Jhalawar, located in the southeastern part of Rajasthan, is a city known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Established in the early 19th century, it was once the princely state ruled by the Jhala Rajputs. The city is famous for its lush green landscapes, ancient forts, and beautiful temples that reflect the grandeur of its royal past. Jhalawar also boasts of several lakes and gardens, making it a peaceful retreat away from the desert landscape typical of Rajasthan. With a blend of history, architecture, and nature, Jhalawar offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lesser-known side of Rajasthan.
1. Gagron Fort
Gagron Fort is a majestic hill and water fort located near Jhalawar in Rajasthan. Known for its unique architecture, it is one of the few forts in India surrounded by water on all sides, thanks to the Kali Sindh and Ahu rivers. This strategic location made it a formidable defense structure in ancient times. The fort dates back to the 12th century and has witnessed many battles and historical events. Its massive walls, impressive gates, and intricate design reflect the rich heritage of the region.
Location : Gagron Fort is located in the Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, India. It sits near the village of Gagron, about 40 kilometers from the city of Jhalawar.
Timing : Gagron Fort is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee : The entry fees for Gagron Fort vary depending on the source:
- Indian Nationals: ₹50
- Foreign Nationals: ₹100
2. Bhawani Natyashala
Bhawani Natyashala is a historic theatre located within the Garh Palace complex in Jhalawar, Rajasthan. Constructed in 1921 by Maharaja Bhawani Singh, the theatre was modeled after the grand opera houses he had observed during his European travels. Designed by Thakur Umrao Singh, the theatre was inaugurated on July 16, 1921, with a performance of Kalidasa’s Abhigyan Shakuntalam .
Location : Bhawani Natyashala is located within the Garh Palace complex in Bhoj Mohalla, Jhalawar, Rajasthan, with the postal code 326001.
Timing : Bhawani Natyashala in Jhalawar is not open to the public for regular visits.
3. The Garh Palace
The Garh Palace is a grand historic palace located in the heart of Jhalawar city, Rajasthan. Built in the early 19th century by Maharaja Jhaladatta, the palace served as the royal residence of the Jhala Rajput rulers of the Jhalawar princely state. The palace complex is an architectural marvel showcasing a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, with beautifully carved balconies, intricate frescoes, and expansive courtyards.
Location : The Garh Palace is centrally located in Bhoj Mohalla, Jhalawar, Rajasthan
Timing : The Garh Palace in Jhalawar is open to visitors during the following hours:
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM
- Closing Time: 5:00 PM
- Lunch Break: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Garh Palace in Jhalawar is as follows:
- Indian Nationals: ₹10 per person
- Foreign Nationals: ₹100 per person
4. Sun Temple
The Sun Temple in Jhalarapatan, near Jhalawar, Rajasthan, is a remarkable example of ancient Indian temple architecture. Also known as the Padmanabha Temple or Saat Saheliyon ka Mandir (Temple of Seven Maidens), this temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God. Constructed in 813 AD by Maharaja Nagbhatta II of the Pratihar Rajput dynasty, the Sun Temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region.
Location : The Sun Temple is situated in the heart of Jhalarapatan, approximately 7 kilometers from Jhalawar city, in Rajasthan, India.
Timing : Temples in the region are open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit the Sun Temple.
5. Government Museum
The Government Museum Jhalawar, established in 1915, is one of Rajasthan’s oldest museums. Located within the historic Garh Palace complex in Bhoj Mohalla, near Bada Bazar, Jhalawar, the museum showcases a rich collection of artifacts that reflect the region’s cultural and historical heritage. The museum boasts 32 galleries displaying a diverse range of exhibits, including sculptures, paintings, manuscripts, and artifacts from the region.
Location : The Government Museum Jhalawar is located within the historic Garh Palace complex in Bhoj Mohalla, near Bada Bazar, Jhalawar, Rajasthan.
Timing :
- Open: Tuesday to Sunday
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed: Mondays
Entry Fee :
Indian Nationals:
- Adults: ₹20
- Children: ₹10
- Children under 7 years: Free
Foreign Nationals:
- Adults: ₹100
- Children: ₹50
6. Dwarkadhish Mandir
The Dwarkadhish Mandir in Jhalarapatan, Rajasthan, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known locally as Dwarkadhish. This temple holds significant religious importance for devotees in the region. The Dwarkadhish Mandir is an integral part of Jhalarapatan’s spiritual landscape. While specific architectural details are limited, the temple contributes to the town’s reputation for housing numerous ancient and architecturally significant temples.
Location : The temple is situated in Jhalarapatan, a town approximately 7 kilometers from Jhalawar city in Rajasthan.
Timing :
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit the Dwarkadhish Mandir.
Famous Food In Jhalawar
1. Gatte Ki Sabzi
Gatte ki Sabzi is a traditional Rajasthani dish featuring soft, spiced gram flour (besan) dumplings cooked in a tangy yogurt-based curry. It’s hearty, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with roti or rice.
Ingredients : gram flour, yogurt, and Spices
2. Ker Sangri
Ker Sangri is a classic dish from Rajasthan made with two desert ingredients: Ker (a wild berry) and Sangri (a dried bean pod). This dish reflects the resourcefulness of Rajasthani cuisine, using locally available arid-region ingredients.
Ingredients : Ker, Sangri, and spices
3. Dal Bati Churma
Dal Bati Churma is a classic Rajasthani dish comprising three main components:
- Dal: A spiced lentil curry, usually made from a mix of yellow moong dal, toor dal, and chana dal.
- Bati: Hard, round wheat flour balls baked until golden and crunchy on the outside, soft inside.
- Churma: Sweet crushed wheat balls mixed with ghee and jaggery or sugar.
Ingredients : Mixed lentils, Whole wheat flour, ghee, and Spices
4. Pyaaz Kachori
Pyaaz Kachori is a popular deep-fried Indian snack — a crispy, flaky pastry filled with a spicy, tangy onion mixture. It’s a beloved street food in Rajasthan, especially Jaipur and Jodhpur, but also enjoyed in Jhalawar.
Ingredients : Maida, onion, ghee, and Spices
