Image Source: Ritu Dhariwal
A white island in the middle of the desert is Kishangarh for you. Well, for your information, its white colour is not from the colour of sand but from the white marble that is mined from here. The upland region, situated in the northeastern part of Rajasthan, is on the banks of Lake Gundalao.
Situated in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, Kishangarh is a historic and culturally rich city known for its Kishangarh miniature paintings and its stunning marble industry.
History of Kishangarh
Kishan Singh, a historical ruler of the Rajputana, founded Kishangarh in 1611. The city was named after him and served as the capital of the princely state of Kishangarh. He was credited with the construction of forts and palaces. During the British Raj, Kishangarh came under their rule in 1818. Kishangarh was declared a municipality in 1892 and later became part of Rajasthan in 1948.
Art of Kishangarh
Image Source: Eugene a
Bani thani, a singer or poet of Kishangarh, is depicted beautifully in the Kishangarh miniature school of paintings. It’s famous for its representation of facial features of men and women through big eyes, pointed noses, serpentine hair, and chins.
Kishangarh is renowned for the Kishangarh school of miniature painting that developed in the 18th century. Radha-Krishana romance is characterised by delicate brushwork and rich colour. The iconic painting of Bani Thani, which is also called the “Mona Lisa of India,” originated from here. The painting of Bani has been inspired by Vishnupriya, a singer and poet in the Kishangarh court and a muse of Raja Sawant Singh. Her sharp features and graceful demeanour are hallmarks of the Kishangarh painting style.
Marble Industry Hub
Kishangarh is called the “Marble City of India.” It’s one of the largest for marble and granite trade in India. Marble Mandis is from where marble is processed and sold worldwide. The byproducts of the marble industry have created surreal landscapes resembling white sand dunes, often explored by curious travellers.
Major Attractions in Kishangarh
Phool Mahal Palace
Image Source: Sanjay Bairathi
Set in the background of the monsoon-fed Gundala lake and the fort of Kishangarh, Phool Mahal Palace is a shining example of Rajput architecture. Originally known as a Pyandaz bagh, it was constructed in 1870 to serve as the royal palace of the Kishangarh Maharaja. The beautiful palace was inspired by the 17th-century Kishangarh miniature painting of Nihal Chand.
Today the palace has been converted into a 3-star heritage hotel. Jogging tracks, libraries, and laundry are some of the modern services that are served to visitors. If you have a great appetite, then international Chinese and western cuisine will calm your taste buds.
Nine planets
Image Source: nandlal swami
Navgrah, also known as the temple of nine planets, is a famous place located on the top of a hill in Kishangarh town. In Hindu mythology, nine planets, also known as Navgrah, exert a significant influence on human life. It’s the balance of each of these planets that brings harmony and prosperity in life.
Gundala Lake
Image Source: Mithil Vaishnav
A scenic man-made lake offers a lovely perspective on Kishangarh. Leisurely strolls early in the morning or during sunset provide a picturesque view of the Phool Mahal Palace. Although the lake is not in a natural fresh state, it is facing a problem of water pollution in the form of garbage and chemicals.
Mokham Vilas
Image Source: Mokham Vilas
In the middle of Gondulav Lake is a popular tourist attraction named Mokham Vilas. At present, in a ruined state, was once a jannat far from the hustle and bustle of city life. During the migratory season, many birds visit for a stopover, making it quite an attractive place for ornithologists and ecotourists.
Khoda Ganesh Temple
Image Source: OMPRAKASH PRAJAPAT
With a history spanning more than 250 years, Khoda Ganesh Temple is a quite famous temple located in Kishangarh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and visitors come in number, especially on Wednesday, which is the day of Lord Ganesha.
Tourist Attractions Around Kishangarh
- Kishangarh Fort: A historical fort showcasing Rajput-Mughal architecture.
- Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Located nearby, this famous Sufi shrine is a must-visit for pilgrims.
- Pushkar: Known for its holy lake and Brahma Temple, Pushkar is close to Kishangarh.
- Roopangarh Fort: Located a short drive away, this fort offers stunning views and insights into the area’s history.
How To Reach
Kishangarh is well-connected by road and rail. It is approximately 30 km from Ajmer and about 100 km from Jaipur.
The city also has a domestic airport, which connects it to major cities in India.