Abhaneri

Baoris Of Abhaneri

Chand Baori

Abhaneri Village

Abhaneri is a small town village, situated at a distance of 95 km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by the King Raja Chand. Originally Abhaneri was named as Abha Nagri, which means the city of brightness,but due to mispronunciation of the term, it is changed to the present name.
In the present day, this city of brightness is in ruins; still it attracts tourists from across the globe. Abhaneri is prominent for 'Baoris', which are the unique invention of the natives for harvesting rain water. Amongst the other step wells, Chand Baori is the most popular one. This colossal step well is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple. Chand Baori is one of India's deepest and largest step wells. The huge tank with delicate carvings is certainly delightful to the eyes.
Step wells are the unique concept of India. These big tanks were used as cool places of resort and water reservoir in parched days. It was a ritual to wash hands and feet before visiting the temple. Adjoining the Chand Baori, there is a temple, dedicated to Harshat Mata. This temple serves as the other tourist attraction of Abhaneri. Raised during the 10th century, the wrecks of the temple still boast of the architectural and sculptural styles of ancient India.
Harshat Mata is considered to be the goddess of joy and happiness. As per the beliefs, the goddess is always cheerful, who imparts her joy and happiness to the whole village. The temple is worth visiting for its amazing architecture and that too, which belongs to the medieval India. Abhaneri has a glorious past and this hoary magnetism of the place, attracts tourists to its threshold, from all over the world.

Bagru

Hand Block Bagru Print

Bagru is a small village, located at a distance of 30 kms from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Ajmer Road. The village town of Bagru is not popular for any palace or fort, but for its typical wooden prints. These prints of Bagru are acclaimed all over India and are particularly known as Bagru prints. The Prints of Bagru, unlike other prints, involve a different kind of printing. The unique method for printing employs wooden block in it. In the process, the desired design is engraved on the wooden block first and then the carved block is used for replicating the design in the preferred color on the fabric.
Chippa Mohalla (printer's quarter) is the area for those, who are interested in textile printing. One can walk into the quarter, where people are always engrossed with dyes and blocks. The three-centuries-old tradition of block printing is kept alive with the efforts of Bagru artisans. Keeping the convention, these artisans smear the cloth with Fuller's earth got from the riverside and then dip it in turmeric water to get the habitual cream color background. After that, they stamp the cloth with beautiful designs using natural dyes of earthly shades.
As a matter of fact, Bagru prints are more famous for their exceptional quality of being eco-friendly. Even today, artisans use traditional vegetable dyes for printing the cloth. Like, the color blue is made from indigo, greens out of indigo mixed with pomegranate, red from madder root and yellow from turmeric. Usually Bagru prints have ethnic floral patterns in natural colors. Bagru prints form the essential part of the block printing industry of Rajasthan. The village fabricates some of the fabulous bed covers and other materials.
The brilliance of the craft has located this small village of Bagru near Jaipur on the map of International fashion. Rajasthan block printing recognition gets complete, with the amalgamation of Bagru printing in it. The village of Bagru will be definitely a treat for craft lovers and one must visit the place to acknowledge the tradition of former centuries.

Bairath

Bairath is a place of historical significance, located at a distance of 86 kms from Jaipur, on Shahpura-Alwar Road. Bairath is said to have existed from the times of Mahabharata. In that period, Bairath was known as Virata Nagar. It used to be the capital of Abhimanyu's (Arjuna's son) father-in-law. After getting exile, Pandavas are believed to spend one year in Bairath. Excavations expose the fact that Bairath used to be the part of Mauryan Empire and thrived as a Buddhist establishment.
Bairath still has the periodical remnants of Mauryan, Mughal and Rajput structural designs. It is also acknowledged for the ruins of a circular Buddhist temple, the earliest structural temple in India. The Mughal Emperor, Akbar, built a mint in Bairath. A beautiful Mughal garden too occupies the lands of Bairath. Jahangir, son of Akbar, constructed a significant monument with painted 'chattris'. All these archeological revelations are the cursors to the ancient Bairath.
Other attractions at Bairath are Bhim-Ki-Dungri and Bijak-ki-Pahari. Bhim-ki-Dungri is also known as Pandu Hill. This is low rocky hill with a cave that is believed to be Bhim's (One of Pandava brothers) abode. The other interesting place is Bijak-ki-Pahari, which is a grey granite hill with remnants of two Buddhist monasteries. These monasteries are supposed to have existed when Huen Tsang (the Chinese Traveler) came to visit India in 634 A.D.
Bairath is also known for Banganga Fair which is celebrated annually near the town. This event is observed on the full moon day of Vaishakh (April- May). Bairath forms a major part of excursion from Jaipur. Due to its historical significance, it is visited by large number of people every year.

Karauli

Bhanwar Vilas Palace

Kaila Devi Temple

Shopping Articles During Fair At The Temple

Madan Mohan Ji Temple

Entry To Madan Mohan Ji Temple

Karauli is a small village, situated at a distance of 182 km from Jaipur. Founded in 1348, Karauli is well-known for its Madan Mohanji Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Initially, the town was known as Kalyanpuri,which was named after the local deity Kalyanji. The fortified city of Karauli is surrounded by Red sandstone walls with bastions for security. In the present day, these fortifications are in wrecks, yet it boast of the six gates and eleven posterns.
Karauli also possesses a 600 years old Fort. This Fort makes the highlight of Karauli. Until 1950, this Fort was used as a residence by the Royal family. The Fort has been deserted by them since that time. Today, it serves as a shelter for monkeys and geese. In the old days, the geese were used a warning system against any intruders. It seems that still geese are doing their duty. The large mansion by the name of Bhawar Vilas Palace still belongs to the successors of the Royal family. However, the Palace has been converted into a Hotel to serve the current visitors.
Karauli was a princely state of the former age. As per the beliefs, the rulers of Karauli were the head of the Yadhuvanshi Rajputs, the successors of Lord Krishna. Near to the town of Karauli, there is a celebrated Kaila Devi temple. Karauli is also known for the fair at Kaila Devi temple, which is celebrated annually at Kaila in Karauli district. The fair is held in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April) and lasts for a fortnight. Every year, thousands of devotees come to pay their homage to the goddess.

Ramgarh

Ramgarh Lake

Ramgarh Dam

Ramgarh Fort

Ramgarh is located at a distance of 25kms from the city of Jaipur. In the present day, this primeval spot is eminent for its huge artificial lake. This lake has been shaped by raising a high bund amidst the hills covered with trees. In the rainy season, when the lake gets inundated with water, people come in large numbers for a picnic. Ramgarh Lake is around 4 kms in length and 2 kms in width, big enough to please the crowds.
Ramgarh is a place of royal past that boasts of a majestic hunting lodge. However, the lodge has been converted into a gateway hotel with the changing times. The wrecks of the ancient fort still remind one of its old days when the Kachhawah's first settled here before moving on to Amer. Even today, the temple of Jamwa Mata attracts the tourists for its magnificent architecture. Every year, people from far and near come to visit the place.
Another attraction at Ramgarh is the Polo grounds, located between the Aravalli Hills and Ramgarh Lake. This Ground is considered as India's best Polo ground. Finely groomed, this ground has the best trained horses unlike anywhere. At present, though the original structures are in ruins, still the beautiful scenery of Ramgarh, makes it a relaxing picnic spot and worth a visit.

Sanganer

Shri Digamber Jain Temple

Block Printing At Sanganer

Kagazi Hand Made Paper Factory

Located at a distance of 13 km from the Jaipur city, Sanganer is the must visit for the travelers thirsty for more. There are many places of tourist attraction that this lovely place embraces. Sanganer is situated on the Tonk Road and is the abode of medieval ruins, ancient temples and has deep cultural roots. Tours to Sanganer feature a lot of interesting destinations that will completely enthrall the tourists. The first thing that a tourist will come across during the exciting Tours to Sanganer is, Kagazi Mohalla, which is celebrated for the dexterous artisans make the exotic handmade paper, employing skills learned from the previous generations.
See for yourself the way in which they prepare the textiles with the help of hand block prints. Sanganer Tours feature a peek into the quaint rustic village life of the people which is simply a delight to experience. The Sanganer textiles are renowned all over India and abroad for their hand printed goods, for their delicate designs and bright colors. A distinctive feature of Sanganer prints is that the colorful designs in all possible colors are printed on the white backgrounds. Block printed and screen-printed fabrics of Sanganer are equally popular. Tours to Sanganer has every promise to be one of the best ones amongst the Excursions from Jaipur.
Apart from handicrafts the visitors can also witness the brilliant Shri Digamber Jain Temple here. Complex carvings that represent an old school of architecture beautify the walls of the temple. This beautiful Jain temple was built in the 10th century and is the spotlight of travel to Sanganer. The temple is the abode of the idol of Parshwanath, and contains seven serpent hoods that have grand spires and a stone shrine. Gorgeous fountains engraved into lotuses, creepers and elephants encircle the idol.

Samode

A Magnificient Samode Palace

Darbar Hall

Samode Bagh

Tour to Jaipur and its surroundings become all the more delightful with an exclusive Tour to Samode. Tourists visiting Rajasthan cannot afford to miss out travel to Samode. Samode is a beautiful little town in Rajasthan, an essential part of your Rajputana Splendor itinerary. Samode travel can involve journey by rail, road or air. The beautiful town of Samode is located 42 kms North West of Jaipur. Samode is renowned for its magnificent Samode Palace, which was built by the Maharaja of Jaipur Jai Singh II's Finance Minister.
The palace is renowned for its Shekhawati style paintings. The paintings of Dewan - I - Khas too are marvelous. However, the piece-de-resistance of Samode Palace is the magnificent 300-year-old Durbar Hall or Sheesh Mahal, which is renowned for its lattice work. The palace is surrounded by hills, which makes for a truly picturesque setting.
On top of the palace is the fort and to reach the fort a flight of 300 steps have to be encountered before one can reach the fort. A visit to Samode is incomplete without visiting the beautifully landscaped garden of Samode Bagh. This is an exquisite Mughal garden. Adjoining the garden is the top rate heritage hotel - Samode Palace, which is an oasis of luxury. The hotel provides the fabled Rajasthani hospitality to its discerning guests and each of its rooms are rather elegantly furnished with antique furniture and sophisticated wooden decor.

Sariska National Park

Sariska National Park is a wildlife sanctuary, located at a distance of 107 km from Jaipur. The Park possesses historic monuments and temples, which depicts the legacy of the Maharajas of Alwar. The Park is bigger than Ranthambore but has a similar topography. Though, this sanctuary doesn't have many tigers yet many wild animals dwell on the grounds of this park. Apart from other carnivores and herbivores, you can also trace Rhesus Monkeys, which can usually be seen playing tricks upon each other around Tad Vriksh (tree).
The Park also shelters many different species of birds including Bush Quails, Sand Grouses, Tree Pies, Golden backed Woodpeckers, crested Serpent Eagles and Great Indian horned Owls. Animal lovers would definitely love this place which will offer them some of the best scenes to remember. The best place to spot the wildlife is at the waterholes where animals come to satisfy their thirst. You can trace hundreds of birds at the Kalighati Waterhole and Nilgai can be spotted at Salupka waterhole.
Siliserh Lake is another attraction which is inhabited by crocodiles on the edge of the sanctuary. You would find innumerous monkeys and langurs all over the Park doing activities. The Kankwadi Fort is also worth visiting that has a long chaotic history. According to one of the beliefs, here Dara Shikoh was imprisoned by Aurangzeb. Bharathari is another place which is named after Raja Bharathari of Ujjain who took 'Samadhi' in this holy place. Devotees from all over Rajasthan come to this place on 8th of shukla-paksha of Bhadon month.
Sariska Palace is also worth a visit, which has been converted into a heritage hotel. Besides all this, you can visit the Pandupol, a place where Bhima adjusted a stick in the rock face of a cliff to make a pathway. You can also opt for Jeep Safaris which are easily available to explore the National Reserve. Sariska National Park is an enthralling sanctuary, where you can visit the rich heritage sites and enjoy the beauty of natural world.

Tonk

Tonk is a small town, located at a distance of 96 kms from Jaipur. This little town of Tonk is also known as the "Lucknow of Rajasthan" due to its elegance. Tonk is popular among tourists for its magnificent mosques, mansions and havelis. In the ancient times, Tonk was ruled by the tribes of 'Pathans' from Afghanistan. The old town boasts of the architecture prevalent in Mughal era. The highlight of Tonk is the Sunehri Kothi, the Golden Mansion.
Sunheri Kothi is situated near Bada Kua on Najar Bagh road in Tonk City. On looking the exteriors of Golden Mansion, you will find it like any other ordinary monument, but from inside, the fort is stunning with lavish interiors. The walls of the mansion are golden polished, which looks fascinating. The mansion has a big hall, which is known as 'Shishmahal'. The walls of the hall are decorated with glass work, flower paintings, mother-of-pearl and the exquisite work of 'Pachhikari' & 'Meenakari'.
The Golden Mansion is declared to be a Historical Place, by the Government of Rajasthan. To preserve this historical monument, repair work is going on. While moving around the town, you will find many old buildings, which used to serve the British offices. If you are interested in Literature, Tonk offers a huge library that was built by the Nawab of Tonk. The library has a great collection of Arabic and Persian manuscripts. The Persian art and craft are prevalent in Tonk as the Nawab of Tonk was fond of them. One can also check out the Institute of Arabic and Persian Research.
Jama Masjid is another attraction in Tonk, which is one of the biggest mosques in India. The construction of the mosque was started by the first Nawab of Tonk, Nawab Amir Khan in 1246 A.D. The mosque took its present form during the rule of Nawab Wzirudhoula in 1298 A.D. The gigantic minarets of this mosque can be seen from a long distance. The massive doors of the Masjid represent the Mughal style of architecture.
Apart from these attractions, Tonk is famous for its leather industry. So, you can shop nice leather items and accessories for a bargain. In totality, Tonk is a small decent town of a rich cultural heritage, where one you can spend a quality holiday.

Ranthambore National Park

Tigers At The Ranthambore National Park

Blue Bulls And Samba Dear Drinking Water


Samba Dear

Ranthambore National Park is located in the eastern part of Rajasthan at a comfortable distance of 130kms from Jaipur. Nestled between the Aravali and Vindhya mountain ranges, Ranthambore National Park used to be the hunting ground of Maharajas of Jaipur. The Park is an eye treat for the lovers of wild-life. Various natural rivers and man-made lakes flow through the National Park of Ranthambore.
Ranthambore National Park is one of the best tiger reserves in India. The friendly tigers of the sanctuary have brought it many a times on the silver screen. The tigers can be seen even during the day. Here you can also get a chance, to click the best tigers of India, in their relaxing moments. The park has dense deciduous forests which used to make the jungles of the primeval India. The rugged terrain of the Park provides ground to a large variety of wildlife species. Apart from Tigers, the Park has the largest and most diverse collection of wildlife species in India.
The Sanctuary has a great variety of flora and fauna including 300 trees, 50 aquatic plants, over 300 species of birds, 12 reptiles and 30 mammals. It makes home for both resident and migratory bird population. The Park is adjoined by two other sanctuaries, i.e. the Kaila Devi Sanctuary and the Mansingh Sanctuary. The best feature of Ranthambore National Park is that out of the whole park some areas are open for the tourists to travel around and explore the flora and fauna of the park. Hunting is prohibited in the grounds of this National Park.
Ranthambore Park is also classified as a heritage site as it possesses some of the ruins of old monuments. The Lake Palaces, Cenotaphs and Old Citadels stand amidst the park that dates back to thousand years. The Jogi Mahal, Ranthambore Fort and the Padam Talao are exclusive attractions of the Park. Ranthambore Fort occupies the principal position, as the Park was named after this Fort. The fort is probably the oldest existing fort in Rajasthan, built in 10th century. Jogi Mahal, the forest rest house, has the second largest Banyan tree in India.
For wildlife photographers, the park is an awesome deal where they can capture the tigers and other fauna in their camera. To enjoy the tour into this sanctuary, you can hire a jeep that would take you in the deep forests without any fear. Ranthambore National park is one of the best places in the country to see the imposing wild-life in natural ambience. If you are coming to Jaipur, don't miss this "must-see" place of Rajasthan, India.