Bharatpur (Rajasthan, India)

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.