About
Dundlod |
Dundlod is a town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan in India.
It is situated in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. It is
well-known for its fort andhavelis. It extends between
latitude 28°.06’ in the north and longitude 75°.20’ in the
east. It lies about seven kilometers north of Nawalgarh in the
heart of the Shekhawati region. Dundlod is a small
principality (thikana) in the Shekhawati region that is
well-known for its frescoed mansions. Visit Dundlod for
nostalgia, gracious hospitality and horse riding. Dundlod is
located at 27.85°N 75.2167°E. It has an average altitude of
354 metres (1164 feet).
Dundlod is the Place to enjoy riding on Marwar horses and also
to play a game of Polo. Horse safaris pass through landscape
comprising of hills, open fields, forests, desert, dunes, and
interesting villages. One can return in the evening to enjoy a
drink under the stars and a wonderful meal and return to
comfortable room, or stay at old princely heritage forts and
palaces or in royal tents. The Royal Equestrian and Polo
Centre is the only horse safari Centre in India to be
recognized and affiliated with the Equestrian Federation of
India. It has hosted Tent Pegging, National Endurance, and
Indigenous Horse Shows. International Horse Show in Tent
Pegging and Invitational 100 kms Endurance have also been
hosted at Dundlod.
Dundlod is an excellent place to unwind, catch with a book,
and get back to nature. One of the family members conducts
excellent tailor-made horse safaris into the desert. These are
great fun and an absolute heaven for horse lovers. The little
known Marwari breed of horses are also bred at the stud farm
at Dundlod and this breed is now finding its own place
internationally. Easily recognized by the hooked tips of their
ears, the Marwari is a tall and broadly built horse known for
its endurance and stamina. |
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History of Dundlod |
Dundlod was a thikana of Shekhawat rulers under Jaipur state.
Its fort was founded in 1750 by Keshari Singh, the fifth and
youngest son of a Rajput ruler Sardul Singh. Major additions
were made in the early 19th century by his descendant Sheo
Singh. Dundlod can be reached by road from Jaipur, Bikaner and
Delhi. Members of the wealthy Goenka merchant family also
settled at Dundlod and their wealth is evident in their richly
fresco painted havelis here. The beautiful Chhatri of Ram Dutt
Goenka and the nearby well were both built by Ram Chandra Goenka
in 1888. |
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Places to visit in Dundlod |
Bhagirath Mal Goenka Haveli
Bhagirath Mal Goenka Haveli is a fine example mirror work on the
windows of the upper walls of the inner courtyard. Prominent are
delicately preserved paintings mostly in round frames.
Satyanarayan Temple
Satyanarayan Temple is worth a visit place in Dundlod which was
founded by the Goenka family. On the walls of the temple there
is a huge wall painting with modern trappings showing British
men and women on bicycles and cars, it also shows a long train
and has a background of telegraph wires. A painting under the
roof in the upper space shows a dignified in leisure either
smelling flowers or reading books. Another painting shows a
turbaned man holding a bird while yet another reveals a woman
admiring herself in the mirror.
Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenka
Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenka lies close to the fort, the chhatri
has an adjacent well. Built in 1888, the dome has floral designs
with banners extending from the centre. The dome is surrounded
by wall painting showing Krishna dancing with his gopis,
scattered with peacocks and musicians. The paintings around the
inner base show war panorama of Mahabharata.
Dundlod Fort
Dundlod fort is a blend of the Mughal and Rajput art and
architecture. The Diwan- e- Khas (Hall of private audience) has
stained glass windows, an impressive library and fine antiques.
The zenana quarters are on the 1st floor featuring beautiful
decors and furniture. The fort is converted into a cozy and
comfortable abode. The dress code of the state and grand
hospitality with the horse guards are an attractive factor.
Lalchandji Goenka Haveli
The haveli of Lalchandji Goenka is also a place of historical
importance. |
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How to Reach Dundlod |
By
Rail
The nearest railway station from Dundlod is Mukundgarh which has
regular local trains linked with the cities like Bikaner and
Jaipur.
By Road
One can take public transport of roadways from all nearby cities
including Alwar, Jaipur and even from Delhi to reach Dundlod.
However, the private vehicle i.e. car or other small vehicle is
also preferable for the tour of this place.
By Air
Jaipur is the nearest airport from Dundlod. |
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