Dholpur Tourism Guide is a city in eastern-most parts of the Rajasthan state of India. It is the administrative headquarters of Dholpur District. It was formerly the seat of the Dholpur princely state, before independence. Dholpur lies on the Chambal River, and is a major tourist spot known for its historical monuments and wildlife. The city is well connected by rail and road to many cities in India.
Dholpur is known for its historical monuments such as the Dholpur Fort, the Bari Kothi, the Savina Palace, the ChaurasiKhambon Ki Chhatri, and the Chambal Garden. The city is also home to a number of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks such as the National Chambal Sanctuary and the Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Dholpur is also known for its traditional handicrafts such as the Dholpur Stone, which is a type of sandstone that is used in making sculptures and statues. The city is also home to the famous Dholpur-Bari cotton sarees, which are hand-woven and dyed in a variety of colours. The city is also known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as Dal-Bafla and Panchkuta.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Dholpur, Rajasthan
Dholpur, often called “The City of Red Stone,” offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Here are 10 top places to visit in Dholpur:
Machkund Temple: This ancient and sacred Hindu pilgrimage site is located about 4 km from Dholpur town. It’s named after Raja Muchchhkund, and according to legend, a divine blessing here led to the burning of the demon Kaal Yaman. The complex features a tank surrounded by temples and hosts a grand fair.
National Chambal Sanctuary: A significant attraction for nature and wildlife lovers. The Chambal River is one of India’s most unpolluted rivers and is home to endangered species like the Ganges River Dolphin, Gharials (a type of crocodile), and Mugger Crocodiles. You can take a boat safari to explore the rich avian fauna, including migratory birds from Siberia, and admire the magnificent ravines.
Shergarh Fort: Located to the south of Dholpur, this historic fort is over 3,000 years old. Originally built by King Maldev, it was later restored by Sher Shah Suri in 1540. Though in ruins, it still boasts intricately carved sculptures of Hindu gods and Jain motifs, offering a glimpse into its rich past.
Talab-e-Shahi: Situated about 27 km from Dholpur, this picturesque lake and the adjoining Khanpur Mahal were built in 1617 AD as a shooting lodge for Prince Shah Jahan. The lake attracts a large number of winter migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Van Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary: One of the oldest wildlife reserves of the Dholpur rulers, this sanctuary is spread over a significant area of the Vindhyan Plateau. It’s home to various wildlife species like sambhar, chital, blue bull, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, and leopard, offering a great escape into nature.
Nihal Tower (Ghanta Ghar): This impressive 150-feet high clock tower, located at Town Hall Road, was started by Raja Nihal Singh in 1880 and completed by Raja Ram Singh around 1910. It’s a prominent landmark and offers a historical insight into the city’s architecture.
Damoh Waterfall: A hidden gem nestled in the wilderness near Sarmathura. This beautiful waterfall is a major tourist attraction, especially during the monsoon season (July-September), when its streams are full and surrounded by lush greenery.
Ramsagar Sanctuary and Lake: Situated close to Van Vihar, Ramsagar Sanctuary includes the beautiful Ramsagar Lake. It’s home to freshwater crocodiles, various fish species, and a variety of waterfowl. During winter, it’s a popular spot for migratory ducks and geese, making it a birdwatcher’s delight.
City Palace (Raj Niwas Palace): Also known as Dholpur Palace, this opulent structure built from red sandstone was once the residence of the Royal Family. It showcases the architectural brilliance of the region and reflects the grandeur of the city’s royal past.
Chopra Shiv Temple: This ancient Shiva temple, built in the 18th century, is considered one of the oldest in Dholpur. It’s known for its architectural beauty and attracts a large number of devotees, especially during Mahashivratri and on Mondays.
These places offer a diverse range of experiences, from historical exploration and religious sanctity to wildlife encounters and natural beauty.
Best time to visit Dholpur
The best time to visit Dholpur is from October to March. This is when the weather is at its best. The temperature remains pleasant, making it suitable for sightseeing and other activities. Summers in Dholpur can be quite hot and humid, so it is best to avoid the months of April to June. During the monsoon season, from July to September, the region experiences heavy rainfall.
How to Reach Dholpur
Dholpur is a city in the eastern part of Rajasthan, India. Since you are currently in Dausa, Rajasthan, here’s how you can reach Dholpur:
By Air: The nearest airport to Dholpur is the Sanganer Airport in Jaipur, located about 141 km away from the city. Flights from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bangalore are available to reach the airport. Once you reach the airport, you can take a bus or cab to reach Dholpur.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Dholpur is the Dholpur Junction. Located in the heart of the city, it is connected to various cities and towns by rail.
By Road: Dholpur is well-connected to the other major cities of Rajasthan by road. Buses to Dholpur are available from cities like Agra, Jaipur, and Delhi.
