Karauli

Karauli is a town in Rajasthan that extends along pale red sandstone walls, featuring ancient temples, traditional havelis with intricate carvings, and ornate cenotaphs scattered across the settlement. The layout follows the contours of hilly terrain, creating winding streets and connected courtyards.

Raja Bijai Pal founded Karauli in 995 as the capital of a princely kingdom that flourished for centuries. The settlement continued to play an administrative role until India's independence in 1947.

The Kaila Devi Temple serves as a major pilgrimage site where Hindu devotees gather during religious festivals throughout the year. People come here to participate in rituals and observe traditions that connect them to their faith.

Karauli sits on hilly terrain, so visitors should expect stairs and steep paths, particularly when exploring older quarters. The local climate is hot and dry typical of Rajasthan, making cooler months more comfortable for walking around.

Local sandstone quarries provide the distinctive red stone that has been used to build many structures throughout the town, giving it its recognizable color and texture. This material source has shaped the architectural identity of the place over many generations.