Sawai Madhopur, the seat of administration of
Sawai Madhopur District, is a historic town situated 165 km south of
Jaipur, in
Rajasthan. It is the gateway to the world-renowned
Ranthambhore National Park.
Sawai Madhopur has a long history hidden behind its modern looks. Its medieval periods were marked by various struggles and invasions. In the 13th century, the town was under the rule of Govinda, the grandson of Prithviraj Chauhan. In the middle of the 15th century, Rana Kumbha wrested control of the town, followed by the Hada
Rajputs of Bundi and Mughal Emperors, Akbar and
Aurangzeb. In the 1740’s, the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam gifted the fort at Sawai Mahopur to Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I of Jaipur, which remained with them until India's Independence.
Places of tourist interest include Ranthambhore National Park and the 10th century fort. An annual fair held on the day of Bhadrapad Sudi Chaturthi, in the 8th century Ganesh temple, is a major event attended by hundreds of people from far and near. Sawai Madhopur is famous for its 'Khus' perfumes, which can be bought from selected shops.
Nearest airport is at Jaipur (165 km).
Sawai Madhopur Railway Station is on the Delhi-Mumbai main railway line and has regular trains to Gorakhpur, Jammu, Dehradun and Mumbai.
