Karnal is a city located in the state of Haryana, India. It serves as the administrative headquarters for the Karnal district and is situated on National Highway 44. This major roadway connects the city to both New Delhi and Chandigarh, placing Karnal approximately midway between the national capital and the state capital.
The city is bordered by several notable landmarks and neighboring regions. The Yamuna River flows along its eastern edge, separating it from the Uttar Pradesh districts of Saharanpur and Shamli. To its south lies Panipat, while Kurukshetra and Kaithal are located to the north. Historically, the city is associated with the Hindu epic Mahabharata, as local tradition suggests it was named after the figure Karna.
Karnal has served as a site for significant historical events. In 1739, the Battle of Karnal took place between the Mughal Empire and Nader Shah of Persia. Additionally, during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the city was utilized as a refuge by the forces of the East India Company while they were stationed in Delhi.