Karauli, a charming town in Rajasthan, has recently emerged as a favourite destination among travellers seeking heritage, spirituality, and authentic Rajasthani culture. Known worldwide for its pale red sandstone, the entire city is surrounded by strong fortified walls and adorned with beautifully decorated havelis, ancient shrines, vibrant frescoes, and picturesque landscapes.
Sharing its border with Madhya Pradesh and surrounded by Dausa, Dholpur, and Sawai Madhopur, Karauli reflects a perfect blend of Mughal architectural influence and traditional rural life. Warm hospitality, peaceful ambience, and its royal past make Karauli a memorable experience for every visitor.
ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT IN KARAULI
Discover the most popular sites of Karauli — from ancient temples and mystical forts to serene forest retreats.
1. Kaila Devi Temple
Situated around 25 km from the main town, Kaila Devi Temple is located on the banks of the Kalisil River amid the Trikut hills. Believed to be built around 1100 AD, it is considered one of the nine Shakti Peethas. The annual Kaila Devi fair, lasting for a fortnight, attracts millions of devotees each year.
2. Madan Mohan Ji Temple
Dedicated to Lord Krishna (Madan Mohan), this temple is regarded as one of the most sacred shrines in Karauli. The beautifully carved idols of Krishna and Radha, along with medieval-age architecture made from Karauli stone, make it a significant spiritual and architectural landmark.
3. Shri Mahavir Ji Temple
One of the most important pilgrimage sites for the Jain community, Shri Mahavir Ji Temple features stunning Jain-style architecture. Built in the 19th century, the temple hosts a grand annual fair from Chaitra Shukla Trayodashi to Vaishakh Krishna Pratipada, attracting devotees from all over the country.
4. Gomtidham
A peaceful spiritual retreat, Gomtidham sits near Sagar Talab and the historic Timangarh Fort. Surrounded by dense forests, this serene location is ideal for meditation and a refreshing escape from urban life.
5. Bhanwar Vilas Palace
Built in 1938 as the royal residence of Maharaja Ganesh Pal Deo Bahadur, Bhanwar Vilas Palace is now a heritage hotel. With colonial architecture, spacious royal interiors, and antique furniture, it offers guests an immersive royal experience.
6. Kaila Devi Sanctuary
Starting right after the Kaila Devi Temple, this dense forest area eventually merges with the Ranthambore National Park. The sanctuary is home to chinkaras, nilgai, jackals, leopards, and a variety of rare birds including sandpipers and kingfishers.
7. City Palace
Originally built in the 14th century by Arjun Pal and reconstructed in the 18th century by Raja Gopal Singh, City Palace is a treasure of traditional architecture, stone carvings, lattice windows, and colourful frescoes. The terrace offers a breathtaking view of the town and the Bhadrawati River.
8. Chhatri of Raja Gopal Singh
Located near Nadi Gate, this chhatri is decorated with intricate fresco paintings. Swami Dayanand Saraswati is believed to have delivered a discourse here. Devotees from Madhya Pradesh and nearby regions frequently visit to pay homage.
9. Timangarh Fort
Named after King Timanpal, Timangarh Fort dates back to 1100 AD and lies about 40 km from Karauli. Rebuilt in 1058 AD after destruction, the fort houses ancient ashtadhatu artefacts and beautiful mythological carvings on stone pillars. It played a key role in the region’s history before being gifted back by Emperor Akbar.
10. Devgiri Fort & Utgir
Utgir, built by the Lodha warriors, stands on a triangular peak of the Aravallis, while Devgiri Fort lies in the Chambal ravines. Utgir remained the capital of the Yaduvanshis until Bahadurpur Fort was constructed. These forts once served as emergency hideouts for the Karauli royal family.
11. Mandrayal
Around 40 km from the district headquarters, Mandrayal is a strategic town linking Rajasthan with Madhya Pradesh. Raja Arjun Dev captured the fort here in 1327 AD. Later, Maharaja Harbaksh Pal built another garrison known as Bala Kila.
12. Gadhmora
Considered one of Rajasthan’s oldest villages, Gadhmora is believed to date back to the era of Lord Krishna. Named after Raja Mor Dhwaj, it is also known for its sacred kund where an annual fair is held during Makar Sankranti.
13. Gufa Temple
This ancient cave temple within the dense forests of Ranthambore is believed to be the original shrine of Kaila Devi. Devotees walk the forest trail for 8–10 km for darshan. However, tourists are advised not to venture alone due to wildlife presence.
14. Kadam Khundidi
Located 60 km from Karauli, Kadam Khundidi is a 600-year-old spiritual site dedicated to Saint Ghasi Ram. The area features dense forests of Kadam trees spread over 10–15 km. Devotees gather here in large numbers during Ram Navami, Amavasya, and Purnima.
15. Jain Shri Mahaveer Ji Temple
A miraculous and highly revered Jain pilgrimage site, located near Shri Mahaveerji Railway Station on the Mathura route. Millions of devotees attend the annual Mahavir Jayanti fair held here.
HOW TO REACH KARAULI
✈️ By Air
The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (Sanganer), located 170 km from Karauli.
🚆 By Train
Karauli is connected via Hindaun City and Gangapur City railway stations, both on major railway routes linking Rajasthan to Delhi and Kota.
🚗 By Road
Karauli enjoys excellent road connectivity to major cities of Rajasthan and neighbouring states. Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are easily available.
