The Eastern gateway of Rajasthan is Bharatpur. It was first founded in the late 17th century by Rustam Jaat and later developed and became capital of Maharaja Surajmal in the thirties of the I8th century. According to a legend known after Bharat the younger brother of. Lord Ram. But some historians believe it is so called because it was founded after filling a lowlying area. It was once an invincible, well fortified township moulded out of a region formerly known as Mewat. It has a fort whose symbol is looted cannon. But today, Bharatpur is one of those rare places where even time take wings—water bird sanctuary that hosts thousands of Painted Stork, Egret, Greylag-Geese, Siberian cranes and so many more. Lilting birdsong ushers in 'dawn while the wings of white Herons churn the sky into froth. Feathers, wings and beaks find a haven in this beautiful green area.
What to see
Lohagarh: A fort founded and designed by, Maharaja Suraj Mal in early 18th century is called `Lohagarh' Iron fort suggests the amazing history it has behind it. It is so called because it remained invincible during a number of attacks. The fort has two entrance gates the northern `Ashtdhati' gate and the southern lohia' gate both brought as booty from Delhi by Maharaja Jawahar Singh. There are several towers in the fort of which Jawahar Burj which celebrated the victory over the Mughal built in 1765 by Maharaja Jawahar Singh and Fatett Burj marking the defeat of the British in 1803. Some of the monuments worth a visit within the fort are Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas.
The museum houses a rich collection of items of this region, There are exquisite sculptures some of them are so finely chiselle( revealing an epitome of skill and a grace so stunning-almost a symphony in stone. There are also some ancient inscriptions; they are of great historical value. There are other exhibits also that bring an art and skill to the fore.
The Palace: this royal monument is a brilliant blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. The magnificent apartments within, where royalty lived have patterned floor stiles with beautiful, intricate designs. There is also a museum in the central wing with a few exhibits dating to the 2nd century A. D.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary: A vast expanse covering 52 sq Km. is Bharatpur bird sanctuary, used to be the royal hunting preserve of the princely family of Bharatpur. Today it is one of the most breath taking water—bird sanctuaries in India. Migratory birds flock here in July/August on the marshes and low lying trees. They breed here till October/November, There are thorny babel trees, and their tops above the water, holding the nests of thousands of birde that came here every year.
The outstanding species are the open Bill stork, Painted Pelican, Cormorant, Darter or Snake Grey Heron Stork, Egret, Lbis Bird, Spoon bill and Grey Heron. There are exotic migrants from Afghanistan Central Asia, Tibet as well as Greyleg Geese from Siberia, Siberian cranes from the Arctic, Barhea-ded Geese from China. Besides, there are also wildlife species —Pythons, Porcupines, Nilgai, Spotted Deer, Hylnas, Sambhar, and wild Boar.
The best way to see birds is by boats punted through the rushes. Though there are also jeepable embankments Criss—Crossing the marshland, marking viewing easier.
Excursions
Deeg: The town of water palace is Deeg used to be the royal summer resort of the rulers of Bharatpur and served as the 2nd capital of the region. It is dotted with a number of forts, palaces and gardens—well known for their spectacular, architectural splendor. Gopal Bhavan and Suraj Bhavan are a worth to visit. The gardens have beautiful tinkling fountains and the aura exudes a majestic Mughal slyle.
Dholpur: Dholpur has special historic significance. The famous fort of Dholpur was an important military cantt. A Mughal style tomb in Dholpur Khas with large minarets all around and the tomb of Zareena Begum built on Hindu architecture and claimed to be originally a Shiva temple of Marat-has, are worth visiting. Dholpur game sanctuary has panther, boar, stag boar etc.
For more information on Rajasthan Tour Packages contact Swan Tours, a leading travel agents in India at 011-23415601.