See Bharatpur — Short Reel
We’re delighted to collaborate with @travelwith_pm (Mr. Preetam Mahendra Mhatre) for his beautiful video on the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. A heartfelt thank-you for allowing us to feature his amazing work on our website and for helping put Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary on the travel map.
— Team Geetanjali Hotel & Motel
Quick Facts
Founded: 1733 AD (by Maharaja Suraj Mal, the Jat ruler of Bharatpur State)
Region nickname: “Eastern Gateway of Rajasthan” — connecting Agra, Mathura & Jaipur
Altitude: Approximately 183 metres above sea level
Famous for: Keoladeo Ghana National Park (UNESCO World Heritage site)
Population: Around 2.5 lakh (as per recent census)
Climate: Semi-arid — hot summers (April–June), pleasant winters (Nov–Feb)
Languages spoken: Hindi, Braj Bhasha, and English (commonly understood)
Nearest cities: Agra – 55 km | Mathura – 40 km | Jaipur – 180 km
Location: Eastern Rajasthan — on Agra–Jaipur Highway (NH-11)
Best time to visit: November to February (peak birdwatching season)
UNESCO recognition: Keoladeo Ghana National Park was declared a World Heritage Site in 1985
Famous festival: Brij Mahotsav — held before Holi, celebrates Lord Krishna’s connection with the region
Geetanjali Hotel Location
NH-11, Agra Rd, Nagla Gopal Rural, Bharatpur, Rajasthan 321001
Need to Know (Visitor Tips)
- Carry binoculars and a good camera â the sanctuary offers excellent birdwatching and photography opportunities.
- Respect sanctuary rules: avoid littering, stay on marked trails, and maintain silence for the wildlife.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best bird sightings and cooler weather.
- Consider hiring a local guide or rickshaw guide â they share rich insights and help you spot rare species.
- Carry sunscreen, a hat, and water â Rajasthanâs sun can be intense, even in winter.
- During the monsoon, pathways may be slippery â wear comfortable, non-slip footwear.
- Keep your entry ticket handy; it may be checked at different points inside the park.
History, Culture & Wildlife — A Detailed Overview
Bharatpur — often called the “Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan” — has a rich tapestry of history, culture and natural heritage. The modern city traces its formal foundation to Maharaja Suraj Mal (ruled 1733 AD), a visionary Jat ruler who established Bharatpur as a strong regional power. The city and its forts tell stories of diplomatic skill and military resilience — most famously the Lohagarh Fort, known as the “Iron Fort” for resisting invaders.
Culturally, Bharatpur is a meeting point of Rajput, Mughal and local Jat traditions: temples, palaces and annual fairs reflect this blended heritage. The region has long been an agricultural and trading centre, while the royal family’s patronage left behind remarkable architecture and landscaped palaces.
Natural heritage is Bharatpur’s pride. Keoladeo Ghana National Park (earlier known as Keoladeo National Park) is one of Asia’s premier birding destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park’s shallow marshes and wetlands host hundreds of resident and migratory species — making it a must-visit for birders, photographers and nature lovers.
Top Attractions Near Geetanjali Hotel
Keoladeo Ghana National Park
Approx. 2.5 km from Geetanjali Hotel. A world-renowned bird sanctuary & UNESCO World Heritage site with 400+ bird species (best visited November–February).
Lohagarh Fort
Approx. 4 km from the hotel. Known as – The Iron Fort of Bharatpur Standing tall as a symbol of strength and pride, Lohagarh Fort (meaning Iron Fort) is one of the most remarkable and unassailable forts in Rajasthan. Built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal, the legendary Jat ruler of Bharatpur
Taj Mahal, Agra
Approx. 55 km. One of the world’s most iconic monuments — easy day trip from Bharatpur (Agra road / NH-11).
Government Museum, Bharatpur
Approx. 3.5 km. Exhibits regional archaeology, inscriptions, weaponry and sculptures reflecting Bharatpur’s past.
Ganga Mandir
Approx. 3.8 km. A serene temple of local devotion with elegant architecture and local religious activities.
Deeg Palace & Gardens
Approx. 35 km. The royal summer palace famed for its water gardens, fountains and Mughal-Era landscaping — spectacular during monsoon and light festivals.
Distances are approximate driving distances from Geetanjali Hotel (NH-11, Agra Road) and can vary slightly depending on the chosen route.
Suggested Day Itineraries
Half-day (Birding + Local Heritage)
Start early at Keoladeo Ghana National Park for birdwatching (3–4 hours), return for lunch at the hotel, then visit Lohagarh Fort and the local markets in the afternoon.
Full-day (Culture & Monuments)
Morning at the sanctuary; after lunch drive to Deeg Palace (water gardens) and return via local temples. For Taj Mahal, plan an early departure to Agra for a day trip.
Practical Info & Travel Tips
- How to reach: Bharatpur lies on NH-11 (Agra–Jaipur). The hotel is reachable by private car, taxi or local cabs.
- Nearest railway station: Bharatpur Junction (well connected to Delhi, Agra, Jaipur).
- Nearest airport: Agra (approx. 56 km) — regular taxis available.
- Local transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis and cycle-rickshaws inside the bird sanctuary (guided) are available.
- Health & safety: Stay hydrated; carry sunscreen and insect repellent in summer/monsoon months.
Geetanjali Hotel — Open in Google Maps
Frequently Asked — Practical FAQs
When is the best time to visit Bharatpur?
Winter (November to February) — many migratory birds visit and pleasant weather makes exploration comfortable.
How far is Keoladeo Ghana National Park from Geetanjali Hotel?
Approximately 2.5 km — a short drive or cycle-rickshaw ride.
Can I visit the Taj Mahal from Bharatpur?
Yes — Agra (Taj Mahal) is around 55 km from Bharatpur and makes a popular day trip.
