Rajasthan is a state that is known for its rich history, culture, and architectural wonders. While there are several popular places like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur, but there are also many lesser known places which are offers a unique impression into the state’s vibrant culture and traditions, and are often less crowded than the popular tourist destinations. Rajasthan has a lot to offer for those willing to explore the offbeat places.
Here are some unknown but Interesting places of Rajasthan :
1. Bundi (Hadoti)
Bundi is a small town located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, India. It is famous for its magnificent palaces, forts, temples, and step-wells. The town has a rich history and is known for its traditional Rajasthani architecture and culture.It is located on a hilltop and offers a breathtaking view of the town. The fort is surrounded by a massive wall and has several gates and bastions. The fort also houses several beautiful palaces, including the Rani Mahal, Chhattar Mahal, and Badal Mahal.
Bundi is also home to several temples, including the Keshav Rai Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Other temples in Bundi include the Nawal Sagar Jain Temple and the Dabhai Kund Temple.
In addition to these historical and architectural wonders, Bundi is also known for its colorful markets, where visitors can shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, such as textiles, pottery, and jewelry.
How to reach Bundi
By Air: The nearest airport is Sanganer Airport in Jaipur which is about 206 kms away.
By Road: Buses to Bundi are available at regular intervals from Ajmer, Bijolia, Bikaner, Chittorgarh, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Sawai Madhopur and Udaipur.
By Train: There is a small railway station in Bundi that is located about 4 kilometres south of the old city. To reach Bundi by train, you will have to change trains at Chittorgarh, which is connected to all major cities in India.
2. Mandawa (Shekhawati)
Mandwa is a small town located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its beautifully painted havelis , which are often referred to as an open-air art gallery. The town has a rich history and is a proof to the wealth and prosperity of the merchants who lived here during the 18th and 19th centuries. The havelis in Mandwa are adorned with beautiful frescoes, murals, and paintings that depict scenes from mythology, daily life, and the Rajasthani culture. Some of the most famous havelis in Mandwa include the Goenka Double Haveli, the Murmuria Haveli, and the Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli.
Overall, Mandwa is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the rich history, culture, and art of Rajasthan. The town offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and is a perfect destination for those looking to explore the lesser-known gems of Rajasthan.
How to reach Mandawa
By Road: Mandwa is located about 190 km from Jaipur and about 250 km from Delhi. The town is well-connected to these cities by road and can be easily reached by bus or taxi. There are also several private tour operators that offer guided tours to Mandwa.
By Rail: Mandwa does not have its own railway station. The nearest railway station is in Sikar, which is about 30 km from Mandwa. Sikar is well-connected to other major cities in Rajasthan and can be easily reached by train. From Sikar, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Mandwa.
By Air: The nearest airport to Mandwa is in Jaipur, which is about 190 km away. The Jaipur International Airport is well-connected to other major cities in India and abroad. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Mandwa.
3. Barmer, Rajasthan
Barmer is a city located in the western part of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, colorful festivals, and scenic beauty. The city is surrounded by the Thar Desert and is home to several historical and architectural wonders. One of the main attractions of Barmer is the Barmer Fort, which is located in the heart of the city. The fort is known for its beautiful architecture and offers a panoramic view of the city.Barmer is also known for its vibrant festivals, including the Barmer Thar Festival, which is held every year in February. The festival showcases the rich culture and heritage of Rajasthan and features music, dance, and traditional handicrafts.
Overall, Barmer is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the rich culture, history, and scenic beauty of Rajasthan. The city offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Rajasthan
How to reach Barmer
By Road: Barmer is located about 200 km from Jodhpur and about 500 km from Jaipur. The city is well-connected to these cities by road and can be easily reached by bus or taxi. There are also several private tour operators that offer guided tours to Barmer.
By Rail: Barmer has its own railway station, which is well-connected to other major cities in Rajasthan and India. The Barmer Railway Station is located in the heart of the city and is served by several trains on a daily basis.
By Air: The nearest airport to Barmer is in Jodhpur, which is about 200 km away. The Jodhpur Airport is well-connected to other major cities in India and abroad. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Barmer.
4. Ranakpur (Pali)
Ranakpur is a small town located in the Pali district of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its beautiful Jain temples, which are considered among the finest examples of Jain architecture in India. The town is located in a peaceful valley in the Aravalli Range and offers a serene and tranquil environment.The temple is known for its intricate carvings, beautiful architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. The temple was built in the 15th century and is dedicated to Adinath, the first Tirthankara of the Jain religion.
Visitors can also enjoy trekking and hiking in the surrounding hills, which offer panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. The nearby Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is also a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a chance to see a variety of rare and endangered species, including the Indian wolf, leopard, and sloth bear.
How to reach Ranakpur
By Road: Ranakpur is located about 90 km from Udaipur and about 165 km from Jodhpur. The town is well-connected to these cities by road and can be easily reached by bus, taxi or private car. There are also several private tour operators that offer guided tours to Ranakpur.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Ranakpur is the Falna Railway Station, which is located about 35 km away. The railway station is well-connected to other major cities in Rajasthan and India. From the station, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Ranakpur.
By Air: The nearest airport to Ranakpur is in Udaipur, which is about 90 km away. The Udaipur Airport is well-connected to other major cities in India and abroad. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Ranakpur.
5. Dundlad Fort (Shekhawati)
Dundlod Fort is a historical fort located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, India. It was built in the 18th century by Kesari Singh, the founder of the town of Dundlod. The fort is a beautiful example of Rajputana architecture and is made of red sandstone. The fort has several beautiful courtyards, each with its own unique character and charm. The Diwan Khana is a beautiful hall that was used for important meetings and gatherings, while the Badal Mahal is a palace within the fort that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.The fort also has a number of beautiful temples, including the Jagathia Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and the Tuganram Goenka Haveli, which is a beautiful Jain temple.
This fort atract tourists from around the country and showcases numerous royal items. A horse show which is organised here every year in Dundlod during March attracts the people who love horses and have an interest in attending the festival.
How to reach Dondload Fort
By Air: The nearest airport to Dundlod Fort is Jaipur International Airport, which is located about 155 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dundlod Fort.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Dundlod Fort is Nawalgarh Railway Station, which is located about 16 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dundlod Fort.
By Road: Dundlod Fort is well connected by road and can be easily reached by bus, taxi or private vehicle. It is located about 250 kilometers from Delhi, and about 150 kilometers from Jaipur.
6. Kuldhara (Jaisalmer)
Kuldhara is a deserted village located in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan, India. It is believed to have been inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins, a community of wealthy traders, until the 19th centuryThe Rajasthan government has also developed a museum in the village, which displays artifacts and information about the history and culture of the Paliwal Brahmins.
Kuldhara is known to be a haunted village in Rajasthan and offers the most intimidating experience. This place offers insights into the past of the people who inhabited the castles and forts that you will witness there.There is an interesting story associated with the village and yet it retains a beautiful and eerie appearance. This place possesses stories of ghosts and paranormal activities and is drowned in an aura of mystery.
How to reach Kuldhara
By Air: The nearest airport to Kuldhara is Jaisalmer Airport, which is located about 18 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kuldhara.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kuldhara is Jaisalmer Railway Station, which is located about 34 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kuldhara.
By Road: Kuldhara is well connected by road and can be easily reached by bus, taxi or private vehicle. It is located about 17 kilometers from Jaisalmer and can be accessed via the Jaisalmer-Sam road.
7. Kuchaman (Nagaur)
Kuchaman is a small town located in the Nagaur district of Rajasthan, India.Some of the major attractions within the Kuchaman Fort include the Sheesh Mahal, which is a beautiful palace with walls covered in mirrors, and the Jhag Palace, which is a stunning palace with intricate artwork and decorations. The fort also has a number of beautiful temples, including the Meera Bai Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu saint and poet, Meera Bai. Apart from the fort, Kuchaman also has several other attractions, including the Roopnagar Jain Temple, which is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira, and the Kuchaman City Palace, which is a stunning palace that has now been converted into a heritage hotel.
How to reach Kuchaman
By Air: The nearest airport to Kuchaman is Jaipur International Airport, which is located about 128 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kuchaman.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kuchaman is Kuchaman City Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Rajasthan and other parts of India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kuchaman.
By Road: Kuchaman is well-connected by road and can be easily reached by bus, taxi, or private vehicle. It is located about 130 kilometers from Jaipur and can be accessed via NH48.
Rajasthan is home to some popular and well-known destinations as well as there are some unknown but interesting places of Rajasthan ,where we explored. So, if you are planning a trip to Rajasthan, consider adding some of these lesser known destinations. They will not only offer a partial view but also provide an opportunity to escape the crowds and experience a more authentic and peaceful side of Rajasthan.