Bharatpur

Historically Bharatpur was famous for its impregnable fortress but in modern times the city is a bird watcher's paradise partway between New Delhi and the Taj Mahal. At the time of the British Raj Bharatpur was a favourite hunting retreat because of its proximity to what is now the UNESCO recognised, Keoladeo National Park.

Attractions of Bharatpur

The most prominent attraction in Bharatpur is the national park and bird sanctuary but the city has more to offer than just avifauna.

Lohagarh Fort – The Iron Fort is peculiar in Rajasthan because although the area has a history embroiled in war many of the most famous fortifications bear elaborate architectural finery. Lohagarh Fort is an entirely practical building which earned its nickname by deflecting repeated attacks by the British. The modern fort is one of Bharatpur's hidden gems and a magnificent artefact.

Bharatpur Old Town - The old town is off the beaten track but the local shops and small temples which adorn these narrow streets are worth a look if you want to get closer to the real Bharatpur. The murals on the city gate are also an impressive sight and just like Lohagarh Fort they are a magnificent reflection of the ancient culture of Rajasthan.

Deeg – Deeg is an old settlement which is mentioned in ancient Hindu Skanda Purana. A small town outside of Bharatpur, Deeg is famous throughout the region for its palatial gardens which contain over five hundred fountains as well as pools, interesting flora, and a pair of palaces designed to resemble barges.

Braj Bhoomi – Braj Bhoomi is the area in which it is believed Lord Krishna was born and grew up. A major figure in many forms of Hinduism, Krishna is worshipped as an avatar of Vishnu, the preserver of life, and as a supreme being in his own right. However you view Krishna, Braj Bhoomi is deeply touched by spirituality and during the festival of Holi the region comes alive with colour.

Keoladeo National Park – Keoladeo National Park is what brings most people to Bharatpur. Over 360 species of bird have been recorded in the park with a massive 400,000 birds visiting every year. The manmade marshland provides such an excellent feeding ground that 130 of the visiting and indigenous species will breed there. One of the Bharatpur's easier to spot residents is the sarus crane. Shorter only than the emu and the ostrich, neither of which can fly, the sarus crane is the world's tallest flying bird standing up to 6’6” tall.

Please call the number at the top of this page for more information on visiting Bharatpur.