The history of Bharatpur dates back to the epic age, when the Matsya Kingdom flourished here in the 5th century BC The matsya were allies of the Pandavas in the

Mahabharata war. According to tradition the name of Bharatpur is traced to Bharat, the brother of lord Rama of Ayodhya whose other brother Laxman was given the high place of family deity of the ruling family of Bharatpur. His name also appears in the state seals and coat-of-arms. Bharatpur, which is also called the Eastern gateway of Rajasthan, was found by Maharaja Suraj mal in 1733 AD. Raja Badan Singh's adopted son, Suraj Mal had shown signs of promise, when he captured the fort of Bharatpur from Khemkaran, the rival chief, whom he killed and thus laid the foundation of Bharatpur City. Maharaja Suraj Mal displayed immense courage and carved a niche for himself in the midst of political disorder. Gathering around him fiercely martial Jat peasants, he went from one success to another. He accompanied Emperor Mohammed Shah against Ali Mohammed Ruhela and in 1748 AD, at the battle of Bagru he led the Jaipur vanguard against the Marathas. He also defeated the commander- in –Chief of the Mughal emperor. He built numerous forts and palaces across the kingdom including the Pleasure Palace complex at Deeg. Bharatpur, is today known the world – over for its Keoladeo Ghana National Park.

BHARATPUR PALACE
Bharatpur Palace has a rich repository of a large number of ancient exhibit that date back to the early 15th century. There is also a museum in the central wing with a few exhibits dating to the 2nd century A.D.

Bharatpur Palace is a medieval monument in the old city of Bharatpur in Rajasthan. It is a fine blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture built in several phases by different Maharajas. The magnificent chambers of the palace are richly ornamented with patterned floor tiles with exquisite intricate designs. The palace houses a museum of antique collections dating back to 2nd century, which form an invaluable historical record of the ancient culture of the region.

GOVERNMENT MUSEUM
Government Museum portrays a rich collection of various archaeological items. The huge building, Kachahari Kalan, which houses the museum was previously the administrative block of the rulers of Bharatpur state. It was converted into a museum in 1944. The building was altered a bit later on as floor was added to the museum.

Within the Government Museum, there are a number of tourist attractions as well. The Kamra Khas of the fort after being transformed into museum displays an exquisite collection of antiques, sculptures and a number of ancient inscriptions. The central wing of the museum also provides an enriching experience as well. It displays a wide collection that dates back to the 2nd century. Witnessing the collection will be a worthy experience as it will give you a perfect demonstration of the art and skill of the region. The museum also possesses sculptures that were found after the excavation of villages like Bayana, Bareh and Mailah. Witnessing these sculptures are also a great experience for the tourists these sculptures dates back to Kuslian period. The various artifacts, inscriptions boast immense historical value and helps in making Government Museum one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bharatpur.

LOHAGARH FORT
Lohagarh Fort is one of the forts in Bharatpur district, Rajasthan that was built by the Jats. The fort was constructed by Maharaja Suraj Mal. Impregnable it provided a fabulous shelter against the foreign invasions. It is the probable reason why the fort is called Lohagarh, meaning made of iron. This fort contributed greatly in the victory of the Jats over the British Troops.

There are two gates to enter the Lohagarh Fort. Amongst these the one facing north is called Ashtdhaatu or made of eight metals. The other one faces south and is known as Chowburja as it is a four-pillared gate. This massive structure is one of the oft-visited places of interest in Bharatpur. The history of the district is woven in the walls of Lohagarh Fort.

DEEG PALACE
Deeg is located 22 miles north of Bharatpur. This small town, far off the tourist trail, contains an exquisite pleasure palace that must be seen. However, the palace is in much disrepair for the same reason--it's off the tourist trail and therefore, low on the priority list. Upon our arrival at the gate, we were put off by the hefty admission price $5 (American) for foreigners, (5 Rs for Indians) the highest we'd seen during our visit. However, we decided to go in anyway, and we were not disappointed. The palaces were well worth the $5 entrance fee.

The pleasure palaces are set around formal Mughal gardens and are considered by some to be second only to the Taj Mahal in their beauty and symmetry. What made this place interesting for us was the fact that the Bharatpur royal family lived here until 1951. Inside you can still see their furniture and objects d'art. A far cry from the other palaces we had visited that were stripped of their furnishings and art. This place seemed more "real"--although the furnishings are, sadly, badly deteriorated.

KEOLADEO GHANA NATIONAL PARK
The Keoladeo Ghana National Park or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary lies between two of India's most historic cities, Agra and Jaipur. This north Indian sanctuary is situated in the country's northwestern state of Rajasthan, about 190 km from the national capital of Delhi. The name Keoladeois derived from the name of an ancient Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva in the sanctuary. s central zone while the Hindi term 'Ghana' implies dense, thick areas of forest cover.

Prince Bhamji of Morvi state in Gujarat converted this area into a world famous wildlife reserve. Duck shoots were organised in the area every year by the rulers of Bharatpur, in honour of Viceroy Lord Curzon and his party on 1st December, 1902. The exploits of all visiting dignitaries since 1902 have been engraved on stone plaques standing near the Keoladeo temple.

GANGA MANDIR
Ganga Mandir is an architectural wonder. Built by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 1845, this temple has a unique story attached to it. It is believed that all the people employed in the service of the state were asked to donate one month's salary or any increment in their salary for the temple. The temple was constructed out of this money only.

LAXMAN MANDIR Laxman temple is one of the popular temples of Bharatpur. Centralized location of Laxman Temples makes it easily accessible. Indian Holiday offers complete online information about Laxman Temple. There are two Laxman temples in the heart of city. The oldest one is positioned in the main market and is approximately 400 yrs old. This temple was established by a sage, named Naaga Baba.

It is beautiful stonework with carvings in the doorways, pillars and arches. The temple is dedicated to Laxman, the brother of Lord Rama.