History of Kurukshetra District suggests the origin of its name. The name Kurukshetra is associated in the India Puranas and Mahabharata with the legendary king Kuru although it appears to be more logical to trace it to the tribe of Kuru. Sarasvati River is described in the Rig Veda as a perennial river par excellence; flowing from the Himalaya Mountains to the ocean most probably it refers to the Ghaggar. Drsadvati River was the river in whose bed the Hansi-Hisar branch of the Western Yamuna Canal now flows.

Many geographical names and personalities associated with Kurukshetra occur in the earliest Sanskrit literature. Further, according to the historical accounts most of the Vedic literature was composed here and most of the social, religious and political traditions of this country arose in this region. It is therefore regarded as the cradle of Indian civilisation and culture. Kurukshetra shot into prominence as the battle field of Mahabharata and as the birth place of the holy Bhagavad Gita. The great battle of Mahabharata was fought here in the ancient past between Kauravas of Mahabharat and Pandavas for upholding the cause of dharma. It was a war between good and evil, in which the Pandavas were victorious.

Jyotisar, near Thanesar, is supposed to mark the site where it was delivered. Kurukshetra is mentioned in ancient literature. A flourishing country of the Kurus, it was the most sacred region of the Dvapara age according to the Matsya Purana and one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas of Jambudvipa. History of Kurukshetra District also states that it was the region of lakes and lotus beds which can be seen even now. Manu indirectly praises the prowess of the people of Kurukshetra. Bana describes it as the land of the brave in the eyes of the warriors. The place was visited by Lord Buddha and appears to have been favoured by his masterly discourses. Kurukshetra also finds mention in Panini's Ashtadhyayi. It was also visited by Guru Angad Dev.

Further, as per the history of Kurukshetra District, sons of the soil fought invaders in the battlefield of this sacred land from time to time and their exploits fill the pages of history. The period of King Harsha was a golden age. Kurukshetra District was initially a part of Karnal District. Kurukshetra District came into existence as a result of reorganization of Karnal district in 1973. The district however was again reorganized in 1989 giving birth to Kaithal district.