JHALAWAR

Location: 87-km From Kota, Rajasthan
Found In: 1838 AD
Historical Significance: Princely State Of The Jhalas.
Best Time To Visit: September-March
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 southeastern 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 colorful during winters. The area around Bhawani Mandi is known for contributing a major share to the production of citrus fruit in the country.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS

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.

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.

EXCURSIONS

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, which 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 sculpture 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. Marvelously 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 an AD temple 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 colorful fair held during the month of Moharram.
Fort of Gangadhar (120-km): An irnpressive edifice with the oldest rock inscription and some marvelously 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.

HOW TO GET THERE

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, and 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.

NEARBY CITIES

Kota: 87-km
Bundi: 123-km
Ajmer: 292-km
Jaipur: 335-km

GENERAL INFORMATION