The Sariska Tiger Reserve is a majestic wildlife sanctuary that sprawls over an area of 881 square kilometers. The Sariska Tiger Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, leopards, jungle cats, hyenas, jackals, deer (such as spotted deer, sambhar, and chinkara), antelopes, and over 200 species of birds. The reserve is also known for its diverse flora, including tropical dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and grasslands.
The Neelkanth Temple, situated in the Sariska forest, is believed to have been built in the 6th century AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple derives its name from the deity’s revered epithet, Neelkanth, meaning the blue-throated one. According to local legend, the temple was constructed by Bhima, one of the five Pandava brothers from the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. As the legend goes, Bhima built the temple in honor of Lord Shiva during his exile, when he spent time in the Sariska forest.
Pandupole Temple: A Sacred Haven in the Heart of Sariska
Located in the midst of the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan, the Pandupole Temple is a revered shrine that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is steeped in history and mythology. According to local legend, the Pandupole Temple was built by the Pandavas, the five brothers from the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. The temple’s name “Pandupole” is derived from the Hindi word “Pole,” meaning “gate,” and is believed to be the gateway to heaven.
“Unraveling the Mysteries of Rajasthan’s Most Haunted Fort”
The Bhangarh Fort is a 16th-century fortress that has earned a reputation as one of India’s most haunted sites. The fort was built in 1573 by Raja Bhagwant Das, the ruler of Amber, as a residence for his younger son, Madho Singh. According to local legend, the fort was cursed by a sage named Guru Balu Nath, who had warned the rulers not to build the fort in a way that would cast a shadow on his ashram. When the fort’s shadow fell on the ashram, the sage cursed the fort, leading to its downfall. The Bhangarh Fort is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture, featuring imposing walls, intricate carvings, and ornate temples. The fort’s layout provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with several lookout points and battlements.
“A Marvel of Ancient Engineering in Abhaneri”
Chand Baori, built in the 10th century by King Chanda of the Nikumbha dynasty, is a remarkable example of ancient Indian engineering. The stepwell was constructed to provide a reliable source of water for the local community, showcasing the ingenuity of its builders.
Chand Baori is an exemplary model of ancient Indian architecture, featuring a stunning array of intricate carvings, sculptures, and geometric patterns. The stepwell’s design is based on the Vastu Shastra principles, which emphasize the importance of symmetry, balance, and harmony in architectural design.
This impressive stepwell is 13 stories deep, with 3,500 narrow steps leading down to the water level. The walls and pillars of Chand Baori feature intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, and geometric patterns, making it a true marvel of ancient enginee
“A Serene Oasis: Siliserh Lake”
Siliserh Lake, constructed in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh, the ruler of Alwar, was originally built to supply water to the city. Today, this picturesque artificial lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
You can enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting a variety of birds. Siliserh Lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 100 species of birds documented in the area.