Dholpur is located between Agra and Gwalior in the state of Rajasthan. The Dholpur, declared as a district in 1982, was earlier a division of Bharatpur district of Rajasthan. Before Indepence of India, Dholpur was a princely Jat state. It is close to Mathura therefore along with Hindi, Braj bhasha (dilect) is also spoken. Many facets of the culture of Brij region can be traced here. The antiquity of Dholpur can be traced back during the epic age and prior to that too. The Dholpur region used to be part of Matsya Mahajanapad which finds detailed mention in ancient Sanskrit scriptures and literature. The Matsya people had been recognized as very brave & valiant warriors who participated in the great battle of Mahabharata. Before Independence of India from the British clutches, Dholpur was a princely state. The present name of Dholpur is derived from the site Dholdera or Dhawalpuri built by Raja Dholan (or Dhawal) Deo, a little to the south of the present town. Being an ancient city, Dholpur is also famous for its ancient buildings and military academy in Kesharbagh. Tourism in Dholpur revolves around its historical heritage, wildlife diversity and deeply steeped- in- culture lifestyle.