What to See
Bharatpur National Park: Also known as Keoladeo National Park, it derived its name from a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva situated in the center of the park. Occupying about 29 kms, this is a haven for all bird-lovers, housing over 375 species of birds. The Sanctuary attracts birds from across the world especially during monsoons, the most awaited species being the Siberian Cranes. Popular species include cormorants, darter, purple and grey heron, egrets, open-billed, white necked and black necked stork, white ibis, spoonbill and night heron. In fact at most times a single tree might house over 50 nests done by several species. Among the ducks, the most popular breeds include pintail, common teal, mallard, widgeon, red crested pochard and gadwall. Predatory birds like imperial eagle, steppe and tawny eagle, spotted eagle and marsh harrier are popular residents of the park too. Apart from birds a number of wildlife species can be spotted including the Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Blackbuck and Wild Boar. A wide variety of reptiles and pythons can also be found in the Bharatpur National Park. Cycling around the park lets you unravel a great deal of attractions in the park. Boating in the Bharatpur Lake early in the morning or in the evening is an experience not to be missed.
Open from: Dawn to Dusk
Entry Formalities: You need to obtain an entry permit from the warden at the entrance of the park. Separate payments have to be made for carrying cameras and other photographic equipments.
Note: The best time to visit the sanctuary is between October and February. Resident birds can be spotted during the months of August to November.
Bharatpur Palace & Government Museum: The Bharatpur Palace is an outstanding piece of architecture that is a blend of Mughal and Rajput styles. The palace houses a number of apartments decorated with elaborately designed patterned floor tiles. The central wing of the palace has now been converted into a museum, which exhibits a rich collection of artifacts dating back to as far as the 2nd century. On display, is an array of antiquities, exquisite sculptures and ancient inscriptions.
Ganga Mandir: This temple is a two-storey structure built entirely of sandstone and sporting floors painted in black and white. The terrace is best avoided as the edges are not stable and can be highly precarious. It is believed that all the people employed in the service of the state were asked to donate one month's salary or any increment in their salary for the temple. The temple was then constructed out of the money collected.
Laxman Mandir: Dedicated to the younger brother of Lord Rama, the temple showcases doorways, ceilings, pillars, walls and arches carved with intricate stonework.
Lohargarh Fort: Literally the iron fort, it is known for the power and brilliance it exudes. Surrounding the fort is a moat, which acted as a form of defense against enemy attacks. The fort has an Ashtadhatu (eight-metal) gate, adorned with huge elephant paintings. Other attractions of the fort include Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas, Moti Mahal, Kothi Khas, Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj.
Alwar: This is a tiny township nestled between clusters of the Aravallis and has a long history under the Rajputs, Mughals and later the British. Alwar also houses the famous Sariska Sanctuary, which is home to a large population of tigers. Another interesting site worth visiting is the Alwar Fort that stands on the rocky Aravalli Hills.
Deeg: Formerly a princely town, which was once used as the summer resort by the Maharaja of Bharatpur, you can visit Govardhan, a small but famous pilgrimage centre that lies along the narrow spur to the east of the town.
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