Jhalawar district is situated in the north-eastern part of Rajasthan along the edge of the Malwa plateau. It lies along the border of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, spreading along into neighbouring Madhya Pradesh. Jhalawar district is a rock-strewn, scrub-covered terrain, occasionally covered with fields of poppies and citrus-green groves of oranges. Lying in the south-eastern region of Rajasthan at the edge of the Malwa plateau, Jhalawar has rocky but water-laden verdant landscape, unlike much of Rajasthan. It covers a total area of 6928 Sq. Kms. Jhalawar district is an expanse of fertile plain having rich black-cotton soil. It is watered by several rivers, giving it a verdant look. The largest river flowing through the area is the Kali Sindh River, which flows through the territory to join the Chambal River, Rajasthan`s largest river. Other rivers include Ujaad, Ahu, Parvan, Chavli etc. The Aravalli mountain Ranges, which are the most ancient folded mountain ranges in India, cross the region and roughly divide the plains of Hadoti from the Malwa plateau. These hills and the surrounding areas were once thickly forested and teeming with wildlife.
The climate of Jhalwar district is very much similar to that of the Indo-Gangetic plain, with hot dry summer and delightfully cold winters. The average temperature in the district during summer is 47 degree Celsius on the higher side and 32.5 degree Celsius on the minimum side. During winter, the maximum temperature is around 32.5 degree Celsius whereas the minimum temperature hovers around 9.5 degree Celsius. The monsoon is, however, quite unlike and most distinct from the oppressive humid climate of the North Indian plains. Jhalawar district is known for the highest rainfall in the state of Rajasthan. An average of 35 inches of rainfall keeps it cool, and gentle breezes ward off the stifling humidity. Lying at an altitude of 460 metres, the district receives an average rainfall of around 943 mm.
Agriculture is practised in quite a big way in the district. The total geographical area of Jhalawar district is 6.62 lakh hectares, out of which 4.87 lakh hectares is suitable for agriculture and farming activities. Since the district receives the highest amount of rainfall in the state of Rajasthan, it has facilitated the practice of agriculture of the farmers of the region. Besides this satisfying rainfall, the district has a lot of irrigation dams, ponds, and medium scale projects, which are serving the needs of farmers. Among the major crops grown here are soya bean, pulses, jowar and maize in the Kharif lot and wheat, mustard grain and coriander in the rabi season. Jhalawar is also known for the production of Citrus (Oranges). Citrus produced in Jhalawar region are of export-quality, and are exported to various foreign countries.
The district of Jhalawar is well known for its rich forests and exotic flora and fauna. Around 21 percent of the total area is covered by forests. Numerous species of birds can be spotted along the roads, while the Sarus crane breeding grounds spotlight the rich avian life dominating Jhalawar territory. Red poppy fields make up a vibrant colour in the district.
