Banswara

Banswara, it is likely, derived its name from bans or bamboo shoots, which once grew in abundance around the places. It was a part of the territory known aas Bagar during the regin of Udai Singh (who succeeded to the throne sometime between 1496 and 1498 AD) and is said to have been founded by Jagmal, the younger son of Udai Singh who, being much devoted to his queen, the mother of Jagmal and wanting to see him installed as a ruler of a separate State, had partitioned Bagar between the two claimant sons before his death. Banswara remained the capital of erstwhile State of the same name for about four centuries thereafter.

The crumbling stone wall enclosing the old town is still visible, overlooked by the palace of the former rulers of the principality. Bai Tal - an artificial tank - believed to have been constructed by Lachhi Bai of Idar, the Rani of Maharawal Jagmal, lies on the eastern side of the town. About a kilometre away, are the chhatris or cenotaphs of the royality. The town has some Jain and Hindu temples and old mosques.

Excursion

Shri Raj Mandir
This 16th century old city palace of Banswar overlooks the town. It covers a large area, and is a typical example of old Rajput architecture. The palace is still owned by the Royal family and can be visited only on invitation.

Anand Sagar Lake
On the eastern side of the town is an artificial lake also known as Bai Talab, which is said to have been constructed by Lachhi Bai of Idar, the Rani of maharawal Jagmal. Nearby lies the chattris or cenotaphs of the rulers of the state. Couple of holy tree known as "Kalp Vriksha" which is said to fulfill the desires of the visitors is also present nearby. The charming surroundings also attract many visitors overhere.

Dialab Lake
Part of this lake remains covered with beautiful lotus flowers. Badal Mahal, the summer residence of former rulers is located on the embankment of the lake.

Abdulla Pir
A shrine of Bohra Muslims saint, a large numbers of Bohra Muslims visit this place during Urs from different parts of the world every year.

Shopping
Stone idols at Talwara 15 kms. from Banswara. 'Hats' or weekly fairs, Tribals set special market on particular days in villages or towns. Farming instruments, Tribal jewelery, dresses and weapons are sold here.

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Getting There
By Air
Nearest airport is Udaipur (160 kms) And airport in Indore (212 kms)

By Bus
No route in the district has so far been nationalised. Rajasthan, Gujarat and M.P. Roadways and the private travel agencies operate frequent buses to major cities like Ahmadabad, Baroda, Ujjain, Bhopa, Udaipur, Jaipur , Jodhpur, Mount Abu, Bombay, Delhi etc.

By Train
Rail Nearest railway station is in Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh) (80 kms) connected with all the major cities of the country.

Getting around
Banswara is a relatively small town and easy enough to get around on foot, but there are plenty of unmetered auto - rickshaws and cycles - rickshaws.

Best time to come: Sep to March

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