The Surajkund International Crafts Mela is India’s annual showcase of traditional handicrafts, handlooms, art, and cuisine of India.  Held on the sandstone slopes near Surajkund Lake in Faridabad, the Surajkund Mela is one of the world’s largest craft fairs.

If you are planning to visit the Surajkund Mela in 2026, it is important to know the dates, schedule, theme, and other details to ensure a comfortable experience.

The Surajkund Mela is an international craft fair that showcases everything from handlooms and handicrafts to various entertainment activities that reflect the unique diversity of Indian culture and traditions.

Visiting the Surajkund Mela means taking a walk through India’s traditional art and crafts, local food courts, folk performances, adventure rides, amusement activities, and more.  It is a blend of art, culture, and traditions, offering locals and tourists a fantastic opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture. 

The Surajkund Mela 2026 is scheduled to run from 31st January, 2026 to 15th February, 2026. As every year, the Surajkund Mela will be held in Faridabad, Haryana.

Event Details

Here are some important details of the Surajkund Mela 2026 that you must know:

The Surajkund Mela in Faridabad has a deep-rooted history and significance within India’s rich handicraft tradition, cultural diversity, and folk arts.

• Historical Significance

Surajkund Mela derives its name from the ancient Surajkund reservoir, built in the 10th century by King Surajpal of the Tomar Dynasty. The first Surajkund Mela was held in 1987 to boost Haryana tourism by providing a platform to showcase India’s rich art and craft traditions.

• Supports Rural Artisans

The Surajkund Mela is one of the largest initiatives supporting dying art forms created by rural artisans. Thousands of rural artisans have direct access to buyers at the Surajkund Mela, helping them generate a good income.

• Celebration of India’s Art and Craft

The Surajkund Mela also has deep cultural significance. It is one of the largest platforms for celebrating India’s art and craft. From handloom textiles, pottery, and terracotta to embroidery, painting, and jewellery, the Surajkund Mela showcases Indian handicrafts on a large scale. 

• International Cultural Exchange

Over the years, the Surajkund Mela has become an international event. Every year, thousands of tourists participate in various events at the fair. This international craft fair promotes cross-cultural interaction like no other. 
As Egypt is the partner nation for Surajkund 2026, you can expect an Egyptian pavilion featuring curated craft and cultural displays, expanded stalls, performances, and food.

Here’s what you can expect at the Surajkund Mela in 2026

• Handicrafts & stalls

Be prepared to witness India’s handicraft stalls at a magnificent level. Stalls are grouped by region and category, including traditional handwoven sarees, tribal jewellery and accessories, wooden artefacts, pottery, leatherwork, textiles, terracotta, sustainable eco-craft demonstrations, exclusive state pavilion products, and more. You can shop your heart out at these stalls.

• Cultural Performances

The Surajkund Mela offers a wide range of entertainment, including folk dances such as Ghoomar, Bhangra, and Kalbelia, street performances, classical music recitals, theatre sketches, art installations, and community performances. The Surajkund opening is a publicised civic event, often led by high-level dignitaries

• Food Stalls

At the Surajkund Mela, you can taste the true flavours of India’s local food. There are several stalls for regional and international food. Be ready to taste local favourites such as Jalebi, Parathas, Kebabs, Chaats, and cuisines from theme states and partner nations.

If you’re wondering how to reach Surajkund Mela, here are all the details you need to know:

• By Road: Surajkund, Faridabad, is well connected by national highways and local roads. You can either book a cab or a bus to reach the Surajkund Mela. Trust redBus for hassle-free bus ticket booking.

• By Rail: The closest railway station is Faridabad. You can book your train tickets with redRail to avoid last-minute hassles.

• By Metro: The nearest metro stations are Badarpur and Sarai.

• By Air: The closest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

If you’re planning to visit the Surajkund Mela, here are some smart travel tips to make your experience even better:

• Book Your Tickets in Advance

Make sure to book your bus or train tickets for Faridabad in advance. You can rely on redBus and redRail to book your tickets. 

• Tickets to Surajkund Mela

Tickets for the Surajkund Mela can be purchased online via the DMRC mobile app. You can also choose to get your tickets at the entrance of the Surajkund Mela or at selected metro stations.

• Visit the Mela Early

Prefer reaching by 10:30 AM, to get faster entry and also access to more shopping options.

• Shop Smartly

If you plan to shop at the Surajkund Mela, ensure items are authentic and bargain politely.  

• Be Comfortable 

Surajkund Mela is an open-air event and can be crowded. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat/sunscreen, and carry basic outdoor items.

• Keep Yourself Hydrated

While exploring the stalls at the Surajkund Mela, do not forget to keep yourself hydrated. You can carry a reusable water bottle or drink water from hydration stands at the Surajkund Mela.

The Surajkund Mela 2026 is one of the biggest celebrations of India’s art and craft. So make sure to plan a visit this year and book your tickets in advance with redBus. If you go with a clear plan, a few practical precautions, and an appetite for walking, you’ll come away with new crafts to admire and stories to tell.