Bharatpur Travel Guide

Bharatpur - The 'Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan', was founded by Maharaja Suraj Mal in 1733 AD. Carved out of the region formerly known as Mewat it is an important landmark in the history of Rajasthan. according to legend Bharatpur is named after Bharat, the brother of Lord Ram whose other brother Laxman was worshipped as the family deity of the royals of Bharatpur. The name 'Laxman' was said to have been engraved on the arms , seals and other emblems of the state. In another magical legend the city and the fort have been believed to be founded by Rustam, a mythical hero of ancient Persia who is said to have killed his own son Sohrab, unknowingly.

Around Bharatpur

Keoladeo Ghana National Park
A heritage of India's colonial era, at one time this park was considered the best duck shooting resort in the British empire. In 1956 it was declared a reserve for birds and later upgraded to a National Park. UNESCO has listed it as a world heritage site.

All of 29 sq. km. in area this mixed wetland, woodland, grass and scrub houses more than 375 species of beautiful birds, and more than 132 of them breed inside park. Nearly every year new birds are added to the list. The sanctuary not only attracts birds from India but also from places like Europe, Siberia, China and Tibet.

Before monsoon hundreds of these exotic birds roost and nest here, building activities start on the babool and kadam trees of the park. Water coming through the Ajan Bandh starts filling the various ponds and lakes of the Park. When assured of enough food, hundreds of large, medium and little cormorant, darter, purple and Grey heron, various species of egret, painted, open-billed, white necked and black necked stork, white ibis, spoonbill, night heron and other birds make it their home. The trees are littered with nests and it is not uncommon to find a tree balancing about fifty to sixty nests, all of different species of birds, an altogether interesting visage.

Though mostly famous for its feathered population, the park is not altogether devoid of animals, the Black Buck, Sambhar - the largest Indian Antelope, Spotted deer, Nigais and Pythons can also be observed at some places lazing in the sun.

Vehicles are only permitted upto Shanti Kutir inside the park. The Electra Van of forest department can be engaged in the sanctuary, although the best way to explore the park is on foot or bicycles which are available on hire. Cycle rickshaws can also be engaged.

The Lohagarh Fort
The Lohagarh Fort, is said to have withstood innumerable British attacks frustrating the British no end. However Lord Lake, is said to have captured it in 1804.

Lohagarh is very different from the other forts in the state, not as flamboyant as most other forts in the province it does however have an aura of strength and magnificence. The fort stands surrounded by a wide moat which was once filled with water, making it very difficult for enemies to gain access. The sandy ramparts were bolstered by sandy battlements, strengthening it against the mighty guns of the British rulers.

Some interesting monuments in the fort are Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas. Moti Mahal and towers like Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj were erected to commemorate the victory over the Mughals and the British army . The Gateway has paintings of huge elephants.

The Government Museum
One of the buildings within the fort has been turned into a museum. Named Kamra Khas or the 'Special Building' it displays a rich collection of antiquities, exquisite sculptures and some ancient inscriptions. The sculptures provide a window into the culture and art of the bygone era and the inscriptions are a historical treasure that have helped archeologists trace the royal lineage of this complex land. A nominal entrance fee of Rs 3 is charged for viewing the exhibits. The museum remains closed on Friday.

The Bharatpur Palace
An interesting combination of Mughal and Rajput architecture the Bharatpur Palace was built in various phases by different maharajas. Its magnificent apartments are richly decorated with patterned floor tiles which have been furthur embellished with intricate designs.A part of the palace has been converted into a museum which displays collections dating back to the 2nd century.

Weather Watch
The best time to visit Bharatpur is during the winter months from October to February. Winter months are pleasant enough for long stays. The summer months are quite hot and best avoided.

How to Reach :
Bharatpur is easy to get to by both road as well as rail transport. Located in the vicinity of Agra, New Delhi, and Jaipur it is well connected.

By Road : Bharatpur is on the Agra-Jaipur highway, just a two-hour journey by bus from Agra (55 km) and an hour from Fatehpur Sikri. Tourist Places in India would provide A/C and non A/C chauffeur driven four-wheel vehicles with a competent driver to make your trip hassle free.

By Rail : Bharatpur has a rail junction well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and many other parts of India. Palace on Wheels - the royal Indian train also include Bharatpur in its itinerary.

By Air : Nearest domestic airport is Agra from where one can get flights to other parts of the country. New Delhi is the nearest international airport with flights to places all around the world.

Rajasthan Travel Guide
Ajmer Travel Guide	Bharatpur Travel Guide	Bikaner Travel Guide
Jaisalmer Travel Guide	Jodhpur Travel Guide	Jaipur Travel Guide
Mount Abu Travel Guide	Pushkar Travel Guide	Shekhawati Travel Guide
Udaipur Travel Guide

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