Around Jhalawar

Jhalrapatan (7 km):
The main excursion from Jhalawar is the 'City of Bells', Jhalrapatan, which is located to its south on the banks of the holy river Chandrabhaga. It was Maharaja Vikramaditya's grandson, Parmara Chandrasen, who built this town. A unique feature of Jhalrapatan is its walled structure that served the purpose of protecting the trade caravans. Its name 'city of bells' signifies a group of more than a hundred temples that were once located in the city, echoing the sacred chimes of temple bells. Though only some of them remain today, the finest one being the 10th century Surya Temple.

Surya Temple:
Preserving one of the best pieces of Lord Surya's idols and adorned by high Shikharas or Spires, like those of the Sun Temple at Konark, is the 100 ft tall Surya Temple of Jhalrapatan. The temple is also known as Padam Nath Temple. Until 19th century, the main attraction of the temple used to be a gold statue of Lord Surya, but later the sheen reduced with plundering of this attractive jewel.

The Shikharas are beautifully carved and are supported by seven storied pillars, that reduce in their size as they reach the top. The roofs and walls of the temple possess sculptures of gods and goddesses, especially the tiles on its exterior walls that possess carved representations of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Every year in the month of October-November, Chandrabhaga Festival is celebrated here.

Chandrabhaga Temple:
On the banks of Chandrabhaga River, another famous temple is situated called the Chandravati or Chandrabhaga Temple. It is dedicated to the Moon God as Surya Temple is dedicated to the Sun God. Located 3 km from Jhalrapatan, this 7th century religious marvel represents India's heritage through its imposing sculptures, carved pillars, bulbous domes and chisel work. The chants and prayer songs on its several Ghats set amidst well laid out gardens, will definitely give your soul a purifying and refreshing feel.

Other Temples:
Other temples of Jhalrapatan that are also worth a visit are the 12th century Shantinath Temple, decorated with bright paintings and carvings on its marble floors and the Sheetaleshvara Temple representing Gupta architecture.

Getting There:
One can conveniently access Jhalrapatan by buses that frequently run from Jhalawar. A bus trip will take 15 minutes and will cost you Rs 4. Another option is to take an auto rickshaw that will cost you Rs 80.

Gagron Fort (10 km):
A worthwhile trip from Jhalawar will be to Gagron Fort. The importance of this fort can only be witnessed once you observe the planning of this impregnable structure. Strategically located at a high point above the confluence of Ahu and Kali Singh rivers, that create amazing bulwark from the fort's three sides and on the fourth side a moat is built that fences the Rajput township from attacks. Tourists can observe its brilliant architecture in peace and experience a serenading view of the river banks, as it is not a crowded site.

Near the fort are located some other places to visit like the Gagron village and Shrine of Sufi Saint Mittheshah, built built in 1423. Mughal emperor Akbar constructed its main entrance gate in 1580. On the occasion of Ramadan, the shrine witnesses crowds of Muslim devotees who come here to offer prayers.

Getting There:
Rickshaws run on the route of Jhalawar to Gagron. But it would be appropriate for you to hire a cab or a jeep, owing to the poor condition of the roads.

Other Attractions:
Other important attractions situated on the outskirts of Jhalawar are Dalhanpur (54 km), which is known for its medieval temples with carved sculptures and other remnants, Kakuni (11 km from Dalhanpur) that preserves an ancient town constituting of 9th century temples, Fort of Manohar Thana near Kakuni and Buddhist caves and Stupas (90 km), dating back to 5th century, situated near the town of Kolvi.