Garh Palace (Jhalawar Fort) Located in the heart of Jhalawar, the magnificent Garh Palace, also known as Jhalawar Fort, stands as a testament to the city's regal heritage. Constructed between 1838 and 1854 AD by Maharaj Rana Madan Singh and his successors, this grand monument is a fine example of architectural brilliance. Inside the palace, visitors can marvel at exquisite frescoes that adorn the walls and mirrors, showcasing intricate artistry and vibrant colors. These paintings, added in later years, are some of the most beautiful examples of fresco art in Rajasthan. A visit to Garh Palace offers a glimpse into Jhalawar’s royal past and its artistic legacy, making it a must-see attraction in the city.

GARH PALACE (JHALAWAR FORT)

Chandrabhaga Temple Nestled on the banks of the serene Chandrabhaga River, the Chandrabhaga Temple complex is a captivating site with its intricately carved pillars and beautifully arched gateways. The complex houses several significant temples, including the Chandramouleshwar, Lakulish, Harihar, and Devi temples, each showcasing unique architectural marvels and religious significance. This tranquil destination offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for those exploring the spiritual and historical richness of the region.

JHALAWAR

Jhalawar – The Historical City nestled in southeastern Rajasthan, Jhalawar, formerly known as Brijnagar, is a unique destination celebrated for its lush landscapes and vibrant natural beauty. Unlike the arid terrains typical of Rajasthan, Jhalawar boasts verdant, water-rich scenery, rocky outcrops, and vibrant fields of red poppies and orange orchards. These orchards contribute significantly to the country's citrus production, painting the town in hues of green and orange.

Jhalawar’s cultural heritage is equally rich, with numerous forts, palaces, and religious sites that echo the grandeur of the Rajput and Mughal eras. The city owes its name to the Jhala rulers, particularly Jhala Zalim Singh, who was the Dewan of the Kota State. He founded the town as a cantonment, initially named Chhaoni Umedpura, near the historic Jhalrapatan Fort. Enchanted by the area’s dense forests and exotic wildlife, the Dewan frequently visited for hunting and eventually decided to establish a township here.

Later, Jhalawar became a strategic military cantonment during the Maratha invasions of the Hadoti region. Today, it offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and historical allure, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT AND EXPLORE IN JHALAWAR

BHAWANI NATYASHALA

Bhawani Natyashala built in 1921 AD by Maharaja Bhawani Singh, is one of India's most unique and historic theatres. Known for its architectural brilliance, this theatre offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of art and drama. What makes this venue even more remarkable is its underground passage, once used for horses and chariots to appear on stage, adding a dramatic flair to performances. Over the years, Bhawani Natyashala has hosted several iconic plays, including Kalidas’s Abhijnana Shakuntalam and classic works by Shakespeare. A visit to this theatre offers an opportunity to experience its rich cultural heritage and the timeless allure of traditional theatre.

CHANDRABHAGA TEMPLE

HERBAL GARDEN

Herbal Garden located near the Dwarkadheesh Temple, the Herbal Garden is a serene retreat offering a rich variety of herbal and medicinal plants. Visitors can explore plants like Varun, Laxmana, Shatavari, Stevia, and Rudraksha Sindoor, among others. Maintained by the forest department, this garden serves as a peaceful sanctuary for nature lovers and those interested in the healing properties of plants. It is an ideal spot for a relaxing walk amidst nature while learning about the beneficial herbs that thrive in the region.

CHANDKHERI ADINATH JAIN TEMPLE, KHANPUR

Chandkheri Adinath Jain Temple, Khanpur Step back in time to the 17th century and experience the architectural grandeur and religious significance of the Chandkheri Adinath Jain Temple. Dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Jain Tirthankar, the temple features a majestic six-foot-tall statue of Lord Adinath in a seated posture. Located near Khanpur, this sacred site offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere for spiritual reflection. Traditional meals are available on-site, along with comfortable and affordable accommodation options, making it an ideal place for both spiritual seekers and travelers.

NAGESHWAR PARSHVNATH JAIN TEMPLE, UNHEL

Nageshwar Parshvnath Jain Temple, Unhel A must-visit for devotees and history enthusiasts, the Nageshwar Parshvnath Jain Temple in Unhel is home to a thousand-year-old statue of Lord Parshvanath. This revered pilgrimage site holds immense religious significance for Jains. Visitors can relish traditional Jain delicacies and enjoy comfortable, reasonably priced accommodation options within the temple complex, making it a perfect place for both spiritual enrichment and a peaceful stay.

SAINT PIPAJI PANORAMA

Saint Pipaji Panorama discover the fascinating historical and spiritual journey of Rajarshi Pipaji, who transitioned from the king of Gagron to a revered saint. The Saint Pipaji Panorama offers a captivating presentation of his life and legacy, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of his transformation and spiritual significance. A must-see for history and culture enthusiasts.

NAULAKHA FORT

Naulakha Fort built in 1860 AD by King Prithvi Singh, the ruler of Jhalawar, Naulakha Fort is one of the last forts constructed in Rajasthan during this period. This historic fort offers a glimpse into the region's architectural heritage and royal history, making it a fascinating stop for visitors interested in Rajasthan's rich past.

GAGRON FORT

Gagron Fort is a stunning example of a hill and water fort, and it holds a special place as one of the six hill forts of Rajasthan listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encompassed by the serene waters of the Ahu and Kali Sindh rivers on three sides, the fort offers a breathtaking view. Near the fort, visitors can explore the mausoleum of Sufi saint Mitheshah, which hosts a vibrant fair during the month of Moharram. Also nearby is the monastery of Saint Pipa, a contemporary of Saint Kabir and a disciple of Saint Ramanand.

Entry:

• Indian: Rs. 50

• Foreigner: Rs. 100

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM

GOVERNMENT MUSEUM

Jhalawar Government Museum established in 1915, the Jhalawar Government Museum is one of the oldest museums in Rajasthan. Located at the heart of the city within the historic Garh Palace, the museum boasts a remarkable collection of rare paintings, manuscripts, and idols. Visitors can also explore inscriptions dating back to the 5th and 7th centuries. This architectural gem offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

SUN TEMPLE

Sun Temple (Padmanabha Temple) in Jhalrapatan, also known as the Padmanabha Temple, is a magnificent 10th-century structure dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Standing at 97 feet tall, the temple is renowned for its intricately carved spire (shikhara), which is a stunning blend of miniature towers that seem to grow upwards in layers. The unique design follows a seven-story pillar format, with each layer featuring progressively smaller pillars. The temple's entrance is adorned with beautifully carved columns and arches depicting gods, goddesses, and Hindu motifs. Restored in the 16th and 19th centuries, the temple also showcases old tiles featuring figures of Vishnu and Krishna, making it a must-see for history and architecture lovers.

DWARKADHEESH TEMPLE

Dwarkadheesh Temple built by Jhala Zalim Singh, the Dewan (fozdar) of Kota State, in 1796 AD, is a significant religious site located on the banks of the serene Gomati Sagar Lake. In 1806 AD, the idol of Lord Krishna was installed here, making it a revered place for devotees. The temple's tranquil setting and historical significance attract visitors from all around, offering a peaceful place of worship and reflection.

DALHANPUR

Dalhanpur situated on the banks of the River Chhapi near an irrigation dam, is a captivating historical site surrounded by a lush green forest. The area is known for its ancient temple ruins, spread across approximately 2 kilometers, featuring intricately carved pillars, torans, and some erotic figures. These remnants of past grandeur make Dalhanpur a unique destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The tranquil atmosphere and the scenic beauty of the surrounding forest add to its charm, making it an interesting spot for exploration and reflection.

BUDDHIST CAVES AND STUPAS

Buddhist Caves and Stupas located in Kolvi village, about 90 kilometers from Jhalawar, the Buddhist caves and stupas are one of the region's most remarkable attractions. These caves house a colossal figure of Buddha and intricately carved stupas, showcasing the finest surviving examples of Indian art. As one of the largest and most significant groups of rock-cut Buddhist caves in Rajasthan, they provide a fascinating glimpse into ancient Buddhist architecture. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages of Vinayaka and Hatiyagour, which are home to other stunning caves, adding to the rich historical and cultural experience of the area.

SHANTINATH JAIN TEMPLE

Shantinath Jain Temple nestled near the Sun Temple, the Shantinath Jain Temple is an exquisite example of Jain temple architecture. Standing at 92 feet tall, this majestic temple is dedicated to Jain Tirthankar Shantinath and dates back to the 11th century. Known for its intricate carvings and stunning design, the temple offers visitors a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of ancient India. It is a peaceful and revered site for devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

How to Reach Jhalawar

• By Air: The nearest airport to Jhalawar is Indore Airport, located 240 kilometers away. The Jaipur Airport is also a convenient option, situated 345 kilometers from the city.

• By Car: Jhalawar is well-connected by road, lying on National Highway No. 52. Regular bus services are available from many cities across Rajasthan, making it easily accessible by car.

• By Train: Jhalawar can be reached by train via the daily Passenger Train between Kota and Jhalawar, along with super-fast trains to Jaipur and Sri Ganganagar on scheduled days.

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