Dungarpur the "City of Hills" was founded in the 13th century and rose to fame under the Guhilot Ahara Suryavanshi Rajputs, who trace their ancestry from the elder branch of the main lineage at Chittorgarh. The cousins however came together to fight many a historic battle against the invaders. Some 700 years later, Dungarpur is still a picturesque town set amongst the rugged peaks of the Aravalli Mountains.

Dungarpur is the seat of elder branch of Sisodiyas of Udaipur, while the younger branch is the seat of the Maharana of Mewar. The rulers of Dungarpur are known as the Maha Rawal. They are descendants of Bappa Rawal. The last princely ruler of Dungarpur was HH Rai-i-Rayan Maharawal Shri Bijay Singh Bahadur. The town of Dungarpur was founded in 1335 A.D. There are temples erected by Rawal Veer Singh, in the memory of Dungaria’s widows. On the hill, there is also a small fortress where Maharawal Bijai Singh built a place called Bijaigarh, which overlooks a lake. In the east of the town, there is Udai Bilas Place, named after Udai Singh II, surrounded by hills and enclosed by a small lake. Dungarpur town presents a picturesque appearance.

The city of Dungarpur is pretty well known for its distinguished style of architecture which has been extensively followed in the royal palaces and havelis (mansions). 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 gold and silversmiths are renowned for lacquer painted toys and picture framing.

History of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Dungarpur district is the stronghold of the Bheels, a tribe whose history of occupancy in the Aravalli range is said to date back to 4000 BC. The town of Dungarpur itself is said to have been a Bhil ' Pal' or a hamlet of 'Dungaria', a Bhil Chieftain whom Rawal Veer Singh Dev caused to be assassinated in the fourteenth century. Whatever may be the legend about the beginning of the settlements in the district, there is no doubt that it formed the part of the territory known in history as ' Bagar' or 'Vagad'  with ' Vatpadrak', present 'Baroda' (a village in Aspur tehsil) as its old capital.

The material remains of the Ahar civilization discovered in Mewar region constitute remnants of the civilization which may date back to 4000 year ago. From Ahar this culture extended to other centres in the south-east of Rajasthan including parts of present Dungarpur and Banswara district. Some more light it thrown on the history of the region by the silver coins unearthed in thousands from Sarwaniya village in Banswara State, which was also a part of ' Bagar'. These coins trace the history of this region as far back as 181 to 353 A.D. They also establish that this territory was, then, ruled by Kshtrapas or Satraps of the Saka, inhabitants of area lying between Iran and Afghanistan. They entered Afghanistan and India sometime in the first century of the Vikram Era However the Gupta rule over this tract cannot be ascertained with exactitude. Thereafter, the territory may have formed a part of the kingdom of Vallabi. Bagar is said to have been invaded by the Arabs between 725 A.D. and 738 A.D. However, their attacks were repelled and they were expelled from these parts. From the time the parmars of Malwa came to rule Bagar, we get a clear and continuous history of this area. In 12th century AD, the Guhils of Mewar (Udaipur) established their suzerainty in this area.

It is mentioned in the 'Khyats' that during the times of Maharawal Veer Singh Dev, The Sixth descendant of Sawant Singh of Mewar, the county in the vicinity of the present town of Dungarpur was held by a powerful Bhil Chieftain  Dungaria who aspired to marry the dauther of a wealthy ' Mahajan' named Sala Shah. The latter fixed a distant date for the wedding and, in the meantime, conspired with Veer Singh to have the whole marriage party including Dungaria assassinated while they were in a state of intoxication. This was successfully carried out. Rawal Veer Singh took possession of Dungaria's village and founded that town of Dungarpur in 1358 A.D. The legend has tit that Veer Singh had promised to the two widows of Dungaria Bhil to perpetuate their memories by erection a monument in their honour. He is also reported to have agreed to name to town after their departed husband. He further laid down that in future, at the installantion of each new ruler, a descendant of Dungaria would put the 'Tilak' on the forehead of the ruler from the blood drawn from his finger.

Rawal Veer Singh was killed in the sack of Chittor by Allauddin Khilji. He was succeeded by Bhachundi who erected the Hanumat Pol. Rawal Gopinath who succeeded him is famous for his victory over Ahmedshah, the Sultan of Gujarat in 1433 A.D. and it was he who built the Gaipsagar lake at Dungarpur which exists even today remains a beauty spot of this town. Rawal Somdasji, the 13th ruler is famous for repelling the invasion of Sultan Mahmood Shah and Gayasuddin. Maharawal Udai Singh I  is also noted for his bravery. He divided 'Vagad' into two parts. The western portion, with the capital at Dungarpur, he retained for his elder son Prithviraj and the eastern portion subsequently known as Banswara, gave to his younger son Jagmal. It was in the year 1529 A.D. that the two states became independent. Maharawal Askaran's reign witnessed the arrival of the Mughals in this part of the county for the first time. During his reign Akbar himself visited these parts and Askaran attended his court. He acknowledged the Mughal suzerainty and became a vassal of the Empire. Maharawal Punjaraj was honoured by the Emperor Shahjahan, who conferred on him the insignia of the 'Mahimaratib' and a grant of a Dedhahazari Mansab' and 'Izzat' to 1,500 'Sawars in recognition of the services rendered by him to the Emperor in his campaigns in the Daccan.

In the time of Maharawal Ram Singh, the Marahattas invaded these parts. Maharawal Shiv singh the 25th ruler became an ally of the Marahattas. It was in the time of Maharawal Jaswant Singh II. That a treaty of perpetual friendship, alliance and unity of interests was concluded with the British crown on 11th December, 1818 A.D. according to which a tribute of Rs. 17,500 was to be paid annually to the British Government. Maharawal Udai Singh II rendered loyal services to the British Government in the Mutiny of 1857. He was succeeded by Maharawal Bijai Singh in 1898 A.D. who was a very enlightened prince. Maharawal Lakshaman Singh ascended the gaddi on the 5th November, 1918 A.D. and continued to govern the State till its merger in the United States of Rajasthan in 1948.

It was in 1945 that the 'Dungarpur Rajya Praja Mandal' came into existence and a year later in 1946, a demand was made for grant of responsible Government under the aegis of the ruler. In March, 1948 the ruler announced the grant of responsible Government. However, on the inauguration of the United States of Rajasthan  the local Government came to an end when the administration of the State was handedover to ' Rajpramukh' of the newly formed union of State and Dungarpur was constituted as a district of the United States of Rajasthan.

Geography and Climate of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

The district Dungarpur is named after 'the town of hillocks' and the capital of the former princely state of Dungarpur. Dungarpur is located in the southern part of Rajasthan at 23.83° N 73.72° E. It has an average elevation of 225 metres (738 feet). In East and North its borders on Banswara and Udaipur District respectively while it adjoins the State of Gujrat in South & West. Dungarpur District is the smallest district of the state covering 385592 hacts only, which is 1.13% of the total area of Rajasthan. The most of the part of the district is hilly. The over all land productivity is rated to be low for the whole district with somewhat batter conditions found in its southern & western corners.

Dungarpur district (3,770 sq km) consists of a hilly forested area drained by the Mahi River, which forms part of its eastern boundary. Secure at the foothills of the Aravallis, this region of Rajastan is a beautiful blend of wild and rugged terrain towards its northeast and fertile alluvial plains in the southwest. The Mahi and the Som rivers quietly flow through here, the former separating it from Banswara and the latter forming a natural boundary from Udaipur. Originally the native place of the Bhils and once quite inaccessible, Dungarpur still retains its isolation. Anyone in love with nature and wildlife can look forward to a peaceful sojourn here.

Rich in teak, mahua, mango and date trees, Dungarpur town of Rajasthan also plays residence to a wide variety of wildlife including the jackal, jungle cat, Indian fox, hyena, monkey, porcupine, and mongoose. Thick forests also have a substantial aviary population like eagles, vultures, peafowls, partridges, quails and cuckoos. Apart from the flora and fauna, the terrain here is perfect for trekkers and for those who would love to take a walk in the jungles.

Agriculture is the principal occupation, and wheat, millet, rice, corn (maize), and pulses are the chief crops. Beryllium, lead, zinc, silver, iron-ore, and mica deposits are worked extensively.

The climate of the District is dry & temperature peak in May with mean daily maximum of + 41.5° c and absolute maximum +45° c. The coldest month is January with temperatures falling to around +5° c during night but with day temperatures still well above +20° c. The average rainfall of District is 710mm with a great variations from year to year and Drought situation is normal condition in the district.

Rainy Season : July to Mid Sept, and very humid (upto 90%)
Our suggestion: Best time to come: Oct to March 

Tourist Attractions around Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Juna Mahal of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Unlike the more recent Udai Bilas, the Old Palace or Juna Mahal as it is locally known is no longer occupied. It is still owned by the family and can be visited only on invitation. Almost as old as the town itself, the construction of the palace was started sometime in the turbulent 13th century amongst the superb natural defenses of a rocky peak some 1500 ft. from the sea level.

This seven-storied structure resembles a fortress with crenellated walls, turrets and narrow entrances and passage-ways to slow down the enemy. Inside, one will see the most colorful and vibrant palaces embellished with frescoes, miniature paintings, glass and mirror inlay work. The Aam Khas, or main living room, has impressive mirror work and glass inlays. The city palace can be reached by vehicle on a road which winds through the narrow lanes of the town, a scenic drive through villages and countryside, or simply by trekking across the well wooded hill tracks.

Rajmata Devendra Kunwar State Museum of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

A newly constructed museum named "Rajmata Devendra Kunwar State Museum and Cultural Centre, Dungarpur" was opened to the public in 1988. The Rajmata Devendra Kunvar State Museum and Cultural Centre has a huge gallery with an extensive collection from the 6th-7th century, 11th-12th century and 16th-18th century excavations of the Vagad region. The museum gives enough information on the history of Vagad, a region which included Dungarpur, Banswara, and Kherwara in Udaipur.

The notable sculptures in the museum are Mahisasur Mardini (16th-17th century); Vinadhar Shiva in black stone (6th-7th century); Kumari, a female figure (6th-7th century) all discovered from Aamjhara, a beautiful idol of Gajlaxmi (17th-18th century) and the Navgraha in a single stone piece (11th-12th century). The museum also has a panel of portraits of the erstwhile Maharajas of Dungarpur State and photographs of palaces, temples and monuments from the many phases of the land's history.

Timing : 10:00 hrs to 5:30 hrs.
Closed : Friday and gazetted holidays.

Udai Bilas Palace of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Nestled in idyllic splendour, with the blue waters of Gaibsagar lake on one side and a cove of private reserve forest on the other, Udai Bilas Palace is the embodiment of the old world charm of princely India. It offers a scenic location for rest and recreation. This is an ideal paradise of unhurried hospitality from where to explore birdlife and tribal life and experience a splendidly romantic ambience for that very special honeymoon. Exquisite rajput anchitechure, fine murals, miniature paintings and stone carvings will delight the cultured traveller.

The History of Udai Bilas Palace, Dungarpur, Rajasthan dates from the mid-19th century, when Maharawal Udai Singhji-II, a great patron of art and architecture, built a wing of bluish grey local stone "Pareva" overlooking the lake and the "Ek Thambia Mahal", featuring intricate sculptured pillars and panels, ornate balconies, balustrades, bracketed windows, arches and frieze of marble carvings, a veritable marvel of Rajput architecture.

The Udai Bilas Palace was enlarged in 1940 by Maharawal Laxman Singhji, who built three new wings around the "Ek Thambia Mahal" (literally onepillared Palace) and thus created the famous "courtyard" of the Palace. The result is an architectural expression exquisitely detailed. Still the royal residence, the Palace offers accommodation in the house-guest tradition with twenty spacious, airconditioned and lavishly appointed bedrooms, seven double, three single and ten suites. No two rooms are alike, simply because no two guests are alike. From suites to guest-rooms, each enchants with its own personality, spaciousness and modern comforts for a unique experience.

The furnishings are mostly from the 20th century art-deco style, marble bathrooms with English fixtures and running hot and cold water. Meals are served either in the banquet hall which displays hunting trophies and crystal chandelliers or in the more intimate family dining room. Fixed menus are predominantly Indian, subtly spiced to suit our western guests. Continental or Chinese dishes are served on request. Special candlelit dinners are provided by the lakeside, or picnic lunches at the ancient fortified ruins with a panoramic view of the ancient town of Dungarpur. The Udai Bilas Palace offers facilities such as a most exotic swimming pool, heated jaccuzi, gymnasium, boating and modern amenities as in-house laundry service, international telephone and fax facilities, doctor on call and conference facilities.

Besides visits to the many unspoiled Bheel hamlets in and around the town, you can look forward to special shows of tribal music and dancing at the palace itself. Bheels from this region and from the neighbouring states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat can be seen at their best during the annual tribal fair at Baneshwar temple around 70 km from Dungarpur where they assemble in large numbers. More information on their festivals can be provided on request.

Udai Bilas Palace is a round-the-year paradise for bird watchers. The cooler months from November to February are the best to see winter migratory birds and the monsoon season, from July to October, is the nesting season when birds can be observed in attractive plumages. One can see from the Palace itself at remarkably close range egrets, night and pond herons, white necked and painted storks, coots and winter or resident ducks among others, depending on the season of your visit.

Birds are also plentiful in the woodlands where one can hope to see the Grey Hornbill, Grey Partridge, Green Pigeon, Peafowl, Paradise fly-catcher and the Golden backed woodpecker, to name a few representative species. Saras Cranes and Wading birds are abundant at marshes en-route from Udai Bilas Palace to Old Palace ( 4 kms). Nature lovers are welcome to spend hours rowing on the lake or trekking in the forest to get a close look at the birdlife. Bird-watching trips can also be arranged to nearby lakes.

Deo Somnath Temple near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Deo Somnath stone temple located 24 Km from Dungarpur is dedicated to Lord Shiva Temple on the banks of River Som. Deo Somnath is famous for its spectacular 12th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva built in white stone. The temple has imposing currants and an amazing banyan tree which must be hundreds of years old that also attracts attention. This stone temple is an exact replica of the original Somnath Temple in Gujarat. Invaders from across the western borders of India, the first being Mahmud of Ghazni in 1025, repeatedly plundered the original temple, carrying away its vast treasures. The fear of further destruction by the invaders led the devout and devoted Hindus to build a duplicate copy in the inland.

The Deo Somnath Temple also resembles one of the stone temples at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. The temple has a massive elephant carved out of stone at its entrance and a stone Nandi (Lord Shiva’s bull) faces the main shrine. The temple walls have panels of handprints perhaps of the women who immolated themselves as sati. Sati comes from the Sanskrit word satya or truth, which is attributed to a woman who has followed the right and virtuous path by immolating herself on the funeral pyre of her husband. The ceiling of the corbelled dome is a fine piece of architecture resembling the ceilings of the Jain temples in Ranakpur. It is an exquisite example of the complexities and delicacies of stone carving. The pillars are carved with various patterns, the walls with their panel of sculpted figures, stuccos and several inscriptions all add to the charm of this ancient temple.

Galiakot near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Situated on the bank of Mahi river Galiakot village is located 50 km towards the south-east of Dungarpur. The nearest town of Sagwara lies at a distance of 19 km. According to the tradition Galiakot derives its name from a Bhil Chieftain, who ruled the area. It was once the capital of the parmars and also of the erstwhile Dungarpur State. The relics of an old fort can still be seen. This town is famous for the tomb of the saint Fakruddin, who spread the word of Mohammed in the 10th century. It is visited by thousands of Dawoodi Bohara devotees who gather here from all over the country at the time of annual ' Urs' which is held from the 27th day of Muhharram, the first month of Mohammedan year. Syed Fakhruddin was a highly religious man. He was widely known for his learning and saintliness. In the course of his wandering, he died at Galiakot village and was buried there.

Fakhruddin's dargah is a white domed structure with four arched entrances and his mausoleum Mazar-e-Fakhri for the ziyarat (pilgrimage) is visited by many pilgrims from India & abroad.The saint’s followers come to his mausoleum Mazar-e-Fakhri for the ziyarat (pilgrimage) from all parts of the country and abroad as well. The devotees come here to have their wishes fulfilled, and return to express their gratitude after their prayers are fulfilled. Before the ceremonies of Urs begin the saint’s tomb is decorated with flowers and lit up with lamps. The Urs begins with mass prayers and recitations from the Qoran, and songs in praise of the saint are sung in devotional gatherings called majlis. The ceremonies are presided over by Dai-ul-Mutlaq, the religious head of the community. A community lunch is also organized here that is partaken by one and all.

Baneshwar near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Baneshwar, literally means Lord of the Delta (ban:delta, and eshwar:lord), derives its name from the Shiv Linga at the Baneshwar Temple located about 50km from Dungarpur at the confluence of three holy rivers: the Mahi, Som and Jakham.

The Baneshwar temple containing the most reverend Shiva Linga of the area is situated on a delta formed at the confluenced of Som and Mahi rivers, about one and a half km from Nawa Tapra village. Baneshwar Temple has Islamic influences in the play of colour and design, with various artistic patterns in pink, blue and green. Two disciples of Mavji called Aje and Vaje built the Lakshmi Narayan Temple at the confluence of the rivers. Another important temple here is that of Lord Brahma (the Creator of the Hindu Trinity of Creator-Preserver-Destroyer), a large and spacious temple with two storeys and intricately carved pillars and gateways.

The best time to visit Baneshwar is between the months of Jan-Feb when the Baneshwar Fair takes place on the day of the consecration of the idol. It is one of the most important and biggest Bhil festivals in Rajasthan.

Sabla is the nearest bus stand located at a distance of about 7 km from the temple on Udaipur-Banswara-Dungarpur bus route. Sabla is at a distance of 123 km from Udaipur, 53 km from Banswara, 45 km from Dungarpur and 22 km from Aspur.
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Gaib Sagar Lake & Shrinathji temple of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

The famous places to see in Dungarpur include the Gaib Sagar Lake. Set amongst scenic environs, the lake is a bird watcher's paradise. The picturesque surroundings of the lake house numerous species of birds. Also situated along the lake is a famous Shrinathji temple. 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.

Baroda near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Baroda village, once the capital of Vagad, is situated at a distance of 41km by road from Dungarpur and lies in Aspur tehsil. In Aspur proper also, there are a number of beautiful temples. Baroda village is famous for the ruins of temples of old Rajput architecture. Saivism and Jainism were the main religions of this place in the early times. Near the tank in Baroda village, there is a beautiful, old Shiva's temple made of white stones. Near the temple is a 'kundli' bearing an inscription of Samwat 1349 of the times of Maharaj Shri Veer Singh Dev. In the heart of this village lies an old Jain temple. The principal idol in the temple is that of Parshvanath which was identified in Samwat 1904 by Bhattarak Devendra Suri.

Bhuvaneshwar near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Bhuvaneshwar is famous for its Shiva temple which is situated at a distance of 9 km from Dungarpur on the road side near Kanba village in Dungarpur tehsil. A very colourful fair is organized here on the fifth day after Holi, with the focal point being the Gair dance by Bhil tribals.

Poonjpur near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Poonjpur is famous for its temple dedicated to Saint Manvi located around 37 km from Dungarpur. Mavji was an esteemed saint who was considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and the temple was erected at the spot where Mavji used to meditate. This beautiful temple dedicated to Mavji preserves the manuscript of a book - 'Chopra', written by Mavji and an idol of Nishkalank riding a horse.

Jaisamand Sanctuary near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

The lake attracts several species of migratory birds while the wild life sanctuary, is a home for different species of animals like 'Panther', 'Wild Boar', 'Deer  from horned 'Antelopes' (a rare species to be seen) 'mongoose' etc. The island resort is worth visiting after an adventurous trek in the wild for a close encounter with the fauna. Jeep rides are the best. Jaisamand Lake, also known as Dhebar, is located 52km south east of Udaipur and was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1685. It is the second largest artificial lake in Asia covering an area of 36sqkm. The lake remained the largest artificial lake in the world till the building of the Aswan dam in Egypt. The statistics of the lake is really amazing – 9 miles in breadth, 102 feet deep at its deepest end, a circumference of 30 miles with elegant marble staircases leading to the water and marble Chhatri (cenotaphs) on its bank and a small Shiv temple marks the grace of the lake. On either side are the palaces built for the kings favourite queens. On the dam are six exotic cenotaphs and a Shiva temple in the centre. The northern end of the lake has a palace with a courtyard while its southern end has a pavilion of 12 pillars. The hills to its south have grand palaces that have an excellent view of the lake. Tourists can even enjoy the beauty of the lake by motor boats or simply play with its water by diving and swimming.

There are seven islands on this lake and the tribe of Bhil Minas inhabits all. Two bigger islands are known as Babaka Bhagra and a smaller is called Piari. There is a bund on the lake, which has to be mentioned due to its sheer size – 1202 feet long, 116 feet high and 70 feet broad at the base.

The forests around Jaisamand, which once were the hunting grounds of maharanas of Mewar, have now been converted into a game sanctuary. This sanctuary built in 1957 lies just beside the artificial Jaisamand Lake and has an area of 62sq km. The lake welcomes a wide variety of resident and migratory birds and is also home to the cunning crocodiles. The surrounding forest is infested with leopard, cheetal (spotted deer), chinkara (Indian Gazelle) and wild boar. A tourist bungalow, a forest rest house and a hotel provide accommodation to the enthusiastic wildlife watchers. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between November and June.

Arthuna Temple near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Arthuna as well as its surrounding areas have clusters of ruined Hindu and Jain temples belonging to the 11th, 12th and the 15th centuries at a distance of around 80km fromDungarpur. Among the dilapidated ruins is a beautifully carved conjugated statue of Shiva, Parvati and Ganesh. Lankiya village around Arthuna has Shaivite temples called Nilkanth Mahadev Temples. The temple is an old stone temple having beautiful intricate carvings and sculpted figures of women embedded in the outer walls. The bull Nandi (Lord Shiva’s faithful vehicle) stands guard at the entrance in the temple porch.

This old Digamber Jain Nasiyaji Atishaya Kshetra exist on a beautiful Hill which is located 1 km ahead in south of ‘Amaravati’ (now named as Arthuna). Amaravati is a historical place and is famous throughout India for art. There are 49 idols in Padmasana and Khadgasana posture. These have been carved on stone and belong to V.S. 1100 to 1200 as per inscriptions on idols. The whole environment gets aromatic by saffron shower on idols from sky at some times.
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Rishabdeo Temple near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Rikhabdev was the first Jain Thirthankar. The temple built here is dedicated to him. The Vaishnavas believe that, he was the 8th incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This temple is situated around 45 km from Dungarpur and 40 km away from Udaipur. The temple belongs to the Svetambara sect of Jains but at present it is under the control of the State Government of Rajasthan. The idol is better called Kesariyaji drived from the name kesar or saffron which is put on the forehead of the Lord . The town of Rikhabdev is also called Dhulev by the name of the Bhil tribal Dhula who once protected the idol. The Bhils are very loyal to the Rikhabdevji and call it Kalaji. This temple, on the bank of the Koyal River, holds a special significance for people of that area. The idol is believed to very old and is suppose to fulfill the wishes of its devotees. Rikhabdev is well known for its Adinath or Rikhabdev Temple. The antiquity of its existence cannot be traced but it was repaired in the 14th and 15th centuries. Around 2km from Rikhabdev there is a place known as Pagliyaji where the footprints of Lord Rikhabdev are placed and worshipped .A big fair is held annually in the month of Chaitra (Mar/Apr) on the birthday of Lord Rikhabdev.
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Sita Mata Sanctuary near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

This thickly wooded jungle sprawls over the Aravalli ranges and the Malwa plateau with three rivers flowing through the forest. Jakham and Karmoi are the major ones. A huge dam has been constructed over the Jakham river for irrigation, and wild animals in the sanctuary. According to the legend, Sita, wife of Lord Rama stayed in this jungle in Rishi Valmiki's ashram after Lord Rama exiled her. It is the only forest where teak trees of building value are found. The thickly vegetated sanctuary has about 50% teak trees besided salar, tendu, amla, bamboo and bel etc.

The key fauna of the sanctuary are leopard, hyena, jackal, fox, jungle cat, porcupine, spotted dear, wild bear, four horned antelope and nilgai etc. The most important and conspicuous animal of the sanctuary is the flying squirrel, which can be observed gliding between the trees during night, this nocturnal creatures hides in the daylight, the best time to watch the squirrel is in the months of February and March at Arampura Guest House, when most trees shed their leaves making it easier to spot the squirrel.

Fairs and festivals of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Baneshwar fair of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Baneshwar Fair one of the biggest Bhil festivals in Rajasthan, takes place each year on the day of the pran pratishta (consecration) of the idol. The priest locally known as the mathadhish arrives from Sabla in a long procession. A 16cm silver idol of Mavji is brought on horseback to the fair. Locals here believe that after the priest bathes in the river the water becomes holier, and this is enough for the people here to take a dip or two to purify themselves. The ceremony starts with the application of saffron on the Shiva linga (phallus) after it has been bathed and the ritual worship has been completed. The evening sees the application of bhabut or ash on the linga. Worshippers bring wheat flour, pulses, rice, salt, ghee, coconut, ghee, and chillies as offerings to the Lord. At night the raslila (local performance of the episode of Lord Krishna where he dances with the milkmaids) is performed quite boisterously while the attending Bhils sing traditional songs sitting around a bonfire. The fair is lively event of songs, magic shows, folk dances, swings and merry go rounds for children along with a great deal of buying and selling of local handicrafts and fancy tidbits.

Baneshwar or the Lord of the Delta (ban: delta, and eshwar: lord) is what it literally means, deriving its name from the Shiv Linga at the Baneshwar Temple that lies right at the confluence of the Som and Mahi rivers. The Baneshwar Fair is also held here at this confluence from Magh Shukla Ekadashi to Magh Shukla Poornima (falls more or less in the month of February). The fair is actually a combination of two fairs – one held in honour of Baneshwar Mahadev (Lord Shiva) and the other which was started by Jankunwari, daughter-in-law of Mavji, who built the nearby Vishnu temple. Mavji was an esteemed saint who was considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and the temple was erected at the spot where Mavji used to meditate.
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Vagad festival of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

In the celebration Dungarpur does not lack in festivals. The Vagad Festival is a beautiful amalgamation of folk music and local amusement like archery competitions. The Vagad region is the home of the Bhils, a tribe inhabiting the region. Owing to slightly difficult accessibility, the region has been able to preserve its natural beauty and cultural identity.

Shyamlaji near Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

The Shamlaji Mela, also called the Kartik Purnima fair is held in the month of November every year and lasts for about two weeks. It is attended by thousand of people from adjoining districts and even from Rajasthan.
The Shamlaji Temple is a renowned Vaishnav Shrine and the deity housed here is known by various names included 'Gadadhar' and 'Shaksi Gopal'. Apart from a darshan of the deity in the temple, the pilgrims consider a bath in the river Meshwo essential.
Devotees belonging to various castes and communities throng this festival. These pilgrims come in groups, singing devotional songs and carry religious banners to have an audience of the deity at the Shamlaji Temple. The fair is also popular with the Bhil tribes, who have great reverence for Shamlaji, the dark divinity.

Ghotia-Amba fair of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

This is a colorful and traditional fair held every year from Chaitra Thrayodashi to Chaitra Shukla Duje. The Bhils gather to take a holy dip in the tank near the temple with idols of Pandavas. They demonstrate their faith in the holy mango trees and Kaila Pani. Held annually in March, Tribal weapons like arrows and swords are on sale during the fair.

Oors Mubarak in Galiyakot of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Galiyakot is a small village of Tehsil Sagwara in Dungarpur District. It is located on the banks of the river Mahi and holds special significance for Dawoodi Bohras, a sect of the Ismaili Shia Muslims. They converge at Galiyakot for ziyarat (pilgrimage) at the memorial of the revered saint, Sayyed Fakhruddin. The mausoleum is called Mazar-e-Fakhri. The followers of the saint arrive here not only from the States of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan but also from abroad.

Urs which is celebrated on the 27th day of Moharram, the first month of the Muslim calendar. Many devotees seek blessings of the saint to have their wishes fulfilled. This is called mannat and generally the devotees come to the shrine again to express their gratitude after their wishes are fulfilled.

The tomb is decorated with flowers and lit up with lamps before the ceremonies begin. The Urs is initiated with mass prayers and recitation of the Holy Quran. A devotional gathering called 'majlis' is held wherein songs are sung in praise of the saint. The ceremonies of the Urs are headed by the Dai-UI-Mutlaq, who is the religious head of the community. People make offerings at the shrine consisting of sweets, fruits, coconut and jaggery.

Besides Dungarpur, the nearest rail head is Dahod, on the Delhi-Mumbai route and the 96 kms distance from here to Galiyakot can be covered by bus. Another route is from Ratlam, 144 kms . A bus service connects the village to Udaipur, 160 kms

Location and Transport of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Dungarpur is a city in the southernmost part of Rajasthan state of India. It is the administrative headquarters of Dungarpur District. The rail line between Udaipur and Himatnagar in Gujarat runs through the town, as does National Highway 8.

By Air
Nearest airport is Udaipur (110 km).

By Bus
Dungarpur is approchable by road from Udaipur (110 km).

By Train
Rail Nearest railway station is in Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh) (80 kms) connected with all the major cities of the country.

Getting around
Cycle - rickshaw and tongas are available.
Distance:Udaipur (110 km)

Facts about Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Location: South of Jaipur.
STD Code: 02964
Population: 1107037
Area: 3770 sq. kms.
Language: Hindi, English & Rajasthani
Clothing: Summer light tropical (cotton) for summer & Light woolen for winter.

Shopping at Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India

Dungarpur is also famous for its lacquer toys and the art of picture framing, which can be abundantly seen on display during the fairs and festivals here. Artisans first make toys from wood and coat them with lacquer, giving them a shining coat. Semi liquid lacquer is also moulded into a certain shape and then left to dry, eventually being shaped into animal and human figures.