Surajkund Mela 2026 Commences with Grand Inauguration in Faridabad
The much-anticipated Surajkund Mela 2026, renowned as one of the world's most celebrated cultural fairs, officially kicked off on Saturday. The 39th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela is being held in Faridabad, Haryana, with Vice President CP Radhakrishnan inaugurating the 16-day grand event. This year's theme, Local to Global, prominently highlights the rich cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya as the featured states.
A Cultural Extravaganza Showcasing India's Artistic Heritage
Promising art and culture enthusiasts an exemplary display of India's rich handicrafts and handlooms, the mela also incorporates global art forms, regional performances, and culinary delights. Organized by Haryana Tourism in collaboration with Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture, and External Affairs, the event brings to life a unique festive fervor annually at the same venue. Recognized as one of the largest crafts fairs globally, it attracts massive footfall from travelers, culture lovers, families, and craft collectors.
Visitors flock to this fair not only to purchase collectibles at attractive prices but also to immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences. With over a thousand stalls and daily performances, the fair provides a vital platform for local artisans to display their crafts to an international audience, fostering global recognition.
Egypt as Partner Nation and Pavilion Highlights
Egypt has been designated as the partner nation for Surajkund Mela 2026, presenting its heritage through captivating art and cultural displays. The pavilion setup, inspired by the iconic Pyramids and bustling markets of Cairo, offers a visual delight to attendees, enhancing the global appeal of the event.
Essential Details for Visitors: Dates, Timings, and Ticket Information
The Surajkund Mela 2026 is scheduled from 31 January to 15 February, with daily timings from 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM. Ticket prices are structured as follows:
- Weekday entry: ₹120 per person
- Weekend entry: ₹180 per person
Discounted tickets are available for students and senior citizens, requiring a valid ID for verification. Entry passes can be purchased through multiple channels:
- Online via the DMRC's Delhi Metro Sarthi App
- At selected Delhi Metro stations
- From on-site ticket counters at the Surajkund Mela venue
Transportation and Accessibility to the Venue
Reaching the Surajkund Mela 2026 venue is convenient with various transportation options. Buses are available from ISBT, Shivaji Stadium, Gurgaon, Faridabad, and Surajkund, as stated on the official website. The nearest metro station is Badarpur Border, which is connected to the mela via shuttle services. Additionally, visitors can utilize feeder services from nearby stations such as Tughlakabad or Sarai.
Additional Attractions and Historical Significance
The event features a multi-cuisine Food Court offering ethnic cuisines from around the world, immensely popular among visitors. Designated areas for amusement, adventure sports, and joy rides make it a must-visit for the young. Historically, the fair was upgraded to an international level in 2013, and in 2015, a record 20 countries participated, with Lebanon as the Partner Nation and Chhattisgarh as the Theme State.
