Panipat is a historically rich city that represents much for travellers who go deep into the rich cultural heritage of India. Located in Haryana, Panipat has an identity that is famously associated with the three major battles that shaped the history of the subcontinent. The city is decked with forts, museums, battle sites, local culture, markets, or praying sites. From going around the ancient monuments and exploring local bazaars to seeing vibrant local culture and temples, there are a variety of things to do in Panipat that will allure history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and casual tourists.
15 Things To Do In Panipat
Panipat, situated in the state of Haryana, is full of historic and cultural heritage. Here are the top things to do in Panipat to enhance your experience.
1. Visit The Battlefields Of Panipat
Photo: Christian Grandfather Magazine / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The battlefields of Panipat are the most iconic sites one can come across in this city. They include the sites of three battles that turned the face of Indian history altogether. Three Panipat battles the First Battle in 1526, the Second in 1556, and the Third in 1761 have over the years decided the fate of the Mughal Empire and of India. Of peaceful poignancy now, these battlefields are a place to sit and think about the turbulent history of yore that unfolded here. Memorials and information boards at the site contextualize and carry details about the battles.
Location: Near NH-1, Panipat
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
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2. Visit Kabuli Bagh Mosque
Photo: Ramesh lalwani / Wikimedia Commons
Built by Babur after he won the First Battle of Panipat in 1526, the Kabuli Bagh Mosque is a historical gem. As the name goes, the mosque was named after Babur’s wife, Kabuli Begum. This mosque complex represents a fine dateable remake of a developed phase of the early Mughal architecture along with a garden and a tank. It also incorporates a later-added platform by Humayun, the son of Babur. The design of the mosque is simple, yet graceful and forms part of the early days of the Mughal Empire before the grandeur of the later structures, like the Taj Mahal.
Location: Near NH-1, Panipat
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Visit The Tomb Of Ibrahim Lodhi
Photo: Vishnu Berry / Wikimedia Commons
One of the important sites of historical interest in Panipat is the tomb of Ibrahim Lodhi, the last Sultan of the Lodhi Dynasty. He fell in the First Battle of Panipat with Babur, which was the first fight that established the Mughal Empire in India. The tomb itself is small though evocative enough to take one back to the brutality of the war. It is well set in a quiet garden where one can meditate on the transience of power and the eventful history of Panipat.
Location: Near Tehsil Office, Panipat
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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4. Visit Panipat Museum
Photo: Ujala.chowdhry / Wikimedia Commons
This is a must-visit place for history buffs. There are exhibits on the three major battles of Panipat, displaying artefacts, weapons, images, and documents related to these landmark events. It also gives an overview of the cultural heritage of the place, displaying the life, crafts, and traditions that are found here. The general collection is such that it will give a complete comprehension of what Panipat’s position is in Indian history and what its cultural development was.
Location: HUDA Sector 12, Panipat
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20
5. Visit The Panipat Handloom Museum
Photo: ANKUR MADAN / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Panipat Handloom Museum is a treasure trove of the colourful cultural heritage of the region. It is the display zone of the traditional handloom industry of Panipat, perhaps offering a peek into the intricate process of weaving and the different materials under creation on the premises. An exhibition is set here that showcases a series of traditional handwoven textiles like carpets, rugs, and shawls; each one of these per se tells a story of human craftsmanship and cultural significance. There are some interactive installations and live comprehensive presentations of the techniques and the history of manual weavers.
Location: HUDA Sector 12, Panipat
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
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6. Explore Kala Amb Memorial
Photo: Gagangaurav14 / Wikimedia Commons
The place where the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761 took place between the Marathas and the Afghan king Ahmad Shah Abdali. “Kala Amb,” meaning “Black Mango,” aptly describes the one lonely mango tree on the battlefield. It is a dark reminder that there was going to be a battle that was going to become one of the bloodiest confrontations in Indian history. The site today is a well-maintained park and a memorial pillar has been erected there to give information related to the battle and a place to pay respects.
Location: Panipat-Kairana Road, Panipat
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. Visit Bu Ali Shah Qalandar Dargah
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One of the most famous and respectable Sufi shrines in the town of Panipat belongs to the 13th-century great Sufi saint, Bu Ali Shah Qalandar. A small part of the population visits this dargah, which is one of the main pilgrimage centres of the city, catering to people of different faiths who visit for blessings. The place remains very calm, with the saint’s tomb surrounded by a very beautiful mosque and a very maintained garden. The annual Urs festival here draws huge crowds in the thousands.
Location: Qalandar Chowk, Panipat
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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8. Visit Salar Gunj Gate
Photo: Sudhirkbhargava / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Salar Gunj Gate has been one of the leading historical monuments of Panipat. It reflects the glory of the Mughal period. Once part of a bigger fortification, this gate functioned as the entrance to the city. Although the structural form has gotten damaged over the years, this gate still gives evidence of Panipat’s historical significance. The kind of architectural magnificence and audacity it boasts reflects the Mughal style of construction. The splendid designs over it are a hit among history lovers and photographers.
Location: Near Kabuli Bagh Mosque, Panipat
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
9. Marvel At The Tomb Of Bu Ali Shah Qalandar
Photo: Pavlo Luchkovski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Another major religious place in Panipat is the Tomb of Bu Ali Shah Qalandar, dedicated to the great Sufi saint. Architecturally supreme, the tomb is typical of the Islamic style, with domes and arched gateways. The place is a pilgrim point for those arriving to pay respect and offer prayers for solace. The enshrined complex includes a mosque and a beautiful garden, making it peaceful for meditation and spiritual thought.
Location: Qalandar Chowk, Panipat
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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10. Offer Prayers At Devi Mandir
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Devi Mandir is one of the oldest and most ancient temples in the city of Panipat, dedicated specifically to Goddess Durga. The carvings in the temples make it worth a dekko. It is considered to be a hub for spirituality, so it attracts devotees from all across the region. Especially during the Navratri festival, this temple is nicely decorated, and special rituals are organized here. Due to other deities’ small shrines, it is a one-stop for spiritual seekers.
Location: Near Quila, Panipat
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
11. Visit Kabuli Shah Mosque
Photo: Taha b. Wasiq b. Hussain / Wikimedia Commons
Kabuli Shah Mosque is an ancient mosque built by Emperor Babur post he won the First Battle of Panipat. It is named after Babur’s wife, Kabuli Begum. People can visit and see it as it holds the vivid example of early Mughal architecture. The design is simple but quite captivating, reflecting the style followed during that epoch. It has a garden and a tank around it that makes it peaceful. This mosque gets a lot of visitors as it is not only a place for people who come to pray but also for historical enthusiasts.
Location: Near NH-1, Panipat
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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12. Visit Panipat Civil Hospital
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The prime landmark in the town, and not only for medical but also for historical reasons, is the Panipat Civil Hospital. This hospital was instituted in the late 19th century and served the community for generations. Its architecture connoted a colonial-era style and, thus represents a historical perspective of its purpose. Visitors can appreciate the blend of modern healthcare with historical architecture. While it remains essentially a working hospital, the historical quality and public significance of the building make it a landmark of the city’s urban background.
Location: Civil Lines, Panipat
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
13. Visit Jain Mandir
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jain Mandir is widely referred to as one of the pivotal religious places in Panipat, lying in the name of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Thirthankara of Jainism. This temple has been famous for its peaceful and serene ambience, with beautiful architecture accompanied by carved designs and a quiet garden area. It is a popular site for both devotees and tourists who come here for spiritual enlightenment through thoughts and prayers. The temple is also the venue of various religious events and festivals, drawing large numbers of crowds during such times.
Location: Near Quila, Panipat
Timings: 5 AM 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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14. Visit Panipat Haat
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Panipat Haat is one of the most vibrant marketplaces where one can explore the rich culture and crafts of the region. This haat is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Food court that offers various local delicacies, and a popular shopping-cum-dining spot. This haat is an ideal place to feel the local culture and to get along with artisans and craftsmen.
Location: HUDA Sector 12, Panipat
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
15. Visit Aravali Golf Club
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The Aravali Golf Club is one of the most frequented places for amusement in Panipat. The golf course and the club are very well maintained. The ambience that this club offers for relaxation and golfing is good, with a calm and composed atmosphere. Many amenities are available here for recreation, like a restaurant and a clubhouse.
Location: Near NH-1, Panipat
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹500 (For non– members)
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Panipat, as a historically enriched and culturally defined place, takes a myriad of experiences for every one of its travellers. From ancient battlefields to crafts and local flavours, this place has everything to offer to its visitors. Panipat assures a rich experience and memorable visit. Plan your trip with TripXL and indulge in an array of things to do in Panipat for an amusing experience.
Cover Photo: Shutterstock / Jagdeep Singh gill