The state of Rajasthan is always a great attraction for tourists. Colorful ambiance of the place along with the variety of tourist attractions makes it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world. The various fairs and festivals celebrated in Rajasthan also add to the state’s attraction. Mahashivaratri is one of the most popular festivals in Rajasthan. This festival bears further significance as it is devoted to Lord Shiva who is one of the most important Gods of Hindu religions.
Shivaratri literally means the great night of Shiva or the night of Shiva. On the auspicious day, devotees observe fast and keep vigil all night. Mahashivaratri marks the night when Lord Shiva performed the ‘Tandava’. It is also believed that on this day Lord Shiva was married to Ma Parvati. Mahashivartri is one of the most popular festivals in Rajasthan. This festival bears further significance as it is devoted to Lord Shiva who is one of the three main gods of Hindu Mythology.
Mahashivaratri is celebrated with a lot of fanfare in Rajasthan. A large number of devotees follow strict fast on the day. They also believe that an earnest and honest celebration of the festival will give them a respite from all their sins. This festival is mostly celebrated by women of the Hindu community. After fasting for the whole day, they devotedly pray to the God. Married women perform these rituals for the well being of their husbands. Unmarried girls perform these rituals to get the best husband like Lord Shiva.
In 2018 Mahashivaratri which will fall on 14-February is celebrated with a lot of fanfare in Rajasthan. A large number of devotees observe strict fast on the day. They also believe that an earnest and honest celebration of the festival will give them a respite from all their sins. This festival is mostly celebrated by women of the Hindu community. After fasting for the whole day, they devotedly pray to the God. Married women perform these rituals for the well being of their husbands. Unmarried girls perform these rituals to get the best husband like Lord Shiva.
On this day, Lord Shiva is bathed in milk and honey. They also offer Bel leaves and flowers (which is also called Bengal quince or wood apple) while chanting Om Namay Shivay. Some of the Lord Shibva temples also observe Jaagaran during the whole night of Mahashivaratri. After day break, the various foods offered to the Lord are eaten by the devotees as ‘Prasad’.
The only Jat kingdom in the state, the rock-hard mud fortifications of its fort proved invincible even under repeated siege. The fort houses early remnants of artifacts and sculpture, while the modern palace outside is a sprawling structure. However, Bharatpur is better known as a bird sanctuary (Keoladeo Ghana National Park).
Founded by Maharaja Suraj Mal in 1733 AD, Bharatpur – The ‘Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan’, was once an impregnable well fortified city, carved out of the region formerly known as Mewat. The trio of Bharatpur, Deeg and Dholpur has played an important part in the history of Rajasthan. The place was named as Bharatpur after the name of Bharat, the brother of Lord Rama, whose other brother Laxman was worshipped as the family deity of the Bharatpur. The legends say the rulers Laxman’s name is engraved on the state arms and the seals. The city and the fort have been believed to be founded by Rustam, a Jat of Sogariya clan. Maharaja Suraj Mal took over from Khemkaran, the son of Rustam, and established the empire. He fortified the city by building a massive wall around the city.
Bharatpur’s bus stand is in the west of town near Anah Gate, just off NH-11. If you’re arriving from Fatehpur Sikri , get off well before, when the bus stops at the crossroads on the opposite side of town near the park gates, as this is nearer all the hotels and guesthouses. From the main bus stand, services run to all major centres in Rajasthan (including Jaipur) and to Delhi, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. Two kilometres northwest, the railway station lies on the main Delhi-Mumbai line. There are also two fast trains to Agra (2hr) and one to Amritsar (14hr), and an express service to Sawai Madhopur (2hr 30min). The town’s tourist office (Mon-Sat 10am-5pm), where you can pick up good state maps and information on Bharatpur and the sanctuary, stands at the crossroads near the park entrance where Fatehpur Sikri buses pull in.
Cycle rickshaws are the main form of transport within the city, but fares for the long haul in and out of town soon mount up, and it makes sense to rent a bicycle , either from your hotel (around Rs35/day) or the shop on NH-11 outside the Spoonbill Restaurant . If you need to change money , head for the State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, Binarayan Gate (Mon-Fri 10am-2pm, Sat 10am-noon).
This would be any bird-watching enthusiasts first choice. Once the royal hunting ground of the princes of Bharatpur, the Bharatpur Keoladeo National Park is one of the finest habitat of birds in the world. Bubbling with over 400 species of resident water birds, the park is furthermore populated by the annual influx of birds from colder countries (during winter season). Exotic migratory birds from Afghanistan, Central Asia, Tibet as well as Siberia, the Arctics and China, come here in the months of October/ November to spend the winters.
The Lohagarh Fort (also known as Iron Fort) was built in the early part of 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal, the founder of Bharatpur. Supposedly taking its name from its invincible defense, the massive iron structure prides in being one of the few impregnable structures of Rajasthan in India. The fort complex holds three exquisitely built palaces namely – Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas. Two of eight imposing towers – Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj still stands in pride within the fort complex. These towers were built to symbolise his victory over the Mughals and the British rulers.
The Government Museum has a rich collection of artefacts, brilliantly carved sculptures and ancient inscriptions. All these items speak volumes about the rich heritage, art and crafts of the region.
Kota is the third largest city of Rajasthan. It is located 240 kms to the south of state capital Jaipur.Kota has modern industrialization and it is a fascinating mixture of medieval grandeur. Kota is located at an elevation of 515 meters above sea level on the banks of the Chambal river below a deep gorge. Kota lies in an area of country that straddled a major trade route from New Delhi to Gujarat. Kota has now changed itself into the industrial capital of Rajasthan with its hydro-electricity and irrigation projects, atomic power projects and other industrial units. Kota is also well-known for its traditional handicrafts industry. Temperature of Kota is neither too hot nor too cold. Temperature is about 43 degree Celsius in Summers and it is about 5 degree Celsius in Winters. Best time to visit Kota is from August to February. Languages which are spoken in Kota are Rajasthani, English, Hindi, Sindhi and Urdu.
In the 12th century the Hada chieftain, Rao Deva, conquered the territory and founded Hadoti and Bundi. During the rule of Mughal Emperor Jahangir afterwards, in the early 17th century the ruler of Bundi, Rao Ratan Singh, gave his son, Madho Singh, the smaller principality of Kota. Kota is considered as a hallmark of Rajput culture and power in the course of time. Kota was a small independent state in the past which is enclosed by more powerful neighbours. Kota prospered in the 19th century under the guidance of the ruler Zalim Singh. In 1894 the British reunited the territory and imposed stability.
Important tourist attractions in Kota are Umaid Bhawan Palace and Kota Fort. Umaid Bhawan Palace was constructed for Maharao Umaid Singh II in 1904. It was designed by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob in support of Indian designers. Interior of the palace has a banquet hall, garden and a drawing room. Exterior is buff–coloured stone with a stucco finish and include much typical Rajput detail. Umaid Bhawan Palace has now been changed into a heritage hotel. Kota fort is an example of organic growth and there is no overall plan to the development of the area within the walls. It was constructed from the year 1625 onwards. Bhim Mahal – Bhim Mahal is a large Durbar Hall which is enclosed with Rajput miniatures documenting the towns periods of expansion and recording Kota’s legends.
A 15th century group of temples raised by Jain merchants, these are characterised by the fine quality of their carving. Ranakpur in the state of Rajasthan is one of the five most important Jain pilgrimage. It is home to an exceptionally beautiful temple complex in the Aravali ranges and a must visit for the tourists coming to this region. It is situated around 60 km north of Udaipur in Pali district and boasts of one of the largest and most important Jain Temples in the country. The place is well connected through a road network to other places in the region.
There are several places of tourist attractions in Ranakpur, but it is the Jain temples that is the hub of activity.
History :- The Ranakpur Jain Temple was built during the reign of the liberal and gifted monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. The basement is of 48, 000 sq. feet area that covers the whole complex. There are four subsidiary shrines, twenty-four pillared halls and eligibly domes supported by over four hundred columns. The total number of columns is 1,444 all of which are intricately carved with no two being alike. The artistically carved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures at a height of 45 feet are an engrossing sight. In the assembly hall, there are two big bells weighing 108 kg whose sound echoes in the entire complex. The main temple is of Chaumukh or four-faces temple dedicated to Adinath.
There are several places to see and visit near Ranakpur too. Kumbhalgarh is a historical site around 30 km north east of Ranakpur. It is an important fort in the Mewar region after Chittorgarh.
The Indian temple town of Ranakpur are easily accessible through air, road and rail from the other major Indian cities and states. touristplacesinindia can arrange for you all types of transport for your comfortable journey to and in Ranakpur and throughout the Indian state of Rajasthan.
In order to make the travel tour to Ranakpur even more joyful you need to choose just the right kind of accommodation for you and your family or friends in Ranakpur. The various hotels packages around Ranakpur offer the best of facilities. The well-furnished rooms make excellent place to stay around Ranakpur, with most of the comforts at your feet. You may enjoy the luxuries of life on your stay at the hotels around Ranakpur. You may take your pick from a range of luxury and budget hotels around Ranakpur besides the heritage hotels around the destination of Ranakpur. Most of the places to stay around Ranakpur are easily accessible.
Dungarpur is one of the prominent city of the Vagad region in Rajasthan. The word Dungar means hills in the common language and hence the Dungarpur means the city of hills. Dungarpur has an interesting topography ranging from rugged and wild terrain in the north east to the fertile plains of the alluvial soil in the south west. This region was also the stronghold of the Bhils. It is built around the huge Gaibsagar Lake and is enclosed by lolling hills on three sides. History of Dungarpur.
The chiefs of Dungarpur who bear the title of Maharawal are descended from Mahup who was the eldest son of Karan Singh, chief of Mewar in the 12th century and claim the honours of the elder line of Mewar. Mahup was disinherited by his father, he took refuge with his mother’s family the Chauhans of Bagar and made himself master of that country at the expense of the Bhil chiefs.Dungarpur was founded towards the end of the 14th century by Rawal Bir Singh who named it after Dungaria who was an independent Bhil chieftain whom he had caused to be assassinated. Dungarpur became well-known under the Guhilot Ahara Suryavanshi Rajputs who trace their ancestry from the elder branches of the main lineage at Chittorgarh. After the death of Rawal Udai Singh of Bagar at the Battle of Khanwa in 1527, where he fought alongside Rana Sanga against Babar his territories were divided into the states of Banswara and Dungarpur.
Important tourist attractions in Dungarpur are Juna Palace and Udai Bilas Palace. Udai Bilas Palace is a good example of the Rajput architecture with its intricately sculptured pillars and panels, impressive balconies, bracketed windows and marvellous panels. The Udai Bilas Place was built in the mid-19th century by Maharawal Udai Singh-II, by the bluish-grey sandstone. The Udai Bilas Palace has been now converted into a heritage hotel and still under the control of the royal family of Dungarpur and a royal residence.
Juna Mahal is a seven storeyed structure which resembles a fortress with crenellated walls, narrow entrances, corridors and turrets. Interiors of the Mahal are decorated with miniature paintings, attractive frescoes, mirror and glass work.
Temple of Shrinathji – It is a famous temple which is dedicated to the Shrinathji, it lies on the banks of the Gaib Sagar lake. Various lakes and forests in Dungarpur attract a large variety of migratory birds during the winters.
An important fair which is celebrated in Dungarpur is the Baneshwar Fair, it take place in the month of February at Baneshwar, a small delta formed by the river Mahi and Soma which is about 50 km from Dungarpur. It is a religious fair with traditional and simple rituals. It is one of the biggest and most important fair of the Bhils. ‘Baneshwar’ means the ‘master of the delta’ it is derived from the Shiva Linga kept in the Mahadev temple in Dungarpur. The tribal folks of Bhils assemble here from the neighbouring states of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh and offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
Osian a very old small temple town in the Thar Desert which is situated about 65 kms to the north west of Jodhpur. Osian is a huge centre of Jain and Brahmanical religions. Osian has the largest group of Hindu and Jain temples in Rajasthan which belongs to the two periods, 8th century temple which is symbolized by about 12 temples and 12th century symbolized by 6 temples.
Osian was a large and busy town in the medieval period and groups from Afghanistan, central Asia, Persia and Arabia come here for trade. Osian was the capital of the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty from 8th to 12th century. Osian was a prominent center of pilgrimage between 8th and 9th centuries. This can be known from the surviving Hindu temples of the Surya (Sun), Vaishnava, and Shakti (mother goddess) sects. During that period the Brahminical control was very strong in Osian, later Jainism also prospered in the place through the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty.
Today also devotees from all over visit the Osian temple dedicated to the goddess Sachiyamata. Osian was known as Ukeshpur in the historic times.
The Brahmanical Jain temples and Hindu temples are the famous tourist attractions in Osian. These temples were constructed between 8th and 12th century during the rule of the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty. These temples are very small and are richly fashioned and magnificently built. In these temples, each temple has its own distinctive planning, layout, and design and no two temples are alike in any manner. These temples were constructed from the stone which was extracted from local quarries, and has managed to withstand the vagaries of nature for various centuries. The prominent temple of Osian is situated on a terrace whose walls are ornamented with Miniatures and mouldings. As the main shrine of the temple is enclosed by four small shrines, the temple is called a panchavatan temple. Central projections are there on the walls of the temple which are carved panels, above the panels there rise the curved towers topped by an amalaka and pot finial. The doorways are generally decorated with serpents, scrollwork, and river goddesses.
On the outskirts of Osian village there are a group of 11 temples which belongs to 8th-9th centuries. On a hill overlooking the village the other temples are located which belong to 11th and 12th centuries. South group includes 3 Harihara Hindu temples. The interior of these temples is very amazing and these temples are known for the magnificently decorated walls. South group comprise early 8th century which is the Surya temple and 11th – 12th century temple which is the Sachiya Mata Temple. West group of temples comprises a mixture of Hindu (Vishnu, Pippala Devi and Surya) temples, an 8th century tank and an 11th century Jain (Mahavira) temple. Jain Mahavira temple is distinctive among various Osian temples with the vaulted design of its hall-ceiling. Sachiya Mata temple is the famous temple which was founded 1178 AD, it has a Shikhar which is clustered by an ambulatory and a large assembly hall with an elaborate ceiling. The oldest temple of the group is the Sun temple. Its doorway is considered as one of the best temple doorways in India.
In Rajasthan The only reason a traveller visits the Shekhawati region, besides relaxing in a heritage resort or riding a horse, is to go for frescoes hunt. The whole terrain is a huge treasure comprises of paintings and colourful murals.
‘Shekhawati’, meaning “the land of Shekha’s clan” derives its name from Rao Shekha (1433 AD-1488 AD) a scion of the Kachhwaha family of Jaipur. Earlier a part of the former Jaipur state, it now comprises of the districts of Jhunjhunu and Sikar. As you travel more closer you will see seven princes, stuck forever on a wall, holding identical swords and look grim, perhaps because they have been standing like this for over 60 years. Welcome to the magical land of Shekhawati, the only place in India where the walls have always been used as a canvas, where paintings speak more than locals itself. turning Shekhawati into a huge open-air art gallery that delight every connoisseur of art who come here for a holiday vacation. Today, the Shekhawati region encompasses within its boundaries some extremely valuable cultural and historical heritage that should be visited before it gets lost in the dust of time. Below are mentioned some of these places – some will sound familiar while others alien. Yet, do not make any judgement based on ‘familiarity’ since even the remotest of the Shekhawati destination might spring up a surprise not seen elsewhere in the region.
Famous Shekhawati Places
Nawalgarh – Named after its founder Thakur Nawal Singh (son of the most successful ruler of Shekhawati, Shardul Singh), Nawalgarh was a prosperous town in Shekhawati region. Some of the affluent business clan of India today trace their origin from Nawalgarh. Prominent among these is the Goenka family. The havelis of the town – Aath haveli, Murarka Haveli, Khedwal Bhawan, Bhagton ki Haveli and Anandi Lal Poddar Haveli – are its prime attraction. The frescoes and mural paintings are extremely attractive and reflect the skills of the workmen who created them. Other attraction of Nawalgarh is Ganga Mai Temple.
Dundlod– A small village in the Shekhawati region is known for a small fort built in the 18th century by Kesri Singh, youngest son of Sardul Singh. The fort has a Diwan Khana with portraits and period furnitures as well as a small library. The fort now serves as a hotel. Other attractions to be visited here are Tuganram Goenka Haveli, SatyaNarayan Temple and Jagathia Haveli. This village is 7 kms north of Nawalgarh. Fatehpur – Established by Fateh Khan, a Muslim Nawab in 15th century, Fatehpur was captured by the Shekhawat Rajputs in the 18th century. The place boasts of some of the best fresco paintings of the region, however, unfortunately, the havelis housing them are more often locked. The worth seeing havelis in this place are Geori Shankar Haveli, Mahavir Prasad Goenka Haveli, Nand Lal Devra Haveli and Jagannath Singhania Haveli. There is also the Jagannath Singhania Chattri with beautiful garden which is worth visiting. Ramgarh – Around 20 km from Fatehpur lies Ramgarh which was founded by a group of affluent Poddar merchant in the 18th century. The primary attraction of the town is Ram Gopal Poddar Chhatri that has beautiful scenes of Ramayana painted on its ceilings. Fresco paintings in Shani Mandir (Saturn Temple) are also eye catchers. Other attraction of the place include Ganga Temple, Ganes Temple, Tarachand Ghanshyamdas Poddar Haveli and Baij Nath Ruia Haveli. Jhunjhunu– Currently a district head quarter, Jhunjhunu was founded by Kaimkhani Nawabs in the 15th century. Places worth visiting in this town are Badani Chand Well, Mertani Baori, Ajit Sagar, Dargah of Kamrud-din Shah, Badal Fort, Khetri Mahal, Bihariji Temple, Rani Sati Temple and Forest Ganj. The significant havelis of this place are Modi Haveli, Kaniram Narsingh Das Tiberwala Haveli, MohanDas Ishwar Das Modi Haveli and Narudin Farooqi Haveli.
Mandawa – One of the most visited destinations in the Shekhawati region, Mandawa came into limelight in the 18th century. It has an imposing fort, Castle Mandawa that serves as a heritage hotel today. Other attractions of the town include the havelis of Chokhanias, Goenkas Nevatia & Ladia and Saraf. Parasrampura – The tiny village preserves some of the oldest and most beautiful paintings of the Shekhawati region. The paintings on the inner portion of the dome of Thakur Shardul Singh cenotaph, Shamji Saraf Haveli and Gopinathji Mandir is worth appreciating. Sikar – Now a district headquarters, Sikar was once the largest thikana (feudatory) under the Jaipur State. Important attractions here are the havelis of Biyani, Murarka, Somani, Sagarmal Sodhani and Madho Niwas. The Sikar Fort, Jublee Hall, Jain Temples, Gopinath Temple, Raghunath Temple, Jeen Mata Temple and Madan Mohan Temple in and around Sikar are also worth visiting. Mukudgarh– Mukundgarh is a small town developed around a temple square. The Mukundgarh Fort serves as a heritage hotel. Tourists can pay a visit to the Kanoria and Ganeriwala Havelis and also shop for local handicrafts. Mukundgarh is highly known for its brass, iron scissors and textiles. Churu – Though Churu does not come in the Shekhawati region strictly, yet its history of traders and caravan outpost connects it with other places in Shekhawati. Place worth visiting here are the Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Haveli, Kothari Haveli, Surana Haveli, Poddar Haveli, Jain Temple, Balaji Temple, Ganga Temple, Taknet Chhatri and not to forget the Churu Fort. Khetri– The second richest feudatory of the Jaipur state, Khetri was established in the 18th century. Prominent places worth visiting are Raghunath Temple, Bhopagarh Fort, Panna Lal Sha ka Talab, Ram Krishna Mission, Sukh Mahal and Hari Singh Temple. Pilani – This small village gained prominence as the home of wealthy Birla family. Today, the place is more known for its educational significance. For tourists sightseeing, there is BITS museum, Shiva, Ganga, Sarswati Temple and the Panchwati Temple.
The city of Ajmer gets its name from ‘Ajay Meru’. Roughly translated, it means ‘invincible hills’. Nestled in the Aravallis south west of Jaipur, Ajmer was founded by Raja Ajaypal Chauhan in the 7th century AD. Till the late 12th century AD, Ajmer was the epicentre of the Chauhan dynasty.
Ajmer is a well organized city, 13 km from the tourist heaven of Pushkar. It encompasses the peaceful lake of Ana Sagar and is itself ringed by the sturdy Aravalli Hills. Ajmer is Rajasthan’s most significant place in terms of Islamic history and heritage. Considered to be one of the best places to visit in Ajmer, it holds one of India’s most well-known Muslim pilgrimage centers, the shrine of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, who established India’s prime Sufi order in India. As well as some magnificent examples of primitive Muslim construction located, Ajmer is also a notable town for the Jain religion, possessing an astounding golden Jain temple.
However, with Ajmer’skey of high-voltage crowds and traffic, most travelers choose to stay in laid-back Pushkar and visit on a day trip. The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Taragarh Fort, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpda, Akbari Fort & Museum, Maqbara Shaikh Husain, Anasagar Lake, Nasiyan Jain Temple, Nareli Jain Temple, Rangji Temple, Buland Darwaza, Prithviraj Smarak Monument etc are counted to be the most famous sightseeing spots in Ajmer expressing the valuable possessions of the city. These structures very well execute the architectural extravaganza of Rajasthan from the ancient period onward. The Mughal dynasty, the medieval rulers and other elite rulers period have inspired each of these structures to possess undeniable charm.
Places To Visit In Ajmer :- Dargah Shariff :-
Located right at the end of a desolate hill, the majestic tomb of Sufi saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti is one of India’s most prominent pilgrimage center which is visited by devotees of all faiths. He was a Sufi saint who came from Persia and devoted his life to the help the poor and oppressed. Built in various stages, the gate with silver doors frames the entrance to the site. It is believed that the pots were offered by Emperor Akbar when the saint blessed him with an heir to his throne.
Nasiyan Jain Temple :-
Nasiyan Temple, constructed in 1865 is located at Prithvi Raj Marg in Ajmer. It is also known as Lal Mandir (Red Temple). Devoted to Lord Adinath, the first Jain ‘Tirthankara’, the temple is a two-storied building. One segment of the temple is the prayer area holding the idol of Lord Adinath, while the other forms a museum and includes a hall. Made of gold, the gallery of the museum portrays the five stages in the life of Lord Adinath. Within it’s 3,200 sq.ft area, the hall is decorated with Belgium stain glass, and stain glasswork. Recognized as the Golden Temple, the temple has a focal lobby that is adorned with gold and silver embellishments. The temple also exhibits wooden gold representations, glass illustrations, and paintings.
Ana Sagar Lake :-
The well-known man-made lake Ana Sagar was constructed by Maharaja Anaji between 1135 to 1150 AD, the ancestor of Maharaja Prithviraj Chauhan. Later the Mughal rulers made some further modifications to enhance the lake. Near the lake is the Daulat Bagh, a garden set out by Emperor Jahangir. Emperor Shah Jahan later added five pavilions, called as the Baradari, among the garden and the lake. The lake is an interesting family outing spot. An island lies in the middle of the lake. On a hill near the lake is located a circuit house that utilized to be the British residency. From the east side of the Dault Bagh Gardens, visitors can hire boat or water scooter to reach the island. Every summer, the lake gets dry.
Adhai-Din Ka Jhonpra :-
Beyond the Dargah of Khwaja Muin-up-din Chishti, on the town outskirts, are the extraordinary ruins of the Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra mosque. According to legend, construction in 1153 took only two-and-a-half days. Others say it was named after a festival lasting two-and-a-half days. It was originally built as a Sanskrit college, but in 1198 Mohammed of Ghori seized Ajmer and converted the building into a mosque by adding a seven-arched wall covered with Islamic calligraphy in front of the pillared hall. Although in need of restoration, it’s an exquisite piece of architecture, with soaring domes, pillars, and a beautiful arched screen, largely built from pieces of Jain and Hindu temples.
Prithviraj Smarak :-
The Prithviraj Smarak is a memorial to Prithviraj Chauhan, the great hero of the Rajput Chauhan dynasty. Located on the Taragarh Road in Ajmer, the memorial has a statue of the king in black stone, mounted on a horse. Prithviraj Chauhan has been shown with a bow and arrow in his hand. Prithvi Raj Chauhan (originally Prithvi Raj III) was the last ruler in the lineage of Chauhans. He was enthroned to rule the twin capitals of Delhi and Ajmer in the 12th century. He was considered as an epitome of courage and patriotism.
Rajasthan’s nomenclature is perhaps the best one, the most appropriate in the Indian states. It’s the land of the royals, and nothing bears more testimony to that fact than the numerous tourist destinations scattered throughout its area, full of gorgeous palaces and temples and forts and the like. Now among it all is the little paradise called Samode, and it is one which showcases all the traditional attractions like temples by the dozen, mansions that are palatial and eye catching gardens. As an added bonus, it also offers a glimpse into the workings of its day to day commerce through the very many shopping areas close by. Samode is situated in the royal Indian state of Rajasthan around 42 km from Jaipur, the capital city. Located on way to Shekhawati, this small village is famous for its haveli and fort.
History :-
Unlike the other havelis of Rajasthan, the Samode Palace does not belong to any royal family but a family of noblemen, the Rawals of Samode. It is about four hundred years old, and has some new additions and modifications. This family traces its descent to Prithvi Singh of Amber (1503-1528), the seventeenth prince of the house of Kachwaha Rajputs, who in turn trace their descent to Lord Rama. Gopal Singh, one of the 12 sons of Prithvi Singh, was given Samode, which owed loyalty to the rulers of Amber and Jaipur. These noblemen of Samode were bestowed the title of ‘Maha Rawal’, in place of just ‘Rawal’ by the royal family for their bravery and loyalty towards the royal family.
In true royal traditional tourism style, very symbolic of Rajasthan, this list kicks off with a fort at the beginning. Strong, old, and magnificently built, this fort is situated high on a hilltop where the view it affords can look down on miles all around below in every direction. Samode Fort was used for lodging by Rawals, as a lot of heritage nowadays is used here for lodging tourists by hotel chains. It showcases Mughal architecture, and was considered useful in war times. A must visit for tourists to Samode.
This palace is another heritage architecture gem in Samode’s kitty. Built in bright colours, this is aesthetic enough to have earned places in both nationally and internationally acclaimed movies. It has different art styles inside it, like frescoes, paintings and sculpture. It also shows dual architectural styles, Rajput, Mughal, and is excellently photogenic. Samode Palace is a little way off from Pink City Jaipur.
A bagh refers to a garden in traditional language translation, and this garden is truly the material to rival garden bigwigs like those in Jammu Kashmir. It is expansive and beautiful with flower species, and offers accommodation, food and hospitality to guests in natural environs. Samode Bagh is situated in former stable grounds of the empire and displays beautiful Mughal art. There are tents aplenty round the premises, which showcases attractions inside that are Mughal style influenced.
Rajasthan is famous for Havelis, or large palatial ornate mansions. Do you know how there are ones like Hawa Mahal and Saheliyon ki Bari which were constructed to provide advantageous views to the womenfolk of the house? Following in those hallowed footsteps, Samode Haveli was built by a political heavyweight of about 4 or 5 centuries past, who was a prime minister but also connected to royal dynasties, Rawal Singhji. This is a very popular tourist destination, and has received media attention in the past as well.
In the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan lies the beautiful small town Mandawa, known throughout the state for its forts and havelis. The structure of this place reminds one of the cultural and social hotspot this place used to be in the bygone era. Mandawa is a small town in northern Rajasthan. It is in the Shekhawati Region and is a fort town. Established during the 17th and 18th century, this town is very popular places to shoot movies so don’t be surprised to see some famous actors and actresses during your visit to this beautiful town. The town is dotted with numerous havelis and is said to be an open art gallery due to the number of beautifully decorated havelis. Mandawa is a popular spot for tourists, but you are still sure to be able to visit the town’s attraction in peace. Mandawa Fort :-
The Mandawa Fort is among the most frequented tourist spots in the region and well known for its splendid architecture and great collection of paintings that depict Lord Krishna in days of his early childhood and youth. The walls of the palace are adorned with intricate carvings, paintings and elaborate mirror work. The once Durbal Hall has been converted into an exhibit of numerous paintings and antiques. The Fort has now been converted into a major hotel. Each and every wing of the Fort is characterized by a distinct theme. The open terrace offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire town. You can still feel the ambience of those yesteryears while you linger around the majestic rooms of the palace.
Lakshminarayan Ladia Haveli Mandawa :-
Lakshminarayan Ladia Haveli is one of the most picturesque havelis in this fairytale town of Mandawa. Nestled amidst the Aravallis, this stupendous architectural marvel reflects the glory of the majestic Rajput era. From the excellent paintings done in blue wash to the amazing murals and frescoes depicting Hindu mythological themes, the place has plenty to keep you occupied for hours.
Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli Mandawa :-
The Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli is well known for its beautiful collection of portraits and paintings. The carved archways and the walls of the palace are decorated with stunning frescoes. The sprawling halls and the latticed windows give this place an otherworldly, medieval aura. The elaborate courtyard also makes a fine excursion spot for tourists. Other attractions in the area include Thakurji Temple, Harlalka Well, Goenka chattri, Tanu Manu Saraf Haveli and Akhramka Haveli.
Bansidhar Newatia Haveli Mandawa :-
This haveli, built during the 1920s, is currently house a branch of the State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur. Even though it is a bank now, you can visit Bansidhar Newatia haveli and take in the amazing sites. The beautifully designed building is truly a sight to behold while the paintings on display in the building are unique and funny. You can witness the Wright brothers flying their plane while women in saris look on. You can truly see how the royal people of Rajasthan used to live once you visit this beautiful haveli.
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