Jaipur Excursions
Ranthambhor National Park
Ranthambhor National Park, before a princely game conserve is the scene where
the celebrated Indian Tiger is best seen. Ranthambhor Tiger Reserve lies on
the junction of Aravali and Vindhyas just 14 Kms from Sawai Madhopur in Eastern
Rajasthan. It sprawls over a varying and undulating landscape. The scenery changes
dramatically from gentle and steep slopes of the Vindhyas and sharp and conical
hills of the Aravali. A tenth century fort also blends amicably with the background.
Pure sands of Dhok (Anogeissus pendula) interspersed with grasslands at the
plateaus, meadows in valleys and luxuriant foliage around the canals make the
jungle. Three big lakes – Padam Talab (meaning Lake), Malik Talab and Raj
Bagh – are similar turquoises studded in the vast forest that abounds with
aquatic vegetation including duckweeds, lilies and lotus.
A significant geological feature within the park is the 'Great Boundary Fault'
where the Vindhaya plateau meets the Aravali range. The Rivers Chambal in the
South and the Banas in the North bound the National Park. The park is dotted
with steep rocky hills and the dominating architecture of Ranthambhor Fort (built
in the 10th century), adds to its landscape. The rugged park terrain alternates
between dry deciduous forest, open grassy meadow, dotted by several lakes and
rivers that are only made passable by rough roads built and maintained by the
Forest Service.
The tiger is not the only attraction at Ranthambhor; although it is the one
park resident that people come to see. A variety of birds including Owlets,
the ubiquitous Langur (monkey), Leopard, Caracal, Hyena, Jackal, Jungle Cat,
marsh Crocodiles, Wild Boar, Bears and various species of Deer are the other
attractions.
Abhaneri
Abhaneri is a village about 95 kms from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Agra Road. A detour
is well merited for its amazing step wells or 'baoris' and Harshat Mata Temple.
According to a legend, the village is so called because the Goddess Harshat
Mata who is shown portrayed in a joyous mood is believed to spread brightness
or "abha" all around. The village's original name was Abha Nagri,
and its name today is Abhaneri.
It is believed that the celebrated king Raja Chand established the village.
On the other hand it is felt that the mythological Raja Chand could be King
Bhoja, who ruled over the Gurjar kingdom in the ninth century AD. The ruins
of the temple also speaks of the 10th century architectural and sculptural styles.
There is a huge tank named "Chand Baori", opposite to the temple fortified
on all four sides with bastions for defence. Even though Abhaneri is now in
ruins, the place has a distinct reminiscence about itself. It is best approached
by road, buses ply between Jaipur and Agra.
Kaurali
Located at 182 kms southwest of Jaipur, it was founded in 1348 and is best known
for its Krishna Temples. The Fort, which was constructed over different period,
is about 600 years old. The fort was the residence for the royal family until
1950 and is now occupied by monkeys and geese. The geese were used in the early
days as warning system against any intruders. They still seem to be doing their
duty. The Bhawar Vilas Palace, which is owned by the descendents of the royal
family and resembles a large manor, is a hotel now. The rooms are comfortable
and good meals are available. Karauli is best connected by bus or taxi from
Jaipur.
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