Don’t miss out on the world’s largest crafts fair! Check out Surajkund Mela 2026 dates, the new parking layout, and the best food stalls you need to try. Book your tickets online now!
By Trending News Fox News Desk Team, Published: January 31, 2026
Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026: A Global Celebration of Heritage, Art, and Culture
The wait is finally over! The 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026 has officially kicked off today, transforming the historic town of Faridabad into a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors, rhythm, and global artistry. Running from January 31 to February 15, 2026, this world-renowned fair is set to be the biggest edition yet, attracting over a million visitors from across the globe.
Organized by the Surajkund Mela Authority and Haryana Tourism in collaboration with the Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture, and External Affairs, the mela is a cornerstone of India’s cultural calendar. Whether you are a connoisseur of traditional crafts, a foodie seeking authentic flavors, or a photography enthusiast, Surajkund 2026 offers an experience that is nothing short of magical.
2026 Highlights: Theme States and Partner Nation
Every year, the mela highlights a specific Indian state and a foreign country to showcase their unique heritage. For 2026, the spotlight shines on:
Theme States: Uttar Pradesh & Meghalaya
This year is unique as it features a dual-theme state representation.
- Uttar Pradesh: Visitors can explore the “One District One Product” (ODOP) initiative. Expect to see the world-famous Chikankari from Lucknow, shimmering glassware from Firozabad, and intricate Zardozi embroidery from Varanasi.
- Meghalaya: The “Abode of Clouds” brings its serene tribal art, bamboo crafts, and traditional hand-woven shawls, offering a beautiful contrast to the rustic charm of UP.
Partner Nation: Egypt
Adding an international flair, Egypt serves as the partner nation for 2026. The Egyptian pavilion is a visual masterpiece, inspired by the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor. Artisans from Cairo have traveled to Faridabad to showcase Egyptian papyrus art, leatherwork, and traditional music, creating a “Mini-Egypt” in the heart of Haryana.
Surajkund Mela: Essential Visitor Information
Planning a visit to the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela? Here is everything you need to know:
Surajkund Mela: Dates and Timings
- Duration: January 31 – February 15, 2026
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM daily.
Surajkund Mela: Ticket Prices
To manage the massive footfall, ticket prices vary between weekdays and weekends:
- Weekdays: ₹120 per person.
- Weekends: ₹180 per person.
- Special Discounts: A 50% concession is available for senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and students with valid ID cards. Children below the age of 5 enter for free.
Pro Tip: Avoid long queues at the venue! You can book your tickets online through the official Haryana Tourism website, BookMyShow, or the DMRC Delhi Sarathi 2.0 app.
What to Expect at Surajkund Mela 2026
1. A Shopper’s Paradise
With over 1,200 stalls featuring national and international award-winning artisans, this is the ultimate destination for authentic handicrafts. From Terracotta pottery and Madhubani paintings to Pashmina shawls and tribal jewelry, the mela supports the “Vocal for Local” movement by providing a direct platform for rural artisans.
2. Star-Studded Cultural Evenings
The “Chaupal” (open-air theater) comes alive every evening with soul-stirring performances. The 2026 lineup includes:
- Feb 8: Legendary Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan.
- Feb 9: Sufi maestro Kailash Kher.
- Daily: Folk dances like Bhangra (Punjab), Kalbelia (Rajasthan), and Raslila (UP), alongside international troupes from over 50 countries including Hungary, Iraq, and Algeria.
3. A Culinary Journey
The multi-cuisine food court is a major draw. You can indulge in:
- Indian Staples: Rajasthani Dal Baati Churma, Litti Chokha, and authentic Hyderabadi Biryani.
- International Flavors: Special Egyptian snacks like Falafel and Shawarma at the partner nation stall.
- Millet Specials: In line with global health trends, several stalls are dedicated to “Shree Anna” (Millets), serving healthy and traditional snacks.
How to Reach Surajkund Mela
The venue is well-connected to Delhi, Gurugram, and Noida.
- By Metro: The nearest station is Badarpur (Violet Line). From there, you can take an e-rickshaw or a shuttle bus (approx. 4–5 km).
- By Bus: Special “Mela Express” buses are operational from ISBT Delhi, Gurugram, and various parts of Faridabad.
- By Car: Ample parking is available. There are 10 designated parking lots (IA to 3D) catering to different entry gates.
Surajkund Mela: Traffic Advisory for 2026
To ensure smooth movement, heavy and commercial vehicles are banned on Surajkund Road from 7:00 AM to midnight until February 15. Commuters from Gurugram to Delhi are advised to use the KMP Expressway or NH-44 via Badarpur to avoid congestion.
Surajkund Mela: Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Surajkund Mela is more than just a marketplace; it is a “Custodian of Heritage.” In an era of mass-produced goods, this fair celebrates the human hand and the ancient skills passed down through generations. It is an educational experience for children and a nostalgic journey for adults.
As the sun sets over the beautifully lit Surajkund Lake, the atmosphere turns electric with the sound of dhol beats and the aroma of traditional spices. It truly is the “Celebration of the Year.”
Plan your visit today and be a part of this global heritage extravaganza!
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Surajkund Mela: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the dates for Surajkund Mela 2026?
The Surajkund Mela 2026 is being held from January 31 to February 15, 2026. The fair spans 16 days, celebrating the transition from peak winter to the onset of spring.
2. What are the timings for the mela?
The mela grounds are open to the public daily from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM. Cultural performances at the main Chaupal typically peak in the late afternoon and evening.
3. How can I book Surajkund Mela tickets online?
You can book tickets through:
- Mobile Apps: The DMRC Momentum (Delhi Sarathi 2.0) app.
- Websites: Official Haryana Tourism website and major ticketing platforms like BookMyShow.
- Offline: Tickets are also available at all Delhi Metro stations and on-site ticket counters at the venue.
4. What is the ticket price for 2026?
- Weekdays: ₹120 per person.
- Weekends: ₹180 per person.
- Discounts: Senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and students with valid ID cards get a 50% discount.
5. Who are the Theme States and Partner Nation for 2026?
- Theme States: Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya (showcasing ODOP products and tribal crafts).
- Partner Nation: Egypt (featuring papyrus art, leatherwork, and a pyramid-themed pavilion).
6. Which is the nearest Metro station to Surajkund Mela?
The nearest station is Badarpur Border on the Violet Line. From there, you can take a shuttle bus, auto-rickshaw, or e-rickshaw to reach the mela gates (approx. 4 km).
7. Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, there are 10 designated parking lots managed by the DMRC and local authorities. To avoid traffic, visitors are encouraged to use the shuttle services provided from major Metro stations and Faridabad city points.
8. Are digital payments accepted at the stalls?
While most artisans accept UPI and credit/debit cards, it is highly recommended to carry some cash for small-value purchases or for vendors coming from remote rural areas with limited connectivity.
9. Can I bring outside food to the mela?
Outside food is generally not allowed. However, the mela features a massive multi-cuisine food court offering authentic regional dishes from across India and international snacks from Egypt.
10. Is the mela accessible for the differently-abled?
Yes, the Surajkund Mela Authority provides wheelchair assistance and has designed the pathways to be accessible. Electric carts (golf carts) are often available to help elderly and disabled visitors move between major sections.
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