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Dungarpur

(For larger view of this map click on the image)

       Nestling in the foot hills of the Aravallis, Dungarpur has an interesting topography, ranging from wild and rugged terrain in the north-east to fertile plains of alluvial soil in the south-west. Two magnificent rivers –   the Mahi and the Som   flow through the area.  Dungarpur was  founded in  1282 A. D. by Rawal Veer Singh, when he took over this part of the state from the  Bhil Chieftain Dungaria .

          The area is rich in teak, mahua, mango and Khajur trees. Dungarpur is also noted for its wildlife variety – jackal, jungle cat, Indian fox, hyena, black faced monkey, porcupine, common mongoose are the common  inhabitants .  The commonly   seen bird  variety includes partridges,  peafowls,  quails, cuckoos, eagles and vultures. Various migratory birds also visit the area during the winters .

          Dungarpur is famous for its unique style of architecture as seen in its palaces and noble residences. These royal residences are adorned by ‘jharokhas’ built in stone in a unique style typical of the area developed during the reign of Maharawal Shiv Singh (1730-1785 A. D. ) The district’s gold and silversmiths are renowned for lacquer painted toys and picture framing .

GENERAL INFORMATION

Places to See

Juna Mahal :
The 13th century seven storeyed structure resembles a fortress with crenellated walls, turrets, narrow entrances and corridors to slow down the enemy. The splendid interiors embellished with beautiful frescoes, miniature paintings and glass and mirror work, make it an impressive creation. One requires prior permission of the resident royal family to visit the Palace.

Gaib Sagar Lake :
A famous shrine of Shrinathji lies along the lake. The shrine is a conglomeration of several exquisitely built temples with one main temple. The Vijay Raj Rajeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is an architectural splendour and a fine example of craftsmanship of the sculptors or shilpkars of Dungarpur .

Govt. Archaeological Museum :
The museum houses a fine collection of ancient statues.

Baneshwar (60 kms) :
At the confluence of the Som and Mahi rivers, stands the Baneshwar Temple with a Shiva Lingam. Nearby is the Vishnu temple, believed to be built on the spot where Mavji, an incarnation of Lord Krishna, meditated. Another noteworthy temple is the Brahma temple – a spacious two storeyed structure with exquisitely carved pillars and gateways. The temple is the venue of an annual fair.

Deo Somnath (24 km) :
A splendid 12th century temple of Lord Shiva built in white stone, the temple has imposing turrets. The brilliant juxtaposition of huge stone slabs to create this impressive edifice epitomizes the craftsmanship of a magnificent era .

Galiyakot (58 km) :
Once the capital of Parmars, this tiny village is renowned for its magnificent shrine of Sayed Fakhruddin. Thousands of devotees throng here during the Urs. The shrine is beautifully decorated and illuminated for the occasion. The Jain temples close by are also worth a visit.

Baroda (41 km) : An erstwhile capital of Vagad, the village has some beautiful temples. Of particular note are the old Shiva temple in white stone and an ancient Jain temple whose black wall has exquisitely carved image of the 24 tirthankaras .

Bhuvaneshwar (9 km) :
A famous temple of Lord Shiva is situated here and is the venue of a colourful fair held on the fifth day after Holi. Gair dance by the Bhils is the major highlight of the fair .

Poonjpur (37 km) :
A beautiful temple dedicated to Mavji preserves the manuscript of a book – ‘Chopra’, written by Mavji and an idol of Nishkalank riding a horse.

Festivals and Fairs

Holi : Gair dances by tribals wearing colourful dresses and carrying swords, arrows annd sticks are the major attraction .

Baneshwar Fair :
On the full moon day – Magh Shukla Purnima (Feb), thousands of Bhils from Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan gather at the confluence of the Mahi and Som rivers for a sacred dip. It is an occasion to worship, sing and dance. Magic shows and acrobatic displays add interest to the celebrations.

Bar Bij Fair :
Held a month after Diwali on the occasion of Bar Bij, it is an important celebration of the district. The Bhils in their traditional finery, dance, sign and make merry.

How to get there

Air : Nearest Airport is in Udaipur (120 kms) and Ahmedabad Airport (175 kms ) .
Rail : It is connected to Udaipur and Ahmedabad. The Railway station is 3 kms from the city.   Some important train connections are :  

•  9643 Express ( Himatnagar-Dungarpur-Udaipur)
•  Mewar Pass (Himatnagar-Dungarpur-Udaipur)

Road : National Highway No.8 which runs between Delhi and Bombay passes through the district for a total distance of 31 kms. The State Highway passes through the district viz. Shirohi – Ratlam highway .   

Places to Stay   

Udai Bilas Palace : Single and double room suites are also available. Heritage Hotel offers facilities which includes picnic lunch spots at ancient fort ruins and folk concerts of tribal dances.

Other Budget Hotels are : Hotel Pratibha Palace, Hotel Vaibhav ,Hotel The Way , Hotel Pushpanjali .For more hotels in the region please visit : http://www.hotels-udaipur.com