Karnal Lake is one of that visited and most preferred tourist spot of the city of Karnal which offers natural beauty, and historical mythology and modern entertainment.
Karnal Lake is steeped in myth of Karna, a main figure in Indian epic, Mahabharata. It is said that Karna, son of the Surya (Sun God) and Kunti, used to take bath in serene, holy waters of this lake during his time in this region. This mythological association of lake not only gives it name but also heightens the lake’s esoteric and historic charm.
Karnal Lake offers varieties of attractions and activities for the people visiting it:
The Kartal Fort, constructed in mid 18th century by Raja Ganpat Singh depicts the city’s a rich and bumpy past. Locals call it by another name, the Old Fort and it has been a silent spectator to the battles, rising and falling empires and the politico-social dynamics that influenced Karnal and its periphery.
Though the purpose of time has changed but the grand force of architectural style of Karnal Fort is showing its historical traces. Created with defense-buildings, robust walls and very delicate design, the construction is the realisation of the age in which it was designed.
With its impressive architecture and great historical value, it is an interesting place of interest for history lovers and fans of architecture.
Karnal Fort is filled with an interesting history, recording for the ultimate beneficiaries of the land’s past by conquest and defeat of:
The Tomb of Bo-Ali-Qualander Shah situated in Karnal is a historical and religious site built in memory of celebrated Sufi saint Bo-Ali-Qualander Shah. This stately edifice was built for Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the ruler of Delhi and serves as a shrine of devotional worship, architectural blessings and also as a legacy of gentle Sufi mysticism.
The tomb is an impressive illustration of Islamic style, constructed with coral carved beautifully, noted and surrounded by walls include the residential area. The peaceful premises of the place are well decorated with lush green gardens, well-maintained walkways and fountains that create a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of the site.
The mausoleum is not just a grave, it is also a holy site which is visited by the devotees who seek blessings and spiritual solace. Individuals of all faiths arrive to express their devotion to the life of Bo-Ali-Qualander Shah and thus, pay a tribute to Sufi, for being typically inclusive and full of harmony.
The Cantonment Church Tower situated in Karnal is a remarkable piece of British colonial architecture which is still standing today and bears the memories of the bygone era. This enormous construction, constructed throughout the British rule in India, is actually among the major historical landmarks in the location.
The tower is a high standing tower with a height of approximately 35 meters on top of a finely designed ornamental cross. The style is unique, the elegant and robust of design seen in British church of that era. The great height of the tower strategically placed makes it visible from any place up to 7 km and views that from long ranges people will want to come to see it.
This tower is the only remaining portion of an old church that was named for St. James, one of Jesus Christ’s Twelve Apostles. The church was built for the purpose of being a religious place for the British soldiers present in the Karnal cantonment. However, when the British transferred the cantonment from Karnal to Ambala, the church was abandoned and gradually came to ruin, the church tower only surviving the whole structure as a testament to the building that once existed.
Pukka Pul, as Likewise referred to as Sayad’s Shrine is a exceptionally Well revered religious website, situated nearly 7 kilometers far from the heart and soul associated with Karnal. This historic shrine is considered deeply sacred, and particularly its significance is noticed among the Muslim worshipers and believed to have the capacity to safeguard devotees against evil spirits, to heal various diseases.
Every Thursday, when the shrine is lit magnificently and enchanted McCabe is set alive. On this date a big number of devotees come with the purpose of offering their prayers, lighting candles and taking benedictions. The enregy and dedication in the air makes it a speacial occation for both locals and visiting pilgrums.
Located adjacent to Mughal era Bridge Pukka Pul, it is believed to be possessed with some miraculous powers which drew towards itself devotees from all corners of the region. The shrine is dedicated to a famous died and liked Muslim saint Sayad, which is become a place for those who are in wait for the solace, blessings and treatment.
It is said according to local beliefs, the shrine have a special power to ward off spiritual attack and evil that bring about illness. The place is often the object of devotion of sick people who come here to beseech for divine intercession.