Located near the National Capital of Delhi, Gurgaon is a district in the Indian state of Haryana and is the industrial and financial centre of the state. Gurgaon is one of Delhi's four major satellite cities and is part of the National Capital Region of India. In the past few years Gurgaon has blossomed as the nucleus of IT and other new-age businesses and now houses numerous multinational companies too.
Gurgaon's skyline with its many skyscrapers has been home to several tall buildings with modern planning and the city is replete with tourist-friendly malls, hotels and restaurants. The city's food culture includes a variety of cuisines with regional specialities including traditional North Indian delicacies. A large portion of the local population is vegetarian and the main language spoken in Gurgaon is Hindi.
Best time to visit:
Gurgaon has a climate typical to that of Delhi. The pleasing and cool temperature in the city during the winters from November and until February is enjoyable and is the best time to visit Gurgaon.
Top five places to see:
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary – Only at a distance of 16 kms. from Gurgoan, the Sultanpur National Park and Bird Sanctuary is a heaven for birdwatchers. The sanctuary offers boating facilities and is also home to unique Flora and various mammals such as the Blackbuck, Blue Bull, Sambar, Leopards, the four horned Antelope and more.
Sheesh Mahal – The Palace of Mirrors or 'Sheesh Mahal' is one of the local historic attractions around 21 kms. from Gurgoan. It is a double-storied structure built in red sandstone, Mughal bricks and Jhajjar stone and has decorative interiors of elaborate mirror-work, from its name has been derived.
Damdama Lake – Covering an area of about 3,000 acres, Damdama lake is one of the biggest natural lakes in the state of Haryana. Surrounded by the Aravali Mountains, it is one of the most popular picnic spots and one can enjoy not only scenic boating, but also adventure sports such as trekking hot air ballooning, para sailing and kayaking. It is a natural home for birds and more than 190 species of migratory and local birds can be seen here.
Sheetala Devi Temple – A popular pilgrimage site named after the Indian goddess Sheetala Devi who could dispel small pox. The temple is thronged by a large number of devotees throughout the year and is located 1.5 kms. from Gurgoan near a beautiful pond.
Sohna Springs – For a more rural setting, visit the small town of Sohna, which is surrounded by ancient ruins and known for its hot springs. The springs have sulphurous water, believed to contain medicinal properties. This picturesque health-cum-holiday resort lies atop the Aravalli hills and offers a breathtaking view of the landscape.