Nagaur Travel Guide

Tour to Nagaur

Steeped in history it goes back to the 4th century BC. It is believed to have been founded by Naga Kshatriyas and changed hands among the most famous Indian emperors such as Balban, Sher Shah and Akbar. It finds mention in the Mahabharata also.

To appreciate Nagaur, look past its barrenness and immediately you will be fascinated by the liveliness of the folks. It is called the Land of Fairs for nothing. Forgetting the harsh realities of their lives, the locals participate with paramount passion. There are around 18 major fairs but the Cattle Fair is the liveliest and it is the second largest animal fair of India. Held in February, crowds from nearby villages also come for trading their cows, bullocks, oxen and camels. Everything from needles to nails is found here and games such as camel races, tug-of-war, etc are held along with folk music and dance. And it is extremely informative on the life and culture of the people.

Nagaur is proud of its fort considered the best flat land fort in the whole of Rajasthan. Located right at the centre of the town with a beautiful façade it is a striking edifice in stark contrast to the surrounding desert. Nagaur Fort was built sometime in the 4th century. It has three massive gates - the Delhi Gate, the Tripolia Gate, and the Nakash Gate - and encloses many temples, mosques and palaces. The Hadi Rani Mahal, Deepak Mahal, Bhakt Singh Palace, Amar Singh Mahal and Akbari Mahal are the most beautiful splattered with frescoes in their walls and ceilings.

Close to the Fort is the mosque constructed by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Another must-see is the shrine of the famous Sufi saint who lived in nearby Ajmer, Moin-uddin Chishti. The shrine Tarkeen Dargah is dedicated to his follower Khwaja Hamiduddin Nagauri. The Jain Temples are another beauty, built in glass with paintings on the life of Lord Mahavira and Parsvnath. The Krishna Mandir and the Ganesh Mandir along with the Shah Jahani mosque within the fort complex are also worth visiting.

The region is also punctuated with beautiful cenotaphs built in traditional Rajput style some in the form of pristine stone umbrellas. Most famous ones are Sawan and Bhadon Cenotaphs.

But its enduring symbol is the massive fort shining in brilliance at the heart of the town.