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RENOWNED FOR OLD HAVELIS AND MOSQUES

A small town near the city of Jaipur, Tonk is one of the most interesting places in Rajasthan and is renowned for its old havelis and mosques. This elegant town of Jaipur was once ruled by the Pathans of Afghanistan. The ancient town takes pride in its beautiful architectural wonders, established during the Mughal era. The Nawab of Tonk was very fond of literature and built a large library of Persian and Arabic manuscripts. Founded in the 17th century, the town of Tonk serves as a host to several mansions, mosques and British colonial buildings. This cross-cultural town is a mixture of Rajput buildings and Muslim architecture, which sets this town apart from others. Rich in cultural heritage and magnificent structures, Tonk attracts tourists from all over the world.

This historic city formed a part of Harsha Vardhan’s empire during which the Chinese traveller Fa-Hien visited India. The King of Jaipur, Raja Man Singh conquered Tari and Tokra Janpad, during the Akbar regime. 12 villages of Tokra Janpad were given away to Bhola Brahmin in the year 1643. Later, the name ‘Tonk’ was given to these twelve villages by Bhola. Connected to the Bairath culture and civilization, Tonk has a rich historical backdrop. The modern town of Tonk was founded by Nawab Amir Khan. Formerly a princely state, it became a part of Rajasthan in 1948. Tonk is often described as Rajasthan ka Lucknow, Adab ka Gulshan, Romantic poet Akhtar Shreerani ki Nagri, Meethe Kharboojo ka Chaman and Hindu Muslim Ekta ka Maskan. A historical town of archaeological significance, Tonk is an absolute delight for any tourist who visits this town.

SUNEHRI KOTHI

The main attraction of Tonk is the 19th century Sunehri Kothi or the Golden Mansion, situated near Bada Kuan on Najar Bagh Road. The building seems to be rugged and ordinary from its exteriors but a glimpse of its royal golden coloured interiors does absolute justice to its name. Sheesh Mahal, or the glass hall of Sunehri Kothi, is adorned with the amazing glass and floral work along with exquisite samples of Meenakari work that are sure to leave spellbound. Sunehri Kothi has been declared as an important historical monument by the Government of Rajasth

THE ARABIC AND PERSIAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE

The Arabic and Persian Research Institute Rajasthan, Tonk is located in the heart of the Tonk city in the valley of two historical hills of Rasiya and Annapoorna. The Institute has a beautiful Art gallery, started in the year 2002, with an impressive display of magnificent arts and beautiful calligraphic designs that are open to the visitors. The Institute houses some of the oldest collection of books and manuscripts in Persian and Arabic, which were studied by the Nawabs back in the 12th century. Some of the ancient books here are beautifully adorned in gold, emerald, pearls and rubies.

HAATHI BHATA

Situated around 20-30 kilometres from the Tonk- Sawai Madhopur Highway is the Hathi Bhata. Carved out from a single stone, as the name suggests, it is a magnificent elephant, and quite a popular tourist attraction. Constructed by Ram Nath Slat during the reign of Sawai Ram Singh, this monument bears an inscription that narrates the story of Nala and Damayanti.

BISALDEO TEMPLE

Bisalpur, located around 60-80 kilometres from Tonk, was founded by the Chahamana ruler Vigraharaja IV in 12th century A.D. Bisalpur is considered very important due to the temple of Gokarnesvara, also known as Bisal Deoji’s temple. It was constructed by Vigraharaja IV, who was an ardent devotee of Gokarna. The inner sanctum of the temple enshrines a Shiva linga. The temple has a hemispherical dome, supported on eight tall pillars sporting floral carvings.

THE CITY OF GRANITE AND GRANDEUR.

Famed for its numerous quarries, Jalore has risen to prominence for producing some of the finest granite in the world. Originally a small town, industrial growth has helped Jalore grow by leaps and bounds in recent times.
The ‘tope khana’ or cannon foundry at Jalore Fort is the foremost tourist attraction of Jalore and it provides stunning views of the city. The city is also famed for the Sundha Mata Temple which was built around 900 years ago and is sacred to the devotees of goddess Chamunda Devi.

Believed to be founded in the 8th century AD, Jalore was originally called Jabalipur in honour of the saint Maharishi Jabali. The town was also known as Swarngiri, after the hill at the foot of which it is situated. Over the centuries a number of clans ruled over Jalore including the Gurjara Pratiharas, the Parmars and the Chauhans until the city was captured and destroyed by the Sultan of Delhi, Ala-Ud-Din-Khilji. After 4 centuries the city was finally restored back to the rulers of Marwar in 1704.

INDIA’S FIFTH LARGEST DISTRICT

Occupying an area of 28,387 sq. km, Barmer is among the larger districts in Rajasthan. Being in the western part of the state, it includes a part of the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is to the north of this district while Jalore is in its south. Pali and Jodhpur form its eastern border and it shares a border with Pakistan in the west. Partially being a desert, this district has a large variation in temperature. The temperature in summer can rise up to 51 °C and falls to 0 °C in winter. Luni is the longest river in Barmer district. After travelling a length of almost 500 km, it passes through Jalore and merges in the marshy land of Runn of Kutch.

In 12th century this region was known as Mallani. It’s present name was give by its founder Bahada Rao, popularly known as Bar Rao, Parmar Ruler (Juna Barmer). He build a small town which is presently known as “Juna” which is 25 kms from present city of Barmer. After Parmer’s, Rawat Luka -Grand Son of Rawal Mallinath, establish their kingdom in Juna Barmer with help of his brother Rawal Mandalak. They defeated Parmers of Juna & made it their capital. Thereafter, his descendant, Rawat Bhima, who was a great warrior, established the present city of Barmer in 1552 AD and shifted his capital to Barmer from Juna. He build a small fort on top of the city which is also known as Barmer Garh. Hill of Barmer fort is 1383 feet but Rawat Bhima build fort at height of 676 feet which is safer place than top of hill. The estate of Barmer was hereditary bhumia Jagir (independent principality), being an alloidal vassal state of Marwar (Jodhpur) in Rajputana Agency and as against the other Nobles, Jagirdars and Chiefs of Jodhpur State who hold land on condition of regular services being rendered, the Rawat owes nominal allegiance and offers service only during emergencies.
Once a camel trade route, This area is rich in craft that include wood carving, pottery, embroidery work and ajrak prints. Several festivals are held in Barmer, Most important being the Mallinath Cattle festival which is held at Tilwara village in remembrance of Rawal Mallinath who was founder of Mallani Pargana.

HOME TO INDIA’S LARGEST SALT WATER LAKE

Nagaur is located in the north western Marwar region of Rajasthan. It is an area with a forest belt of thorn scrubs that circles the Thar Desert. It’s surrounded by Churu District in the north, Bikaner District from the northwest andSikar District in the northeast. Pali lies in the south and Jodhpur District to the southwest and west. Jaipur is located on its east, while Ajmer is in the southeast. In the south eastern stretch of this district lies the magnificent Aravalli Range while India’s largest salt lake, ‘Sambhar Lake’ lies at the southwestern corner of the district.

This city was known as Jangladesh in Mahabharata era. Its fort stands testament to the great battles and rulers who fought them. This town was granted to Raja Amar Singh Rathore by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Nagas, Chauhans, Rathores, Mughals and even the British laid claim on this city. The dargah of Sufi saint Hamiduddin Chisti Faruqui Nagauri, one of the chief disciples of Khwaja Moinuddin, is also located here. Nagaur is also the birthplace of Saint Poetess Meera Bai and Abul Fazal.

A DELIGHTFUL BLEND OF THE MODERN AND THE TRADITIONAL

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befitting as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, havelis and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. The strapping forts that tower this magnificent city sum up to a spectacle you would not want to miss. The mammoth, imposing fortress of Mehrangarh has a landscape dominating a rocky ridge with the eight gates leading out of the fortress. The new city is located outside the structure. Jodhpur is also known for the rare breed of horses known as Marwari or Malani, which are only found here.

Jodhpur marks its origin back to the year of 1459 AD. The history of this prosperous city revolves around the Rathore clan. Rao Jodha, the chief of Rathore Clan is credited with the origin of Jodhpur in India. The city is known to be built in place of the ancient capital, Mandore of the state of Manwar. Hence, the people of Jodhpur and surrounding areas are commonly known as Marwaris. Also, it is believed that the relics of Mandore can still be witnessed in the Mandore Gardens.

ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT AND EXPLORE IN JODHPUR

WORLD’S MOST FASCINATING BIRD RESERVE

The history of Bharatpur dates back to 5th century BC, when the Matsya kingdom flourished here. The Matsyas were allies of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata war. Legends say that the origin of the name Bharatpur is traced to Bharat, younger brother of Lord Ram. Laxman, the other brother, was given the most prestigious position as that of the family deity of the ruling family of Bharatpur. His name also appears in the state seals and coat-of-arms.

In the early 18th century, Maharaja Suraj Mal captured the fort of Bharatpur by vanquishing Khemkaran, the rival chieftain and laid the foundation for Bharatpur. The valiant Maharaja was very keen to expand the cities and is credited with building the numerous forts and palaces that dot the kingdom, including the Pleasure Palace Complex at Deeg.

Bharatpur is also home to one of the world’s best-known bird watching destinations, Keoladeo Ghana National Park (KNP). 250 years ago, the then ruler built embankments that allowed flooding of this land, turning it into a marsh. Named after the dense jungle that surrounded an old Shiva Temple, this 29 square kilometre man-made wetland is renowned for migratory birds – ducks, geese, waders, raptors, flycatchers and more. In winter, avid birders and ornithologists flock to the park to observe and study the feathered beauties. With more than 370 recorded species, KNP used to also host the Siberian crane. It is a World Heritage Site.

BEAUTIFUL LIKE HEAVEN

Dausa is a small ancient town named after a Sanskrit word Dhau-sa meaning Beautiful like Heaven.
Also referred as Deva Nagri, located around 55 km from Jaipur, on National Highway 11.

The city was the first headquarter of the former Kachhawaha Dynasty and has much history and
archaeological importance linked to it. Situated away from the bustling cities, the town of Dausa
offers an authentic rural experience in Rajasthan.