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Banswara
Banswara district was formerly a princely state ruled by Maharavals of Bhatti clan of Rajputs and was home to tribal Bhils, who constitute more than half of the city's population. The city was established by a Bhils ruler Bansia and named after him Banswara. Jagmal Singh became the first Maharaval of Banswara after defeating and killing Bansia. Some says that the city named so because of abundance of bamboos.
In 1913, there was a revolt by Bhils under the leadership of social reformer Govinda Guru. In a massacre termed, hundreds of Bhils were shot dead at Mangarh hillock where they were holding a peaceful meeting. The place has since become sacred and is called the Mangarh Dham.
The district is situated in the valleys of the Aravallis and has a rich reserve of both flora and fauna. Tribals are the natives here and their culture is seen here in its original form.
The best time to visit is winter (October to March).
Lachchi Bai of Idar has constructed Anand Sagar Lake. Holy trees called ‘Kalpa Vriksha’, known to fulfill the desires of visitors, surround it. The cenotaphs of ancient rulers of the state are also situated close by.
Chheench a 12th century Brahma Temple with a life size statue of Lord Brahma is a must-see destination.
The summer residence of former rulers, the Badal Mahal is situated here on the banks of a lake. Fresh lotus flowers in the lake make it a beautiful place.
A natural cave of a high hill here houses a famous Lord Shiva temple. Nature can be experienced in full bloom from here.
