The quintessential Rajasthan experience is all about exploring the venerable history of its Maharajas through the forts and palaces that they raised. But, nothing intrigues the discerning traveller like the little town of Hanumangarh which captures one&rsquos fancy with its archaeological surprises. Its age-old temples are much revered by devotees not only from Rajasthan but also from its neighbouring states. The town once served as the kingdom of the Bhatti kings and was originally called Bhatner. Raja Suraj Singh of Bikaner rechristened it Hanumangarh after he conquered the city. But why Hanumangarh, one may ask Well, history suggests that it was a Tuesday when Raja Suraj Singh captured the city and Tuesdays are dedicated to the worship of Lord Hanuman, according to Hindu mythology and belief. Here is a day trip guide to the quaint town.
Bhatner Fort
Any trip to Rajasthan is incomplete without visiting a fort, and Hanumangarh certainly doesn&rsquot disappoint in that respect. One of the city&rsquos top tourist attractions is the Bhatner Fort. Situated on the banks of the Ghaggar River it is ranked amongst India&rsquos oldest forts. Constructed around 1700 years ago, the fort finds mention in Mughal emperor Akbar&rsquos Ain-e-Akbari. Its construction is credited to Bhupat, the son of King Bhatti of Jaisalmer. The fort has withstood the ravages of time and survived attacks by the likes of Timur and Prithviraj Chauhan. Bikaner&rsquos Raja Surat Singh captured the fort in 1805. Also worth visiting in the fort complex are temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman among others.
Temple of Shri Gogaji
You can&rsquot make the mistake of visiting Hanumangarh and not paying obeisance at the shrine of Gogaji, located 120km from the city in Gogamedi village in Nohar tehsil. According to local folklore, Gogaji was a warrior, who is believed to have had spiritual powers. He is also called the God of Snakes Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner built a temple in his honour around 900 years ago. Standing on an elevated mount, the temple is a fine specimen of a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture. It is embellished with impressive engravings. The inner sanctum houses an attractive statue of the deity, sitting on a horseback with a snake around his neck and a lance in his hand. Gogaji is equally revered by those of the Hindu and Muslim faith. The best time to visit is in August, when a fair is held to honour the folk deity. Devotees throng the place in droves to pay homage to the saint during the three-daylong fair. It is a popular belief that Gogaji can cure diseases and fulfil the wishes of his true devotees.
Kalibangan
History and archaeology buffs will find it rewarding to explore the historic archaeological site of Kalibangan in Hanumangarh district. On display at the museum here are excavated finds from the Harappan Site conducted between 1961-69. The exhibits here have been showcased in three different galleries. These galleries are filled with pottery and antiquities one gallery houses the Pre-Harappan finds, the other two exhibit Harappan artefacts. Other artefacts to be found here include Harappan seals, bangles, terracotta objects, impressive terracotta figurines, bricks, grinders, stone balls and the well-known six fabric pottery repertoire from A to E of Pre-Harappan level of Kalibangan.
