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The Favourite Bird Retreat
The 55-km long journey by road from Agra drives you to the town of
Bharatpur the eastern gateway to Rajasthan. Bharatpur is popular for its
bird sanctuary near the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, which is the finest
in Asia with a rich avian variety. Every year, the rare Siberian cranes
come to spend the winter in the warmer climate of Bharatpur.
Of the remnants of the royal past remain the marvellous Bharatpur Palace
housing a rich repository of a large number of ancient exhibits that date
back to the early 15th century.
FORTS
Lohagarh Fort: The massive iron structure built in the early 18th
century. With its impregnable defences, it sustained itself even after a
number of British attacks. The fort was conceived and designed by Maharaja
Suraj Mal, the founder of Bharatpur. The fort has three palaces within its
precincts - Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas.
Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj: A few of the eight imposing towers
still stand erect within the glorious ramparts of the fort. Especially two
of them - Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj are of special interest. These were
built by Maharaja Suraj Mal to commemorate his victories over the Mughals
and British respectively.
The coronation ceremony of the Jat rulers of Bharatpur was also held at
the Jawahar Burj.
PALACES
The Palace: This royal edifice is a fusion of the Mughal and
Rajput architectural styles with magnificent apartments and intricately
designed floor tiles having interesting patterns. One can marvel at the
ancient exhibits displayed in the museum in the central pan of the palace.
MUSEUMS
Government Museum:
A rich collection of artefacts, exquisitely carved sculptures and ancient
inscriptions can be admired in the Government Museum located in the
palace. All these items speak volumes about the rich heritage and art and
crafts of the region. more...
WILDLIFE
Keoladeo National
Park: Once the royal hunting reserve of the princes of
Bharatpur, it is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world,
inundated with over 400 species of water birds. Exotic migratory birds
from Afghanistan, Central Asia, Tibet as well as Siberian cranes from the
Arctic, greyleg geese from Siberia and barheaded geese from China, come
here in July/August to spend the winters in the warmer climate and they
breed till October/November.
Colonies of cormorants, spoon bills, storks, egrets, herons, pelicans,
ebis and grey herons can be spotted all over the park. The raised paths
camouflaged by Babul trees make their viewing easier. more...
PALACE ON WHEELS
Ever wondered what luxury in the royal times was all about! Welcome to
Palace On Wheels, a luxury train that carries with it an ambience of the
Rajputana era and an exciting fairytale journey, which takes the visitor
to the imperial cities of Rajasthan every single day. The coaches also
carry out an image of the Rajput states with beautiful interiors. Last but
not the least the "Royal Treat" for the passengers on board
include saloons, bar lounges & libraries in every coach as well as
restaurant and organized shopping facilites. more...
CITIES
Deeg (32-km): Once the summer resort of the rulers of Bharatpur,
it served as the second capital of the region. This interesting town is
strewn with massive, fortifications, stunningly beautiful gardens,
magnificent palaces and a colourful bazaar.
Air: Agra
56-km is the nearest airport.
Rail: Regular rail services connect Bharatpur with several cities
on Delhi -Mumbai trunk
route, Jaipur and Agra. Some important train
connections are : Golden Temple Mail (Mumbai-Bharatpur-Jammu Tawi);
Intercity Express (Hazrat Nizamuddin-Bharatpur); Paschim Express (New
Delhi-Bharatpur-Mumbai)
Road: A network of bus services links Bharatpur with several
cities within and outside the State.
Local Transport: Tongas and Cycle-rickshaws are the best way to
commute within the city.
There are plenty of accommodation options available from deluxe heritage hotels to budget accommodation. There are forest rest houses and PWD Dak bungalows also available.
Banks/Money Changers: State Bank of Bikaner and
Jaipur, B. Narayan Gate, Bharatpur
Post and Telegraph Office: G.P.O., Gandhi Park.
Clubs: Bharatpur Club, Company Bagh.
Tourist Reception Centre: (RTDC), Hotel Saras, Agra Road, .
Guide Services: Approved guides for the National Park can be hired
from the Tourist Reception Centre, RTDC Hotel Saras, and Dy. Chief Wild
life Warden, Forest Rest House
Mini Bus Tour: Mini Bus is operated by Forest department. Please
contact the Dy. Chief Wildlife Warden, Forest Rest House
Deeg: 32-km
Jaipur: 150-km (approx)
| Area | : | 22-sq-kms | |
| Altitude | : | 250m | |
| Climate | Max | Min | |
| Summer | : | 45.0 °C | 37.0 °C |
| Winter | : | 31.7 °C | 7.0 °C |
| Rainfall | : | 69 cms | |
| Best Season | : | October - February | |
| Clothing | |||
| Summer | : | Light tropical | |
| Winter | : | Light wollen | |
| Languages | : | Rajasthani, Hindi, English | |
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