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The
Favourite Bird Retreat
The 55-km long journey by road from Agra drives you to the
town of Bharatpur the eastern gateway to Rajasthan. Bharatpur
is popular for its bird sanctuary near the Keoladeo Ghana
National Park, which is the finest in Asia with a rich avian
variety. Every year, the rare Siberian cranes come to spend
the winter in the warmer climate of Bharatpur.
Major
Attractions:
Keoladeo
National Park : It is one of the finest bird
sanctuaries in the world with over 400 species of
water birds. Exotic migratory birds from Afghanistan,
central Asia.Tibet as well as Siberian cranes from the
arctic, greyleg geese from Siberia and bareheaded geese from
China , come here in July/Aug to spend the winters in warmer
climate and they breed till Oct/Nov.
Colonies of cormorants,
spoonbills , storks, egrets, herons, pelicans,
ebis and grey herons can be spotted all over the park. The
raised paths camouflaged by babul trees make their viewing
easier.
Lohagarh
Fort : The massive iron structure built in the
early 18th century. With its impregnable defences
it sustained itself even after a number of British attacks.
The fort was conceived and designed by Maharaja Suraj Mal,
the founder of Bharatpur. The fort has three palaces within
its precincts - Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas.
Government
Museum : A rich collection of artifacts,
exquisitely carved sculptures and ancient inscriptions can
be admired in the Government Museum located in the Palaces.
All these items speak volumes about the rich heritage, art
and crafts of the region.
Jawahar
Burj and Fateh Burj : A few of the eight imposing
towers still stand erect within the glorious ramparts of the
Fort. Especially two of them - Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj
are of special interest. These were built by Maharaja Suraj
Mal to commemorate his victories over the Mughals and
British respectively.
The coronation ceremony of
the Jat rulers of Bharatpur was also help at the Jawahar
Burj.
The
Palace : This royal edifice is a fusion of the
Mughal and Rajput architectural styles with magnificent
apartments and intricately designed floor tiles having
interesting patterns. One can marvel at the ancient exhibits
displayed in the museum in the centeral part of the palace.
RAJASTHAN
TRAIN TRAVEL
PALACE
ON WHEELS
Ever wondered what luxury in the royal times was all about!
Welcome to Palace On Wheels, a luxury train that carries with
it an ambience of the Rajputana era and an exciting fairytale
journey, which takes the visitor to the imperial cities of
Rajasthan every single day. The coaches also carry out an
image of the Rajput states with beautiful interiors. Last but
not the least the "Royal Treat" for the passengers
on board include salons, bar lounges & libraries in every
coach as well as restaurant and organized shopping facilities.
EXCURSIONS
CITIES
Deeg (32-km): Once
the summer resort of the rulers of Bharatpur, it served as the
second capital of the region. This interesting town is strewn
with massive, fortifications, stunningly beautiful gardens,
magnificent palaces and a colourful bazaar.
HOW
TO GET THERE
Air:
Agra 56-km is the nearest
airport.
Rail: Regular rail services connect Bharatpur with
several cities on Delhi -Mumbai trunk route, Jaipur and Agra.
Some important train connections are : Golden Temple Mail
(Mumbai-Bharatpur-Jammu Tawi); Intercity Express (Hazrat
Nizamuddin-Bharatpur); Paschim Express (New Delhi-Bharatpur-Mumbai)
Road: A network of bus services links Bharatpur with
several cities within and outside the state.
Local Transport: Tongas and Cycle-rickshaws are the
best way to commute within the city.
Occasion:
32-km From Deeg, Rajasthan.
Tourist Attractions: Lohagarh Fort, The Palace,
Keoladeo National Park.
Area: 22-sq-kms
Altitude: 250m
Best Season: October - February.
Languages :Rajasthani, Hindi, English.
Best Time To Visit: October-February.
PLACES
TO STAY
There
are plenty of accommodation options available from deluxe
heritage hotels to budget accommodation.
NEAR
BY CITIES
Deeg:
32-km.
Jaipur: 150-km (approx).
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