Dungarpur is situated in the foothills of the Aravalis in the western Indian state of Rajasthan and is famous for its temples and palaces. The district of Dungarpur extends from latitude 23°50' in the north to longitude 73°50' in the east. There is a good road network that connects Dungarpur to other cities in Rajasthan. Two magnificent rivers-the Mahi and the som flow through the area. While the former separates the district from Banswara, the former separates the district and Udaipur. Dungarpur was founded in 1282 A.D. by Rawal Veer Singh, when he took over this part of the state from the Bhill Chieftain Dungaria. The area is rich in teak, mahua, mango and Khajur trees.

Dungarpur is famous for its unique style of architecture as seen in its palaces and noble residences. These royal residences are adorned by "Jharokhas: built in stone in a unique style typical of the areas developed during the region and silversmiths are renowned for lacquer painted toys and picture framing.

History of Dungarpur
The district is named after the capital of the former princely state of Dungarpur. Dungar means a hill or a mountain and pur means a town, thus Dungarpur means a 'hill-town'.

Rawal Veer Singh Dev took over this part of the state from the Bhil Chieftain Dungaria and laid the foundation of the city as well as of the Old Palace on October 14, 1282 AD.

Dungarpur is famous for its unique style of architecture. The palaces of the Dungarpur princes and the residences of the noblemen are adorned by a new style of jharokhas, which was developed during Maha Rawal Shiv Singh's reign (AD 1730-1785). The gold and silversmiths of Dungarpur and Banswara are well known for their lacquer painted toys and picture framing.

Attractions ( Dungarpur)

Udai Bilas palace
The royal residence named after Maharawal Udai Singh II, a patron of art and architecture, the palace is a veritable example of the Rajput architecture ornate with intricately sculptured pillars and panels, impressive balconies, bracketed windows and marvellous arches.

Juna Mahal The 13th century seven storeyed structure resembles a fortress with crenellated walls, turrets, narrow entrances and corridors to slow down the enemy. The splendid interiors embellished with beautiful frescoes, miniature paintings and glass and mirror work, make it an impressive creation. Language Rajasthan, Hindi, English Climate

Like most other places in north India, the climate of Dungarpur is tropical with not much rain during the monsoon. Average temperature during the summer hovers around 40°C and during winters, it remains close to 10°C.

Fairs and Festivals
During Holi, Gair dances by tribals wearing colourful dresses and carrying swords, arrows and sticks are the major attraction.
Bar Bij Fair is held a month after Diwali on the occasion of Bar Bij and is an important celebration of the district. The Bhils in their traditional finery, dance, sing and make merry on this day.

Travel Information (Dungarpur)

By Air : Udaipur (120 km) is the nearest airport, connected to Jodhpur, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.
By Rail : Dungarpur is connected to Udaipur and Ahmedabad by regular trains. The Railway station is three km from the city.
By Road : National Highway No. 8, which runs between Delhi and Bombay, passes through the district for a total distance of 31 km. The Sirohi-Ratlam State Highway passes through the district too. There are regular buses for almost all the major cities in India.