Ramathra Fort, Karauli

Ramathra was granted as a jagir (fiefdom) in 1645 AD to Thakur Bhoj Pal by his father the Maharaja of Karauli. The name Ramathra honours Lord Rama, who, it is believed, camped here while on his epic journey to Lanka. Today, Ramathra Fort belongs to Thakur Brijendra Raj Pal and his family who are descendents of the founder. The fort has a strong perimeter wall crowned with parapets. Its ramparts are wide and offer a spectacular view from the hilltop. Inside there is a multi-story palace, parts of which are being restored using traditional building techniques and local craftspeople. Stone lattices and a painted ceiling ornament the otherwise simple facilities. It was, after all, designed to be a battle fort. A complete walking tour of the Ramathra village, a small hamlet of farmers and herders, takes about 3 hours. You see all kinds of work associated with tending crops and animals, and caring for children. Absent is a bazaar with commercial traffic or food stalls. After the sun goes down, Bhajan-singing and community activities are more common than radio or television. Among its numerous shrines, the Ganesh Mandir and Shiva Mandir give the best flavour of local religious life. The pure white marble idol of Lord Shiva, the great Ascetic, is a masterpiece of early 18th century craftsmanship. Bring your camera and be ready to tell about your family and home because the people of Ramathra are curious to learn about you too!