Bharatpur, popular as the Eastern Gate of Rajasthan bears a great historical and tourist attraction. Bharatpur lies at the eastern border of the Rajasthan and close to the Uttar Pradesh state.
 | The city was founded in the year 1733 A.D., by Maharaja Suraj Mahal. The city at that time was famous as Mewat. The city was protected by impregnable walls and constituted a fortified town. The city, in the 17th century, was dominated by the Jat clan and there influence can still be found in the city. The avian sanctuary that stands situated on its grounds is one of the best in the world. Bharatpur is one of the most frequently visited place in Rajasthan. The city is gifted with a number of a |
History Of Bharatpur
Steeped in myths the history of Bharatpur is a tale of valour, camaraderie and severe struggle. Whilst the ancient history dates back to 3500 years and is linked with mythology, the medieval era in Bharatpur witnessed the rise of the Jat power. In fact this region became one of the power centers for the Jat community. However the modern history of Bharatpur narrates quite different tales with its annexation to the British territories.
From the archaeological evidences that are available, it is proved that the history of Bharatpur dates back to the era of the Mahabharata. Bharatpur was once a part of Matsya Desh and it was here that the Pandava brothers spent their 13th year of exile. The people of Matsya Desh helped the Pandavas in the battle of Kurukshetra. Though steeped in mythology but the most interesting part of the history of Bharatpur is in the medieval times when it was under the reign of the Jats. Bharatpur was named after Bharat, the brother of Lord Rama. According to popular belief the Jats are believed to have descended from the Moon God.
Bharatpur’s history to a large extent was affected by the advent of the British. The British troops were led by Colonel Lake in the siege of Bharatpur but they suffered massive losses and finally were compelled to enter into an agreement with the Jats of Bharatpur. But ultimately in the year 1825, Bharatpur was brought under the supremacy of the British.
The 3500 years old history of Bharatpur is a saga of power struggles. The vivacity and vitality of the Jats made Bharatpur an important episode in the history of Rajasthan. The palaces and forts built by the Jat rulers are now a major tourist attraction. With their deeds of courage and determination, the Jats immortalised their names in the history of Bharatpur.
Tourist Attraction in Bharatpur
The Palace :
It is a fine blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, built in various phases by different Maharajas. The magnificent apartments are richly decorated with patterned floor tiles with exquisite intricate designs. The museum occupies the main central wing depicting collections dating back to 2nd century, which reflect the art and skill of the region.
Keoladeo Ghana National Park :
Keoladeo Ghana National Park or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is one of the best bird preserves in the world. The park was created by the erstwhile Maharaja - Suraj Mal, in the 18th century. The sanctuary was created so as to supply a regular
 | Pstock of waterfowls to the royal kitchen. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is now declared a "World Heritage" by UNESCO. The entire park is situated over an area of approximately 29 sq. km., with a water body covering an area of approximately 11 sq. km. he main attractions for tourists visiting the Keoladeo Ghana Park are the migratory birds, which come from as far away as Siberia and Central Asia to spend their winters in Bharatpur, before returning back |
Some of the migratory birds that visit Keoladeo /Bharatpur bird sanctuary include several species of Cranes, Hawks, Pelicans, Geese, Shanks, Ducks, Eagles, Warblers, Stints, Wagtails, Buntings, Wheatears, Flycatchers, Larks, Pipits etc. Besides the migratory and resident birds, other tourist attractions in Keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary include the Bharatpur government Museum, Lohagarh Fort and Deeg Palace.
Lohagarh Fort (The Iron Fort) :
The Lohagarh Fort, true to its name stood solidly in front of many British attacks, and frustrated them to ends. It faced the British onslaught four times and after a long siege they had to withdraw, but Lord Lake, however was successful in capturing it in 1804. t is very different from the other forts in state, there is no flamboyance associated to fort but it
| generates an aura of strength and magnificence. The fort is surrounded by two massive earthen ramparts, each encircled by a mot, the mud walls were so thick that all missiles were absorbed and the inner fort remained intact. The moats were 150 feet wide in part and up to 50 feet deep. The moat was previously filled with water to ward off the enemy attacks. The sandy ramparts were strengthened by sandy battlements, thus the enemy guns proved of no avail. |  |
Some interesting monuments in the fort are Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas. Moti Mahal and towers like Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj were erected to commemorate the victory over the Mughals and the British army . The Gateway has paintings of huge elephants.
Government Museum is located within the fort complex. This part of the building is called Kamra Palace. The museum exhibits a rich collection of artifacts and sculptures. Also displayed are ancient inscriptions and some historical pieces. Mahal Khas, including the royal apartments built by Maharaja Balwant Singh. The rooms are compact, with stone-latticed windows set in long, arched alcoves. Many walls are still covered with multi colored, painted designs.
How To Reach
Fly Away: The nearest airport for Bharatpur is the one located at Agra. The airport is about 55 kms from the city.
On Tracks: The Indian Railways connect Bharatpur with all the major cities of India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Agra. The Bharatpur railway station is 6-kms from the park.
On Wheels: An excellent road network links Bharatpur to all the major cities of the Rajasthan and its neighboring states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana. Bharatpur is easily accessible by road from Agra (55-kms), Delhi (184-kms) and Jaipur (174-kms).
Shopping In Bharatpur
Some of the famous shopping items of Bharatpur are: Jewelry (of precious and semi-precious stones), Antiques, Marble carvings, Brass work, Jaipur textiles (especially bandhej/tie and dye print)
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