of Brahma Sarovar where a Bodh Stupa was built.[16] Stupa has five structures of brunt brick, first three from Kushana period, 4th from Gupta period, and the last from Verdana period and later medieval period. During Harshavardhana reign, a 3 meters wide compound wall was built.[16]

For the Buddhist pilgrims, the most important sites are Brahma Sarovar and the Bodh Stupa on its northwestern flank. Other Buddhist pilgrimage sites nearby Buddhist sites include Chaneti, Topra, and Adi Badri Sharirika stupa. Many pilgrims prefer to follow the path taken by Buddha along Grand Trunk Road in Haryana. Stupas, pagodas and places in the order of travel by Buddha are:

Sikh pilgrimage

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Several Sikh gurus had visited Sthaneshwar, Pehowa and Kapal Mochan for the holy dip.

In Kurukshetra, Sikh pilgrims visit Brahma Sarovar and the "Gurudawara Pehli Patshai" (just next to Sthaneshwar Mahadev Temple on the south bank of Brahma Sarovar where the ninth Guru Tegh Bahadur stayed at). Following the trail of Sikh gurus, the pilgrims also visit Pehowa as well as Kapal Mochan. Kapal Mochan was visited by Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh after Battle of Bhangani in 1688 CE.[25][26]

Other important Sikh pilgrimage sites are Sadaura, Lohgarh (capital of Banda Singh Bahadur)[27] and Badkhalsa in Sonipat (where Bhai Kushal offered his head to retrieve Guru Teg Bhadur's head beheaded by mughals so that it can be taken to Anandpur Sahib}.[28][29]

Genealogy registers

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See also: Genealogy registers of Indian-origin religions

Hindu genealogy registers of Kurukshetra are kept at Pehowa and Sannihit Sarovar.[8]

Number of visitors

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See also: Yatra

In 2019, over 40 lakh (4 million) people had attended the Gita Mahotsav festival in December.[5]

Tirtha development

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Govt is undertaking steps to revive ancient Sarasati river, develop ghats and in-situ plantation of panchavati trees.[30] Visitors facilities such as roads, shades, water, toilet, landscaping, parking, cafe, interpretation centres etc. are also being developed.

The Panchavati trees, are trees scared to Indian-origin religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, such trees are the Vata (ficus benghalensis, Banyan), Ashvattha (ficus religiosa, Peepal), Bilva (aegle marmelos, Bengal Quince), Amalaki (phyllanthus emblica, Indian Gooseberry, Amla), Ashoka (Saraca asoca, Ashok), Udumbara (ficus racemosa, Cluster Fig, Gular), Nimba (Azadirachta indica, Neem) and Shami (prosopis spicigera, Indian Mesquite).[31] See also sacred groves of India.

From June 2014 to July 2021, ₹31.48 crore have been spent by the Haryana government on the development and upgrade of 81 tirthas of '48-kos parikrama'. Improving the standard of cleanliness of tiraths has been raised an issue. Ghats, and visitor facilities, such as toilet, shelter, water, parking, etc. are being developed.[32]

In 2021, it was announced that to develop Kurukshetra as a cultural hub, the by the Government of India will develop the Buddha Haryana circuit and a Sikh museum in Kurukshetra as all 10 Sikh gurus and Buddha had made yatra (pilgrimage) to Kurukshetra.[32]

List of pilgrimage sites in 48 kos parikrama

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At least 134 Tirthas (sacred sites) have been identified.[30] Some of the pilgrimages are listed below:[33]

Tirthas of Kurukshetra district

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See also: Tourism in Kurukshetra

Tirthas of Jind district

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Tirthas of Panipat district

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50. Tarntauk Yaksha, Sinkh

Tirthas of Kaithal district

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Tirthas of Karnal district

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See also: List of Sun deities and temples

Festivals

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Majority of the tourists visit Kurukshetra during sacred events, specifically Somvati Amavasya, solar eclipse, Gita Mahotsav and to perform post-death rituals only.[5]

Gita Mahotsav

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International Gita Mahotsav (on varying dates in November or December based on the Vikram Samvat lunar calendar), Saraswati Jayanti (also known as the Vasant Panchami, on the fifth day of spring around February or March) and Holi festivals are celebrated at Brahma Sarovar every year. During the International Gita Mahotsav, more than 300 national and international stalls are set up around the Brahma Sarovar.[35]

Gita Deepotsav

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Jyotisar is one of the important site where the Gita International Festival is held every year in December. This also entails a Gita Deepotsav (Gita festival of lights) during which hundreds of thousands of traditional earthen diya lamps are lit on the banks of Brahma Sarovar, Sannihit Sarovar and Jyotisar Sarovar. For example, 300,000 lamps were lit in December 2020.[36]

Revival of tirtha festivals

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See also: List of Hindu festivals

Historically each of more than 134 tirthas in the 48 Kos Parikrama of Kurukshetra used to have its own unique festival. With passage of time, several of this tirthas have faded into oblivion and several such festivals have become extinct. To conserve the religious and cultural heritage these tirtha-specific festivals and fairs will be revived. This will also boost the local economy. In order to revive, the Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) is identifying the fairs and religious events held at each tirthas (pilgrimage sites).[5]

Kurukshetra Prasadam - Channa laddu speciality prasadam

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See also: Bhog, Naivedya, and Geographical indication

Just like Mathura peda as prasāda (consecrated food offered as blessing) is a specialty of Braj Krishna circuit in Mathura area, the sweet laddu made from the roasted channa (Indian chichpea) will be used as the geo-specialty food prasāda of various tirthas within 48 kos kurukshetra prikarma. This will be called Kurukshetra Prasadam. Compared to other sweets such as barfi or peda, the laddu does not spoil easily and has a longer shelf life at room temperature. Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) has advised all the sweet shops if any tourist or pilgrim asks for prasad then only chana laddoo must be given. KDB will open 5 shops of its own to sell channa laddu as Kurukshetra Prasadam.[37]

See also

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General
Krishna related pilgrimages
Other religious
Vedic era

References

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  1. ^ "Kurukshetra map". kurukshetra.nic.in. Archived from the original on 25 June 2016. Retrieved 24 July 2016.
  2. ^ "Haryana Tourism". Retrieved 24 July 2016.
  3. ^ "Development of all pilgrimage sites located within a radius of 48 kos (miles) of Kurukshetra would be carried out". Chief Minister's Office, Haryana. 11 October 2015. Retrieved 24 July 2016.
  4. ^ "The 48 Kos Kurukshetra Region". harekrsna.com. Retrieved 24 July 2016.
  5. ^ a b c d Fairs at ‘tirthas’ in five Haryana districts to be revived, The Tribune, 23 Aug 2021.
  6. ^ Jyotisar Archived 19 April 2018 at the Wayback Machine Kurukshetra district website.
  7. ^ "Jyotisar". Haryana Tourism Corporation Limited. Retrieved 8 August 2014.
  8. ^ a b "Tirath in Kurukshetra - Sannehit Sarovar". Kurukshetra district website. Archived from the original on 6 August 2014. Retrieved 8 August 2014.
  9. ^ Dev Prasad (2010). Krishna: A Journey through the Lands & Legends of Krishna. Jaico Publishing House. pp. 216–. ISBN 978-81-8495-170-7.
  10. ^ "Religious Places in Kurukshetra: Sthaneswar Mahadev Mandir". Kurukshetra District website. Archived from the original on 22 August 2014. Retrieved 8 August 2014.
  11. ^ Kurukshetra Development Board can get the responsibility of Saraswati Tirtha, Dainik Jagran, 4 Feb 2019.
  12. ^ yamunanagar.nic.in: History of Kapal Mochan
  13. ^ Tracing your Asian roots Archived 26 April 2017 at the Wayback Machine www.overseasindian.in.
  14. ^ Hindu Pilgrimage Marriage Records www.movinghere.org.uk.
  15. ^ 10 Places Across The World That Help You Trace Your Ancestors, India Times, 29 Jan 2016.
  16. ^ a b c "Buddhist Stupa At Kurukshetra". The Buddhist Forum. 31 March 2012. Retrieved 20 December 2018.
  17. ^ Dhamma patthana, dhamma.org.
  18. ^ Aastha Pugdal Pagoda at Kumaspur (Kamas Nigam in Sonepat, SDBST.
  19. ^ Khattar announces Rs100 cr to develop Saraswati, Topra Kalan, The Tribune, 11-Apr-2015
  20. ^ Park for Ashoka stalled?, DNA India News, 7-Nov-2016
  21. ^ HM Elliot & John Dawson (1871), Tarikh I Ferozi Shahi - Records of Court Historian Sams-i-Siraj The History of India, as Told by Its Own Historians, Volume 3, Cornell University Archives, pp 352-353
  22. ^ Corporation, Haryana Tourism. "Buddhist Stupa Chaneti - Places of interest - Yamuna Nagar - Haryana Tourism Corporation Limited". destination. Archived from the original on 15 August 2020. Retrieved 25 August 2019.
  23. ^ "Buddhist Stupa, Chaneti, Yamunanagar (Buddhist Stupa), circa 3rd Century BC" (PDF).
  24. ^ "Buddhist Stupa At Chaneti". The Buddhist Forum. 31 March 2012. Retrieved 25 August 2019.
  25. ^ G.S., Randhir (1990). Sikh shrines in India. New Delhi: The Director of Publication Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. pp. 42–43.
  26. ^ Charitar 71, Charitar of Kapal Mochan, Charitropakhyan, Dasam Granth, Guru Gobind Singh
  27. ^ singh, Dr. Ganda (1964). Banda Singh Bahadur(in Punjabi. Sikh Itihaas Research Board, SGPC, AMRITSAR.
  28. ^ Pioneer, The. "CM unveils statue of Kushal Singh Dahiya". The Pioneer. Retrieved 27 November 2018.
  29. ^ Singh, Darshan (2003). Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur. Anamika Publishers & Distributors. ISBN 9788179750322.
  30. ^ a b Scheme for students in haryana plant trees get 10 extra marks, Dainik Jagran, 26 July 2021.
  31. ^ Panchvati trees, greenmesg.org, accessed 26 July 2021.
  32. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l Cleanliness of tiraths a challenge in Haryana, Hindustan Times, 27 July 2021.
  33. ^ "Tirthas of dist. Kurukshetra" (PDF). kurukshetra.nic.in. Archived from the original (PDF) on 5 March 2017. Retrieved 24 July 2016.
  34. ^ Monuments & Sites in Haryana, Archaeological Survey Of India, page 34-35.
  35. ^ The Kurukshetra trail!, Asian Age, 10 Dec 2019.
  36. ^ 3L diyas to light up Kurukshetra on December 25, The Tribune, 23 Dec 2020.
  37. ^ Chana laddoo to be ‘Kurukshetra prasadam’, The Tribune, 1 March 2020.
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