Experience The Grandeur Of Churu | 14 Places To Visit In Churu | How To Reach

Churu, located in the desert region of Rajasthan, India, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known as the gateway to the Thar Desert, Churu boasts a rich architectural heritage, with its stunning havelis (traditional mansions) adorned with intricate frescoes and its majestic forts standing as testaments to its royal past. One of the highlights of Churu is the 17th-century Churu Fort, built by Thakur Kushal Singh, which now houses a museum and a temple. The city is also famous for its beautiful havelis, including Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Ki Haweli, Surana Haweli, Malji Ka Kamra, and Sethani Ka Johara, each showcasing exquisite Rajasthani craftsmanship. Churu is not just about history; it also offers natural beauty in the form of the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, a wildlife reserve that is home to various species of birds and animals, most notably the blackbuck. The city’s vibrant culture is reflected in its colorful festivals, such as Gangaur, Teej, Holi, and Diwali, which are celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm.

Best Places To Visit In Churu:

Highlights include Sethani Ka Johara, a historic water reservoir, and stunning havelis like Surana Haveli. Churu Fort offers panoramic views, and the town’s bazaars are great for shopping. It’s a peaceful destination to experience Rajasthan’s heritage.

Here are some places to visit in Churu:

1. Churu Fort

The historic Churu Fort, situated in Churu, Rajasthan, was constructed in 1649 A.D. by Thakur Kushal Singh of the Nirban Rajput clan as a defense against invaders. This fort features a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and is renowned for its distinctive architecture and fresco paintings. One of the most notable events in Churu Fort’s history is the 1871 battle, during which Thakur Shiv Singh of Churu valiantly defended the fort against Maharaja Surat Singh of Bikaner. Churu Fort stands as a testament to the courage and heritage of the people of Churu, drawing numerous tourists. Additionally, it serves as the gateway to the Thar Desert, offering breathtaking views of the shifting dunes.

2. Havelis

Havelis in Churu, Rajasthan, are the traditional mansions of wealthy merchants and nobles, renowned for their elaborate architecture, intricate carvings, and vibrant frescoes. Located in the Shekhawati region, Churu boasts numerous havelis dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Among the famous ones are Mantri Haveli, Surana Haveli, and Malji ka Kamra. Churu serves as the gateway to the Thar Desert, offering picturesque views of the shifting dunes.

3. Salasar Balaji Temple

Salasar Balaji Temple, situated in the village of Salasar in Rajasthan’s Churu district, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Regarded as one of the most sacred shrines of Lord Hanuman, it draws numerous devotees from across India. Established in 1754 A.D., the temple’s origins trace back to a farmer discovering a Hanuman idol while plowing his field in Asota village. Guided by Hanuman in a dream, the farmer installed the idol in Salasar. Another devotee, Mohandas, also dreamt of the idol and brought it to Salasar, constructing the temple. The temple’s architecture and paintings are renowned, boasting a silver throne, gold crown, and diamond-studded necklace for Hanuman. Additionally, a museum showcases offerings made by devotees over the years. The temple hosts two major fairs annually, during Chaitra Purnima (March-April) and Ashwin Purnima (September-October), attended by millions of pilgrims.

4. Tal Chhapar Sanctuary

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, situated in Rajasthan’s Churu district, is a wildlife sanctuary renowned for its blackbuck population, a species of antelope, and a diverse range of migratory birds. Encompassing an area of 719 hectares, the sanctuary features a flat, open landscape with grasslands dotted with a few trees. Established in 1966, it is a favored destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Accessible by road from Ratangarh or Sujangarh, or by train from Chappar station, the sanctuary is most easily reached from the Jaipur airport, approximately 215 km away. The best time to visit is from September to March, offering opportunities to observe various bird species including harriers, eagles, cranes, larks, doves, and bee-eaters. Additionally, visitors can spot desert foxes, desert cats, partridges, and sand grouses within the sanctuary.

5. Ratangarh Fort

Ratangarh Fort, a historic fortress in Rajasthan’s Churu district, was constructed in 1820 by Maharaja Ratan Singh, son of Bikaner’s King Surat Singh. The fort features a grand structure with a perimeter wall and four gates, along with a smaller fort within its confines. Despite facing attacks from Churu and Sikar’s rival forces in 1815 and 1816, the fort remained resilient. Today, it serves as a civil court and houses several ancient monuments and paintings. Part of the Shekhawati region renowned for its opulent havelis adorned with frescoes and paintings, Ratangarh also boasts a meticulously planned bazaar in a cross shape, its shops vividly painted. The town attracts tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Rajasthan’s rich culture and heritage.

6. Sethani Ka Johara

Sethani Ka Johara, a water reservoir in Rajasthan’s Churu district, was constructed in 1899 by the widow of Bhagwan Das Bagla, a prosperous merchant, as a relief measure during a famine. This reservoir collects rainwater from one monsoon to the next, attracting a variety of birds and animals. It also holds historical and cultural significance, featuring ancient monuments and paintings. Located approximately 5 km west of Churu along the Ratangarh road, the reservoir is accessible by road or train from Chappar station. The ideal time to visit is from September to March, offering the opportunity to observe numerous migratory bird species such as harriers, eagles, cranes, larks, doves, and bee-eaters. Visitors might also catch a glimpse of a neelgai, a type of antelope.

7. Sardarshahar

Sardarshahar, a city and tehsil in Rajasthan’s Churu district, also serves as the seat of the Rajasthan legislative assembly’s Sardarshahar Assembly constituency. Founded in 1838 by Maharaja Ratan Singh of Bikaner state, it was named after his son, Sardar Singh. The city is renowned for its opulent havelis adorned with frescoes and paintings, the sole clock tower in Asia with streets running beneath it in all four directions, and the famous Shri Ichha Puran Balaji Mandir temple. Located approximately 300 km from New Delhi and 245 km from Jaipur, Sardarshahar is accessible by road from Ratangarh or Sujangarh, or by train from Chappar station. The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport. The best time to visit Sardarshahar is from September to March, offering an opportunity to explore the city’s cultural and historical treasures, as well as those of the Shekhawati region.

The distance from Churu to Sardarshahar 69.7 Km.

8. Fresco Painted Havelis

The Fresco Painted Havelis are a collection of ancient mansions in Churu, Rajasthan, adorned with exquisite paintings and frescoes. These artworks serve as a testament to the rich culture and heritage of the Shekhawati region, which thrived as a bustling trading center in its heyday. Among the renowned havelis in Churu are Surana Haveli, Malji Ka Kamra, Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Haveli, and Kothari Haveli. Visitors can explore these havelis through guided tours or by wandering independently. The intricate and vibrant artworks on display depict scenes from mythology, history, and everyday life. Additionally, visitors can delve into the histories and anecdotes surrounding these havelis and their former inhabitants.

9. Sri Shantinath Bhagwan Mandir

The Sri Shantinath Bhagwan Mandir is a Jain temple located in Churu, Rajasthan, renowned for its exquisite paintings and frescoes showcasing themes from Jainism and Hinduism. Constructed in 1895 by the widow of a prosperous merchant, Bhagwan Das Bagla, the temple boasts a striking interior featuring chandeliers, checkered flooring, and Portuguese tiles. It stands out as a premier attraction in both Churu and the Shekhawati region.

10. Mansa Devi Temple

The Mansa Devi Temple, a Jain temple in Churu, Rajasthan, was constructed in 1895 by the widow of a prosperous merchant. Renowned for its exquisite paintings and frescoes illustrating themes from Jainism and Hinduism, the temple boasts a stunning interior adorned with chandeliers, checkered flooring, and Portuguese tiles. It stands out as one of the premier attractions in both Churu and the Shekhawati region.

11. Kanhaiyalal Bagla Haveli

The Kanhaiyalal Bagla Haveli, a historic mansion in Churu, Rajasthan, was constructed around 1880. Renowned for its intricate latticework and wall paintings, the haveli serves as a testament to the rich culture and heritage of the Shekhawati region, celebrated for its fresco art and grand havelis. The walls of the haveli narrate the tales of Dhola and Maru, the legendary lovers from folklore. A visit to this haveli is a must for those who admire the beauty and craftsmanship of Rajasthan.

12. KUKU Fun Zone

KUKU Fun Zone in Churu, Rajasthan, is a vibrant oasis of entertainment and excitement. This mini water park offers a refreshing escape for visitors of all ages, promising a day filled with joy and laughter. Dive into the fun with thrilling arcade games, bumper cars, and other exciting activities that cater to every taste. After a thrilling adventure, treat yourself to delicious food and refreshing beverages available on-site. Whether you’re seeking thrilling rides or a relaxing time with loved ones, KUKU Fun Zone is the perfect destination for a memorable day out in Churu.

Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day.

13. Aath Kambh Chhatri

Aath Kambh Chhatri in Churu, Rajasthan, is a captivating historical monument that stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage. Built in 1776 as a cremation ground for Rajputs, the structure features an elegant eight-pillared dome. Inside, visitors can admire intricate stone-carved paintings and murals that depict captivating scenes from Hindu mythology and folklore. Aath Kambh Chhatri is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into the cultural richness of Shekhawati, renowned for its magnificent havelis and frescoes.

14. Raghunathji Mandir

Raghunathji Mandir, also known as Bara Mandir, is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Raghunath or Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, located in Ratangarh town, Churu city, Rajasthan. It stands as one of Churu’s notable attractions, alongside the famed fresco-painted havelis, Sethani Ka Johara, and Kanhaiyalal Bagla Haveli. The temple’s exquisite architecture and tranquil ambiance make it a place of worship and contemplation for Lord Rama’s devotees. Throughout the year, the temple hosts various festivals and events, including Ram Navami, Dussehra, and Diwali, celebrating the life and teachings of Lord Rama.

These were some places to visit in Churu. Hope you liked it. Have a safe journey!

How To Reach Churu

1. By Air:
   • The nearest airport to Churu is in Jaipur, approximately 215 km away. From Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Churu.
2. By Road:
   • Churu is well-connected by road to major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. You can drive to Churu or take a bus from cities like Jaipur, Bikaner, and Delhi.
3. By Train:
   • Churu has a railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Bikaner. You can take a train to Churu from these cities.

Here is a table of trains from Delhi to Churu railway station along with their name, numbers, timings, and charges.

Churu Weather & Temperature

Churu experiences a desert climate with extremely hot summers, where temperatures can exceed 40°C, and cold winters, with temperatures dropping below 5°C. The monsoon season from July to September brings limited rainfall and increased humidity. The post-monsoon period (October to November) sees a gradual decrease in temperatures, while winters (December to February) are cold but more comfortable for visitors.

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