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The Land of Varied Wonders
Nestled
in the foot hills of the Aravallis, Dungarpur has an interesting
topography, ranging from wild and rugged terrain in the north-east to
fertile plains of alluvial soil in the south-west. Two magnificent rivers
- the Mahi and the Som flow through the area. While the former separates
the district from Banswara, the latter draws a
natural boundary between the district and Udaipur
Dungarpur was founded in 1282 AD by Rawal Veer Singh.- when he took over
this part of the state from the Bhil Chieftain, Dungaria.
The area is rich in Teak, Mahua, Mango and Khajur trees. Dungarpur is
also noted for its wildlife variety--Jackal, Jungle Cat, Indian Fox,
Hyena, Black Faced Monkey, Porcupine, Common Mongoose are the common
inhabitants. The commonly seen bird variety includes Partridges, Peafowls,
Quails, Cuckoos, Eagles and Vultures. Various migratory birds also visit
the area during the winters.
Dungarpur is famous for its unique style of architecture as seen in its
palaces and noble residences. These royal residences are adorned by
'jharokhas' built in stone in a unique style typical of the area,
developed during the reign of Maharawal Shiv Singh (1730-1785 A.D.) The
district's gold and silver smiths are renowned for lacquer painted toys
and picture framing.
PALACES
Udai Bilas palace: The royal residence named after Maharawal Udai
Singh II, a patron of art and architecture, the palace is a veritable
example of the Rajput architecture ornate with intricately sculptured
pillars and panels, impressive balconies, bracketed windows and marvellous
arches.
Juna Mahal: The 13th century seven storeyed structure resembles a
fortress with crenellated walls, turrets, narrow entrances and corridors
to slow down the enemy. The splendid interiors embellished with beautiful
frescoes, miniature paintings and glass and mirror work, make it an
impressive creation.
One requires prior permission of the resident royal family to visit the
Palace.
LAKES
Gaib Sagar Lake: A
famous shrine of Shrinathji lies along the lake. The shrine is a
conglomeration of several exquisitely built temples with one main temple.
The Vijay Raj Rajeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is an
architectural splendour and a fine example of craftsmanship of the
'shilpis' of Dungarpur. more...
MUSEUMS
Govt. Archaeological
Museum: The museum houses a fine collection of ancient statues.
more...
TEMPLES
Baneshwar (60-km): At the confluence of the Som and Mahi rivers,
stands the Baneshwar Temple with 3 Shivlingas.
Nearby is the Vishnu temple, believed to be built on the spot where
Mavji, an incarnation of Lord Krishna, meditated. Another noteworthy
temple is the Brahma temple - a spacious two storeyed structure with
exquisitely carved pillars and gateways.
The temple is the venue of an annual fair.
Deo Somnath (24-km): A splendid 12th century temple of Lord Shiva
built in white stone, the temple has imposing turrets. The brilliant
juxtaposition of huge stone slabs to create this impressive edifice
epitomises the craftsmanship of the ancient time.
Bhuvaneshwar (9-km): A famous temple of Lord Shiva is situated
here and is the venue of a colourful fair held on the fifth day after
Holi. Gair dance by the Bhils is the major highlight of the fair.
Poonjpur (37-km): A beautiful temple dedicated to Mavji preserves
the manuscript of 3 books - 'Chopra', written by Mavji and an idol of
Nishkalank riding a horse.
CITIES
Baroda (41-km): An erstwhile capital of Vagad, the village has
some beautiful temples. Of particular note are the old Shiva temple in
white stone and an ancient Jain temple whose black wall has exquisitely
carved image of the 24 Tirthankaras.
OTHERS
Galiyakot (58-km): Once
the capital of Parmars, this tiny village is renowned for its magnificient
shrine of Sayed Fakhruddin. Thousands of devotees throng here during the
Urs. The shrine is beautifully decorated and illuminated for the occasion.
The Jain temple close by are also worth a visit. more...
Air : Nearest airport is in Udaipur (120-km) and
Ahmedabad Airport is just 175-km away from Dungarpur.
Rail : It is connected to Udaipur and Ahemdabad. The Railway
station is 3-km from the city. Some important train connections are: 9643
Express (Himatnagar-Dungarpur-Udaipur); Mewarpass.
(Himatnagar-Dungarpur-Udaipur)
Road : National Highway No.8, which runs between Delhi and Mumbai
passes through the district for a total distance of 31-km. The State
Highway passes through the district viz. Sirohi-Ratlam Highway.
Udai Bilas Palace : Single and double room suites
also available. Udai Bilas Palace - a running Heritage Hotel offers
facilities, which include picnic lunch spots at ancient fort ruins, folk
concerts of tribal dances, boat trips at Gaib Sagar Lake and excursions to
nearby lakes.
In the city near Bus Stand, budget class hotels are also available.
Holi: Gair dances by tribals wearing colourful
dresses and carrying swords, arrows and sticks are the major attraction.
Baneshwar Fair: On the
full moon day - Magh Shukla Purnima (February), thousands of Bhils from
Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan gather at the confluence of the Mahi
and Som rivers for a sacred dip. It is an occasion to worship, sing and
dance. Magic shows and acrobatic displays add interest to the
celebrations. more...
Bar Bij Fair: Held a month after Diwali on the occasion of Bar
Bij, it is an important celebration of the district. The Bhils in their
traditional finery, dance, sing and make merry.
Udaipur: 120-km
| Area | : | 3870-sq-kms | |
| Climate | : | Mean Max | Mean Min |
| Summer | : | 43°C | 26°C |
| Winter | : | 25°C | 9°C |
| Rainfall | : | 47-76 cms. | |
| Best Season | : | October-February | |
| Clothing | : | ||
| Summer | : | Light Tropical | |
| Winter | : | Light Woolen | |
| Language | Rajasthani, Hindi & English. | ||