Facts about State of Rajasthan

On January 29, 2014 By Team Work

Category: States of India
Rajasthan is the largest state of India as per Census 2011. A major portion of the state is covered
with Thar Desert which is also known as The Great Indian Desert. It is a land of sand dunes,
desert and rocks.

The State of Rajasthan is a land of wonderful palaces, forts, colours and festivals. Some important
facts about the State of Rajasthan is mentioned below:

Name: The state Rajasthan is also known as The Land of Kings.

Existence: It was created on 30th March, 1949.

Boundary: It is surrounded by Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab.

Population: As per census 2011, the total population of Rajasthan is 68,621,012. Rajasthan holds
8th rank in population wise.

Land Area: The total area of Rajasthan is 342,239 sq. km. Rajasthan holds 1st position in rank as
area wise.

Language: Hindi is its Official Language.

Literacy: Its Literacy Ratio is 68%

City: Jaipur is its Capital City. Jaipur is also the largest city of the state. Jaipur is also known as
the Pink City.

District: There are 33 districts present in Rajasthan.

Festivals: Main festivals which are celebrated in a large way are Teej, Holi, Gangaur, Diwali,
Makar Sakranti, Janmashtami, etc.

Religion: Religions which are present in Rajasthan are Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism and Jainism.
Around 0.53% peoples follow some other religions.

Connectivity: Rajasthan is well connected via Roadways, Railways and Airways. It has 3 main
airports which are in Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur.

Places of Interests: Rajasthan has 2 National Tiger Reserves: Ranthambore and Sariska Tiger
Reserve.
Rajasthan is home of the valiant Rajputs known for their bravery and chivalry, Rajasthan is said to
have been a region where human settlement dated back to the early historical period.
Archaeological excavations establish a connection with the Harappan culture, which dates to
about 1000BC. In the period from 3000-500BC this region formed a part of the river valley
inhabitation. The relics of Virat also speaks of the area being inhabited by the Pre-Aryan people of
the oldest called Push Karara Nanya (modern Pushkar in Ajmer).

The first Aryan settlement here was at Dundhmer in modern Dundhar. The influence of Jainism
and Buddhism, also spread to this region. It witnessed the rule of the Magadha, Kushanas and the
Guptas, during which it was divided into Mahajanapadas and Janapadas. Rajasthan formed part of
the Mauryan Empire in about 130-150AD and the Guptas ruled it in the 4th century. From about
640AD the Gujars, Pratiharas, Chauhans, Gahlots etc established their independent Kingdoms.

Internal rivalry between the Rajput Kingdoms led to the establishment of many strong Rajput
Kingdoms, which resisted the supreme domination of the Mughals. The Mughal rule declined by
about 1707AD and gave way to the Marathas. The Marathas were subdued by the British who
disintegrated many of its areas. After Independence Rajasthan was organised into a state in 1956.

Districts of Rajasthan

Rajasthan has 32 districts: Ajmer, Alwar, Banswara, Baran, Barmer, Bhilwara, Bikaner, Bharatpur,
Bundi, Chittorgarh, Churu, Dausa, Dholpur, Dungarpur, Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Jaipur,
Jaisalmer, Jalore, Jhalawar, Jhunjhunu, Jodhpur, Karauli, Kota, Nagaur, Pali, Rajsamand, Sawai
Madhopur, Sikar, Sirohi, Tonk and Udaipur.

16 June 2015 Khyati Sehgal

Rajasthan, famous as the land of kings, possesses the best specimens of Indian art, architecture,
and culture. When it comes to gathering information about and looking into the true and
mesmerizing history of India, no other place can serve the purpose like Rajasthan. There are a
number of enriching historical places to visit along with your family or friends in the state.

Heres a list of the most famous historical places in Rajasthan you must explore on your next trip.

Historical Places in Jaipur

1. Amer Fort

Situated in Amber, few kilometers away from Jaipur, constructed by Sawai jai Singh, this Fort
leaves the visitors spellbound with the art and architecture that has been endowed to it. On the
inside visitors get a chance to see Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khaas along with Sheesh Mahal, Jai
Mandir and other temples, Kesar Kyari garden, etc.

Most appropriate time to visit: November To February

Opening hours: 9:00 Am 4:30 Pm

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2. Archaeological Museum

Located in Amer, in Dil-e-Aaram Gardens, is this museum where many sculptures and excavation
materials collected from Raigarh, Sambhar, etc. along with some epigraphs have been placed.

Most appropriate time to visit: October To March

Opening hours: 10:00 Am 5:00 Pm

The Ultimate List of Places Near Jaipur

3. City Palace, Jaipur

One of the best historical monuments in Jaipur, built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh, the City Palace
reflects the amazing blend of Rajasthani tradition and Mughal architecture. Inside it there are
many minor palaces like Chandra Mahal, a number of gardens and temples.

Most appropriate time to visit: October To March

Opening hours: 9:30 Am 5:00 Pm

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4. Jaigarh Fort

Lying 400 metres above Amber Fort, this fort is known as Victory Fort. One can have the best
view of Aravalli hills as well as Amber Fort standing at Jaigarh Fort. The most interesting thing
kept here is jaivana Cannon. Because of rumors of some treasure buried here, this fort was
initially closed for common people but now it is open to all to experience its wonderful palaces,
gardens, temples and museum.

Most appropriate time to visit: November To February

Opening hours: 9:00 Am 4.30 Pm

Must Read: 50 Best Hill Stations In India To Escape The City Heat

5. Nahargarh Fort

Constructed by Sawai Raja Jai Singh in 1734, this historical monument in Jaipur serves the
purpose of protection that was to be provided to the Jaipurs early rulers capital city Amber. It is
said that this Fort was haunted by the spirit of king Nahar. Madhavendra Bhawan, used for
summer retreat by the kings family is worth watching in Nahargarh Fort.

Most appropriate time to visit: November To February

Opening hours: 10:00 Am 5:30 Pm

Historical Places in Udaipur

6. Chittorgarh Fort

Built by Chitrangad, the Mori Rajputana ruler, this historical place in Udaipur, Rajasthan is the
largest in India. The fort is lauded for its magnificent architecture, glorious Rajputana history and
the bloody sieges and jauhars. The Kirti Stambh and Vijay Stambh are main attractions of the
Fort.

Most appropriate time to visit: November To February

Opening hours: 8:00 Am 7.30 Pm

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Historical Places in Bikaner

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7. Junagarh fort

One of the most beautiful historical places in Rajasthan is the Junagarh fort. Constructed in 1587
by Raja Jai Singh, the grand fort is still unconquered and has got thrilling high wall along with
deep ditches. Beautiful Mahals like Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Karan Mahal, etc. along with a
museum are the main attraction points here.

Most appropriate time to visit: November To February

Opening hours: 10:00 Am 4.30 Pm

8. Fort Museum

In this Museum, people can find a great collection of antique Rajputana weapon

Geography & History of Rajasthan

Geography of Rajasthan
Lying between 2330' and 3011'North latitudes and 69 29' and 78 17' East longitudes in the
northwestern part of India, Rajasthan is indeed one of the biggest states in the country. The state
shares its north-western and western boundary with the Indo-Pakistan international border that
extends about 1,070 km and touches the major districts including Barmer, Ganganagar and
Jaisalmer.

Rajasthan is edged by Pakistan in the west and northwest, the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and
Haryana in the north and northeast. The state of Madhya Pradesh lies in the southeast and Gujrat
in the southwest. The Tropic of Cancer passes across the southern point of the state in the
Banswara district. The capital city of Rajasthan is Jaipur also known as the Pink City.

Rajasthan has an extensive area of 3, 42,239sq.km comprising of 11% of the total geographical
area of India. The extensive topography includes rocky terrain, rolling sand dunes, wetlands,
barren tracts or land filled with thorny scrubs, river-drained plains, plateaus, ravines and wooded
regions .A massive portion of the state of Rajasthan( about 70% of total landmass) is desiccated
and encloses the biggest Indian desert- the Thar Desert known as the 'Maru-kantar'. This desert
region embraces the districts of Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner and Jodhpur.

The oldest chain of fold mountains

The Aravali Range spearheads Rajasthan into two geographical zones. The Mount Abu is the only
hill station of the state which houses the loftiest summit of the Aravali ranges- Guru Shikhar Peak.
The soil and vegetation of Rajasthan alters with its wide-ranging topography and the availability
of water. Rajasthan soils are mostly sandy, saline, alkaline and chalky (calcareous), Clay, loamy
and black lava and so on. Only 9.36% of the total geographical region lies under forest vegetation.
The flora and fauna are particularly endemic to the arid regions and are specially adapted
biologically to survive in the dry, waterless regions of the "Desert State of India". The wildlife
consists of 23 species of lizards, 25 species of snakes, various species of the deer family and 450
species of avifauna.

Rajasthan experiences extreme climate or weather and consists of four distinct seasons- Pre-
monsoon, Monsoon, Post-monsoon and winter. The average temperature in winter ranges from 8
to 28 C (46 to 82 F) and in summer the average temperature ranges from 25 to 46 C (77 to
115 F) making the region parched and draught-prone.

History of Rajasthan

Considered as the original abode of Kshatriyas, Rajasthan has a history of about 5000 years and
the mythological origin of this gigantic land is related to the famous myth of Ram, the seventh
incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The history of Rajasthan can be classified into three parts owing to the
different epochs- Ancient, Medieval and Modern. The ancient history of Rajasthan belongs to
1200 AD when Rajasthan was a part of different dynasties including the glorious Mauryan Empire
in around (321-184 BC). The Dundhmer region was the first Aryan settlement and the first
inhabitants of this area were the Bhil and the Mina. The earliest Rajput dynasty that emerged
around 700 AD was the Gurjara Partiharas and since then Rajasthan was cited as Rajputana (the
land of the Rajputs). During the eighth - twelfth century AD, the Rajput clan gained supremacy
and the Rajputs were divided into 36 royal clans and 21 dynasties. The armed conflicts and the
struggle for supremacy among the Parmars, Chalukyas, and Chauhans around 1000-1200 AD
resulted in a lot of bloodshed.

In this medieval era around 1200 AD, the major regions of Rajasthan such as Nagaur, Ajmer and
Ranthanbhor came under the Mughal hegemony headed by the Mughal ruler- Akbar. The most
famous Rajput warriors who represented the vigor and valiance of the Rajput dynasty and whose
tales of chivalry are still imprinted in the sands of Rajasthan were Rana Uday Singh
Rajasthan

State

Seal

Location of Rajasthan in India

Coordinates (Jaipur): 26.57268N 73.83902E
Country India
Established 26 January 1950
Capital Jaipur
Largest city Jaipur
Districts 33 total
Government
Governor Kalyan Singh
Chief Minister Vasundhra Raje (BJP)
Legislature Unicameral (200 seats)
Parliamentary
constituency 25
High Court Rajasthan High Court
Area
Total 342,239 km2 (132,139 sq mi)
Area rank1st
Population (2016)[1]
Total 74,791,568
Rank 7th
Demonym(s) Rajasthani
Languages
Official language Hindi
Spoken languages English
Rajasthani
Marwari
Mewari
Shekhawati
Haryanvi
Time zone IST (UTC+05:30)
ISO 3166 code IN-RJ
HDI 0.468 (low)
HDI rank 14th (2010)[2]
Literacy 67% (35th)
Website rajasthan.gov.in
Symbols of Rajasthan[3]
Dance Ghoomar
Animal Camel and Chinkara
Bird Godawan
Flower Rohida
Tree Khejri
Game Basketball
Rajasthan (/rdstn/ Hindustani pronunciation: [radstt a n]; literally, "Land of Kings")[4] is
India's largest state by area (342,239 square kilometres (132,139 sq mi) or 10.4% of India's total
area). It is located on the north-western side of the country, where it comprises most of the wide
and inhospitable Thar Desert (also known as the "Rajasthan Desert" and "Great Indian Desert")
and shares a border with the Pakistani provinces of Punjab to the northwest and Sindh to the west,
along the Sutlej-Indus river valley. Elsewhere it is bordered by the other Indian states: Punjab to
the north; Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to the northeast; Madhya Pradesh to the southeast; and
Gujarat to the southwest. Rajasthan is divided into 9 regions; Ajmer State, Hadoti, Dhundhar,
Gorwar, Shekhawati, Mewar, Marwar, Vagad and Mewat which are equally rich in its heritage and
artistic contribution. These regions have a parallel history which goes along with that of the state.

Major features include the ruins of the Indus Valley Civilization at Kalibanga; the Dilwara
Temples, a Jain pilgrimage site at Rajasthan's only hill station, Mount Abu, in the ancient Aravalli
mountain range; and, in eastern Rajasthan, the Keoladeo National Park near Bharatpur, a World
Heritage Site[5] known for its bird life. Rajasthan is also home to two national tiger reserves, the
Ranthambore National Park in Sawai Madhopur and Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar.

The state was formed on 30 March 1949 when Rajputana the name adopted by the British Raj
for its dependencies in the region[6] was merged into the Dominion of India. Its capital and
largest city is Jaipur, also known as Pink City, located on the state's eastern side. Other important
cities are Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Kota and Ajmer.

History Edit

Main article: History of Rajasthan

Ancient Edit
Parts of what is now Rajasthan were partly part of the Vedic Civilisation and Indus Valley
Civilization. Kalibangan, in Hanumangarh district, was a major provincial capital of the Indus
Valley Civilization.[9]

Matsya, a state of the Vedic civilisation of India, is said to roughly corresponded to the former
state of Jaipur in Rajasthan and included the whole of Alwar with portions of Bharatpur.[10][11]
The capital of Matsya was at Viratanagar (modern Bairat), which is said to have been named after
its founder king Virata.[12]

Bhargava[13] identifies the two districts of Jhunjhunu and Sikar and parts of Jaipur district along
with Haryana districts of Mahendragarh and Rewari as part of Vedic state of Brahmavarta.
Bhargava also locates the present day Sahibi River as the Vedic Drishadwati River, which along
with Saraswati River formed the borders of the Vedic state of Brahmavarta.[14] Manu and Bhrigu
narrated the Manusmriti to a congregation of seers in this area only. Ashrams of Vedic seers
Bhrigu and his son Chayvan Rishi, for whom Chyawanprash was formulated, were near Dhosi
Hill part of which lies in Dhosi village of Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan and part lies in
Mahendragarh district of Haryana.

The Western Kshatrapas (40535 BC), the Saka rulers of the western part of India, were
successors to the Indo-Scythians, and were contemporaneous with the Kushans, who ruled the
northern part of the Indian subcontinent. The Indo-Scythians invaded the area of Ujjain and
established the Saka era (with their calendar), marking the beginning of the long-lived Saka
Western Satraps state.[15]

Classical Edit
Gurjars Edit
Gurjars ruled for many dynasties in this part of the country, the region was known as Gurjaratra.
[16] Up to the tenth century almost the whole of North India, acknowledged the supremacy of the
Gurjars with their seat of power at Kannauj.[17]

Gurjara-Pratihara Edit
The Gurjar Pratihar Empire acted as a barrier for Arab invaders from the 8th to the 11th century.
The chief accomplishment of the Gurjara Pratihara empire lies in its successful resistance to
foreign invasions from the west, starting in the days of Junaid. Historian R. C. Majumdar says that
this was openly acknowledged by the Arab writers. He further notes that historians of India have
wondered at the slow progress of Muslim invaders in India, as compared with their rapid advance
in other parts of the world. Now there seems little doubt that it was the power of the Gurjara
Pratihara army that effectively barred the progress of the Arabs beyond the confines of Sindh, their
first conquest for nearly 300 years.[18]
Medieval and Early Modern Edit
Historical tribes Edit
Traditionally the Rajputs, Jats, Meenas, Gurjars, Bhils, Rajpurohit, Charans, Yadavs, Bishnois,
Sermals, PhulMali (Saini) and other tribes made a great contribution in building the state of
Rajasthan. All these tribes suffered great difficulties in protecting their culture and the land.
Millions of them were killed trying to protect their land. A number of Gurjars had been
exterminated in Bhinmal and Ajmer areas fighting with the invaders. Bhils once ruled Kota.
Meenas were rulers of Bundi,Hadoti and the Dhundhar region.[12]

Major Rulers Edit

A portrait of Hem Chandra Vikramaditya from the 1910s.

Hem Chandra Vikramaditya, the Hindu Emperor, was born in the village of Machheri in Alwar
District in 1501. He won 22 battles against Afghans, from Punjab to Bengal including states of
Ajmer and Alwar in Rajasthan, and defeated Akbar's forces twice at Agra and Delhi in 1556 at
Battle of Delhi[19] before acceding to the throne of Delhi and establishing the "Hindu Raj" in
North India, albeit for a short duration, from Purana Quila in Delhi. Hem Chandra was killed in
the battlefield at Second Battle of Panipat fighting against Mughals on 5 November 1556.

Maharana Pratap Singh, legendary sixteenth-century Rajput ruler of Mewar.

Maharana Pratap