Churu

Renowned for the grand Kothar Haveli and Kanhaiya Haveli, with marvellous life size paintings of Dhola Maru, Sassi Punu etc., Churu is located in Rajasthan state, in northwestern India. Founded in 1620 AD by Churu, a chieftain of the Jats (an agricultural people of northern India), the town has a hospital and a college affiliated with the University of Rajasthan. Churu district (16,829 sq. km) comprises a semi-arid sandy plain, watered only by the Katli River in the northeast. The rolling sand hills of the district'ssouthwest portion form part of the Bagar tract, where the breeding of sheep, cattle, and camels is extensive. Bajra (pearl millet), gram, and pulses are the chief crops; gypsum deposits are worked.

Excursion
Temples
Salasar Balaji: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is located here. Salasar is in district Churu. Situated at Jaipur -Bikaner Highway, it is one of the well-known pilgrimages of India. It is said that Lord Balaji fulfills all desires of devotees. Lakhs of devotees visit this temple every year.

Forts And Palaces
Ratangarh: The mammoth fort, built in 1820 AD by the Raja of Bikaner- Ratan Singh, is situated on the Agra-Bikaner Highway. The market place is in the shape of a cross suggesting that the city was planned before construction. An array of stately havelis can be seen around the clock tower at the main crossing.

Surana Haveli: The six-storeyed, enormous building has artistic windows and elegant doors that are more than 1,100 in number.

Cities
Pilani: Also known as the 'home of the Birlas', the BITS campus is worth a visit. Churu is also famous for the Kothar Haveli (1915 AD) and Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Haveli (1870).

Sardar Shahar (46-km): This enchanting desert town has exquisitely beautiful havelis adorned with colourful wall paintings and carved woodwork.

Dudhwa Khara (36-km): A sprawling historical village lying in the Thar Desert. Besides enchanting topography, the village has huge, exquisitely designed havelis. One can enjoy the rural life and camel safaris in the village.

Lakes
Tal Chhapar (100-km): This small lake is abode of the endangered species, black bucks and some migratory birds.

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Shopping
There are many local shops selling regional handicrafts, tie and dye fabrics and furniture. There is a thriving industry in antique-looking souvenirs. The town is a local market for wool, millet, gram (chick-pea), cattle, and salt and has cottage industries that include handloom weaving, pottery and leather manufacture.

Getting There
By Road
The towns of Sikar and Jhunjhunu, headquarters of their respective districts are connected by road with Jaipur, Delhi and Bikaner. Churu is 52-km from Jhunjhunu.

By Rail
Sikar and Jhunjhunu are connected by rail with Jaipur, Bikaner and Delhi. There is no direct rail connection with Churu.

By Local transport
Jeeps, unmetered taxis, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and tongas are available for commuting within the city. RSRT buses ply between various towns and villages in the region.

Nearby Cities
Jhujhunu: 52-km

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