Introduction:
Bharatpur is today known as the country's finest bird sanctuary,
but before independence its fame was more generic. Bharatpur
was the premier Jat state in Rajasthan, Dholpur being the
other one. In a sense Bharatpur is the legacy of Churaman,
a Jat overlord whose forces were a source of constant irritation
to the Mughals in the late 17th century. The Mughals retaliated
by destroying Jat villages. The Jats later regrouped under
Badan singh who firmly entrenched himself in a belt along
the river Jamuna between Delhi and Agra.
Sightseeing:
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.
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. Keoladeo Ghana National Park:
Just outside Bharatpur lies this small, but amazingly rich
bird sanctuary, considered to be one of the world's outstanding
heronries. Perhaps no other bird sanctuary in the world offers
so many different species within so small a compass, creating
a uniquely rewarding bird watching experience. The park originally
called Ghana meaning "dense" takes its name from
the ancient temple of Keoladeo, or Lord Shiva that you will
find inside it. The new ecosystem that emerged became an ideal
habitat for birds of all kinds.
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, art and crafts of the region.
The Palace:
Built by various Maharajas, the royal monument is a brilliant
blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. The magnificient
apartments within have patterend floors tiles with exquisite
intricate designs. The main central wing houses the museum
which has a rich collection of beautiful sculptures, ancient
inscriptions and other exhibits which reflect the art and
skill of the region. |
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