Indiatourism Delhi (Ministry of Tourism, Government of India) organised a FAM tour to Rakhigarhi in Hisar District, Haryana, on December 20, 2024.
The tour brought together travel and tourism stakeholders, including MOT-approved tour operators, tour guides, tourism media, and influencers, with the goal of showcasing the rich heritage and historical importance of Rakhigarhi. The tour was organised in collaboration with the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Haryana, and the Haryana Tourism and Heritage Department.
The delegates also attended the first-ever Rakhigarhi Mahotsav, held from December 20–22, 2024. The event celebrated the heritage of the Harappan Civilization, promoting Rakhigarhi as a premier tourist destination.
Arvind Sharma, Hon’ble Tourism and Heritage Minister, Government of Haryana, served as the Chief Guest of the Rakhigarhi Mahotsav.
Highlights of the event included heritage walks led by archaeologists, pottery and ceramic painting workshops, “dummy excavation” experiences, traditional folk performances, and exhibitions featuring local crafts and self-help group stalls showcasing Haryana’s vibrant traditions.
Dr. R. K. Suman, Regional Director (North), Ministry of Tourism; Dr. Sunil Kumar, Principal Secretary of Tourism, Government of Haryana, and Managing Director, Haryana Tourism Corporation; and officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Haryana Tourism, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) were present at the event.
The FAM tour successfully raised awareness of Rakhigarhi’s archaeological significance, allowing stakeholders to experience the site firsthand. This initiative aims to position Rakhigarhi as a must-visit destination for travellers interested in rich history and culture.
As one of the largest Harappan sites, Rakhigarhi spans over 350 hectares and provides invaluable insights into the urban planning, trade, and culture of the ancient civilization. Recent excavations have uncovered planned streets, drainage systems, and structures resembling those of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, further highlighting its historical prominence.
Believed to surpass both Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro in scale, Rakhigarhi is considered the largest Harappan site in the Indian subcontinent. Its strategic location along the Ghaggar-Hakra river system underscores its historical importance. Participants of the FAM tour explored the ancient mounds, observed ongoing excavations, and witnessed artefacts of the Harappan era, fostering a deeper appreciation for this historic gem.
