Sonipat also spelled as Sonepat, is an ancient town and a municipal council in Sonipat District in the state of Haryana, India. It is believed that it was founded as Suvarnaprastha by the five Pandava brothers during the times of Mahabharata. Another legend ascribed it to Raja Soni, the thirteenth descendent of Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers. Sonipat district is a part of the Eastern Haryana Plain.
Sonepat was one of the five Preasthas or towns demanded by Yudhisthira from Duryodhana as the price of peace. Another tradition ascribes its foundation to Raja Soni, thirteenth in descent from Arjuna, a brother of Yudhishthira. Both the traditions are without substance. There is no mention of Sonipat in the Mahabharata, although it has been noted much earlier by the great grammerian Panini in his celebrated Ashtadhyayi. The town was therefore already in existence around 600 B.C.Sonipat district came into existence on December 22, 1972.
The tomb of Khwaja Khizr is the place where the remains of the saint and the son of Darya Khan are placed. He is said to have lived under the rule of Ibrahim Lodhi. The structure is made of red sandstone and has typical Mughal architectural designs. The premises are lined by gardens that are about 4 acres wide.
The tomb is of Hazrat Imam Nasiruddin and his nephew, Ibrahim. The dargah is decorated with multi colored floral designs. The inner chamber is surrounded by a dome shaped building that is built on a small drum that is octagonal. The dargah is also surrounded by a beautiful garden. The monument is now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The piping hot paranthe from the many dhabas across the nation highway in Murthal are now a brand of their own. These dhabas appear on the left while driving from Delhi to Punjab. Some of the more famous ones are Haveli and Amrik Sukhdev. These paranthas are served with sides of pickles and dahi.
Baba Dham Temple is a beautiful temple in Sonipat. The temple is located in Jamalpura and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman. The most attractive part of this temple are the two huge statues of the two lords which makes the temple worth a visit. The temple is always crowded with devotees because of the peaceful environment.
Methodist Mission Church is a beautiful church in Sonipat. Once you step inside the church, it will surely rejuvenate the mind and soul. The famous church is located here.