The Town of Baran is situated in the region of Hadoti in the state of Rajasthan. Established on 10th April 1948, Baran is home to many ruined temples and fortress in abandonment.

Tourist Attractions

Brahmani Mataji Temple: The Brahmani Mataji Temple is situated in the village of Susan at a distance of 20 km from Baran. The ‘Akhand Jyoti’ at the temple is flowing here from the past 400 years. The temple honors Brahmani Mata and has a large natural rock statue of the deity in the cave. Every year on Shiv Ratri a fair is organized at the temple complex.

Herbal Plants Nursery: The Herbal Plants Nursery is a famous attraction of the town of Baran, where natural products are produced using computerized mechanisms and hi-fi technology. The nursery attracts a lot of foreign attention, especially from October to June. Many natural herbs and spices are produced at the nursery including Brahmi, Shtawari, Jamun, Guggel, Shankhpushpi, Gurnar as well as fruits like Citrus, Banana, Lemon, Chickoo, Pineapple, and Mango.

Kakoni: Situated at a distance of 85 Km. from the district of Baran, Kakoni is surrounded by the Mukundra mountain ranges. The region is home to ‘Vaishnav’, ‘Shiv’ and ‘Jain’ temples dedicated which are believed to be constructed in and around the 8th century.

Manihara Mahadevji Mandir: The Manihara Mahadevji Mandir comprises two ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman. With a history dating back to 600 years ago, the Manihara Mahadevji Mandir holds great historic and religious importance. On the eve of Shivaratri, every year a fair is organized at the temple complex, which is attended by numerous devotees from all over the state.

Shergarh Fort: The Shergarh Fort is named after the Sher Shah Suri, who reigned over the Delhi during the 16th century. The fort was originally built as a defense system against the Mewar. The fort complex comprises a palace building, temple, a tomb as well as some structures in ruins.

Sitabari Fair: The region of Sitabari is believed to be the place where Mata Sita lived after Lord Ram left her. It is also the place where Luv and Kush were born and Ramayana was written by Balmikiji. When Lord Ram came to rescue his Ashwamegh horse and wanted to take back Site, it was here that ‘Sita Mata’ asked for Shelter and Mother Earth took her inside for ultimately solitude. Sabari is also home to one of the ancient temples dedicated to Balmiki. There are many several Kunds inSitabari including Balmiki Kund, Laxman Kund, Sita Kund, Surya Kund, and Lav-Kush Kund.

Tapasviyo Ki Bagechi: The Tapasviyo Ki Bagchi is a famous tourist & picnic spot near Shahabad. The main attraction at the place is the life-like statues of Nadiya and Shivling. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, the region is blessed with pristine natural beauty that appeals to visitors from various parts of the state.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to Baran is the Sanganeer Airport.

By Rail: The Baran Railway station is the nearest railway junction to the city, which is well-connected to major cities of India.

By Road: Baran has an active and regular bus service to and fro from major cities of the state & nearby states.

The city of Banswara is located in the District of Banswara in the southern part of Rajasthan. Founded by the Maharawal Jagmal Singh, the city is famous for its bamboo (bans) forest area, from where it got its name. Moreover, the Mahi River, which flows through the city is famous for its various islands, called Chachakota and is thus known as the ‘City of Hundred Islands’. Bordered by the state of Gujarat, the city shares its boundaries with the nearby cities of Dungarpur and Udaipur (north).

History

The word Banswara means the bamboo country. The city of Banswara was a feudatory Rajputana state in British India. The district of Banswara forms the eastern part of the Vagad or Vagwar region. It is believed that the city was initially ruled by a Bhil, named Bansia or Wasna, after whom it was named. The Bhil was defeated and then killed by Jagmal Singh who then became the first ruling Maharaval of the princely state.

Tourist Attractions

Andheswar Parshwanathji: The Andseshwar Parshwanathji is a famous Jain temple in the city of Banswara situated atop a hillock. The temple houses Shilalekhs from the 10th century. The temple complex comprises two Digamabara Jain Parshwanatha temples. The main temple, built by Digambar Jain Panchayat worships the idol of Bhagawan Parshwanatha protected by seven hoods.

Abdullah Pir: The Abdullah Pir is a religious attraction and revered site for the Bohras Muslim community. Located on the southern side of Banswara, Abdullah Pir is a Dargah of the Muslim saint Abdul Rasul. Annually a “Urs” is held at the dargah and people in large numbers from the Bohra community, and other communities visit the Dargah to seek blessings from the saint.

Anand Sagar Lake: The Anand Sagar Lake is an artificial lake constructed by the Rani of Mahal Jagami- Lanchi Bai. Also known as Bai Talab, the Lake is situated on the eastern side of the city. The lake is enclosed by the ‘Kalpa Vriksha’, which is famed for fulfilling the desires of its visitors. Moreover, the cenotaphs of the state’s rulers are also situated nearby.

Arthuna: The town of Arthuna is known for the ruins of the Hindu and Jain temples, which were built during the 11th, 12th and the 15th centuries. The cede conjugated statue of Shiva, Pati, and Ganesh among the ruins is a highlight here. The village of Lankiya village is home to the Nilkanth Mahadev Temples- an old stone Shaivite with beautiful and intricate figures of women cede in the outer walls. The entrance of the temple is adorned by Nandi-the bull (Lord Shiva’s faithful vehicle).

Madareshwar Temple: The Madareshwar Temple is one of the famous temples of the state. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is situated inside a natural cave of a hill. The Maha Shivratri is an important festival celebrated here annually. Often compared to the Amarnath cave, the Madareshwar Temple is a noteworthy attraction in Banswara.

Mahi Dam: Situated at a distance of 16 km from the capital city, the Mahi Dam is a famous attraction of the city of Banswara. Completed in the year 1983, the construction of the dam took place under the Mahi Bajaj Sagar Project aimed at hydroelectric power generation and water supply. The perennial gardens and fountain located near the dam is a great sight.

Bhim Kund: The Bhim Kund, also known as “Phati Khan” is a deep cave surrounded by a hill. The cave houses a pristine lake, whose water stays cold throughout the year. As per tales, it is believed that Lord Ram stayed here for some time during his exile.

Talwara: The village of Talwara is famous for its primeval temples and old monuments. The village is home to an array of religious attractions including the temple of Sun God, Lord Amaliya Ganesh, Laxmi Narayan Temple, and Sambharnath Jain Temple. Most of the temples here enshrine godly figures made from local black stone.

Shri Tripura Sundari Temple: The Tripura Sundari temple worships Goddess Tripura Sundari or Turita Mata as the prime deity. This temple enshrines a black stone idol of the deity on a tiger with 18 hands with each one carrying an emblem. The temple is believed to be one of the Shakti Peeths and constitutes divine powers.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest domestic airport to Banswara is at Udaipur (160 Km). It is well connected to various parts of the state and other major cities of the country. The New Delhi airport is the nearest International airport to Banswara.

By Rail: The Ratlam railway junction (M.P) is the nearest railway station to Banswara is 85 km. It has both meter gauge and broad gauge railway lines.

By Road: The city of Banswara is actively connected to various cities and regions of the Rajasthan as well as other states of Gujarat and M.P. via an active road network. Regular buses run between Ahmadabad, Bhopal, Baroda, Ujjain, Udaipur, Jaipur, Mount Abu, Jodhpur, Bombay, and Delhi. Moreover, it also has direct road links with cities like Ratlam, Dohad, Dungarpur, and Jaipur.

Situated against the backdrop of the Aravali Hills, in Rajasthan, Sariska National Park is a quiet and peaceful place. The jungle was registered under Project Tiger in 1979 and was declared a national park in 1982. Sariska is famous for its tiger reserve though it also has a strong historical background. The monuments here symbolize its glorious past. The park also offers visitors a unique chance to study the behavioral patterns of animals residing here.

Situated in the district of Alwar and protected by the Aravalli Hills, the Sariska National park is spread across an area 800 square is a famous wildlife attraction of the state of Rajasthan. The topography of the region comprises semi-desert, scrub-thorn arid, and dry deciduous with some grass area and rocks. The national park is home to a great variety of flora, fauna, and Avi-fauna. More than 90% of the park is covered with Dhok trees. Moreover, the other varieties located here include Tendu, Khair, Surwal, Goria, and Ber.

Moreover the fauna at the national park comprise Sambhar, Chital, Chausingha, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Rhesus Macaque, Four-Horned Antelope, and Langurs. Other carnivores like Wild Dog, Leopard, Jungle Cat, Jackal, Hyena and Tiger are also found at the national park. The avi-fauna species found here include peacocks, Red Jungle Fowl, Spur Fowls, Peafowl, White Breasted Kingfishers, Golden Backed Woodpeckers, Partridges, Quails, Great Indian Horned Owls, Sangrouse, Crested Serpent Eagles, Drongos, Tree Pies, Vultures, and Sunbirds Parakeets.

Tourist Attractions

Kankawadi Fort: The Kankwari Fort is one of the famous historical attractions in Sariska National Park. The fort lies 21 km away from the entrance gate towards the buffer area of the national park. The fort lies on a hill rock, surrounded by lush plantations and sprawling green meadows. Constructed centuries ago, it is believed that the Aurangzeb’s brother-Dara Shikoh served lifelong exile at the fort. The fort was specially built by the emperor for this purpose and throughout Dara Shikoh’s exile, thousands of soldiers were placed outside the fort to keep an eye on his activities and to make sure he does not flee.

Deeg: Deeg was once the second erstwhile second capital of Bharatpur. The region also served as the summer capital to the Jat rulers of Bharatpur. The region comprises a fort with 12 bastions. The largest of the bastions- the Lakha Burj is mounted with cannon. The Gopal Bhawan is the largest structure at Deeg surrounded by.

Siliserh Lake: The Siliserh Lake located near the Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the famous picnic spots with great opportunities for boating & sailing. The Siliserh Lake and reservoir was built to channel the water to the city of Alwar. Nearby a beautiful palace was also built by Maharaja Vinay Singh for his wife, Shila. The top of the palace offers some of the most magical views of the lake.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to Sariska is the Sanganeer Airport (111 km away) and the nearest international airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport, at New Delhi (135 km away).

By Rail: The nearest railway junction is the Alwar Junction, located at a distance of 3 km away from Sariska.

By Road: The nearest bus stand at Alwar (3 km away) is well connected to the other cities of the state and other states.

Situated at a distance of 42 kilometers to the northwest of the state capital of Jaipur, the village of Samode is located on the way to Shekhawati. Famous for its fort, haveli and Samode bagh, the village of Samode takes one on a trip to the interiors of Rajasthan. The village is inhabited by craft communities with expertise in block printing, stone and paper painting, weaving of carpets, gem stone cutting pottery, metal works, lac work-bangles, and traditional jooti-making. A walk through the village of Samode offers you a glimpse into the everyday life of the local artisans, the local culture, and the beauty of the rugged landscape. Moreover, you can also enjoy a great musical evening relishing the folk dances and songs by the famous dancing community of the state of Rajasthan.

Tourist Attractions

Samode Palace: Paradigm of the royal heritage of the state of Rajasthan, the Samode Place built in Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The 475-year-old palace made using sandstone boasts marble floors, ornamented pillars, mosaic walls and old wall paintings. Built on three levels, the top of the Palace consists of a ruined fort, which offers the most mesmerizing views of the entire valley from the top.

Samode Bagh: The Samode Bagh is a 16th-century garden built in Mughal style sprawled over an area of 20 acres and enclosed by a 15 feet high wall. The Garden comprises 44 sandbank colored tents offering accommodation to visitors. A perfect fusion of the traditional Rajasthani, Mughal décor and Victorian style, Samode Bagh features modern facilities to accommodate its visitors. Moreover, the water channel with a row of fountains makes the entire garden area totally awe-inspiring. Fully-furnished Samode gardens are also home to a 150-year-old pavilion located within the garden complex.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to Samode is at Sanganer Airport (Jaipur).

By Rail: Samode is very well connected to other cities via regular trains. The nearest railway station to Samode is the Jaipur Railway Station, located at a distance of 42 kilometers from Samode.

By Road: The highway from Bikaner from Jaipur connects Samode to the nearby cities of the state.

Mandawa is a town located in the district of Jhunjhunu, a part of the Shekhawati region. Situated at a distance of 190 km from the state capital of Jaipur, the town of Mandawa is known for its fort and Havelis.

History

The city of Mandawa was once the Thikana of the Bhojraj Ji Kasubsub clan of Shekhawat Rajputs in the 18th century. It is believed that the village of Mandawa was founded by Mandu Jat, who established the village and firstly dug up a well at the place which was completed on Savan Badi 5 Samvat 1797 around 1740. Initially, the place was known as ‘Mandu Ki Dhani’, ‘Mandu Ka Bas’ or ‘Manduwas’ which became ‘Mandawa’, ‘Mandwa’ and finally got its current name ‘Mandawa’.

Located at the center of the region of Shekhawati, Mandawa was an important trading outpost for the caravans from China and the Middle East. In 1755, the Rajput ruler of Nahargarh and Mandawa – Thakur Nawal Singh constructed a fort to protect the outpost. Soon, the outpost attracted a lot of traders who settled here.

Tourist Attractions

Jhunjhunwala Haveli: Built in the year 1859, the Jhunjhunwala Haveli is one of the most famous attractions of Mandawa. The haveli is made using traditional Rajasthani art featuring latticed windows and beautiful wooden doors. The haveli is visited by numerous art lovers, which offers them a glimpse into the style of architecture that prevailed during the Rajputana era.

Goenka Double Haveli: The Goenka Double Haveli was built in the 18th century by the Rajput Merchants. Decorated employing the Indian and European style, the haveli features paintings of camels and horses, Cings, motifs as well as paintings of European men wearing hats. The Goenka Double Haveli has established itself as one of the most illustrious attractions of Mandawa.

Goenka Chattri: The Goenka Chattri is an open art gallery cum monument which was constructed in the 18th century. The monument was named after the Goenkas, who lived at the mansion once. Spacious and magnificent, the mansion features arched doorways, walls adorned with paintings, and frescoes. The haveli also comprises many paintings of Lord Krishna, depicting the faith of the people of those times in the Lord.

Thakurji Temple: The Thakur Ji temple is a Lord Krishna temple worshipped as one of the most famous religious shrines in Mandawa. The temple is a beautiful infusion of art and spirituality and even scenes from depicts Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. The western end of the temple comprises staircase, and chattris featuring paintings and ornamental corners.

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli: A magnificent architectural wonder, the Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli is one of the most famous attractions of Mandawa. One of the palatial mansions, the Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli is appreciated for its vintage charm and amazing ambiance.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to Mandawa is the Jaipur Airport, at a distance of 168 km.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Mandawa is at Jhunjhunu.

By Road: Mandawa is well connected to Jaipur, Bikaner, and Udaipur via an active road network.

Situated along the banks of the River Chambal, Kota is one of the main cities of the state of Rajasthan. The city is popularly known as the trade center of millet, wheat, rice, pulses, coriander, and oilseeds. Moreover, the city is also famous for industries including cotton and oilseed milling, distilling, textile weaving, dairying, manufacture of metal handcrafts, chemicals, fertilizers, and engineering equipment. Moreover, the city is also home to the army headquarters. The city is also appreciated for its impressive forts, splendid temples, and opulent palaces.

History

The city of Kota was formed by Rao Madho Singh. Rattan Singh, the father of Madho Singh gave a large part of Bundi to his son, after the latter proved his skills at war. The region was later named as Kota. Much of the credit to the historic enrichment of the city of Kota goes to Maharao Bhim Singh, who created Mansabs of five thousand at the place.

Tourist Attractions

City Fort Palace: Located on the edges of the Chambal River, the City Fort palace is the largest fort complexes of the state. The Hathi Pol, or Elephant Gate, is the main entrance to the palace, which was constructed during the 17th century. The impressive structure comprises rugged walls and bastions decorated with handrails and domes, showcasing the interest and majesty of the king that reigned during those times.

Government Museum: The Government Museum is situated within the Brij Vilas Palace, in close proximity with the Kishore Sagar Lake. The museum houses a great collection of old coins, ancient Hadotio sculptures, manuscripts, etc. The most exceptional statue here is the one brought from Baroli. The museum houses statues and sculptures dating back to the 4th century, along with some costumes, and handicrafts.

Chambal Garden: The Chambal Garden situated on the banks of the River Chambal is a famous attraction in Kota. The lake situated at the center of the garden is home to gharials. A suspension bridge is built over the pond or visitors can also hire a boat to catch a glimpse of the reptiles. The garden also comprises a toy train, which gives a complete tour of the entire garden to its visitors.

Taragarh Fort: Popularly known as the ‘Star Fort’, the Taragarh Fort was constructed during the 1354 AD. The fort is one of the most illustrious and beautiful attractions of Kota. Located atop a hillside, the fort comprises three water tanks built employing an advanced construction method, owing to which it never dries up.

How to Reach

By Air: The Jaipur airport is the nearest airport to Kota, situated at a distance of 236 km from the city.

By Rail: The Kota railway station falls on the Delhi-Mumbai route and is the nearest railway station to Kota.

By Road: Kota is well connected to cities like Udaipur, Ajmer, Bikaner, and Jaipur via a well-built road network.

The village of Khimsar is located on the Jodhpur-Nagaur-Bikaner Highway. Located at a distance of 92 km from the district headquarter of Nagaur, Khimsar is known for its magnificent forts, palaces, temples, and magnificent architectural wonders.

Tourist Attractions

Khimsar Fort: The Khimsar Fort was constructed by the 8th son of Rao Jodhaji (the founder of the Jodhpur) – Rao Karamsiji, in the 16th century. The yellow-colored fort made in the Rajputana style of architecture is one of the most famous attractions of Khimsar, located at the edge of the Thar Desert.

Sand Dunes Village: The Sand Dunes Village located at a distance of 6 km from the Khimsar Fort. A popular heritage hotel, the sand dunes village is surrounded by artificial sand dunes, which offer the most exhilarating experience to its visitors. Accessible via a jeep, camel or horseback, the sand dunes village offers the tranquility of the Thar Desert before its visitors. Moreover, the mini-lake situated in the middle of the dunes gives the exact glimpse of a mirage.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport to Khimsar is the Jodhpur airport located at a distance of 90 km from Khimsar.

By Rail: The Nagaur railway station (40 Kms) and Jodhpur Railway station (90 Kms) are the two nearest railway stations to Khimsar.

By Road: Khimsar is situated on the Jodhpur-Nagaur-Bikaner Highway on the NH65.

Located to the southeastern side of Rajasthan, the city of Bundi is known for its decorative mansions, magnificent palaces, and step wells. The origin of the city dates back to the 1193 AD to the reign of Prithviraj Chauhan. The city of Bundi is also described in some of the chapters by Rudyard Kipling.

History

Bundi was inhabited by numerous tribes, out of which the Parihar Meenas were the most noted ones. The city itself got its name from one of the Meenas, Bunda Meena. In the initial days, Bundi was also known as ‘Bunda-Ka-Nal’. In 1342, Rao Deva Hada won Bundi, made it the capital and named it as Haravati or Hadoti. It was under the reign of the HADA Rajputs that many magnificent forts and architectural wonders were constructed in Bundi. One of the HADA kings- Rao Surjan Hada defeated the Mughal army 13 times and stopped them from gaining control of the Ranthambore fort. Later, the Mughal emperor made an alliance with the Hada king.

From 1554-1585, hadoti was under the reign of Rao Surjan. It was in 1533 that Rao Surjan gifted the Ranthambore Fort to Akbar, who in turn gave the HADA King Gave the title ‘Rao Raja’ and gave him some additional territory. Later, when Emperor Jahangir was cheated by Mughal Prince Khurram, the then HADA king Rao Ratan Singh Hada stayed loyal to Jahangir, and defeated Prince Khurram at Burhanpur. Pleased by his loyalty, Jahangir honored Rattan Singh. Rattan Singh indeed was very happy by his 14 year old son’s bravery at the war and gave him a large part of Bundi in the year 1580, creating Kota for Madho Singh. Later, Kota and Bundi, were created on wither sides of the Chambal River. After the Indian independence, Bundi was made a part of Rajasthan.

Tourist Attractions

Nawal Sagar: Situated at the center of the Bundi, the Nawal Sagar is an artificial lake. The Lake can be clearly seen from over the Taragarh Fort. Built-in the shape of a square, the lake also houses a partly submerged small shrine made in honor of Lord Varuna. The placid and crystal clear water of the Lake offers the views of the entire Bundi city.

Step Wells: Bundi is very famous for its Stepwell, popularly known as Baori. The step wells were basically built as water reservoirs during summers when the region faced a shortage of water. There were around fifty Step Wells in Bundi, most of which were destroyed over the course of time. The most significant ones left today are Raniji-ki-Baori, Nawal Sagar, and Nagar Sagar Kund.

How to Reach

By Air: The Jaipur Airport is the nearest airport to Bundi, situated 210 km away from the city.

By Rail: The Bundi railway station is well connected to nearby cities and states.

By Road: Bundi has a well-built road network, which connects to Kota, Bhilwara, and Tonk.

The city of Chittorgarh, also called Chittaurgarh served as the capital of the Mewar from the 7th century till the 16th century. Chittaurgarh is the land of the Rajput rulers, the tales of whose heroism are still sung in the folklore of the state.

The ancient history of Chittorgarh dates back to the times of Mahabharata. It is believed that Bhim, one of the Pandavas visited this place to attain immortality and became a sage’s disciple. But, his impatience to perform all the rites deprived him of his goals, and out of sheer anger, he stomped on the ground, which led to the creation of a water reservoir, called Bhimtal.

According to beliefs it is stated that Bappa Rawal, the founder of Sisodia clan received the city of Chittorgarh in the middle of the 8th century after his marriage to a Solanki princess.

The land of Chittor is the homeland of brave men and women who laid down their lives for their land, and never bowed before the enemies and invaders who kept a bad eye on their land. The land has witnessed both the devastating wars, and the triumphs of the spirit. Besides its brave men, even the women of the state are known for their great heroism and spirit which refused to give up before enemies. When Alauddin Khilji invaded the city in 1303 A.D. and coveted Queen Padmini of Chittor. It was the brave spirit of the Queen and the other women that they sacrificed themselves in a pyre of fire rather than submitting to anybody.

Tourist Attractions

Chittorgarh Fort: The Chittorgarh Fort is a famous World Heritage site and synonymous with Chittorgarh. Situated atop a 180-meter hill and spread across an area of 700 acres, the Chittorgarh Fort was constructed by the Mauryans in the 7th century AD. Moreover, it is also believed that the fort was constructed by Bhima-the second of the Pandavas. Ever since its construction, the fort has served as a citadel to many rulers and great Indian warriors like Gora, Rana Kumbha, Badal, Jaimal, Patta, Maharana Pratap, and others.

Kalika Mata Temple: The Kalika Mata Temple was initially built in honor of the Sun God in the 8th century. It was during the 14th century that the temple was converted into a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. A famous religious attraction of Chittorgarh and one of the Great holy Shakti Peethas, the temple is visited by numerous pilgrims and visitors who wish to pay their offerings to the deity. The temple enshrines three images of goddesses- the central image of the Kalika Mata, with the image of Goddess kali on the right and Bahucharamata on the left. Every year on the Chitra Sud 8, a fair is held at the temple which attracts a lot of pilgrims.

Vijay Stambh: The Vijay Stambha is a famous nine-story tower built-in 1440, by Maharana Kumbha to immortalize his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malwa and Gujarat. The 122 ft (37 m) high towers with a 10 ft (3.0 m) high base comprise sculptures and clings on the exterior walls of the tower. The top of the tower is accessible via 157 steps and enjoy the nice views of the entire surroundings. The interior of the tower comprises images of Gods, and weapons, etc.

Kirti Stambh: The Kirti Stambh is a 7 storied pillar constructed in the 12 century AD by a merchant, Biherwal Mahajan Sanaya of Digambar Jain sect. The tower is made in honor of the first Tirthankara of Jainism, Rishabha. Decorated with figures from the Jain Patheon, the tower also comprises 1.5meters high engraved idols of Shri Adinathji in Digambar style in each of its four corners. Moreover, many other small idols are engraved within the Stambh dedicated to the Jain lineage of deities.

Rana Kumbha’s Palace: The Rana Kumbha’s Palace is the birthplace of Maharana Udai Singh, the founder of the city of Udaipur. It is a 15th-century palace, where Rana Kumbha spent his life and is one of the most popular attractions famed for its charismatic architecture. It is also the place where Rani Meera Bai lived.

How to Reach

By Air: The Dabok Airport at Udaipur is the nearest domestic airport, located at a distance of 70 kilometers from Chittorgarh, and is actively connected via daily flights from New Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.

By Rail: The Chittorgarh railway station is actively linked to the other cities of the state like Udaipur, Ajmer, Jaipur, and Kota as well as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi.

By Road: Chittorgarh has an active and well-built road network that connects the city to Ajmer, Bundi, Kota, Udaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmadabad, and other major cities of the country. The Pink Line, Silver line and Gray Line of the Rajasthan Roadways offers easy access to Chittorgarh from the nearby cities.

Shekhawati is a semi-arid region with a great significance in the history of India. The region is bounded by the regions of Bikaner in the northwest, Haryana in the northeast, Mewat on the east, Dhundhar on the southeast, Ajmer on the south, and the region of Marwar on the southwest. Spread across a total area of 13,784 square kilometers, Shekhawati is known for its painted Havelis decorated with dazzling murals. The inhabitants of the region are brave, sacrificing and hard-working. The region of Shekhawati is named after the Rao Shekha Ji-the Rajput Kachwaha chieftain. The Shekhawat’s were the descendants of the chieftain who ruled on the land after him. The dialect of Shekhawati is spoken all over the state.

According to the Hindu mythology, Shekhawat was once a part of Virata kingdom, where the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharat spent a year of their exile. It was at the end of the 18th century that an overland caravan trade route was developed between Pali and Bhiwani. It was the exorbitant taxes of the state of Jaipur, and Bikaner that the trading community-the Banias turned towards Shekhawati owing to its low taxes. It was after the arrival of the Britishers that the local merchants worked with them to improve trade. And, while the traders out on far outposts of the colonial empire, they built the famous havelis of Shekhawati for their families back home. Most of the havelis in Shekhawati were built during the 18th century and early 20th century. Influenced by the Jaipur, Mughal and Persian school of paintings, the frescoes at Shekhawati depicts hunting, mythology, and everyday life.

Tourist Attractions

Dundlod Fort: A part of Shekhawati, Dundlod is basically a small town in the Jhunjhunu district which is known for the forts and Havelis of 18th century. It is much recognized for the Fort constructed by Rawal King in the 16th century, called Dundlod Fort which serves as one of the key attractions in the region. Influenced by the Rajputana and Mughal style of architecture, the fort features flowers & foliage, mythological paintings, archaic furniture, and minarets. The fort has established itself as a famous heritage featuring opulent rooms, mouth-watering delicacies served in the most royal way, and numerous activities lined up for its visitors.

Sri Bihariji Temple: The Sri Bihariji Temple is a famous temple at Shekhawati founded in the year 1775. The Sri Bihariji Temple worships Lord Krishna as the prime deity. The famous temple is adorned with lovely murals and painted walls covered with splendid paintings from the epic Ramayana. The Sri Bihariji Temple worships Lord Krishna as the prime deity.

Bagar: Bagar is a famous town in the region of Shekhawati, known for its beautiful painted Havelis. The town attracts a lot of attention much owing to its numerous attractions including the Durgah of Miya Saheb, White Gate, the Havelis of Piramal Makharia and Rungtas, and Fatehsagar Water Tank, etc.,

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is at Jaipur located 150 km away from the Shekhawati. It is well-connected to cities like Mumbai and Delhi. The New Delhi international airport is the nearest International airport to Shekhawati.

By Rail: Trains are available from Delhi and Jaipur. Access to Shekhawati is easiest from Jaipur or Bikaner. Sikar and Fatehpur are on Jaipur-Bikaner road. Churu is on the Delhi-Bikaner railway line, while Sikar, Nawalgarh, and Jhunjhunu are on Jaipur and Delhi.

By Road: Shekhawati is well connected to Delhi via an active bus service. Regular bus services can be availed from ISBT (Kashmiri Gate), Dhaula Kuan or Sarai Kale Khan or for Shekhawati. The cities of Shekhawati including Sikar, Churu, and Jhunjhunu are well connected to other cities of the state via regular bus services & ban active road network.