The site of Surajkund craft mela is a small town called Surajkund in Haryana. Just 8 km from South Delhi, Surajkund is a complex of sorts.In the 10th century AD, there was an amphitheatre sun-pool in Surajkund where the Tomars- the sun worshippers- used to gather. Fascinated by the surroundings of the terrain, Raja Suraj Pal, one of the chieftains,chose to build his stronghold here. A sun-pool and temple were designed.It is after this sun-pool that this complex came to be christened as Surajkund.Over the years, Surajkund has grown into a suburban retreat.
The Aravalli ranges surround the location. The uneven levels of the land are dotted with clusters of silver oak, eucalyptus, kikar, bottle brush and bougainvillea. Patches of green proclaim the picnic spots.
Hide-out fires dot the greens that look out at the sun pool. It is in this vast open space that a festive event, Surajkund Crafts Mela, is held each year from February 1 to 15, Skilled artisans from all over the country come to this place to exhibit and sell their ware in the fair ground which is beautifully decorated with motifs from different states every year.
Even the details of the decorations like festoons, handcrafted lamp posts, lampshades, small huts and paintings are specimens of exquisite craftsmanship. The cultural programs held in the 'Natyashala' and the cuisine of rural India complement the display of traditional handloom and handicrafts and impart a uniquely Indian flavour to the whole package.