Surajkund Mela 2026 to Begin on January 31: Traffic Advisory and Highlights

Faridabad, Haryana: The 39th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela will be held from 31 January to 15 February 2026 in Faridabad. The event will be inaugurated by Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, with Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Haryana Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini attending as special guests. The closing ceremony on 15 February will see Haryana Governor Prof. Ashish Kumar Ghosh as the chief guest.

Traffic Advisory for Heavy Vehicles:
To ensure smooth traffic flow during the mela, no-entry restrictions for heavy vehicles will be in place from 7:00 AM to 12:00 midnight on key routes, including Gurugram, Pali, Ankhir, Shooting Range, and Surajkund roads. Faridabad Traffic Police have advised drivers from Gurugram to use alternative routes such as Sainik Colony Mode, Ankhir Chowk, Bardkhal, Pali Chowk, Pyali Chowk, Bata Chowk, or Mathura Road.

Heavy vehicles heading towards Noida and Delhi may be diverted via Palwal or other alternate routes. Authorities have appealed to the public to avoid restricted roads and follow traffic regulations during the mela.

Parking Arrangements:
Visitors can park their vehicles only at designated parking areas, including Eros City Parking, Helipad, and Lakewood City Parking, to prevent congestion and ensure smooth movement inside the mela grounds.

Theme and Cultural Highlights:
Haryana Heritage and Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma said the mela reflects India’s cultural unity, traditional craftsmanship, and the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). This year, Egypt will participate as a partner nation, showcasing its ancient art and culture, while the theme states Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya will display their rich folk heritage and traditions. Around 800 participants from over 50 countries are expected, up from 635 participants from 44 countries last year.

Exhibition and Performances:
Over 1,200 stalls will display and sell handicrafts by national and international artisans. Cultural evenings will feature performances by renowned artists including Padma Shri Kailash Kher, Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan, and Padma Shri Mahabir Guddu, along with regional artists performing traditional music and folk dances.

Infrastructure Upgrades:
To accommodate the growing number of visitors, infrastructure improvements worth ₹4.75 crore have been completed, including beautification of the mela grounds, widening of pathways, construction of 127 new huts, renovation of old huts, and expansion of entertainment zones.

The Surajkund Mela continues to be a vibrant celebration of India’s heritage, craftsmanship, and global cultural exchange, providing artisans with a platform to showcase their skills and visitors an immersive cultural experience.