Bharatpur Travel Guide
Fortified City and Bird Sanctuary
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Bharatpur, an impregnable fortified city, is today famous for the nearby Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary. Once the shooting preserve of royalty, it is perhaps the most spectacular water-bird sanctuary in India, but the city has a wealth of additional attractions.
According to tradition the name of Bharatpur is traced to Bharat, the brother of Lord Rama of Hindu mythology. Today it is the gateway to eastern Rajasthan and was founded by Maharaja Suraj Mal in 1733 AD. He built numerous forts and palaces across the kingdom including the Pleasure Palace complex at Deeg. Bharatpur, is today known the world – over for its Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a one-time shooting preserver and today a sanctuary for vast numbers of birds which migrate to its water-filled bunds and a visit is a must for all, whether birdwatchers or not.
Attractions in Bharatpur
The primary reason to visit is Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a wonderful sanctuary for birds that flock to its water-filled bunds between October to February. A visit at almost any time of the year is, however, rewarding as there are other attractions such as the ‘Iron Fort’, Lohangarh, and the sumptuous Bharatpur Palace. The wonderful red Ganga Temple is also worth visiting whilst a day-trip out of town to Deeg reveals a pleasant water palace.
Activities in Bharatpur
Unless a keen birder allow a half day to explore Keoladeo Ghana National Park and a further half day for the remaining sights. Two days will allow you to build in a visit to Deeg. Note that a guide to the National Park is recommended – see Getting Around.
Relaxing
There are many restaurants close to the entrance to Keoladeo Ghana NP which provide good food. Nothing can beat a cold lassi on a hot day!
Getting Around
The best way of getting to Bharatpur is as part of a private tour of Rajasthan and western Uttar Pradesh. Once in the city getting around is best done by cycle-rickshaw (or for larger groups, tongas), of which there are many. Rickshaw-drivers will also take you into the National Park, good ones guiding as you go.
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