2 Days in Faridabad: A Short Break Itinerary

Faridabad, Haryana's largest city, sits just 25 km south of New Delhi and makes a practical two-day escape with Mughal history, a national park and modern shopping.

Day 1 Morning: Mughal Tombs and a Lake

Start early at Surajkund, about 8 km from central Faridabad on the Delhi-Mathura Road. This 10th-century reservoir, built by Raja Suraj Pal, is ringed by stepped stone embankments. The adjoining Surajkund Lake and the annual Surajkund International Crafts Mela (usually held in February) draw crowds, so visit before 10 am to enjoy quiet views. Entry to the complex is free; the mela charges a modest ticket. From here, drive 15 minutes to the Badkhal Lake area, though the lake itself has been dry for years, the surrounding Aravalli hills offer a pleasant walk.

For history, head to the Tomb of Khwaja Khizr, near the Old Faridabad railway station. This Lodi-era monument sits in a small garden and rarely sees more than a handful of visitors. Auto-rickshaws from the station cost about 50–70 rupees. Afterward, stop at the nearby Baba Kharak Singh Marg for a simple North Indian thali lunch at a local dhaba, where a filling meal costs 150–200 rupees. If you prefer air-conditioned comfort, the cafes in Sector 15 market are a 10-minute drive away.

Day 1 Afternoon: Shopping and City Life

Spend the afternoon at the Crown Plaza Mall in Sector 15A, one of Faridabad's largest shopping centres. It houses global brands, a food court and a multiplex. For local crafts, the State Emporia on Mathura Road sells handloom and handicrafts at fixed prices. Auto-rickshaws between Surajkund and Sector 15 cost around 100–150 rupees and take 20 minutes. The city's roads can get congested after 5 pm, so plan your return before the evening rush.

As evening falls, visit the Nahar Singh Stadium area in Ballabgarh, about 12 km from central Faridabad. The stadium hosts cricket matches and cultural events; check local listings for schedules. Nearby, the Ballabgarh fort area offers a glimpse of Haryana's rural heritage. For dinner, try the Sector 29 market in Faridabad, where a mix of North Indian, Chinese and South Indian restaurants serve meals for 300–500 rupees per person. The area is lively but not overwhelming, making it a good spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Day 2 Morning: Nature and Wildlife

Begin day two at the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, which straddles the Delhi-Faridabad border on the Yamuna River. It is 15 km from Faridabad's centre, a 30-minute drive depending on traffic. The sanctuary is open from sunrise to sunset, with an entry fee of about 30 rupees for Indians. Winter months (November to February) bring migratory birds, including greater flamingos and pelicans. Bring binoculars and wear muted colours. The best sightings happen before 9 am, so leave your hotel by 6:30 am.

If you prefer a more active morning, the Aravalli Biodiversity Park in Gurugram is 25 km away, but within Faridabad, the Tarudhan Valley area near Sohna Road offers gentle hiking trails in the Aravalli foothills. These trails are unmarked, so hiring a local guide (around 500–800 rupees for half a day) is wise. Alternatively, the Town Park in Sector 12 is a well-maintained green space with walking paths and a small lake, popular with morning walkers. It is free and easy to reach by auto from most hotels.

Day 2 Afternoon: Departure and Where to Stay

After lunch, visit the Shri Digambar Jain Atishay Kshetra in Sector 15, a serene temple complex with intricate marble carvings. It is open to all, but modest dress is required. From there, Faridabad's three railway stations — Old Faridabad, New Town and Ballabgarh — connect to New Delhi in 30–40 minutes on local trains, with fares under 20 rupees. If you are driving, the DND Flyway or the Badarpur-Faridabad Road takes you to South Delhi in about 45 minutes outside peak hours.

For accommodation, base yourself in Sector 15 or Sector 29 for easy access to malls, restaurants and transport. Budget hotels start around 1,500 rupees per night, mid-range options 2,500–4,000 rupees, and the few upscale properties near Surajkund are 5,000 rupees and above. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during the Surajkund Mela in February. If you want a quieter stay, the area around Badkhal Lake has a few resorts, but you will need a car for everything. I would book a mid-range hotel in Sector 15 for the best balance of convenience and value.

Questions, answered

How do I get from New Delhi to Faridabad?

The fastest way is by local train from New Delhi Railway Station to Old Faridabad or New Town, taking 30–40 minutes and costing under 20 rupees. By road, it is 25 km via the DND Flyway or Mathura Road, typically 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis charge around 600–800 rupees.

What is the best time to visit Faridabad?

October to March offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and birdwatching. The Surajkund International Crafts Mela in February is a major draw but expect crowds and higher hotel rates. Summers (April–June) are very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.

Are there good hotels in Faridabad for a short break?

Yes, Sector 15 and Sector 29 have a range of options. Budget hotels cost around 1,500 rupees per night, mid-range 2,500–4,000 rupees, and upscale properties near Surajkund start at 5,000 rupees. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during the February crafts mela.

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