Rajasthan, known for its majestic palaces and grand forts. It has many famous landmarks like the Amber Fort and Mehrangarh Fort. However, there are also many lesser-known forts that are just as fascinating and rich in history. These underrated forts offer a unique glimpse into Rajasthan’s past and are perfect for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
1. Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort, located in the Aravalli Hills. It is one of Rajasthan’s hidden treasures. It has the second-longest wall in the world, stretching over 36 kilometers. This massive fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha and has never been conquered. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Inside the fort, there are numerous temples and palaces, each with its own story.
Attractions near Kumbhalgarh Fort:
- Ranakpur Jain Temple (50 km): Famous for its amazing marble architecture, this temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious history and craftsmanship.
- Parshuram Mahadev Temple (10 km): Located in a cave, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature.
- Badal Mahal (within Kumbhalgarh Fort): Known as the ‘Palace of Clouds’, this two-storeyed palace offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
- Haldighati (40 km): A historic battlefield where Maharana Pratap fought against the Mughal Empire, this site is steeped in Rajput bravery and legend.
Timings
6:45 am to 7:30 pm; every day
Tickets:
₹ 100 for Indians; ₹ 200 for foreigners
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, approximately 85 km from the fort. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Rani Railway Station, about 35 km away. Another option is the Udaipur Railway Station, located 85 km from the fort.
- By Road: Kumbhalgarh is well-connected by road. Regular buses, taxis, and private cars are available from Udaipur (85 km), Ranakpur (50 km), and other nearby cities.
2. Neemrana Fort
Neemrana Fort is located in the Alwar district. It is an ancient fort from 15th century. It has been converted into a heritage hotel, which making it a perfect place to stay and experience history directly. The fort offers breathtaking views, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful ambiance. Visitors can enjoy activities like zip-lining and cultural performances, adding to the unique experience of staying in a historic fort.
Attractions near Neemrana Fort:
- Sariska National Park (78 km): Famous for its Bengal tigers, this wildlife reserve is perfect for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
- Bala Quila (Alwar Fort) (52 km): A grand fort perched on the Aravalli Hills, offering panoramic views of Alwar city and the surrounding landscape.
- Siliserh Lake (60 km): A serene lake ideal for boating and a perfect spot for a quiet escape.
- Vinay Vilas Mahal (City Palace) (52 km): A stunning example of Rajput and Mughal architecture, this palace is now a museum showcasing royal artifacts.
Timings:
- Neemrana Fort is open for day visitors from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- For hotel guests, the fort remains open throughout the day.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: ₹2,000 per person (includes entry and buffet lunch)
- Children (5-10 years): ₹1,600 per child
- Free entry for children below 5 years.
- For Hotel Guests: The entry is included in the stay, and additional activities like zip-lining may have separate charges.
How to Reach Neemrana Fort:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in Delhi, around 95 km from Neemrana. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a private car.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Rewari Railway Station, located 35 km away. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available to Neemrana from the station.
- By Road: Neemrana is located on the Delhi-Jaipur Highway (NH-8), making it easily accessible by road. It’s about 122 km from Delhi and 150 km from Jaipur, making it a convenient weekend getaway.
3. Nagaur Fort
It is also known as Ahhichatragarh Fort, is located in the town of Nagaur. This fort has a rich history and showcases stunning Mughal and Rajput architecture. It has been beautifully restored and is now home to the annual World Sufi Spirit Festival. The fort’s impressive gates, detailed carvings, and gardens make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Attractions near Nagaur Fort:
- Jain Glass Temple (3 km): A stunning temple made entirely of glass and mirrors, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras.
- Tarkeen Dargah (2 km): A significant Sufi shrine, offering a peaceful environment and spiritual vibes for visitors.
- Khimsar Fort (42 km): A heritage hotel and a fort that offers insights into the region’s history, with panoramic views of the Thar Desert.
- Sambhar Lake (70 km): India’s largest inland salt lake, perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Timings:
• Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ticket Prices:
- Indian Visitors: ₹50 per person
- Foreign Visitors: ₹100 per person
- Children below 5 years: Free entry
How to Reach Nagaur Fort:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, around 140 km from Nagaur. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Train: Nagaur Railway Station is well-connected by trains to major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner. The station is just 2 km from the fort.
- By Road: Nagaur is well-connected by roads. It is 135 km from Jodhpur, 295 km from Jaipur, and regular buses and taxis are available.
4. Ranthambore Fort
Ranthambore Fort is located within the Ranthambore National Park. It is a hidden gem surrounded by nature. This fort dates back to the 10th century and offers spectacular views of the park and its wildlife. Visitors can explore the ruins of temples, palaces, and water tanks within the fort. The combination of history and nature makes it a unique destination.
Nearby Attractions:
- Ranthambore National Park: Famous for its Bengal tigers, this park offers safaris where you can spot tigers, leopards, and a wide range of wildlife.
- Trinetra Ganesh Temple: Located inside Ranthambore Fort, this temple is one of the oldest Ganesh temples in India and a major pilgrimage site.
- Padam Talao: The largest lake within the national park, known for its tranquil beauty and frequent sightings of wildlife.
- Raj Bagh Ruins: A series of ancient structures located near Raj Bagh Lake, adding a mystical feel to the park’s landscape.
Timings:
The fort is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ticket Prices:
- Indian Visitors: ₹25 per person
- Foreign Visitors: ₹200 per person
- Children under 5 years: Free entry
How to Reach Ranthambore Fort:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, located about 180 km from Ranthambore. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the fort.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, located about 13 km from the fort. It is well-connected to major cities like Jaipur and Delhi.
- By Road: Ranthambore is well-connected by road. You can easily reach it by car or bus from Jaipur (180 km), Delhi (390 km), or Kota (110 km).
5. Taragarh Fort:
Taragarh Fort is located in the scenic town of Bundi, Rajasthan. It is one of India’s lesser-known and underrated forts. It is built in the 12th century by Rao Singh Bar. The fort sits on a hill with beautiful views of Bundi. It is known for its stone carvings, large gateways, and a network of underground tunnels. Unlike more famous forts, Taragarh is quiet and not crowded with tourists, making it a great place for those who prefer a peaceful historical visit.
Nearby Attractions:
- Bundi Palace: Known for its beautiful paintings, this palace is located at the foot of the fort and showcases the rich art and culture of Rajasthan.
- Raniji ki Baori: A stunning stepwell built in 1699, with ornate carvings and a fascinating architectural design.
- Nawal Sagar Lake: A picturesque lake that reflects the town and is dotted with small islands. It offers a calm, serene ambiance.
- Sukh Mahal: A small palace beside a lake, known for its peaceful surroundings and historical significance.
Timings:
Open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Ticket Prices:
- Indian Visitors: ₹50 per person
- Foreign Visitors: ₹200 per person
- Children below 15 years: Free entry
How to Reach Taragarh Fort:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kota Airport, located about 39 km away, though Jaipur International Airport (206 km) is a better-connected option.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Bundi Railway Station, around 5 km from the fort, which is well-connected to major cities like Kota and Jaipur.
- By Road: Bundi is about 40 km from Kota, 153 km from Jaipur, and 250 km from Udaipur, with regular buses and taxis available from these cities.
Conclusion
Rajasthan’s lesser-known forts are hidden gems that offer rich history, stunning architecture, and unique experiences. Exploring these underrated forts gives visitors a chance to step back in time and discover the stories of bravery, sacrifice, and architectural brilliance. Next time you visit Rajasthan, make sure to include these hidden treasures in your itinerary for a truly unforgettable experience.
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