Karauli, formerly called as Kalyanji, was founded by Raja Arjun Pal in 1348 AD. The rulers of Karauli belonged to the most refined class of Yaduvanshi Rajputs and were said to be descendants of Lord Krishna. Karauli is famous from historical, natural and cultural perspectives. Historical, because a number of battles were fought in Karauli and the entire city is surrounded by a protective red sandstone wall studded with bastions. Jeep and camel safaris are famous here, giving the tourist an opportunity to explore wild life at Kaila Devi Sanctuary, which is an extension of Ranthambore National Park. This is a place that once housed about 300 temples, some amongst them being Kaila Devi, Madan Mohan Ji and Mahavir Jain Temples. The exquisite sale of art and handicraft native to Karauli, celebration of Kaila Devi fair (Feb-March) add to the cultural richness of Karauli. A major tourist attraction, Karauli lies 180 km from Jaipur and 120 km from Bharatpur.
