🕌 Explore Kaithal: The Untold Heritage of Haryana

Kaithal, a lesser-known jewel in the crown of Haryana, is a city steeped in ancient myth, religious significance, and historical magnificence. This blog post takes you on a journey through its winding alleys, sacred ponds, majestic forts, and hidden temples. From connections with Lord Hanuman to the tomb of a powerful female ruler, Kaithal holds more stories than most cities twice its size.

🕉️ Mythological Beginnings

Kaithal, historically known as Kapisthal, is said to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. According to legend, the city was established by Yudhisthira, the eldest Pandava, after the great war of Mahabharata. The name Kapisthal literally means "the land of monkeys," referring to Hanuman, the divine monkey devotee of Lord Rama.

Spirituality flows through Kaithal’s roots and continues to shape its identity today.

🏰 Historical Treasures

🔸 Kaithal Fort

Located in the heart of the city, Kaithal Fort was built by local rulers known as the Bhais. The fort was renovated in recent years and now includes parks and performance stages. Though small in size, it gives visitors a glimpse of Kaithal’s ancient strength and royal legacy.

Photography Tip: Capture the gate during golden hour to bring out the red-toned bricks!

🔸 Tomb of Razia Sultan

About 10 km from the city center lies the tomb of Razia Sultan, Delhi's first and only female ruler. She is believed to have been killed in battle near Kaithal, and the simple brick tomb marks her final resting place.

Though modest, the site echoes with historical significance and is a must-visit for history lovers.

🔸 Sheikh Tayyab's Tomb

Another hidden gem, this tomb represents Mughal-Pashtun architecture and dates back to the 17th century. It is situated near the railway station and includes a majestic domed chamber over a square base.

🛕 Temples and Tirthas

Kaithal is a holy city with many temples and sacred sites:

🔹 Vidkyar Teerth (Vriddh Kedaar)

One of the 48 Kos Parikramas of Kurukshetra, this sacred site is linked to the Vamana Purana. Devotees visit during Shivratri to take holy dips and perform rituals.

🔹 Gyarah Rudri Mandir

This temple honors the eleven forms of Lord Shiva (Rudra) and features a towering Hanuman statue, attracting both devotees and tourists alike.

🔹 Anjani Teela

Believed to be the hill where Anjani Devi, the mother of Hanuman, prayed. The temple nearby is peaceful and surrounded by natural beauty.

🏛️ Kalayat Temples – Ancient Brick Marvels

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons – Kalayat Temple Complex

Located about 30 km from Kaithal, Kalayat is home to a group of temples made of brick from the 8th–9th century. These are among the few surviving Gurjara-Pratihara temples in North India. The spires, now partially restored, showcase ancient Nagara-style architecture.

This site is part of the Kurukshetra pilgrimage circuit and is ideal for history, spirituality, and architectural exploration.

🌿 Natural Beauty: Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary

If you’re a nature enthusiast, a visit to the Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary near Pehowa is a must. Spread across 44 sq km, it’s rich in:

Bird species
Medicinal plants
Ancient Vedic archaeological sites

The sanctuary is named after the now-mythical Saraswati River, which is believed to have flowed through this region in ancient times.

🧵 Culture, Food & Crafts

Kaithal is not just about history and temples — the city is vibrant with local craftsmanship and traditional Haryanvi culture.

🔸 What to Explore:

Lacquer wood items
Pottery
Cotton and rice markets
Local snacks like churma, bajra roti, and lassi

Markets in Kaithal are bustling yet humble, and the locals are warm and welcoming.

🎓 Educational Institutions

Kaithal is also emerging as an educational center:

Maharishi Valmiki Sanskrit University, established in 2018, promotes ancient Indian knowledge systems.
Several colleges affiliated with Kurukshetra University provide degrees in modern and traditional subjects.

📍 Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit:
🌤️ October to March is ideal. Summers are hot, while winters are pleasant.

How to Reach:

✈️ Nearest Airport: Chandigarh (~150 km) or Delhi (~200 km)
🚆 Nearest Railway Station: Kaithal Junction
🚌 Well-connected by road via NH-152

📸 Photo Hotspots in Kaithal

Location	What to Capture
Kaithal Fort	Restored gates & old brick walls
Kalayat Temples	Ancient brick shikharas & reflections
Gyarah Rudri Mandir	Giant Hanuman idol
Anjani Teela	Scenic hill & sacred pond
Saraswati Sanctuary	Wildlife & Vedic-era ruins

🧳 Final Thoughts

Kaithal is a unique blend of Haryana’s ancient spiritual spirit and untouched historical charm. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for something new—Kaithal has something to offer.

So, the next time you're traveling through northern India, skip the mainstream tourist traps and dive into the heart of Haryana — Kaithal awaits you.