# Danta fort, Sikar

- **Country:** India
- **Coordinates:** 27.300000, 75.183333

Danta, also known as Danta Shekhawati, is a historic town located in the Sikar district of Rajasthan, India. Originally settled around 1400 AD by Thakur Amar Singh Shekhawat, the area is part of the culturally rich Shekhawati region. The settlement was formally established in 1410 and has since grown into a town with a population exceeding 35,000 people. Geographically situated at coordinates 27°18′N 75°11′E, Danta serves as a notable locale within the state, characterized by its diverse demographic comprising Hindus, Muslims, and Jains. The town experiences extreme climatic conditions, with summer temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius and winters dropping significantly low.

The most prominent landmark is the Danta Fort, historically referred to as Danta Dera Fort. While specific architectural details regarding its original construction style are not extensively documented in available records, the structure holds significant historical value as a former stronghold of the local Shekhawat rulers. Today, the fort has been repurposed and operates as a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to experience its historical ambiance while providing modern accommodation. This adaptive reuse ensures the preservation of the site while contributing to the local tourism economy. The transformation from a military or royal residence to a hospitality venue highlights the evolving role of historical structures in the region.

Beyond the fort, Danta is renowned for the Karni Mata Temple, a site of deep religious and historical significance. Originally constructed as a hunting lodge by Thakur Madan Singh Danta, the building was converted into a temple and donated to Sayar Baisa, a devotee who performed rituals there. The endowment included 300 bega of land to sustain the temple's operations. The area is also spiritually significant as the home of Acharya Nana Lal Ji Maharaj, the eighth acharya of the Akhil Bharat Varshiya Sadhumargi Jain Sangh, who is revered for his reforms and spiritual leadership. This blend of royal history, religious devotion, and cultural heritage makes Danta a unique destination in Rajasthan.

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danta,_Sikar (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)