The 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026 in Haryana stands as one of the most vibrant and prestigious cultural festivals in India, bringing together artisans, craftsmen, performers, and cultural enthusiasts from across the globe. Organized annually at Surajkund in Faridabad, this iconic fair transforms the venue into a living museum of traditional crafts, handlooms, folk art, cuisine, music, and dance. We experience here not just a fair but a grand cultural spectacle that celebrates the soul of India’s artistic heritage along with international craftsmanship. Every year, the Surajkund Mela attracts lakhs of visitors, including domestic and international tourists, art collectors, designers, historians, and cultural scholars. In 2026, the 39th edition promises to be bigger, more colorful, and more immersive than ever before, showcasing a rare blend of ancient traditions and contemporary creativity.
Historical Significance of Surajkund Mela
The Surajkund Crafts Mela was first organized in 1987 by the Haryana Tourism Department with the aim of promoting Indian handicrafts and handloom traditions. The venue itself, Surajkund, dates back to the 10th century, built by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar dynasty. The historic reservoir adds a timeless charm to the festival, making it a perfect backdrop for showcasing India’s age-old artistry. Over the decades, this fair has evolved into an international platform where participating countries display their native crafts, textiles, and cultural performances, making it a global confluence of art and tradition.
Dates, Venue, and Timings of Surajkund Mela 2026
- Venue: Surajkund, Faridabad, Haryana
- Edition: 39th International Crafts Mela
- Duration: Typically held in February for over two weeks
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
The pleasant winter weather of Haryana during February enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to comfortably explore the sprawling fairgrounds.
Theme State and Partner Nation 2026
A unique highlight of every Surajkund Mela is the selection of a theme state and a partner nation. The theme state showcases its architecture, crafts, folk traditions, and cuisine through specially designed pavilions. The partner nation presents its cultural identity, crafts, and performances, creating a rich international ambience. This concept offers visitors an opportunity to explore the diverse cultural tapestry of India and the world under one roof.
Exquisite Handicrafts and Handlooms on Display
The heart of the Surajkund Mela lies in its extraordinary display of authentic handicrafts and handloom products. We witness artisans working live on their crafts, allowing visitors to understand the intricate processes behind each masterpiece.
Some of the most sought-after crafts include
- Madhubani and Pattachitra paintings
- Phulkari embroidery from Punjab
- Kashmiri carpets and shawls
- Blue pottery from Rajasthan
- Channapatna toys from Karnataka
- Banarasi and Kanjeevaram silk sarees
- Terracotta, bamboo, and cane crafts
- Handmade jewellery and tribal ornaments
Each stall represents a story of tradition passed down through generations.
Live Demonstrations by Skilled Artisans
One of the most fascinating aspects is the live crafting sessions where artisans carve wood, weave textiles, mold clay, paint canvases, and create intricate designs right before our eyes. This interactive experience allows visitors to appreciate the skill, patience, and dedication involved in traditional craftsmanship.
Folk Performances and Cultural Programs
The fairgrounds echo with the rhythms of folk music and traditional dance performances throughout the day. Artists from various Indian states and participating countries perform on open stages, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Visitors enjoy performances such as:
- Kalbelia and Ghoomar from Rajasthan
- Bhangra and Giddha from Punjab
- Garba and Dandiya from Gujarat
- Lavani from Maharashtra
- International cultural dance troupes
These performances make the Surajkund Mela a complete cultural immersion.
Authentic Regional and International Cuisines
Food lovers find the Surajkund Mela to be a paradise of regional Indian delicacies and global cuisines. Dedicated food courts serve traditional dishes from different states of India along with international flavors.
Popular delights include:
- Sarson ka Saag and Makki ki Roti
- Rajasthani Dal Baati Churma
- South Indian Dosas and Filter Coffee
- Street foods like Chaat, Jalebi, and Kachori
- Continental and Asian cuisines
The culinary diversity adds another layer of richness to the fair.
Shopping Experience Like No Other
Surajkund Mela offers a direct-from-artisan shopping experience. Buyers can purchase authentic handcrafted items without middlemen, ensuring fair pricing and genuine products. From home décor, textiles, paintings, accessories, and souvenirs, the variety is endless. It is the ideal place for collectors, interior designers, and art lovers to source unique handcrafted treasures.
Workshops, Competitions, and Activities
The mela also hosts engaging workshops, competitions, and craft demonstrations for children and adults. Visitors can participate in pottery making, block printing, painting, and weaving sessions, making it an educational experience for families.
Why Surajkund Mela 2026 Is a Must-Visit Event
We find Surajkund Mela to be much more than a marketplace. It is:
- A celebration of Indian culture and heritage
- A platform for rural artisans and craftsmen
- A global showcase of traditional arts
- A family-friendly cultural festival
- A paradise for photographers and art enthusiasts
The colorful huts, decorated stalls, traditional music, and vibrant crowd create an unforgettable visual spectacle.
Ticket Information and Entry Details
Tickets for Surajkund Mela are reasonably priced and available both online and offline. Special discounts are often provided for students, senior citizens, and group bookings. Weekends usually witness a higher footfall, so weekday visits offer a more relaxed exploration.
How to Reach Surajkund, Faridabad
Surajkund is well-connected by road, rail, and metro:
- Nearest Metro Station: Badarpur Border / Surajkund Metro connectivity
- Nearest Railway Station: Faridabad
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi
Ample parking facilities and public transport options make access convenient.
Photography and Cultural Documentation
The mela provides incredible opportunities for photography, videography, and cultural documentation. Every corner offers frames filled with colors, textures, expressions, and traditions that are rarely seen together elsewhere.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Recent editions of the Surajkund Mela have emphasized eco-friendly practices, encouraging minimal plastic usage, promoting sustainable crafts, and supporting rural livelihoods. This initiative aligns tradition with environmental responsibility.
A Global Platform for Cultural Exchange
International participation turns the mela into a cultural bridge between nations. Visitors gain exposure to foreign crafts, attire, performances, and artistic traditions, fostering mutual appreciation and cultural understanding.
Experience the Living Heritage of India
At the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026, we do not merely observe art; we live it. We interact with creators, taste authentic cuisines, witness live traditions, and carry back memories along with handcrafted treasures. This grand fair remains a timeless testimony to India’s rich artistic legacy and cultural diversity, making it one of the most awaited events of the year.
