

halawar
is not an infrastructurally developed place and the biggest problem faced
here is that there is absolutely no good place to stay or eat. This makes
this part of Rajasthan worth a day trip from Kota. Ironically, the region
has too many attractions to be covered in a day trip.
Jhalawar was a small principality created in 1838. The region is known for
opium production and the farms having bloom of poppy flowers in winters. The
state patronized music and drama in early years and the presence of Bhawani
Natyashala, a reputed theater in those times, is a testimony. Renowned
ballet performer Late Udai Shankar hailed from the court of Jhalawar only.
Several government offices now occupy the Garh Palace in the center of the
town; the frescoes in many chambers are still impressive.
Jhalarapatan,
a fortified town 6kms away is more interesting having a rare and beautiful
Sun temple. Another remarkable temple is the ancient Shantinath
Jain temple. Just outside the city on the banks of river Chandrabhaga are
the 7th century temples by the same names. The temples hold a special
religious value among the local people, as it is also the venue of huge
Chandrabhaga fair held annually around the same time as the Pushkar fair.
Gagron Fort, the classic example of Jaladurg (fort surrounded by waters),
is a very quiet and serene place to explore. The impressive fort with great
views of the surroundings is also famous for its talking parrots.
65kms from Jhalawar is Kakuni having ruins of an ancient township and
temples. Nearby is Dalhanpur known for its ancient temple ruins. 90kms from
Jhalawar, a site has been discovered at Kolvi that has ancient Buddhist
caves and stupas atop a hill.
There are several other extraordinary sites in this region which, it is
feared, are not yet recognized.