Dungarpur
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Situated about 110 km south of Udaipur, Dungarpur, or the City
of Hills, was founded in the 13ht century. You can visit the Juna
Mahal which is adorned with beautiful frescoes, paintings, mirror
work and glass inlays; the well maintained Government run Rajmata
Devendra Kanwar Museum and the beautiful Deo
Somnath Temple.
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.Founded in 1197. The rulers of Dungarpur claim descent
from the Rajput house of Mewar. The first rulers of Dungarpur were
Kunwar Mahap and his descendants who resided in the town of Galiankot,
where their ruined castle still stands. Towards the end of the 12th
century, Samant Singh, the eldest son of the ruler of Mewar, had
to leave Mewar in favor of his younger brother Kumar Singh. Samant
Singh drifted into the hilly area of Bagar and, within the next
century, Samant Singh's successors controlled the whole province
of Bagar. Rawal Udai Singh of Bagar was killed at the battle of
Khanua in 1527, fighting for Mewar against Moghul Emperor Babur.
His territory was thereafter divided between his two sons, forming
two separate states. Prithvi Raj remained in Dungarpur while his
brother Jagmal Singh became independent ruler of Banswara.
Excursion
Juna Mahal
A deserted old palace, built in stages between 13th and 18th centuries,
this crumbling, seven storey palace is filled with old frescoes and
paintings.
The Aam Khas, or main living room, has impressive mirror work
and glass inlays. The former royal hunting lodge, on a nearby hilltop,
has sensational views over the town and its many temples.
Rajmata Devendra Kunwar State Museum
A government run museum having displays which date back to 6th century.
Deo Somnath Temple
A beautiful 12th century temple. Built in white stone, the temple
has imposing currants. It gives an impression of the antiquity.
There are several inscriptions in the temple.
Baneshwar
Situated at the confluence of three holy rivers, the main attraction
of Baneshwar is the week log Baneshwar fair held in January - February.
It attracts thousand of Bhil people.
Galiakot
An important Muslim pilgrimage center, Galiakot is famous for the
tomb of the Saint Fakruddin. Each year thousands of Bohra Muslim
pilgrims flock here to pay homage to the saint.
About 50 km south east of Dungarpur is the important Muslim Pilgrimage
center of Galiakot. This town is famous for the tomb of the saint
Fakruddin, who spread the word of Mohamad in the 10th century. Each
year, thousands of local and international Bohra Muslims flock here
to pay homage to the saint. Top
Getting There
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.
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General Information & Accomdation info on Dungarpur city of Rajasthan - India
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