Karauli Tours

Tour to Karauli

A majestic sight from the distance protected in all directions by a red sandstone wall. While the rugged and outdoorsy terrain of the Game Sanctuary provides an opportunity to board jeeps and ramble across the forest. But to get a true flavour of local culture and tradition, the excitingly noisy Cattle Fair (February-March) is a must. It is a wonderful sight with thousands of animals being sold and brought along with attractive ornaments for their decoration.

Karauli is both a town and a headquarter of a district. Formerly, it was the capital of the erstwhile princely state of Karauli. It is believed to have been founded in the year 995 by Raja Bijai Pal, who claims to be the 88th descendant of Hindu God Krishna. It is also considered the holiest city in Rajasthan having over 300 temples located southeast of Jaipur, at a distance of 182 kms.

Attractions
Karauli Fort and Palace: This 600 year old Fort was the former residence of the royal family till 1950. It is said that in earlier days, the rulers of Karauli used geese as a warning system. Today, plenty of geese still live there along with monkeys. The main attraction is the Durbar Hall where several fine paintings of that era are on display. Also, the antique furniture and show pieces used by the royals have a feel of their grandeur.

Bhanwar Vilas Palace: About 500 years old, it was built by Maharaja Ganesh Pal Deo Bahadur in 1938. Today it runs as a five star hotel with facilities such as a billiard room, a swimming pool, not to mention the large rooms and classic cars on display. Striking in beauty filled with frescos, fine stone carvings and paintings and rooms interconnected by steep staircases. It is one of the most intricately decorated palaces in India. Within the ground is a Hindu temple, Madan Mohanji, renowned for a 5-foot statue of God Krishna where hordes of worshippers come to pray and receive blessings with loud gongs and bells in accompaniment.

Kali Devi Temple and Fair: This temple is close by dedicated to the Goddess Kaila Devi. But it is best visited during the fair held in March-April. Lasting for a fortnight, thousands of pilgrims gather to pay homage to the goddess. Take a jeep safari at Kaila Devi National Park for spotting chinkaras, jackals, leopards, blue bulls and wild boars, and visit the villages inside the sanctuary or take a boat ride on the temple lake.

Chambal River: Crocodile safari on the Chambal River is another interest. The River is 35 kms from Karauli.