SOME PICTURES OF RAJASTHAN

SIGHT SEEINGS FROM UDAYPUR

NEARBY PLACES OF UDAYPUR

CHAVAND

This place is 12km northy of Parshad which is 48km to the south of Udaypur. It is in Gujarat. Rana Pratap took shelter in Chavand palace after being removed from Chittore and prepare here for further fight to get back Mebar. Rishavdev is 15km to the south of Parshad. There is a beautifully curved wtite marble temple in Rishavdev.

DUNGARPUR

It is 24km from Khawirwar which is at Rajasthan-Gujarat border. This city of hills was established by a group of Mewar Rajputs who leaved Chittore for a family dispute in 13th century. You can vist fort Uday Vilas Palace on a hilltop surrounded by Gaibasagar lake, seven storied Fateh Prakash, old palace Juna Mahal, beautiful temple of Rajraseshwar Shiv and museum in the palace is decorated with Fresco, Mural and Mosaic.

JAISAMAND

JAISAMAND LAKE

Area : 14x9.5km, It is 48km to the South- East of Udaypur. Rana Jai Singh made a summer palace Rubi Rani ki Mahal hare in 1691. A barrage of 100foot high was made in the River Gomoti and the second largest lake of Asia (Area : 15x40 sqkm) was made at that time. The inhabitants are hill tribes. There are six temples, marble chattis and Shiv temple on the barrage.

Sitamata Sanctuary is 65km from Jaipur.

JAISAMAND SANCTUARY

Location : 8km from Jaisamand Lake, Area : 45sqkm, Estd : 1957, Attraction : Deers, pigs, panther, antilope with 4 horns and various foreign birds.

Apart from these you can see Ambika Temple at Jagat, Udaysagar (1559-65) and Rishavdeo Jain Temple.

NATHDWAR

NATHDWAR TEMPLE
 Establishment:1669, Shrine : Shivji, Time : 5am-10pm, Festival : Holi, Dewali and Janmasthami, Non-Hindus and camera are prohibited, Founder: Telegu Bhramhin & Path of Devine Grace maker Shreeballavacharya.

HALDIGHATI OR PASS

The color of soil here is yellow and the place is named after that. Haldighati has huge historical importance. All we know that Rana Pratap fought here against Mughal emperor Akbar in 21st June of 1576 and defeated. There is a memorial of Chetak, the horse of Rana Pratap who was known for its loyalty towards Rana and died in the Haldighati war. A museum is there with the memorandums of the war (2003).

EKLINGAJI

It is 25km from Udaypur.

EKLINGAJI TEMPLE 
Location : Kaisashpuri village below the Araballi hills, Establishment : 734, Time : 4am-6.30am, 10.30am-1.30pm, 5.30pm-6.45pm.

The temple complex has 108 white marble temples out of which 70 has shrine of Shivji, 10 has Ganesha shrines and 10 has Vishnu shrines. Eklingaji, the family deity of Sisodia Ranas, is estsblished in a pyramid roof beautiful temple made by Bappa Raowel. The shrine of Eklingaji or Shivji has four faces – the west side is like Bhramhaji, the north is like Shree Vishnu, the east side resembles with Surya and the south is furious Shivji. The shrine is made black touchstone.

Another 50 foot high temple was made by Bappa Raowel in734. The temple has silver made door and statue of Nandi. Shrines are Dasanan, Kali, PArvati, Ganesha etc. According to the family tradition Maharana visit the temple in every Monday evening.

SANS-BAHU TEMPLE
Location : Nagda, 2km from Eklingaji, Shrine : Bhramha, Vishnu, Shiv and Surya. Attraction : Pyramid shaped roof, curving of mythological stories, Ramayana, Mahabharata in the roof and the ruins by Aaorangjeb in 4th century. Locals come here to take blessing after marriage. Adbhutji Jain temple of 11th century is near to it.

KANKROLI

TEMPLE
 Establishment : 1676, Shrine : Dwarkadhees or Shree Krishna

NAOCHOWKI BARAGE 
Founder : Raj Singh, Location : Kishangarh, Length : 335m, Height : 13m, Attraction : Marble pavilion and gateway. A11m wide baraga was also made here by Rana Rai Singh to celebrate the victory of war against Aaorangjeb.

DEOGARH

Height : l700m, Attraction : Nice atmosphere, Mural decorated fort, Raghosagar lake and migrated birds.

RAJSAMAND LAKE

Location : 70km from Udaypur, Founder : Maharana Raj Singh, Establishment : 1660, Length : 7.7 sqkm, Attraction : Stone inscription on 25 stones in Sanskrit written by Ranchore Bhatta, well sculptured white marble made nine stage and a small fort beside barrage.

KUMBHALGARH

It is in the border of Mewar and Marwar and 84km to the north of Udaypur or 50km to Ranakpur.

KUMBHALGARH FORT

Height : 1087m, Establishment : 1443-58, Founder : Rana Kumbh

It is the second oldest fort of the World. It was also an important strategic point. The views of Marwar and Araballi hills are very beautiful from the rampart of the fort. It also survived the joint attack of Mughal king akbar, Jodhpur and Ambar. Attraction : Badal Mahal (Made by Fateh Singh), Megh Darbar, Palace of Maharana, Jenana & Mardana portion, 365 temples, Jain temple the fort, Temple of Kali, Neelkanth, Kumbhaswami and Mahadev, the chattis of Rana Kumbh who was killed by his elder son.

KUMBHALGARH SANCTUARY

Location : 4km away from fort, Area : 578sqkm, Attractions : Antilop, Panthar, Beer, Wolf, Thandi Beri Lake, Crocodile firm, Daily life of Birds. Transport for Jungle Trip : Jeep, Train run by Camel, Horse, Ticket : Rs. 50. Car : Rs.25.



GHANERAO

It was also very important point for defence. Attraction : Old temples, Bawri, Marble made Chattis, Trekking. Founder : Gopal Das Thakur, Establishment : 1606.

UDAYPUR

UDAYPUR

UDAYPUR is also known as “Abode of UDAY” or “The city of Sunrise” or “The Venice of East”. The city is a collection of nice lakes, blue water, beautiful nature, marble palaces, well kept gardens and old temples.

HEIGHT:

577m

PLACES OF INTEREST:

PICHOLA Lake, Battle field of HALDIGHATI, City Palace, Crystal Gallery, Exhibition of Vintage Car, JAGADISH Temple, FATEH SAGAR, Lake Palace, JAGMANDIR, GULAB Bag, Manson Palace, SHILPIGRAM etc.

UDAYPUR



The three side of guarded with wall and there are eleven poles or gates which have iron nails to resist the attack of elephants. There are Suraj Pole in the East, Bramha Pole in the West, Elephant gate in the North, Delhi gate in the North – East and Krishna pole in the South. The roads are narrow hare and it is over crowed with old buildings.

CITY PALACE

This winter home of Maharanas is the largest palace of Rajasthan and made with granite and marbles. It was started by Maharana Uday Singh in1559 and complted by other Maharanas over 300 years. Maharana Jagat Singh made most of it in 17th century. It has a strong resemblance with Windsor Castle abroad. The entrance of the palace are at Elephant Pole and Bari Pole.

There are 11 mahals in this 30.4m high and 244m long City Place. The stories of Ld. Vishnu, Ld. Krishna and Apsaras are curved in the pick of the palace. A museum is also there in the oldest portion of the palace.

Time : 9.30am – 4.30pm, Ticket : Rs.50 & Rs.30 for 5 -12 years, Camera charge extra. Attraction : Eight marbale gates, Tripolia gate, royal courtyard, Sis mahal, Krishna Vila, Bheem Vila, Choti Chitrashali, Dilkhus mahal, Manak mahal, Moti mahal, Amar Vilas or Bari Mahal etc.

(1) More Chowk (1620) --- There is an image of peacock made by Rana Sjjan Singh in 1874 with 5000 pieces of color glasses. The color glasses had been set in the mosaic of the peacock in such way that various colors are reflected from it in sunlight. The statue of God Sun is in the room beside it.

(2) Manak or Ruby Mahal --- Various glass and porsalene statues are there.

(3) Krishna Mahal --- It was the mahal of Krishna Kumari. Miniature paintings draw the interests.

(4) Jenana Mahal --- This window less mahal was made By Karan Singh. The stories of Ld. Krishna on Fresco painting, secret chamber, color glasses in the floor, wall and balcony attract tourists.

(5) Rani Mahal --- The palki used by Rana family, seat on elephant, horse run car are attraction.

(6) Moti Mahal --- You can say it the mahal of color glasses. The designs were made with the glasses here.

(7) Chini - Ki – Chitra Mahal --- Beautiful tiles of Chinese and Dutch style were fit here.

(8) Choti Chitrashali --- The story of the history of pus and downs of Rajasthan are painted here in pictures.

(9) Shambhu Nivas --- The present and 76th Rana Mewar, Arvind Singh lives here.

(10) Shiv Nivas Palace and Fateh Prakash Palace have been turned into Hotel Shiv Bilas and Fateh Prakash Hotel repectively. Time : 7am – 8pm, Ticket : Rs.25.

There are arrangements for Light & Sound Show in the evening. Time : 8pm – 9pm, Ticket : Rs.200 & Rs.10 for children.

CRYSTAL GALLERY

Foundation : In 1877 By Rana Sajjan Singh and Rana Fateh Singh completed it. Fee Rs.300. Attraction : Furniture of solid crystals brought from Birmingham.

It is adjacent to the Fateh Prakash Palace. Exhibition of Vintage cars including Cardilack used by Jack Kenedy in only 2km away from City Palace.

JAGADISH MANDIR

Foundation : By Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651, Cost : Rs.500000, Style : Indo Arya Nagari, Time : 9.30am – 6pm, Attraction : Shrine of Ld. of universe Vishnu, Brass made Garur, Miniature of Jodhpur or Krishna Vila, Four temples of Ganesha, Surya, Durga nd Gauriswar in four corners of temple yard, Bagore –ki – Haveli (Western Zone Cultural centre now), Graphic studio, Art Gallery, Work of color glass and inlay work etc.

PICHOLA LAKE

Area : 100 sq km, Boating Time : 8am – 11am/ 3pm – 6pm in Summer and 10am – 12noon/ 2pm – 5pm in the Winter, Fee : (Rs.125/Rs.200) for half hour of 2 tours. A boat also set from Lake Palace to Pichola at 5pm to view sun set.

This lake was dug by Banjara Tribes in Pichli village in 14th century. Its area was increased for Bari Pole barrage made by Uday Singh. The lake survives on rain water. There are several islands where palaces and temples are made in it. It becomes very beautiful in full moon. A rumor is that once Maharana announced half of his territory as a prize to the female dancer who can cross the Pichola on a rope in dancing mode and when the dancer was about to reach the finishing line the minister of Maharana cut the rope in fear of losing the half of kingdom. There is a monument on the lake in the memory of that dancer.

LAKE PALACE

Foundation : By Maharana Jagat singh II in 1754,Area : 4 acres, Breakfast/ Evening Tea : Rs.600, Lunch/ Dinner : Rs.1500.

It is situated on Jagnivas Island of Pichola Lake and called Jagnivas Palace also. Now it has become luxurious heritage Lake Palace Hotel which has the memories of Morarji Desai and US President John F Kenedy. There is royal luxurious touch in ornamented ceiling, glass windows, antique furniture, garden, fountain, swimming pool etc.

JAGMANDIR GUL MAHAL

Foundation : By Maharaja Amar Singh in1615, Reformer : Jagat Singh, son of Karan Singh in 1628 -52.

It was made in Jagmandir Island for celebrating festivals and various occasions. There is furniture of Belgium glass and nicely designed snake shaped throne in this three storied yellow sand stone made palace. The dome shaped pavilion was made by Maharaja Karan Singh in 1622 and also inspired Shah Jahan to make Taj Mahal. In 1623 Khuram (Shah Jahan) took shelter here against his father Jahangir and in 1857 British also took shelter here. A chattis made of green marble stands opposite to it.

SAJJAN NIVAS BAGH OR GULAB BAGH

Foundation : By Maharaja Sajjan Singh in 1859 -74, Area : 100 acres, Attraction : Nawlaksha Bhawan, Victoria Hall (Saraswati Bhawan), Kamal Talaw, Mini train & mini railway station Lav-Kush for children, Zoo, Library and Rose Garden where are a rare collection of foreign and Indian roses(1881).

FATEH SAGAR OR KANAUGHT BARAGE

Foundation : By Jai Singh in 1678 and redone by Fateh Singh, Length : 2.4km, Width : 1.6km, Depth : 25 foots, Cost : Rs.600000, Attraction : Sanjay Park, Aravally Vatika, Royal Guest house Laxmi Vilas and boating in Fateh Sagar.

MONSOON PALACE OR SAJJANGARH

Foundation : In 1880, Length : 335m, Ticket : Rs.80, Attraction : Sunset , Office of Udaypur Radio.

NEHRU PARK

Foundation : In 1937, Boating Time : 8am – 6pm, Ticket : Rs.10. There is a fountain where water goes upto 150m and it is made in the style of Vrindavan Garden.

PRATAP MEMORIAL

Foundation : In 1967, Time : 9am – 6pm, Ticket : Rs.20, Light & Sound Show : 7pm – 8pm & Ticket : Rs.35, Attraction : Bronze statue of Rana Pratap on Chetak (1540 – 97), View of Udaypur in Telescope, Rock Gardens made in Japani style.

BHARTI LOKKALA MANDAL

Established : 3rd March, 1963, Time : 9am – 5.30pm, Ticket : Rs.10, Attraction : Paintings, dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, musical instruments and puppet show in the auditorium at an interval of 20 minutes.

You can also see Rajasthani folk at Meera Kala Mandir.

SAHELIOYON KI BARI

Location : 2km to the north of Elephant Pole, Ticket : Rs.5, Time : 9am – 7.30pm.

In 18th century the Mughal rulers of Delhi gifted this beautiful garden to Maharana Sangram Singh. The atmosphere is very feminine. There is a black stone made chattis in the centre of the pond full of lotus. There is a fountain surrounding it with sound of rain. Ticket for fountain : Rs.10.

SHILPIGRAM

Location : 6km to the north-east of Chetak circle, Established : 1989, Time : 9am - 11pm & 5pm – 7pm, Ticket : Rs.10, Area : 80 hectors.

Shilpigram, the rural and craft complex has been arranged by Western Zone Cultural Centre. Handmade art object of artists from Rajasthan, Gujarat, Goa and Maharashtra are exhibited here.

AAHAR

Time : 10am – 5pm, Ticket : Rs.8, Attraction : Capital of Sisodia kings, Gangabhar Kund, Chattis, Museum.

JAIPUR

JAIPUR

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan was founded in 1727 – 1734 by Maharaja of Jaipur Sawai Jai Singh with a contribution of Bengali architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya. Red and pink sand stone made this city of palaces is a dreamland or imaginary kingdom to the tourists. Jaipur means “The City of Victory”. It is also known as pink city but the color changes from pink to orange or amber with the change of seasons.

The whole city painted with pink color to welcome Prince of Wales, Albert in 1876. From then it has become a ritual to paint every house of the city with pink color which indicates hospitality in Rajasthani culture. At the time of sunset become wonderful. Jaipur means wide high roads, king size houses and lattice window with artistic works.

CITY PALACE

City Palace was also founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh (1728 – 32) and extended by his heirs. The palace is like a small city and extended through one-seventh portion of the main city. It sis also known as Chandra Mahal. It has two entrances --- Sire ki deuri in the East and Tripolia Darwaja in the South. Entering through Sire ki Deuri, you can see Town hall (Legislative Assembly), various offices, Nakkar Darwaja, Jaleb Chowk and to the right hand side of Jaleb Chowk there are Jantar Mantar, City Palace and Hawa Mahal.


(1) Mubarak Mahal --- This white marble made two storied structure was made by engineer Swinton Jacob(1900) to the south court of the palace in the period of Sawai Madho Singh II. Its walls are full of artistic sculpture.

(2) Sawai Man Singh II Museum --- It was the royal guest house which was made by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II in 1900. You can see the seat made of elephant teeth, foreign carpets, armors, collection of clothes of Royal family (1st floor). Each room is decorated with paintings, sketches, walls covered with glass, half circle arches on the pillars etc. There are galleries of net for the royal women to see the meetings. Jenana Mahal and Anand Mahal are to the North-West and South respectively.

(3) Silekhana --- It is the collection of arms such as sword of Man Singh(5Kg), sword of Jahangir and Shah Jahan. Clock tower and Singh pole are ahead of it.

(4) Sarboto Bhadra --- It is the personal meeting hall of Maharaja and made of sand stone and marble(1730). There are two reservoirs which are the largest silver made reservoir of the world(1.5m). These reservoirs carried 9000L Ganga Water to London in the time of caronation of Kin Edward(7th) in 1901.

(5) Dewan – e – Aam --- Maharaja Pratap Singh founded this. Here is a collection of paintings and rare manuscripts such as Parsi translation of Mahabharat by Abul Fazal, Bengali Mahabharat on the bark of birch tree, portrait of Man Singh, elephant form of 9 babies and 9 ladies, art works of gold and Belgium glass on Arms and weapons bloc etc. ceiling is also painted.

(6) Chandra Mahal --- The royal families still live in this milk white marble made seven storied palace. Pritam Nivas, fountain decorated Jai Nivas Garden, Audience hall in the ground floor. Sukh Nivas is in 1st and 2nd floor. Rang Mandir and Seva Nivas on the next floor. Mirror Palace is in the next two floors. Marble pavilion is on the top most floorfrom where the whole city is visible.
Visiting Time : 9.30a – 4.30pm, Entry fee – Rs.35, Camera charge extra.

(7) Temple of Ld. Govindji --- Its ceiling is made of gold and the shrine is of touchstone. Sawai Jai Singh established by Aoranjeb in 18th century.

(8) Jantar Mantar or ManMandir --- This planetarium was also founded by Sawai Jai Singh who was an astronomer himself. Perfect local time, location of sun, longitude, latitude, stars, Pole star, motion of minor planet, eclipse etc. are ascertained correctly in 18 stone instruments. There is also the largest as well as the highest sun clock whose dial is 30m long and Indian Standard Time can be ascertained by adding 29 minutes with the local time of sun clock. The reflection of hemisphere falls on the stones as a shadow in “Jaiprakash Yantra”.
Time : 9am – 4.30pm, Entry fee – Rs.10, Monday free.

HAWA MAHAL

Foundation : By Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799, Time : 10am – 4.30pm except Friday, Entry Fee : Rs.5, Saturday free.

The royal women used to watch outside through its 953 half octave hanging windows made of net work and lattice decorated with artwork. Its 152 backside airy windows kept this mahal cool without any air conditioner. It is pink sand stone made, pyramid shaped and looks like honey comb.

RAMNIVAS GARDEN

It is on 36 acres area. Albert hall, Indology museum, Zoo, Crocodile breeding firm, Art gallery are situated here.

(1) Albert Hall --- Foundation : By Sawai Madho Singh in 1881, Architect : Sir Samuel Jacob, Cost : 494544, Time : 10am – 4.30pm, Entry fee : Rs.5, Monday free.

Beside archeological objects you can see oil painting of Maharajas, Royal dresses, Model of more than hundred saints, stuffed animals, the oldest carpet of the world(1632), objects of brass and elephant teeth etc. in this well sculptured old museum.

(2) Indology Museum --- Foundation : 1868, Art Collector : Novelist Acharya Vyakul, Time : 10am – 5pm, Entry Fee : Rs.30.
 Art Collection : Objects of folk culture of Rajasthan, Indian map on a single rice, letter written on hair, manuscripts, dresses, ornaments, fossils, clocks and coins.

(3) Zoo --- Time : 8am – 5.30pm, except Tuesday.

You can also see dolls museum (12noon – 7pm), Birla Temple (Foundation : 1985), Birla Planetarium (12noon – 7pm), Science Centre, Statue Circle, Statue of Sawai Jai Singh.

NAHARGARH OR TIGER FORT

Foundation : By Jai Singh II in 1734, Height : 600foot. It was made for royal women. It was a four storied building out of which 2 stories were under ground. It is a nice picnic spot.

GAITAR

Foundation : By Maharaja Jai Singh II. This sepulcher of maharajas are standing on 20 pillars and has nice curving as usual. Many royal family members have lying here.

JAL MAHAL

Foundation : By Pratap Singh in 1799. This five storied summer palace is on Man Sagar lake linked with a bridge with the bank of the lake surrounded by temples.

JAIGARH FORT

 It used to guard the city. There is the largest cannon of the world having 20 foot long pipe with 9 foot diameter and its weight is 250 tons. It requires 100kg gun powder for each firing. Its barrel is 8m long. But it was never used. Its range is 35km. Jaigarh fort was the watch tower from where the movements of enemies were observed. The other attraction of this fort are ordinance factory, camp of Rajput army, armory, water reservoir, Ram Harihar (10th century), Kal Bhairab (12th century) and treasury of Sawai Jai Singh.
Time : 10am -4.30pm, Entry Fee : Rs.15.

SISODIA RANI KA BAGH

Foundation : By Sawai Jai Singh in1774. It is the two storied palace of Sisodia queen in well kept garden decorated with fountain. Its walls are full of mural painting of stories of Ld. Srikrishna and hunting.

VIDYADHARJI KA BAGH

This garden is made in the memory of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the main architect of Jaipur city and City Palace.



Chokhi Dhani is a complex to entertain tourists. Ramgarh lake, Sun Temple of Galta, Moti Dungri, Sanganer Jain Temple, Samcdh Palace also attracts tourists towards the ancient history of Jaipur Maharajas. Place of Hindu pilgrimage, Balaji is just1.5km from Jaipur.

FESTIVALS OF JAIPUR :

GANGUR --- It starts on the day after Holi and continues for 18 days. Married women seek blessings from God for welfare of their husbands and unmarried girls. A procession starts from Tripolia Gate. Women draped in bright dresses, clown of Ld. Shiva and goddess Parvati take part in to sing and dance. It is believed that Ld. Shiva comes to take Parvati to home in this occasion.

ELEPHANT FESTIVAL --- It starts in Holi in Chaugan Stadium. More than 50 elephants prepared with bright accessories take part in it to play Holi and practice body arts.

TEEJ --- Teej is celebrated to welcome the monsoon with the procession of elephants, horses and camels.

The Birth day of Pink City is celebrated on 27th November. The colorful Kites Festival starts in Makar Sankranti. Elephant Polo starts in February – March.

AMBAR

AMBAR

This city is 11km to the North – East of Jaipur on the Jaipur – Delhi Road. It was the capital of Kachaoa Rajputs.

AMBAR PALACE

Foundation : Sawai Man Singh in1592, Entry Fee :Rs.10, Camera charge extra, Time : 9am – 4.30pm.

Ambar is on the bank of Maota Lake and on the slope of Aravally hills. It was started by Man Singh but completed by Jai Singh after 100 years. There is Mughal touch in its artworks. It has five gates --- Suraj pole, Singh pole, Ganesh pole etc.

(1) Temple of Sila Amata Jasoreshwari --- The shrine is goddess Kali here. The shrine is of white marble and bent towards left. She don’t have open toung. This beautifully sculptured temple has silver doors decorated with Vyas Relief Panels.

(2) Dewan – e – Aam --- Foundation By Raja Jai Singh in 1639. Subjects met the king on this three side open roof standing on40 pillars decorated with beautiful and delicate artistic works which destructed by jealous Aorangjeb.

(3) Jenana mahal is beautiful with nice lettice works.

(4) Jai Mandir --- This jewel studded cream color two storied building is the V.I.P meeting hall.

(5) Jash Mandir --- It has beautiful and unique glass mosaic.

(6) Sis Mahal --- Its wall, roof, floor every corner is decorated with green, orange and red glasses which are fitted in such a way that one lamp looks like lakhs of lamps.

(7) Sohag Mandir --- It is above Ganesh Pole and queens used to watch royal festivals from its pretty lettice windows. Whole Ambar city is visible from its roof.

(8) Sukh Nivas or Pleasure Hall --- The delicate curving of elephant teeth and sandal wood in its door make wonder. There was also unique thought behind air conditioning system where cool water falls flow through the white marble curves. The lettice windows also make this palace airy.

(9) Mahal of Man Singh I --- Here the main attractions are elephant teeth work, pencil sketch on stones, the paintings of pilgrimage in dining hall and 12 bow shaped domes in the centre of the chowk.

Ruins of past glory are also there. There are temples of Ld. Krishna and Garur. Krishna temple has memories of Meerabai. Mythological stories, hunting scenaries, story of Dholamaru are printed on pillars and walls in Vyas Relief Panel system. An arceological museum is also in the Dilaram Garden which was guest house of the kings.

MOUNT ABU

MOUNT ABU

This hill station of Rajasthan is situated at the South end of ARABALLI Hill Range and covered with green forest. It was the summer capital of Maharajas.

LANDSCAPE:

This valley is extended through 22x5 km and is 1219m high.

WEATHER:

Summer temperature is 33.3C – 28.3C and the Winter temperature is 28.3C – 11.6C. Rainfall is 153 – 177cm.

PLACES OF INTEREST:

DILWARA Temple, BIMAL BASAHI, Luna BASAHI, ACHALGARH, Sunset Point, Honeymoon Point, NAKKI Lake, Gandhi VATIKA, MADHUBAN, Om SHANTI BHAWAN etc.

DILWARA TEMPLE

Time : 12noon – 6pm, Entry fee : Rs.20, Camera, leather objects,smoking and umbrella are strictly prohibited here. This Jain dilwara was made of white marble stone brought from Ambaji which is 23km to the South of Abu Road. There are Adinath, Neminath, Mahaveer, Rishavdev and Pareshnath temples in this dilwara.

VIMAL BASAHI

Foundation : By Vimal Shah, the cabinet member of 1st Solanki rular of Gujarat, Veem Dev in 1031.

This 140x90 foot Vimal Basahi was made by 1500 artists and1200 wagers during 14 years at the cost of 18crores and 53lacs. It is heard that the artistswere remunerated with a quantity of silver same as the quantity of curved stones. This White marble made well sculptured temple was made in Solanki style. Attraction : Curve of troop of elephants who are going to visit lord, Curve fruits and animals in octave dome, sculpture of 48 pillars, balcony and ceiling, 52 chambers of god, Statue of goddess Amba and Pareshnath.

LUNA BASAHI

Foundation : In 1231 by Vastupal and Tejpal brothers, who was the cabinet member of Veer Dhawala, The king of Gujarat. Cost : 12crores and 53lacs, Shrine : 22nd Jain Tirthankar Neminath. Attraction : Decoration of pillars, stone curved fringes, dancing gesture of ceiling, entrance, chains lively lotus which look like natural ones, curves of royal procession and Jain stories, 16 statues of Vidyadevi, statue of 360 Jain monks including 72 Tirthankars. Its beauty was lessen by Mughal soldiers in 1311 and it was reformed in 1321.

VEEMA SAHI

Foundation : 1468, Attraction : Statue of Tirthankar Rishavnath weighting 4.5 metric tons and made of five metals, statue of Ld. Genesha beside the entrance, four faced lord in Pareshnath. The temple is incomplete and looks shabby from outside. But the inside is very beautiful.

GURUSIKHAR

Height : 1772m. It is the highest pick of Aravally ranges. There is a temple of Bramha – Vishnu – Maheshwar above it. After 300 steps to the temple there is foot print of Guru Datratreay. A binocular is also there to view Mt. Abu. Duli is available to climb.

ACHALGARH FORT

This fort on Aravally hills was made in 9th century. It was the capital of Chauhans but it has been turned into ruins. Achaleswar temple is below the fort. The shrine is Ld. Shiv in thumb shape and there are also stone curved Goddess Parvati and Ld. Ganesha, brass statue of Nandi.

Other Attraction of the Fort : Temple of Vishnu in ten incurnations, temple of Chamunda Devi, curve of three demons disguised as buffalos, curve of king Adipal who is throwing arrows, 14 metal statue in Jain temple (1513), Statue of Tirthankar weighting 572 quintals etc. Rumor is that the three demons used to eat the ghee from Ghee – ka -- Kund in every night.

TEMPLE OF ARBUDA DEVI

The city is named Abu after the name of goddess Arbuda Devi. 360 steps were made on the hill cutting stones and the entrance is so narrow that one has to enter into it by crawling. Duli is available. Doodh Bawri is below the temple. Rumor says that gods used to get milk from here.

KODRA DAM

This dam provides water requirement of the city.

GAUMUKH

It is 6km away from Kodra Dam and has 1000 steps to go above where water is coming out from the mouth of a cow made of marble stone. The marble statue of Nandi, the vehicle of Ld. Shiva, Vashist aashram, Hanuman Temple and sacrificial pit Vashist are also there.

SUNSET POINT

Pleasing view of sunset at the end of Aravally hill attracts the tourists.

HONEYMOON POINT

Natural beauty and nice sunset are the attraction of Honeymoon Point. It is also called Ganesha Point for a Ganesha Temple. Camel is available. Horse : Rs.35, Sledge car : Rs.20.

NAKKI LAKE

This artificial lake is surrounded by hills and there are a few islands in the lake. The hills are Toad rock, Nun rock, Nandi rock, Camels rock etc. Rumor is that on advice of Ld. Bramha the race of god came here to save themselves from the torture demons in the heaven and to start a havan or sacrifice for which they dug this lake with their nails to provide water in havan. That is why it is called Nakki Lake.

GANDHI VATIKA

The residue of Gandhiji was immersed in Nakki Lake. The park adjacent to the lake is named after Gandhi. Temple of Raghunathji or Ld. Rama was established here by Ramanand Swami in 14th century. His foot print is in the temple.

MADHUBAN

In Madhuban, there are Om Shanti Bhawan of Bramha Kumari World Spiritual Universuty, museum and Om Peace Park. There are arrangements for learning the lesson of meditation in a pillar less large meditation hall for 3500 students together. Time : 8am – 8pm.

ZOO

Area : 328 sq km, Attraction : Cheetah, Chinkara, Langoor, Peacock, more than 250 species of birds, Pig etc.

JAISALMER

JAISALMER

Jaisalmer is a desert city of Rajasthan. There is shore less views of sands. The city is guarded by walls made in 1750 and four pole or gates --- Malka in the North, Amarsagar in the West, Gadi sagar and Baron ki Pole in the South-East. The two other poles are closed now. Golden yellow dune and walls of yellow sandstones make this city golden. Minakari ornaments are famous here. Desert Festival takes place for 3 days in February.

HEIGHT:

793m

WEATHER:

Weather is rough and there is no rain for years. Highest temperature is 45C and lowest temperature is 3C.

FAVOURABLE SEASON:

From October to March.

PLACES OF INTEREST:

The golden fort made of Jurrassic yellow sand stone, Patwan ki Haveli, Nathmalji ki Haveli, Selim Singhji ki Haveli, Raja ka Mahal, Gadisar, Fokrole Museum, Jawahar Nivas, Tajia Tower, Amar Sagar, Bara Bag, Desert National Park, Kuldhra etc.

MARKET:

Central market is famous for needle work, mirror work dresses and ornaments, stone made objects, woolen blanket etc.

PLACES OF INTEREST:

JAISALMER FORT

Foundation : 1156, Height : 76m, Area : 457x129m, Height of Wall : 405m.

It is the second oldest fort of Rajasthan. It has no ditch and surrounded by walls. There are 99 bastions, some of which has cannons. It has few gates --- Akshay pole, Ganesh pole, Suraj pole, Hawa pole. The death well is after the second gate and the main chowk starts after fourth gate.

MAHARAWAL : This seven storied umbrella shaped palace has five sections or mahals. Presently there are museum and heritage centre. Time : 10am – 3pm.

Juna mahal, Jenana mahal, Chauhata chowk, Mardana mahal are also nice.

Glass and mural painting decorated Rang mahal is above Hawa pole. Sarvottam Vilas has high foundation, blue tiles and glass mosaic. Excellent Gaj Vilas and Moti mahal attract tourists. Another unique thing is Badal Vilas or the clouds palace. Tajia Tower is on the roof of Badal Vilas. The throne of Dewan-e-Aam and Narayan and Shakti pillars are good as well.

7 Jain temples and 4 Hindu temples are there inside the fort. There are 6666 Jain idols which are jewel studded, emerald made idol of Mahaveer, dancing idols, painting of mythological stories, painting on ceilings, nice sculptures, Rishavnath, Shantinath, Sambhavnath etc. in these temples. Time : 7am – 12 noon. Leather is not allowed intemples.

JEENBHADRA SURI GYAN BHANDER

Jeenbhadra Suri was an acharya in 12th century. Collections : 1126 plam leaves manuscripts, 2257 paper manuscripts, the logest plam leave manuscript is 0.9m or 331/3 inches long and has a wooden cover. Time : 9am – 6pm, Entry fee – Rs.30.

PATWAN – KI HAVELI

Foundation : In 1805 by textile nad metal trader Guman Chand. Attraction : Mural paintings in walls and balcony, guilted ceiling, hanging lattice work in window.

NATHMALJI – KI – HAVELI

Foundation : 1885, Attraction : Miniaturre painting in walls, statue of two elephants in the front door, net work on the stones.It is closed now.

SELIM SINGHJI – KI – HAVELI

Foundation : 1800, Attraction : Arches in roof, peacock shaped bracket. It had two stories made in wood. But the Maharaja destroyed it as its height was more than the royal palace.

Raja -- ka – mahal is also a nice haveli.

GADISAR LAKE

It is like an oasis in the desert. There is a chattis in the centre of the lake. Attraction : Beautiful archway, temples surrounding the lake,temple of Ld. Krishna on the archway, boating on lake and migrated birds inwinter. Foundation : By Rawal Ghat Singh in 1367.

FOKROLE MUSEUM

Collector : N K Sharma, Time : 9am – 12 noon & 3pm – 6pm, Entry fee : 5.

TAJIA TOWER

Muslim sculptors gifted this five marble tower to Rana.

AMAR SAGAR

It is an oasis. But the garden is almost destroyed and there is shortage of water in the lake. Pleasure Palace (1661-1703) and beautiful Jain temple are situated on the bank of the lake.

DESERT NATIONAL PARK

Area : 3025 sq km, Favourable Season : October to March, Attraction : Leafless trees, Indian Bustard Bird, Chinkara, Black Buck, Gazel, Jackel. Permission is required to visit the park.

SAM SAND DUNES

Area : 3km, Attraction : Sand storm “Aandhi”, Endless dunes, Camel safari, Nice sunset. Weather : Excessive heat in day time and much cold at night.

MOOL SAGAR

Foundation : King of Maharawal Mool. It is man made oasis. The garden and lake are surrounded by endless wave of golden sands. Crevasse is also here. Sunset is very nice.

You can see Lodurwa Palace, Pareshnath Jain Temple, Rupasi Village, Ramkund, Fruit garden of Barabagh, Vatiyani Chattis, museum city Kuldhra, heritage village Kuldhra and another beautiful oasis Khuri.