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Bharatpur district in Rajasthan is famous for its historical fort and palaces like the Lohagarh fort, Fateh Burj and Jawahar Burj. It is also well known for its bird sanctuaries. The history of Bharatpur traces the rise and fall of the Jats in the eastern part of Rajasthan. Under rulers like Badan Singh and Suraj Mai the Jats were active during the late 17th century and served as one of their main centers. The present day Bharatpur has in total 9 Sub Division and ten Tehsils. There are more than 1500 villages which are inhabited.
Geography of Bharatpur
The Northern border of the district touches district Gurgaon of state Haryana, Eastern Border touches district Mathura and Southern border touches Agra district in Uttar Pradesh and Dholpur district of Rajasthan. It touches district  of Dausa in south-west and Alwar district in the North-West. Bharatpur state was hemmed in on the west by the Rajput kingdoms; on the north by Delhi and its surrounding districts, and on the northeast by the Marathas, firmly planted in Malwa.
History of of Bharatpur
The 'Eastern Gateway of Rajasthan' , was founded by Suraj Mai in 1733AD. Suraj Mai`s first exploit was the capture of Fatehpur fortress (modern day Bharatpur). According to legends, Suraj Mai was blessed by a Naga hermit and, thus, constructed the magnificent fort of Bharatpur in the region formerly known as Mewat. .The untutored genius turned Fatehpur, a small mud-fort into a courage, shrewdness, dogged perseverance and an indomitable never-say-die spirit that would never accept defeat. The place was named Bharatpur after Bharat, the brother of the Hindu mythological Lord Rama. The interesting part of the Bharatpur history is the dominion of Jats in the region since 17th century. They were the first Hindu people with whom the Arabs came into contact and all Hindus were known to the Arabs by the name Jat. The Jats were brought under the same roof and moulded into a force by leaders like Churaman and Badan singh. The Jats cast the final stone bringing about the downfall of the proud and dreaded colossus of Hindustan-the Grand Mughals defeat.
Tourism In of Bharatpur
Bharatpur Sanctuary is a major tourist attraction spot. It is synonymous with the picture of wildlife of Rajasthan. This region is popular because of the World Heritage Site, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. The district of Bharat pur represents yet one more facet of Rajasthan and thereby adds up to the spice of variety. In Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Seeing migratory and non migratory birds at the park is one of the favorite Things to do in Bharatpur. There are also places of historical interest. Deeg palace, for instance, stands majestically over a slightly elevated point. It is surrounded by impressive moats, ramparts and gateways; the interiors are mostly in ruins now, but the watch tower still stands among the ruins, keeping an eye over the city and the palace; over it is placed a gun captured from Agra Fort. The Lohagarh Fort, true to its name stood solidly in front of many British attacks. It is very different from the other forts in state, there is no flamboyance associated to fort but it generates an aura of strength and magnificence. Some interesting monuments in the fort are Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas. Moti Mahal and towers like Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj were erected to commemorate the victory over the Mughals and the British army. The Gateway has paintings of huge elephants.
Bharatpur Sanctuary is well known for its tourist places and as a result people from far of places come here to spend their vacations. With a history dating back to 3500 years it has been a silent spectator to the glory, defeat, romance, separation and several decisions of the ruling class. Though several battles ensued for capturing Bharatpur but eventually it received political stability in the hands of Jats.
Some Major Attractions in Bharatpur
Keoladeo National Park
This would be any bird-watching enthusiasts first choice. Once the royal hunting ground of the princes of Bharatpur, the Bharatpur Keoladeo National Park is one of the finest habitat of birds in the world. Bubbling with over 400 species of resident water birds, the park is furthermore populated by the annual influx of birds from colder countries (during winter season). Exotic migratory birds from Afghanistan, Central Asia, Tibet as well as Siberia, the Arctics and China, come here in the months of October/ November to spend the winters.
Lohagarh Fort
The Lohagarh Fort (also known as Iron Fort) was built in the early part of 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal, the founder of Bharatpur. Supposedly taking its name from its invincible defense, the massive iron structure prides in being one of the few impregnable structures of Rajasthan in India. The fort complex holds three exquisitely built palaces namely - Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas. Two of eight imposing towers - Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj still stands in pride within the fort complex. These towers were built to symbolise his victory over the Mughals and the British rulers.
Government Museum
The Government Museum has a rich collection of artefacts, brilliantly carved sculptures and ancient inscriptions. All these items speak volumes about the rich heritage, art and crafts of the region.
Climate
Summers are too hot here, whereas the winters are extremely cold. The best time to visit this park is in the winters, between the months of October & February. In the Summer, Light tropical clothes and in Winter, Light wollen clothes are recommended.
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