Abhinavsthan
Rajasthan through eyes of Abhinav
ABHINAV | October 6th, 2017
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Introduction
Stepping out of your comfort zone can seem daunting, but sometimes taking to the off beaten tracks are tantamount to brilliant experiences. Rajasthan, by virtue of preference, is famous for its iconic citieslike Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer. Yet there are many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered only if you know where to head out to. If treading the off beaten track is what you like, then consider exploring Churuwhich can pique any visitor’s fancy.
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Getting to Churu
Situated in the ballpark of the Thar Desert, Churu is a district in Rajasthan with a semi-arid climate. Beyond any doubt Churu is also known as ‘The Gateway to Thar’. Travelling to Churu: One can travel to Churu by road or rail. Churu lies on NH65 and is well-connected to all major cities of India. Churu lies about 265kms from Delhi, and the driving time is approximately 6 hours. As a junction station on Delhi-Rewari- Bikaner, Churuis connected by 3 trains starting from SaraiRohilla Station. The best time to visit: Winters are when Churu gleams with splendor. The months of October to March and the monsoon season is a good time to visit. In comparison, the summer season is least advisable as the mercury can rise above 55 degree Celsius during that time.
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What all can you do in Churu?
Unlike palaces and forts that are easily spotted across the map of Rajasthan, Churu has a starkly different silhouette - it is home to beautiful and grand havelis with colorful murals and marvelous fresco roofing; these havelis are a treat for architecture buffs, a photographer’s delight, and a dream come for the connoisseurs of history! Go on a Heritage Walking Tour: Such tours are guided tours which take the tourist through the many points of interest in Churu, and dissipating detailed information about the historical significance of the places. Savor the Local Food: The local food here includes delicious traditional Rajasthani dishes.The food specialties include Bajra roti, Ker-sangri- a sweet and spicy local specialty,Gattekisabji and papadmungodi. Street Shopping In Churu: In the street markets in Churu, you can buy intricate sandalwood carvings, like sandalwood almonds, hinged in wood, and on opening it reveals a tiny piece of deity. Those who love to shop can also look for lockets, flowering plants with concealedcompartments that open to reveal sandalwood gods or village scenes, giant smoking kadais, and bright bandhejdupattas.
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The FivePlaces you must visit when here
Mantriki Haveli: Mantri Haveli in Churu was built in the 18th century, and reflects the rich history and grandeur of the Rajput era. The Haveli is completely covered with beautiful paintings and the interiors include exquisite mirror work and an art gallery. From floral swirls, motifs, and excellent mirror work, to balconies and alcoves, there’s a distinctRajputanafeel in its artwork and architecture. Salasar Dham: Salasar Dhamor Salasar Balaji is a place of religious importance for the Hindus. Lord Hanuman is the main deity in the temple, and other pilgrimage sites include Do Jhanti Balaji temple in the close proximity. Jain Temple: Jain Temple is a must-visit for a glimpse of itswonderful paintings painted in golden colors. This temple was built a few centuries back and is maintained by Kotharis. SethanikaJohara: SethanikaJoharais a water reservoir which was built when the region witnessed a terrible famine in 1956. It was built back then by thewidow of Bhagwan Das Bagla. Tal Chappar Sanctuary: Tal Chhapar Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary which is known for blackbucks and is also home to a variety of birds.
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Staying in Churu
Althougha small town, Churu has some great options for stay, like MaljikaKamra, BhawaniKothi and Hotel Sun City Palace. Of the three, MaljiKaKamraais the tourist’s favorite. It is a110-year old havelipainted in turquoise and ivory white enamel. The rooms include comfort rooms and the haveli rooms that come with original frescos. The heritage attractions, temples and commemorative cenotaphs in Churu are so manythat you’ll trip over history at every turn. Up for this grand escapade? By now, we’re sure you are!