Bharatpur Tourism, located in Rajasthan, is a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. Renowned for the Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. During the winter months (October to March), thousands of migratory birds, including Siberian cranes, can be spotted here, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Apart from the bird sanctuary, Bharatpur boasts historical landmarks like the Lohagarh Fort, known for its impregnable structure, and the Government Museum, which displays artifacts from Bharatpur’s royal past. The Deeg Palace, a beautiful garden palace, and Ganga Mandir are also worth visiting.
The city’s rich history, royal heritage, and proximity to cities like Agra and Jaipur make it a must-visit destination on the Golden Triangle route. Bharatpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for tourists.
Tourist Attractions in Bharatpur
Bharatpur is a historic city in Rajasthan, primarily known for its wildlife sanctuary and rich cultural heritage. Its proximity to cities like Agra and Jaipur makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the Golden Triangle. Here are the top tourist attractions in Bharatpur:
Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)
One of the most renowned bird sanctuaries in the world, Keoladeo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread across 29 sq. km, it is home to over 370 species of birds, both migratory and resident. Winter months (October to March) attract thousands of migratory birds, including the rare Siberian crane, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers. The park also hosts animals like deer, nilgai, and pythons.
Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bicycle, or via cycle rickshaws, with trained guides available for a more insightful experience.
Lohagarh Fort
Built by Maharaja Suraj Mal in the early 18th century, Lohagarh Fort is one of the strongest forts in Rajasthan, known for its impenetrable defenses. It successfully withstood several British attacks during the colonial era. Unlike other forts in Rajasthan, Lohagarh lacks ornate carvings but compensates with its formidable structure.
Within the fort complex, visitors can explore palaces like Kishori Mahal, Moti Mahal, and Kothi Khas, along with the museum that houses artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from Bharatpur’s royal past. The Ashtadhatu Gate and the towering Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj are among the notable attractions.
Government Museum, Bharatpur
Situated inside the Lohagarh Fort, the Government Museum displays a rich collection of archaeological artifacts, sculptures, weapons, and paintings from the region’s history. The museum provides insight into the culture, art, and history of Bharatpur and the surrounding areas. It’s a must-visit for history buffs interested in understanding the legacy of the Jat rulers of Bharatpur.
Deeg Palace
Located about 35 km from Bharatpur, Deeg Palace is a magnificent garden palace that once served as the summer retreat of the Bharatpur kings. The palace is a perfect example of Rajasthani architecture with Mughal influences. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, fountains, and artificial lakes, Deeg is an architectural marvel.
The palace complex has several buildings, such as the Gopal Bhavan, Suraj Bhavan, Kishan Bhavan, and Nand Bhavan. The elaborate fountains are still operational, and during certain festivals, they are turned on to recreate the grandeur of royal celebrations.
Ganga Mandir
Built in 1845 by Maharaja Balwant Singh, the Ganga Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. The temple features an amalgamation of Mughal, Rajput, and South Indian architectural styles. The idol of Ganga riding a crocodile is the temple’s main attraction, and its serene environment offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle of the city.
Banke Bihari Temple
The Banke Bihari Temple is one of the most revered temples in Bharatpur, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Located near Lohagarh Fort, it attracts pilgrims from across the region. The temple architecture is simple yet elegant, with an emphasis on devotion rather than ornamentation. Festivals like Janmashtami and Holi are celebrated here with great enthusiasm, and the temple becomes a hub of activity during these occasions.
Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj
These two towers, located within the Lohagarh Fort, were built by Maharaja Suraj Mal to commemorate his victories over the Mughals and the British. They stand as symbols of Bharatpur’s military prowess and resilience. The view from the top offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Bharatpur Palace and Museum
An exquisite blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the Bharatpur Palace is another highlight of the city. Built in phases by various rulers, the palace is a testament to the region’s royal heritage. A portion of the palace has been converted into a museum, showcasing royal belongings, historical manuscripts, and art pieces. The palace’s central courtyard is particularly striking, with its intricate carvings and royal ambience.
Laxman Mandir
Located in the heart of Bharatpur, the Laxman Mandir is dedicated to Lord Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, with intricately carved doors, walls, and idols. The temple’s serene atmosphere makes it a popular spot for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.
Best Time To Visit Bharatpur
The best time to visit Bharatpur is from October to March, during the winter season. This period offers pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and bird sanctuary. Migratory birds, including Siberian cranes, geese, and pelicans, flock to the park during these months, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
The temperature ranges between 10°C to 25°C, providing a comfortable experience for wildlife safaris and sightseeing. Avoid visiting during the summer months (April to June), as temperatures can soar beyond 40°C, and the monsoon (July to September) can make travel difficult due to heavy rains.
How to Reach Bharatpur Tourism
Bharatpur, known for the Keoladeo National Park, is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here’s how you can reach Bharatpur:
By Air: The nearest airport is Agra’s Kheria Airport (56 km), but the best option is Jaipur International Airport (180 km), offering better connectivity. From either airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Bharatpur.
By Train: Bharatpur Junction is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Agra. Many express and superfast trains, including the Golden Temple Mail and Kota Jan Shatabdi, stop here.
By Road: Bharatpur is accessible via NH-21. It’s approximately 200 km from Delhi and 55 km from Agra. Regular buses operate from nearby cities like Agra, Delhi, and Jaipur. Private taxis and self-drive options are also available.
Local Transport: Once in Bharatpur, cycle rickshaws, autos, and taxis are readily available to explore the city and the bird sanctuary.
