Faridabad - An Industrial Town
This is again a bustling industrial town and one of the oldest towns
in the state although the district itself is the 12th one
to be formed.
¤ The Great Legends
According to legend it was founded by emperor Jahangir’s
treasurer Shaikh Farid in AD 1607. Another story goes that its founder
was Baba Farid, an eminent Sufi saint. His mazar (grave) in the town
is a popular pilgrimage spot for the local population.
During the Partition, immigrants from Pakistan settled in Faridabad
which was then hardly a tiny village. It was these displaced people
who were responsible for laying the initial infrastructure of the
current Faridabad. Today, it is more famous for its tourist resorts.
 ¤
The Main Attractions
Badkhal Lake
Badkhal lake Next to Badkhal village, it’s name probably comes
from the Persian word bedakhal, which means free from interference.
Formed in a scooped natural depression in the Aravalli hills, the lake
is fed by rain water and a small rivulet. There are a number of
restaurants and motels around the lake, and a flower show is held
every spring.
Magpie Tourist Complex
Magpie Tourist Complex On the Delhi-Agra highway, this spot is
particularly popular for its lawns and an arch-shaped motel.
Suraj Kund Tourist Complex
Suraj Kund Tourist Complex History says that the Tomara ruler Raja
Suraj Pal had this tank made for his daughter. Suraj Kund represents
the rising sun and consists of a semi-circular stepway leading down to
the lake. Ruins of a Sun temple lie around the lake, and people insist
that the lake had healing powers in days gone by. Close to Badhkal
lake is the peacock lake, another picturesque spot. The famous Crafts
mela (fair) is held here every year in February.
Hotels & Restaurants
The Aravalli Golf Club offers a/c accomodation @Rs 600 for
non-members and Rs 300 for members, US$20 for foreigners. Includes a
nine-hole golf course, bar, restaurant, confernce hall and billiards.
Magpie is priced at Rs 1000 for a deluxe double room, Rs 800 for a/c
double and Rs 400 for standard double.
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