Dungarpur

Traveler’s Facts

About Dungarpur: A picturesque town famous for its fine architecture and carvings.
Famous for: Palaces and Historical Importance
Should I Visit: Yes, if you have an interest in historical sites or architecture.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Location: Southernmost part of Rajasthan, 120 km from Udaipur.

About Dungarpur

Known as the “City of Hills”, Dungarpur in the state of Rajasthan is a relatively unknown and enchanting town in the Aravalli and surroundedby small hills. In fact the name Dungarpur comes from the local Vagdi language.”Dungar” means small hills and “pur” means town. With a range of attractions including rugged mountain peaks, green fertile plains and pretty countrysides, palaces, and stately mansions Dungarpur is an enchanting place to visit with two rivers, Mahi and Som flowing through it. Dungarpur is one of the 32 districts of Rajasthan and the predominant inhabitants are the Bheel, a tribe that traces its origin to 4000 B.C. Dungarpur was set up in the year 1335 by Rawal Veer Singh, in the memory of Dungaria’s widows. Lake Gaibasagar, in the centre of the city is a popular hangout of the locals. Dungarpur is also famous for its unique style of architecture where palaces and many residences of the nobles and statemen are adorned with a style of Jharokhas. Udai Bilas Palace was the royal residence built in Rajput architectural style. Juna Mahal is a seven-storied structure built in different phases of 13th to 18th centuries.
Dungarpur being close to National Highway 8 is close to Uadaipur and Himmatnagar in Gujarat. Many migratory birds come to visiting here in the winter seasons.

History

King Rawal Veer Singh Dev took Dungarpur from the Bhil Chieftain Dungaria and built the foundations of the city and the Old Palace in 1282 AD. Dungarpur is famous for its unique style of architecture. The palaces of the Dungarpur princes decorated with unique style of jharokhas developed during the reign of Maha Rawal Shiv Singh (1730-1785 AD). Artists of Dungarpur are reknowned for their picture framing and lacquer painted toys.

Places of Interest

Juna Mahal
This 7-storey palace was built in different phases from 13th and 18th centuries and is rich in precious frescoes, paintings and stunning mirror work. The mahal was used as a royal hunting lodge. Perched atop a hillock Juna Mahal offers brilliant views of the town. The breathtaking frescoes and miniature paintings deck up the walls of the mahal. Permission is required from the Royal family to visit this palace.

Badal Mahal
The double storied Badal Mahal is nestled along the lake. A favorite tourist spot in Dungarpur, it also attracts flocks of migratory birds that rest in the lake making it even more enchanting.

Baneshwar
Located at the confluence of three holy rivers, Mahi, Som and Jakham, Baneshwar is known for its annual Baneshwar fair held during January – February.

Deo-Somnath Temple
The breathtaking Deo Somnath temple traces its origin to the 12th century and is located 25 km north of Dungarpur. The white stone temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A massive banyan tree, which is several hundred years of age, is another attraction here.

Gaib Sagar Lake
Famous for the shrine of Shrinathji , this lake side is a cluster of many exquisite temples such as the enchanting Vijay Raj Rajeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, The temple was built as per the divine revelation received by Maharawal Vijay Singh.

Galiakot
Galiakot is a significant pilgrimage centre of Dawoodi Bohra Muslims, who were Gujarati Brahmin traders who converted into Islam. The white marble shrine is nestled on the banks of Mahi River. The Urs of the saint that falls in the month of Muharram is a particularly busy period here.

How to Reach

Air
The nearest airport to Dungarpur is at Udaipur (120 km). Ahmedabad Airport is located 175 kms away.

Rail
The nearest railway station is at 3km from the city. It is well connected to Udaipur and Ahmedabad.

Road
NH8 which runs between Delhi and Mumbai makes up for 31kms of Dungarpur. The State Highway passes through the district viz. Shirohi – Ratlam highway.