Rajasthan
Places of Interest
Karauli
The
holy city of Karauli was founded in the mid-14th century. The city is encircled
within a red sandstone wall that has six gates serving as entrances. There are
historical monuments but Karauli has more religious significance rather than historical.
Places
of Interest in Karauli The main attractions are the City Palace (with
breathtaking latticework and carvings, specially the Darbar Hall), Bhanwar Vilas
Palace (built in 1938 in the colonial style, the royal residence still houses
period furniture), Temples of Madan Mohanji and Kalyanji (attracts pilgrims from
all parts of India) and Kaila Devi Temple (hosts the popular Kaila Devi Fair held
annually).
Kumbhalgarh
Kumbhalgarh
is situated among the picturesque Aravalli ranges. The Kumbhalgarh Fort was built
by Maharana Kumbha during the 15th century. The fort is colossal and looks impregnable.
A 36km long wall encircles the fort and there are seven gates for gaining entrance
into the fortified area. Within the fort there are several magnificent palaces
and temples.
Places of Interest in Kumbhalgarh The other places
of interest include Haldighati (the site of the famous battle fought between the
legendary Rana Pratap and the undefeatable army of Akbar, the famous Mughal emperor),
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary (with a diverse wildlife population like panthers,
four-horned antelope, sloth bears, crocodiles, spoonbills and egrets) and Ranakpur
temples (50kms from Kumbhalgarh, these Jain temples are simply beautiful).
Kota
Kota
lies on the eastern bank of Rajasthan's largest river, Chambal. It is a modern
industrial center but has its share of imposing forts, luxurious palaces, beautiful
temples and attractive gardens. A walk along the bustling bazaars is sure to be
an experience in itself.
Places of Interest in KotaThe places
of interest include Chambal Garden (an ideal picnic spot), Maharao Madho Singh
Museum (excellent collection of Rajput miniature paintings of the Kota school,
splendid sculptures, gorgeous frescoes and armory), Jag Mandir (situated in the
famous artificial lake, Kishore Sagar that was made in the mid-13th century) and
Haveli of Devtaji (a splendid mansion with amazing frescoes and lovely paintings).
