VAGAD
Great Mavji
About Me
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Vagad
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Vagad is the region
covered by Dungarpur and Banswara districts located in southern part
of the state Rajasthan across the borders of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh . They have an interesting
topography,ranging from the wild and rugged in the northeast to fertile
plains of alluvial
soil in the southwest . These two districts are separated from each other by the magnificent Mahi river . This region
was the stronghold of the Bhils and had its own unique lifestyles. Outside
influences were minimal, as the region was quite inaccessible. Even
today, this region does not fall in the regular tourist circuit but
should be explored for its natural scenic beauty. The area provide shelter
to the jackal, jungle cat, Indian fox, hyena; black faced monkey and
porcupine. This
area is ideal for those interested in outdoor life.The terrain is ideal
for walks and treks, you can spend your time studying the flora and
fauna that is unique to this area. This region is so different from
the rest of Rajasthan that it is like being in a different state . Also
not being on the tourist circuit, the facilities are a little limited
here, but you will find enough to make your trip comfortable .In fact,it
is just the place to explore if you're looking for the unexpected. Let
yourself be surprised..... 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 winter . Other
commonly seen birds are partridges,peafowls,quails,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 marvelous panels. Juna Mahal is a seven story
structure, resembling a fortress with crenelated 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 vandalized
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 surroundings areas are full of interesting
little temple towns, archaeological sites of great importance and ruins
of ancient kingdoms. Visit Beneshwar located at the confluence of the
Som and Mahi rivers…. The
Baneshwar temple is much
reverd 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 Bhills who collect here from all
over, including Gujrat 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 themselves.Dev Somnath is a splendid 12th century temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an exact replica of the original Somnath
temple in Gujrat. 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 . Galiyakot was once the
capital of the Parmarkings but today it is renowned for its magnificent
shrine dedicated to Sayyed Fakhruddin. Thousands of Devotees gather
here during the Urs. Other important places to see are Baroda, the erstwhile
capital of Vagad, where some temples still survive and Bhuvaneshwar
which can be visited for its famous temple dedicated to lord Shiva.
Banswara is another big town of Vagad to be visited for its natural
beauty. The name Banswara too has been derived from bans or bamboo which
once grew in abundance here. The undulating green hills deep forested
valleys and lakes give this area its own unique feel. More than its
architectural heritage, this region is a nature lover's paradise. You
can go for walks and treks, can watch birds and study the flora and
allow yourself to enjoy the simple pleasures that keeps the Bhils happy.Bhils
constitute half of the total population of Banswara . GENERAL INFORMATION
Baneshwar Fair
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