Dungarpur lies in the southernmost part of Rajasthan state of India. It is also the administrative headquarters of Dungarpur District. It is one of the most interesting places in Rajasthan as the bloodline of this place has been extremely famous and influential. Rajasthan is a state of royal warriors and Dungarpur is one town that takes pride in its bloodline.This place speaks of the influential royalties and also the grace and valor that they depicted in their era. The palaces, architecture, paintings, forts, and temples depict their sense of aesthetics and bravery.
The rail line between Udaipur and Himatnagar in Gujarat runs through the town as does National Highway 8.
History:
The place takes its name after 'the town of hillocks' and is the capital of the former princely state of Dungarpur. Excavations revealed that some of the inhabitants entered Afghanistan and India sometime in the first century of the Vikram Era. It was in 1945 that the 'Dungarpur Rajya Praja Mandal' came into existence and a year later in 1946, a demand was made for grant of responsible Government under the aegis of the ruler. In March 1948 the ruler announced the grant of responsible Government. However, later on, Dungarpur came to be constituted as a district in the state of Rajasthan.
The maximum temperature here is around 45 Degrees C and the minimum falls down to 10 Degrees C. The best time to be here is between August and December. January is the coldest month.
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the acceptable form of currency here.
A tourist visa applicable for the entire country (India) is sufficient.
By Air: For domestic travelers, Udaipur [105 kms] is the nearest airport. The Udaipur airport is connected to Jaipur, which is in turn, is linked to major cities like, Delhi, and Mumbai.
International Flight:
The nearest international airport is Indore [316 kms approx.]. Another international airport is at Jaipur [500 kms].
By Road: National Highway No.8, which runs between Delhi and Mumbai, passes through the district for a total distance of 31-km. The State Highway passes through the district viz. Sirohi-Ratlam Highway. There are regular buses to/from Udaipur.
By Rail: Dungarpur is connected to Udaipur and Ahemdabad. The Railway station is 3-km from the city. Some important train connections are: 9643 Express (Himatnagar-Dungarpur-Udaipur); Mewarpass. (Himatnagar-Dungarpur-Udaipur)
JUNA MAHAL: is a deserted old palace in Dungarpur which has a lot of murals and willow pattern plates embedded in the walls.
BHUVANESHWAR: There is a Shiva temple that is situated at a distance of 9 kms from Dungarpur. A lot of pilgrims visit this temple all year through to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
DEO SOMNATH: This area is situated at a distance of 26 kms from Dungarpur towards the northeast. On the banks of Som river, there is an old and beautiful 12th century Shiva temple, Deo Somnath.
Where To Eat:
Dungarpur offers the best of Rajasthani and Gujarati delicacies. There are a number of restaurants that serve traditional Rajasthani delights.
Where To Stay:
One can stay in the guesthouses and hotels here in Dungarpur.If you are looking for luxurious hotels, then stay at Udaipur, as it has better options compared to Dungarpur.
BARODA/ VADODARA: [41 kms]This is one of the most populated places in the state of Gujarat. Baroda has a rich historical background that spans over 2000 years. This can be seen in the beautiful Jain temples constructed in that era and thay remain a major attraction even today.
UDAIPURr: [105 kms]It is one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Udaipur is also known as the city of lakes. It is one of the most artistic and culturally rich places in Rajasthan.
BENESHWAR: This temple is of prime historic and religious importance. It has the sacred Lord Shiva Linga and is situated on a delta formed at the convergence of Som and Mahi rivers. Near the Beneshwar temple, there is the Vishnu temple that was constructed in 1850.
BORESHWAR: The temple of Boreshwar Mahadeo is situated at a distance of 83 kms from Dungarpur near village Solaj. This sacred temple was built in 1179 A.D.
GALIAKOT: This beautiful village lies on the banks of Mahi river, about 58 kms away from Dungarpur. One can find antique paintings, temples and architectural wonders that are centuries old.
