The Enchanting Wilderness

The princely state of the Jhalas, Jhalawar was created in 1838 A.D., 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 Malwa 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 in the country.

Jhalawar Fort(Garh Palace) : The impressive fort in the centre of the town presently houses the collectorate and other district office. Some exquisite paintings and mirrors on the walls of ‘ zanana khas’ are of particular interest. Permission to see these painting can be obtained from the offices located here.

Government Museum : One of the oldest museums of Rajasthan established in 1915 A.D., it has a fine collection of paintings, rare manusripts, idols and beautiful statues of Lakshminarayan.Vishnu, Krishna, Ardhanarishvar, Natraj and Trimurti.

Bhawani Natya Shala : Close to the fort is the most unusual theatre in India. It was constructed in 1921 A.D. where Parsi theatre was performed initially The building has been recently revived and offers an excellent insight into the theatre art.

Excursions

Rain Basera (6KM) : A picturesque wooden cottage on the banks of the Kishan sagar pond, it is as idyllic haunt for picnickers.The cottage was originally built elsewhere and later transported to the present location .Amazingly, it still retains much the original design.

Jhalarapatan (6KM) : 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 10^th 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.

Chandrabhaga Temples(7KM.) : On the banks of the magnificent Chandrabhaga river stand some splendid 7^th century A.D. temples the intricately carved pillars and arched gateways are fine examples of the temple architecture and craftsmanship. The 11^th century A.D. Shantinath jain temple is also noteworthy with fine murals and exquisite sculptures.

Gagron Fort : The impressive fort, built over several centuries ( 8^th to 14^th centuries A.D) 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 a sufi saint Mitheshah just outside the fort is the venue for an annual colorful fair held during the month of moharram.

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.

Dag (100Km) : Renowned for some 12^th century ad temples of Dageshware Mata, Rani ka maqbara and kama Varneshwar Mahadeo, Dag is a fascinating experience in the rustic ambience.

Kakuni (65Km) : 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 8^th century A.D. 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.

Bhimsagar (24 km): The dam built on the Uajad 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.

Atishey Jain Temple, Chandkheri (35 km): This 17^th century temple is a notable example of temple architecture. It also has religious value having Adinath statue, 6 feet tall, in a sitting position. Accommodation and meals are available at reasonable prices in the temple area.

Dalhanpur (54) : 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 Chhappi, where an irrigation dam is being constructed. Dense forests with lush foliage add to the natural beauty of the spot.

Fort of Gangadhar (120 km): An impressive edifice with the oldest rock inscription and some marvellously built temples.

Accommodation

Hotel Chandravati : Located at Jhalra Patan Road, run by RTDC, charges Rs 150-500 - Tel 07432 30015

Hotel Dwarika : Located near TB Hospital, NH12, charges Rs 200-300 - Tel 07432 32626

Hotel Surya : Located near Bus Stand, charges Rs 100-150 - Tel 07432 31361

Access

By Airways

Jhalawar has no airport ot its own. The nearest airport is Jaipur Sanganer, lying some 340 km away.

By Railways

The nearest rail head is Ramganj Mandi, at a distance of 25 Km. It is on the main Delhi Mumbai line. However, not all trains stop here. To reach here, Dehradun Express and Frontier Mail, which have stops here, should be opted for.

By Roadways

The place is well connected with Bundi, Kota and Jaipur. Infact NH12 passes through Jhalawar.Some important distances road distances are

• Ajmer 295 km
• Bhopal : 265 km
• Bundi : 125 km
• Delhi : 600 km
• Indore : 235 km
• Jaipur : 340 km
• Kota : 90 km
• Udaipur : 450 km

Local Transport : Un-metered taxis , auto-rikshaws and tongas.

Climate Conditions