Tonk is a small village in the administrative block of Tonk in Rajasthan state, only 96 km. away from Jaipur. On the east is bordered by Sawai Madhopur district, west district of Ajmer, Bundi district in the south and Jaipur district to its north.
It is located in the arid and dry state and is 1.462 feet above sea level, on the right bank of the river Banas. Historically it is known that the ancient Tari and Janpan Tokra were conquered by Raja Man Singh of Akbar and was equipped with a local Brahmin in 1643 AD, which later declared these twelve towns like Tonk.
The modern city of Tonk was established in 1818 AD by Nawab Amir Khan, is famous for its havelis magnificent palaces and mosques. It is also famous among tourists as the "Lucknow of Rajasthan and is connected with the culture Bairath old. In ancient times, different Pashtun tribes of Afghanistan ruled Tonk and some architecture reflects the touch of Mughal period.
Sights:
Sunehri Kothi:
The main attraction is the 19 th century Tonk Sunehri Kothi or the Golden Manor, near Bada Bagh Road Kuan in Najar. The building appears to be resistant and their ordinary affairs, but once you have an idea of their internal real gold, it was confirmed that the mansion is well known.
Sheesh Mahal, or the glass room Sunehri Kothi, will leave you fascinated with glass and the incredible work of flowers, along with exquisite examples of work "Meenakari. Government of Rajasthan has declared a historic site and restoration work is in its expansion phase.
Jama Masjid:
Another spectacular building of Tonk is Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. The first Nawab of Tonk, Nawab Amir Khan is credited with starting the construction of the mosque in 1246, which received its final form in 1298 by Nawab Wzirudhoula.
You will be reminded of the Mughal monuments as soon as you see its gigantic gateways. Its interiors are richly decorated with colored glass, inlaid marquetry and floral motifs, along with gold.
Arabic and Persian Research Institute:
Those who are in search of ancient Persian and Arabic manuscripts, is the place to be. The Arabic and Persian Institute are few of the most former collection of books and manuscripts in Persian and Arabic, which were the studies conducted by the Nawabs. These manuscripts from the 12th century.
Hathi Bhata:
An impressive piece of craftsmanship, Bhata Hathi elephant is a structure designed for a single rock. This structure is a creation of the brilliant 12 th century, as known from the date recorded in the right ear of the elephant. You have to travel 22 km from Tonk in the Ranthambore road to reach this ancient wonder.
Getting There & Away:
You can easily get to Tonk from Jaipur, and buses from Jaipur to Kota has a stopover in Tonk. While returning from Ranthambore National Park in Sawai Madhopur buses are also available to Tonk.
