Sohna is a town and a municipal committee in Gurgaon district in the Indian state of Haryana. The small town of Sohna is a popular tourist location, especially as a weekend and conference retreat. It is located 24 km from the city on the highway from Gurgaon to Alwar.
Sohna is situated in the foothills of Aravalis. It is famous for its hot water springs and an ancient Shiva temple. A fair called Ganga Snan is organised every year in the month of November. Another fair is organised during the months of July and August to celebrate the festival of Teej. Other attractions include a grand park situated on the top of hills and maintained by Haryana tourism. It has state of the art lodging and a restaurant overlooking the town.
History
Sohna, which, according to historical records, traces its origin from 11th century onwards, was occupied by three races in succession: namely the Kambhos, the Khanzadas and the Rajputs. Gazetteers mention that Nawab Qutb Khan Khanzada defeated the Kambhos and took over the town in 1570. The Khanzadas were expelled in 1620 by the Sisodia Rajputs. The Rajputs migrated to Sohna, obeying the orders their patron saint who appeared in their dream indicating Sohna as their place of settlement.
A unique feature of the town is its hot springs, which are believed to be operational from and visited by pilgrims since 1647. These were rediscovered in 1872 by the British who developed the surrounding tank, after realizing its medicinal value. Shiv Kund, as it is known today, is covered by a domed construction, and delivers its water into a large cistern. The spring has now been channelled into concrete pools. The tank is considered sacred by the Hindus and is thronged by people who come to take a dip in the holy water on days of solar and lunar eclipses. Further, the tank is also known for its medicinal value of curing of skin diseases.
The present town was founded by Raja Sawan Singh. The town has several historic remains, including those belonging to the earlier Kambhos, an old fort wall on the hill in a picturesque location overlooking the town and several impressive tombs and mosques in red sandstone and quartzite in Tuglaq and Lodhi styles. The beautiful 400-year-old tomb called Lal Gumbad is located in the vicinity of Ansal’s Orchid Estate. Driving through the farmhouse properties on the outskirts of the town, it presents a picturesque view. Made entirely of stone, the structure has a 12-pillared (barakhamba) hall in the entrance arcade that is made of red sandstone crowned with a dome. Attached behind this is the main tomb in stone masonry with a larger dome, exhibiting hybrid architectural styles from Tughlaq and Lodhi periods. A number of such tombs are present throughout the town of Sohna, although this one is truly exceptional in the area.
