Bharatpur

Introduction
Just 176 Km from Capital city Delhi and 55 Km from Agra, this eastern gateway of Rajasthan situated. The history of Bharatpur dates back to Matsya Kingdom. It has played a prominent role in Hindu mythology. According to myths, Bharatpur was named after the name of Bharat, the brother of Lord Rama. Founded by Maharaja Suraj Mal in 1733 AD, nobody can deny the historical brilliance of this city.

Today Bharatpur is more famous for its Keoladeo National Park which is popularly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. This Delight of ornithologists is a popular place for birding. Wildlife enthusiasts and bird lovers come all the way to get a glimpse of the avian world of this area. 176 kilometres from Jaipur, this place is considered as a highlight for any tourist.


General Info
¤ Location - In Rajasthan, 184 km from Delhi in southeast
¤ Highlights - Keoladeo National Park, Iron Fort
¤ Local Tongue - Hindi
¤ Literacy - 42.96 %
¤ STD code - + 91 5644


Climate/Best Time
During summers(April to June), the temperature ranges from 38 ºC to 45 ºC. Arrival of monsoon lowers the temperature to 27 ºC. Average rain fall at Bharatpur is 67.5 mm. Mercury dips down during winters (October to March) below 10 º C and the ground fog persists on some of the days in January.


Places to Visit
» Keoladeo National Park
Erstwhile the best duck shooting resort in British era, this avian paradise was declared a reserve for birds in 1956 and it was later updated to National Park. UNESCO included the park among World Heritage Sites. Before monsoon, hundred of birds start their roost and nest activities on Babool and Kadam trees of the park. Some of the main attractions of this park are Saras Cranes, Grey Heron, Egret, White Ibis, Spoonbill and Night Heron.

» Iron Fort
It rightly deserves its name as this fort bore number of attacks of British successfully. Unlike the other forts in the state, this fort doesn't bear any floridity with it. Still it creates the aura of strength and magnificence. Some monuments in the fort include Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas.

» Government Museum
Kamra Khas within the fort has been converted into this museum. It comprises of a rich collection of exquisite sculptures, antiques and some ancient inscriptions. All these historical remains are priceless in fact. This fort remains opened between 10 am to 4 pm.

» The Palace
This combination of Mughal and Rajput architecture was built by various Maharajas in different phases. Almost all the apartments are aesthetically decorated with patterned floor tiles and beautiful designes. Main central wing of the palace comprises of a museum.


Getting There
Nearest airport from the city is at Agra which is 54 km from there. There are daily flights from Delhi, Bombay, Varanasi and Lucknow. It lies on the main Delhi-Bombay line and is also linked with Agra. It makes Bharatpur easily accessible by rail journey. It is well-connected by road with Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Mathura. Regular buses and taxis are available for Bharatpur.