The Enchanting Wilderness
The princely state of the Jhalas, Jhalawar was created in 1838 AD after
being separated from Kota by the British.
Remarkable contributions from various rulers including Zalim Singh I made
it a culturally rich state. Lying in the south-eastern region of
Rajasthan at the edge of the Malawi plateau, Jhalawar
has rocky but water-laden verdant landscape, unlike much of Rajasthan.
With some exquisite pre-historic cave paintings, massive forts, thickly
wooded forests and exotic wildlife variety, Jhalawar boasts of rich
historic as well as natural wealth.
One can spot countless species of birds as one drives past the lush
countryside. Red poppy fields and orange laden orchards make the
countryside all the more fascinating and colourful during winters. The
area around Bhawani Mandi is known for contributing a major share to the
production of citrus fruit in the country.
FORTS
Jhalawar Fort (Garh Palace): The impressive fort in the centre of
the town presently houses the Collectorate and other district offices.
Some exquisite paintings and mirrors on the walls of Zanana Khas' are of
particular interest. Permission to see these paintings can be obtained
from the offices located here.
MUSEUMS
Government Museum:
One of the oldest museums of Rajasthan established in 1915 AD, it has
a fine collection of paintings, rare manuscripts, idols and beautiful
statues of Lakshminarayan, Vishnu, Krishna, Ardhanarishwar Natraj and
Trimurti. more...
OTHERS
Bhawani Natya Shala: Close to the fort is the most unusual theatre
in India. It was constructed in 1921 AD where Parsi theatre was performed
initially. The building has been recently revived and offers an excellent
insight into the theatre art.
CITIES
Jhalarapatan (6-km): The small town is popularly referred to as
the 'City of bells' An entire township resides within the confines of a
wall, that was built to protect the trade caravans as Patan was the
junction of caravan routes.
A magnificent 10th century Surya Temple (Padam Nath Temple) is the major
attraction of the city. The temple has some splendid sculptures as well as
well-preserved idols of Surya.
Kakuni (65-km) : Kakuni lies in Baran District. Some ancient
temples dot the ruins of this old township. A life-size idol of Lord
Ganesha and a Shiva Lingam dating back to the 8th century AD are the
impressive structures.
Ruins of the Bhimgarh Fort, built by Raja Bhim Deo, lie on the other side
of the Parvan River and are worth a visit.
TEMPLES
Chandrabhaga Temples (7-km): On the banks of the magnificent
Chandrabhaga River stand some splendid 7th century AD temples. The
intricately carved pillars and arched gateways are fine examples of the
temple architecture and craftsmanship.
The 11th century Shantinath Jain temple is also noteworthy with fine
murals and exquisite sculptures.
Dalhanpur (54-km) : The ancient ruins of impressive temples extend
over an area of 2-km. Marvellously carved pillars, torans and exquisite
sculptures make these temples interesting. Dolhanpur lies on the bank of
River Chhapi, where an irrigation dam is being constructed. Dense forests
with lush foliage add to the natural beauty of the spot.
Dag (100-km) : Renowned for some 12th century AD temples of
Dageshwari Mata, Kani ka Maqbara and Kama Varneshwar Mahadeo, Dag is a
fascinating experience in the rustic ambience.
Atishey Jain Temple Chandkheri (35-km) : This 17th century temple
is a notable example of temple architecture. It also has religious value
having a 6 feet tall Adinath statue, in a sitting position. Accommodation
and meals are available at ·reasonable prices near the temple area.
FORTS
Gagron Fort: The impressive fort, built over several centuries
(8th to 14th century AD), stands witness to many great battles and is
surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Ahu and Kali Sindh rivers on the
three sides.
A beautiful, mausoleum of Sufi Saint Mithe Shah just outside the fort is
the venue for an annual colourful fair held during the month of Moharram.
Fort of Gangadhar (120-km): An irnpressive edifice with the
oldest rock inscription and some marvellously built temples.
CAVES
Buddhist Caves and Stupas: The ancient Buddhist caves located in
the village Kolvi. A colossal figure of Buddha and the carved stupas are
the most impressive structures in the caves
DAMS
Bhimsagar (24-km) : The dam built on the Ujad River is near the
erstwhile capital of Khichi Chauhan rulers. Bhimsagar allows a glimpse of
the Rajput and Mughal architecture in the ruins of palaces, temples and
mosques.
OTHERS
Rain Basera (6-km): A picturesque wooden cottage on the banks of
the Kishan Sagar Pond, it is an idyllic haunt for picnickers.
The cottage was originally built elsewhere and later transported to the
present location.
Amazingly, it still retains much of the original design..
Air: Nearest airport is Kota 87-km.
Rail: Kota, then by taxi or bus (85-km). Some important train
connections are :Avadh Express (Mumbai-Jhalawar-Gorakhpur); Dehradun
Express (Mumbai-Jhalawar-Jammu).
Road: A good network of road connections. Some important
distances include Jaipur 335-km, Ajmer 292-km, Kota 87-km, Bundi 123-km,
Delhi 590-km, Bhopal 265-km, Indore 235-km, Udaipur 445-km.
Local Transport: Unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws and tongas
Accommodation options in Jhalawar vary from well furnished hotels such as RTDC Hotel Chandravati and numerous budget hotels.
Kota: 87-km
Bundi: 123-km
Ajmer: 292-km
Jaipur: 335-km
| Area | : | 5,928 Sq. Km. | |
| Altitude | : | 745 meters | |
| Climate | : | Mean Max | Mean Min |
| Summer | : | 42°C | 27°C |
| Winter | : | 25°C | 9.5°C |
| Rainfall | : | 60 - 95 cms. | |
| Best Season | : | Sept. - March | |
| Clothing | : | ||
| Summer | : | Light Tropical | |
| Winter | : | Woollen | |
| Language | Rajasthani, Hindi & English. | ||