Founded in 1765, the Indian town of Sawai Madhopur is today perhaps best known for its Ranthambhore wildlife reserve. Situated some 180 kms from Jaipur, the capital city of the Indian state, Rajasthan, Sawai Madhopur bears testimony to an important historical past, a past of brave warriors and noble heroes, who together, helped carve the history of an era long gone.

Whether you’re a historian or a nature lover, Sawai Madhopur, with its forts, temples and reserves, has something for everyone.

Ranthambhore National Park:-
In 1972 when India officially launched the conservation campaign known as “Project Tiger”, Ranthambhore National Park was one of the first nine reserves chosen. Prior to India gaining independence, the park was privately owned by the Maharaja of Jaipur. The park, together with some other sanctuaries, forms part of the famous Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, attracting thousands of visitors annually from all corners of the globe.

Ranthambhore Fort:-
While it remains unclear exactly when the great Ranthambhore fort was built, it is without doubt, the most historically significant aspect of Sawai Madhopur. Even today, the very essence of this once mighty fort, invokes a sense of patriotism. For many of the rulers of medieval India, accessibility to the fort was no less than a permanent challenge with no real measure of success. Contrary to what some may want to believe, not one of the forts rulers had a peaceful reign. Visitors to the fort will also be delighted in that, it is not only the fort itself which is worthy of a visit but instead, there are numerous places of interest within the fort grounds as well, including mosques and a Ganesh temple.

Ranthambhor Ganesh Temple:-
This temple is of significant religious importance with thousands upon thousands of worshippers traveling here from all over India to seek blessings from the Lord of happiness and prosperity. Visitors will also no doubt find it particularly interesting to note the mail which is posted to Lord Ganesh.

Amareshwar Mahadeo Temple:-
This sacred temple is situated in the hills on the way to the National Park. Boasting some very beautiful scenery, it has also gained a lot of popularity as a picnic spot.

Chamatkar Temple:-
Being famous for many miracles, visitors can find this temple situated on the main road near the railway station. There is also an annual fair held here each year.

Kala-Gaura Bhairawa Temple:-
You can’t miss this temple with the huge elephants on the gates, situated near the city gate.

Shiwad Temple:-
This is another important temple in the region which sees thousands of worshippers coming to seek prosperity from Lord Shiva. An added advantage for visitors however, is the nearby fort built up on a hill with a rather menacing appearance.

Other interesting places in or around the town include Rameshwaram Dham, Chouth Mata temple and Khandar fort. While there is no solid evidence as to when this fort was constructed, historians have established that it was at the height of its power during the 12th century.

Fairs & Festivals

Ganesh Chaturthi FairThis is the largest and most popular fair held in the city. It takes place at the fort and lasts for a period of three days.

Shiv Ratri Fair
This fair attracts thousands of devotees seeking blessings of prosperity from Lord Shiva. It takes place at Ghushmeshwar Mahadev, 3 kms from the town.

Rameshwar Dham
This event takes place at an exquisite Shiva temple some 60 kms from the town and attracts thousands of people including government officials and VIPs.

Kalyanji Fair
This annual event, attracting many thousands of people is organized in the nearby city of Gangapur and lasts for no less than seven days.