Kala Amb, Panipat | Timings, History, Images, Best Time

Kala Amb, Panipat Overview

Located on the outskirts of Panipat, about 8 kilometres away from it; the Kala Amb is a historical site of great importance. This majestic ground witnessed the third battle of Panipat between the Maratha warriors and the Afghan army, and thus holds immense significance in the history of India. If legends are to be believed, the war ground, as well as the other plantations in the vicinity, turned black due to the uncontrolled bloodshed that took place in the war. The mango tree situated in the centre of the ground started to bear back fruits, and gave the land the name of 'Kala Amb'.

Ironically enough, people now visit the area to enjoy some quiet moments in the peaceful surroundings of the park. There is an altogether different and inexplicable kind of aura in the park and its vicinity, which somehow pacifies and composes all its visitors. The site is currently being developed and beautified by society in Panipat, with the Governor of Haryana as its President. The Ror Maratha community also organises an annual event at this site to honour the valiant soldiers who passed away, and this programme is a must attend.

History of Kala Amb

The Kala Amb is the historical ground where Sadashiv Rao Bhau commanded his Maratha forces at the time of the third battle of Panipat, and there is an intriguing story that is attached to the Kala Amb. When the Marathas arrived in northern India, they wanted to change the Indian political system forever. Similar to Ibrahim Lodhi, the Marathas had provoked and annoyed all potential friends and allies, and later on, entered into a clash with the Afghan army. The Afghans surrounded the Marathas, and also cut off their lines of supply and reinforcement.

The casualties in the Maratha army reached an all-time high, and as many as 75,000 soldiers were killed. The numerous people who passed away included senior commanders as well as Peshwa's son. More and more dead bodies kept on piling up in the battlefield, and more bled was shed than what can even be imagined. The brave Maratha commander Sadashiv Rao Bhau also fell during this battle only.

Origin of the name Kala Amb

In one corner of the war ground, one can find a red obelisk. This column marks the spot where the Maratha commander Sadashiv Rao Bhau passed away. According to local legends and tales, a mango tree existed at this spot. Due to the rampant bloodshed, the tree started to bear black fruits. Even though the tree no longer exists, it has lent its name to the garden, since the word Kala means black, and Amb stands for mango.

Things To Do at Kala Amb

There is not really much that you can do at Kala Amb, except to merely stroll here and there, and spend some peaceful time introspecting. The place is ideal to visit on lazy Sunday afternoons when you can just sit back and relax with your loved ones. The major attraction at the Kala Amb is, of course, the spot where the mango tree was originally located. There now stands an iron rod and pillar in its place, surrounded by iron fences.

People can also visit the museum in the Kala Amb to learn more about the history of the wars of Panipat, and to gather some exciting and thrilling facts. You could also find some places of interest near the attraction, such as the cosmopolitan mall and the handloom and textile market, both of which are located quite close by. A few remains of ancient buildings and structures that are of immense importance from the archaeological and historical points of view are also present around this place.

Kala Amb Smarak at Kala Amb

The Kala Amb Smarak is a popular spot of interest at the Kala Amb. This 'smarak' was built in the shape of a pillar which looks like a small tower, with one rod on the top jammed vertically into the pillar. The pillar is made up of red coloured bricks, and its circumference decreases as the height increases, which basically means that from the bottom, it is much wider than at the top. The Kala Amb Smarak has been incepted on a beautiful sandstone platform and is surrounded by iron rods. Relevant information about the third battle of Panipat can be found inscribed in both Urdu and English languages on the white marble which is carved in the middle of the pillar.

Kala Amb Annual Programme

In honour and memory of the Maratha warriors who passed away at this site, the Ror Maratha community of Haryana organises a programme every year at the Kala Amb. This event takes place on the 14th of January, and witnesses massive participation from the residents of Haryana and Maharashtra.

Tips For Visiting Kala Amb

1. Ensure that you take your own food and water when you visit Kala Amb. The restaurant in the vicinity of the attraction is non-functional at most times, and the food served there is not up to the mark.
2. It is advisable to take your own vehicle to Kala Amb.

How To Reach Kala Amb

Kala Amb is located on the Sonali Road in Panipat, quite close to the main city. This famous attraction is situated towards the eastern side of Panipat and can be reached by using any means of transport. Locals, however, prefer to travel by bikes to reach Kala Amb.