dungarpur

Location: 120-km From Udaipur, Rajasthan
Attractions: Gaib Sagar Lake, Govt. Archaeological Museum
Founded In: 1282 AD
Best Time To Visit: October-February India Guide
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
Rawal Veer Singh.- founded Dungarpur in 1282 AD 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 is the common inhabitant. The commonly seen bird variety includes Partridges, Peafowl’s, 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 AD) The district's gold and silver smiths are renowned for lacquer painted toys and picture framing.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS

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 marvelous arches.

Juna Mahal: The 13th century seven storeyed structures resemble 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 splendor and a fine example of craftsmanship of the 'shilpis' of Dungarpur.

MUSEUMS

Govt. Archaeological Museum: The museum houses a fine collection of ancient statues.

EXCURSIONS

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 epitomizes the craftsmanship of the ancient time.

Bhuvaneshwar (9-km): A famous temple of Lord Shiva is situated here and is the venue of a colorful 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 temples 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 magnificent shrine of Sayed Fakhruddin. Thousands of devotees throng here during the Urs. The shrine is beautifully decorated and illuminated for the occasion.
The Jain temples close by are also worth a visit. 

HOW TO GET THERE

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.

PLACES TO STAY

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.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Holi: Gair dances by tribals wearing colorful 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. 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.

NEARBY CITIES

Udaipur:120-km

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area:3870-sq-kms