Introduction: Recognized with different names viz., Nawabo ki Nagari, Rajasthan ka Lucknow, Adab ka Gulshan, Hindu Muslim Ekta ka Maskan and Meethae Kharbujo ka Chaman, all these recognitions are enough to define the versatile feature of the district Tonk. Located in the north-eastern part of the state at geographical location of 75’190 to 76’160 East longitude and 25’410 to 26’240 North Latitude. The total area of district is 7194 sq kms. The district is bordered by the district of Jaipur in north, Bundi and Bhilwara in south, Ajmer in west, and Sawai Madhopur district in West.
History: The history of Tonk dates back to ancient period of Mahabharat when it was known as SAMWAD LAKSHYA. During the throne of Maurayas it was merged in the states of Malvas and the huge portion of the state was under the control of Maurya ruler Harshwardhan.
Some historic records also reveal that under the auspice of Mughal ruler Akbar, the king of Jaipur Maharja Man Singh I captured the areas of Tari and Tokra janpad. During 1643 twelve villages of Tokra janpad were donated to Bhola Brahmin, who later gave these villages the name of TONK.
However, Chinese tourist deals its history related to Bairath culture and civilization which was under the control of Bairath state. When Rajputs dominated the state was under the control of different clans of Rajput rulers namely Chavras, Solankis, Kachvahs, Sisodiyas and Chouhans. Later, it came under the control of King Holkar and Sindhia.
When the state was under the control of Nawab’s , once on the occasion of Miladdunabi all the citizens of the state were invited to attain the function which continued for seven days during the month of Rabiul Awwal, without any discrimination of caste, creed or colour.
The history of Tonk would be incomplete without describing the name of its founder ruler Nawab Mohammed Amir Khan. Amir Khan captured the throne of Tonk from the Blawant Rao Holkar in 1806. However during the ruler of British government in India the state was under the control of British rule. Later during 1817 a treaty was signed between Amir Khan and British administrator’s and the state was handed again to Amir Khan.
Tourist Destinations: Recognized with different names, the district of Tonk is blessed with very beautiful tourist destinations, which present the mix blend of Hindu-Muslim architecture.
Sunhari Kothi: Also called as ‘Sheeshmahal’ or the palace of glasses, this beautiful monument is located in the center of city at Bada Kuwa on Najar Bagh road. The major attraction of this palace are ‘PACHHIKARI & MEENAKARI’ works on the walls. Besides, this one can also see the Diamonds and glasses, paintings, flowers beautifully designed on the walls. Recently government has declared this place as an important government monument and started the work of its renovation.
Rasiya ki Tekkri: According to the local historical records this Tekkri was constructed in the memory of a Kayasth lover who used to sit over it and sung the love songs, therefore dedicated to romance (Rasiya) this place got famous as Rasiya ki Tekkri. This place was renovated in 1859, by Shri Ambaji Maharaj, who hold the position of governor during the ruler of Raja Holdar. Shri Ambaji Maharaj was renowned scholar and was known for composing love songs.
Bisalpur: Located 70 kms from the district and 13 kms from Deoli tehsil. Bisalpur is famous for two places namely the Bisalpur Dam, which is huge water reservoir, and secondly, a historical temple of Lord Gokarneswar. According to ancient records, Rawan meditated ‘Tapasya’ here. The dam is constructed intercepting the two mountains of Aravalli range, where river Banas divides both the mountains.
Hathi Bhata: Located 22 kms from the district. This place is famous for the statue of an elephant. On the basis of history as mentioned on the right ear of the elephant’s statue, this monument was build by Ram Nath architecture during the ruler of Sawai Ram Singh in 1200 A.D.
Historical Ghanta Ghar: Constructed by one of the Nawabs of Tonk, Mohd. Sadat Ali Khan in 1937. History reveals that during 1936 the disease of HAIZA spreaded immensely in the state. To protect the natives he started a rescue operation as fight against Haiza, he started distributing free medicines to sufferers. His efforts were applauded by the people and as a grant they donated money to the Nawab and from that amount he constructed the Ghanta Ghar.
Jama Masjid: It is one of the biggest Masjid (mosque) of India. Its construction was started by first Nawab of Tonk, Nawab Mohd. Amir Khan and completed under the regime of his first son Nawab Wzirudhoula . Four pillars or minars are visible from far sight. The doors of the mosque are designed in traditional mughal style. The other major attraction is work of golden paintings and meenakari on the walls of the masjid. The interiors of the monument remind the mosques of Delhi and Agra.
Rahmahal: The major attraction of this place is adjoining point or the SANGAM of three rivers Banas, Khari and Dai. Located on the shores of river Banas is visited by various national and international tourists. The pleasure of boating can be enjoyed in Dah of Salam Singh. The Mahal is constructed on the big mountain at Kakor, known as Kanakpura in the olden days.
Shivaji Garden: Located in Bhagat Singh colony of town Newai of Tonk district, the place is 30 kms away from the district headquarter. The designed of this Garden is based on the designs of Maisoor garden and Hiran Magari park.
Connectivity: However, the district is connected by all the major sources of transport but, the major source of transport is still roadways.
Airways: The nearest airport is Jaipur airport which is almost 100 kms away from the district.
Railways: This is really a surprising situation that the district lacks direct connectivity with the train. The nearest railway station is located at Banasthali-Niwai, which is about 35 kms from the district headquarter.
Roadways: Tonk is well connected to all the major cities and neighbor states.
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