On Jaipur-Agra Highway (NH.11) near sikandra on both sides of the high way(For approximately 6 kms)you will see an open air market -shops selling wares made out of sand stone.Their forefathers built rajasthan’s fort’s and palace’s and temples and the colonial buildings in New Delhi and else where.
Now a days they make Jali’s,pillars,idols of various gods,fountains,likeness of birds and animals in stone.They make judicious use of modern machines and artisans in their work. Their work is in great demand in the various metros of India.
There are about 500 workshops where about 7000 workers carve stones for their livelihood.Most of the artisans are from the near by villages.Some workers are from other states also.Some 100 shops sell ready to buy stone artifacts.These are the sermons in stone of master masons of Sikandra.
6 Kms. from Bandikui railway station in Dausa District (62kms from Jaipur off Jaipur-Agra Highway) is Abhaneri-an ancient town best known nowadays for the 8th century stepwell and Harshat mata Temple.This ancient city is said to be the capital of Nikumbh Rajputs before they founded Alwar.Some 1000 years old this is one of the sites chosen for the rural tourism project by the Co-operative Department along with Bichoon( If successful this project will encompass about 26 villages in 15 districts).These villages will be known as Tourist Dhanis.
At present only day tours are proposed.Tourists will be welcomed in the rajasthani village style and offered a glimpse in the day to day life of a rajasthani villager.Their food,games,dances and songs and customs and costumes all will be on display.Far from the Five star culture of the metros this will be a unique experience for the jaded tourist of today.They will also be given bullock cart or camel cart rides.Camel/Horse safaries and overnight stays will be on request.
The main attraction of Abhaneri are Chand Baori and Harshat Mata Temple.Built by Raja Chand of Nikumbh Rajputs of Chauhan dynasty during 8th and 9th century.
The temple,built in Mahameru style-situated on a double platform, was a shrine to the standing idol of Durga which was said to be stolen some time back.The local people have installed an idol of Goddess Laxmi.A three day annual fair is held in honour of Harshat Mata.
Chand Bori-earliest step wells of Rajasthan-is the most magnificent example of architecture of india.It is about 100 feet deep and square shaped.There is a veranda on all four sides.There are steps on three sides.About 3500 in number they are steep and narrow with 13 landings.These steps produce such a psychedelic effect that it is not possible to retrace you steps.People say that a tunnel connects Chand baori with the baori in Bhandarej village and further to Bubaniya Kund in Aluda.
Karan’s Guesthouse is a clean and comfortable guesthouse, centrally located in a Posh Colony of Jaipur just 2 kilometres from the main railway station,bus stand,Walled City,11km from the Jaipur Airport 1 km. from Major Conference Venue,Government Offices and The Statue Circle.The guesthouse has seven Spacious double bedrooms and one single bedroom, each room has a western style private bathroom. All rooms have a satellite colour TV, small fridge, cupboard, desk, chair, lamp, sofa, air-conditioning and a heater. Two rooms have private balconies.There is a guest dining/sitting room with colour satellite TV and a well equipped kitchen for breakfast. However for those guests that wish to eat out there are many shops and popular restaurants nearby offering good quality food at reasonable prices.There is a telephone, fax machine available for all guests. You are invited to enjoy the homely atmosphere at Karan’s Guesthouse.
