Bharatpur

Best known as an ornithologist's dream location, where he would love to leisurely sit and let his observations catch up with the feathers, beaks and claws of different species of birds. Keoladeo Ghana National Park famously known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a major tourist destination that Bharatpur is famous for. Apart from the bird sanctuary, there is little to be found in this city of Rajasthan. Within the sanctuary is the early 18th century Lohagarh Fort, Government Museum of Bharatpur and Bharatpur Palace.

Though the town is a part of eastern Rajasthan, it gives you a feel of Uttar Pradesh as it shares close proximity with its borders and also lending to the fact that it a Jat dominated region.

Orientation and Information:
Known as the 'Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan', is at a distance of just 5 km from the Bharatpur city centre. Bharatpur lies on the Golden Triangle route between Delhi-Agra-Jaipur as it lies 55 km west of Agra and 175 km east of Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. One can experience a comfortable travel while going from Agra to Bharatpur via National Highway 11 (NH11).

Sights:
Lohagarh Fort: The Lohagarh Fort is situated in the centre of the Old City that was once enclosed within a 11km long stretch of wall, which has now been removed. This iron fort was built by the Jat ruler and the founder of Bharatpur, Maharaja Suraj Mal in early 18th century. The fort is now a bit dilapidated but its might can be assessed from the gates made from Astdhaatu or eight metals signifying valor and chivalry of the Jat rulers. These gates are beautified with paintings of mighty but humble elephants.

From its interiors too, Lohagarh is the manifestation of courage and bravery of the Jat rulers. You can find it evident from the Jawar Burj and the Fateh Burj, the two pillars that signify their victory over the Mughals and the Britishers. The fort is not just about strength, its exuberance can also be imagined by looking at the three beautiful palaces located here. One of it presently houses a museum and a gallery of Jain sculptures dating back to the 7th century. You can also have a glimpse of fine craftsmanship in the frescoes of palace's hammam or the royal bathing area. It would be nice if you get on the upper storey to have a glimpse of the terrace replete with birds and also to get an amazing view of the city.

The Jowahar Burj is located on the north eastern side of the museum and it was from here that the King and his ministers who used to observe the happenings of the city from here. The Burj holds some of the decayed frescoes of those times.

Ganga Temple:
Ganga is a highly revered river of India, which is personified in the form of a female goddess and is worshiped. Devoted to Goddess Ganga is a temple located close to the Lohiya Gate. This red-sandstone temple was built between 1845 and 1937 AD, with the construction commenced by Maharaja Balwant Singh. The temple holds a beautiful statue of the Goddess Ganga, worshiped by crowds of devotees coming here to get their wishes fulfilled.

Sleeping:
After a hectic day of sightseeing you would want to rest in a place which is light on you pocket and has all the facilities too. Though there are many good hotels, guest houses and lodges but the most affordable and qualifying option would be Shagun Guest House near the Mathura Gate. The rooms are comfortable and the owner has enough information about the National Park to guide you.

Getting There and Away:
Bus: Frequent buses ply from Bharatpur Bus Station to Agra (1 ½ hrs), to Fatehpur Sikri (1 hr), to Deeg (1 hr) and to Jaipur (4 ½ hrs). NH 11 connects Bharatpur to Fatehpur Sikri and Agra.

Train: Delhi to Mumbai line connects Bharatpur to Jaipur, Agra, Mathura and Delhi. A passenger train to Agra departs from Bharatpur twice daily. Janata Express plies between Delhi and Bharatpur. There are six other trains that connect Bharatpur to Sawai Madhopur, Kota and Mumbai.

Getting Around: The main modes of traveling within the small town of Bharatpur are cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws. These are affordable and easily available. One can also hire a cycle to travel around to nearby areas.