INTRODUCTION

Dungarpur was founded in the early 13th century. It is famous for its unique architectural style. The areas of interest here are Udai Bilas Palace and Juna Palace. Another interesting place to visit is the famous shrine dedicated to Shrinathji that lies on the bank of the Gaib Sagar lake. The water bodies in Dungarpur attract a large variety of migratory birds during the winters. Other commonly seen birds are partridges, peafowl's, quais, cuckoos, eagles and vultures.

Udai Bilas Palace is a good example of Rajput architecture with its intricately sculptured pillars and panels, impressive balconies, bracketed windows and marvellous panels. Jama Masjid is a seven storeyed structure, resembling a fortress with crenellated walls, turrets, narrow entrances and corridors.

The interiors are embellished with beautiful frescoes, miniature paintings, glass and mirror work. While some of the most beautiful palaces all over Rajasthan were vandalised by invaders, Dungarpur was fortunate to have been located in the deep interiors. Its wall paintings are well preserved and there is very little damage to the buildings.

The surrounding areas are full of interesting little temple towns, archaeological sites of great importance and ruins of ancient kingdoms. Visit Baneshwar located at the confluence of the Som and Mahirivers. The Baneshwar temple is much revered by the Bhils. Other temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma are worth seeing for their exquisitely carved pillars and gateways. This is also the place to be in when the Bhils celebrate their biggest and most important fair - the Baneshwar Fair.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this is the largest gathering of the Bhils who collect here from all over, including Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. A visit to the fair can be great fun as you mingle with the crowds and watch the simple tribal folk enjoying them selves Dev Somnath is a splendid 12th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an exact replica of the original Somnath temple in Gujarat. When the original temple was destroyed several times by the Muslim invaders devout Hindus decided to create this replica in the interiors so that it would remain safe.