Experiencing Tranquility at Offbeat Destinations in Rajasthan
Bundi, Banswara and Alwar are three most beautiful offbeat destinations in Rajasthan that should definitely be in your list of places to explore in Rajasthan. Explore some of the most exotic and beautiful tourist spots that offer a glimpse to the rich culture, heritage, and architectural creativity of the artisans of the bygone era. Here, the article enlists some of the most iconic offbeat destinations to explore in Rajasthan for a calm, pleasant and an enthralling experience.
Table of Contents
- Bundi – A Hidden Gem for Offbeat Destinations
- The Taragarh Fort
- RaniJi Ki Baori
- Lake Nawal Sagar
- Explore the Chitrashala
- Moti Mahal
- Garh Palace
- Lake Jait Sagar
- The City of Hundred Islands – Banswara
- The Dailab Lake
- Anand Sagar Lake
- The Tripura Sundari Temple
- Andeshwar Parshwanathji
- Mahi Dam
- Paraheada
- The Majestic City of Alwar
- The Bhangarh Fort
- Bala Quila Fort
- Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary
- Siliserh Lake Palace
- Neemrana Fort
Bundi – A Hidden Gem for Offbeat Destinations
Bundi is among the fascinating offbeat destinations to explore in Rajasthan. Situated at a distance of 250 km from Jaipur, Bundi is famous for its ancient yet magnificent forts, palaces, serene lakes, steep wells, and reservoirs. Apart from its ornate palaces and forts, Bundi is also famous for its rich culture and heritage. Traditional handicrafts, paintings, pottery, and textiles captivate the interest of the visitors to Bundi.
Exploring the Majestic Palaces
The Taragarh Fort
The Taragarh Fort is one of the offbeat destinations to explore in Bundi, Rajasthan. A massive structure, Taraharsh Fort stands atop the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan and provides panoramic views of the city.
History- Constructed in the year 1354 AD, The Taragarh fort is shaped like a star. Also known as the Star Fort, The Magnificent Fort in Bundi was built by Rao Bar Singh. The Taragarh Fort was described by Rudyard Kipling as “the work of Goblins than of men’, which is now the abode of apes and monkeys.
Architecture- Unlike other forts in Rajasthan, built of sandstone, the Taragarh fort in Bundi is built with serpentine stone, which is green in color. Another unique feature of the Taragarh Fort is the number of tunnels built running across the hills. An ancient fort in Bundi, Taragarh Fort is truly an offbeat destination to visit while vacationing in Rajasthan.
Entry Fees and Timings- No entry fee. The fort is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
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Moti Mahal
Moti Mahal is another stunning structure in the list of offbeat destinations in Bundi, Rajasthan. A royal apartment in the fort, Moti Mahal is adorned with an exquisite ceiling decorated with mirror work which attracts visitors and tourists from across the world.
History- The mighty Moti Mahal in Bundi was built by Raja Bhao Singh Ji in 1645. In the later 16th and 17th centuries, Moti Mahal was taken over by Rao Raja Chatrasal and Rao Raja Umed Singh respectively.
What to do- An unmatched tourist attraction, Moti Mahal in Bundi, Rajasthan is situated atop the Aravalli Hills and provides breathtaking views of the Bundi City and the serene Nagal Sagar Lake. Capture stunning images of the picturesque Moti Mahal situated amidst the backdrop of Aravalli mountain ranges and experience tranquility at this peaceful spot at Bundi.
Entry Fees- Free Entry.
Garh Palace
The Garh Palace in Bundi, Rajasthan is another famous tourist attraction that is not just a single palace but a series of complex yet stunning structures that captivate the hearts of the tourists visiting.
History- Raja Rao Ratan Singh Hada, initiated the construction of Garh Palace in Bundi in 1580. The Garh palace continued to serve as the abode of the royal family until 1948. The Diwan-i-Aam in the Garh Palace was built in the 17th century.
Architecture- The Garh Palace in Bundi is a marvelous complex consisting of stunning structures such as the Hathi pol, Diwan-i-aam, Badal Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Chhatar Mahal. A striking feature of the Garh Palace is that it is untouched by Mughal and Islamic influences. The palace is adorned with exquisitely carved floral motifs, inscriptions, and patterns inspired by the Rajasthani style of architecture which makes it a part of offbeat destinations to explore in Bundi.
Ticket prices- Rs 80 for Indians, Rs 500 for foreigners.
Visiting hours- 8 am to 6 pm.
Immerse in the Serenity of Lakes
Lake Jait Sagar
Lake Jait Sagar is an enchanting lake in the Bundi city of Rajasthan and grabs a spot in the offbeat destination in rajasthan , bundi to explore. Surrounded by Aravalli Hills, the picturesque lake, located near the Taragarh Fort, in Bundi blossoms with colorful Lotus Flowers during the Monsoon and Winter Seasons and provides a rejuvenating experience to the tourists. The beautiful fountain at the Lake is a captivating sight for the spectators during the evening. Towards the end of the lake is the famous Sukh Mahal, a popular tourist attraction that served as a summer retreat for the royal family due to its open pavilion and terraced gardens.
Lake Nawal Sagar
The Nawal Sagar Lake in Bundi is another offbeat destination in rajasthan (bundi) to explore, an artificial yet stunning lake in Bundi that shows the reflection of the majestic forts and palaces in Bundi in its calm waters. The center of the Nawal Sagar Lake has a temple dedicated to the Hindu God of Water, Lord Varuna.
Boating at Nawal Sagar Lake
The Hindu Temple of Lord Varuna is partly submerged in water. The visitors can enjoy a boating ride from the banks of the lake to the Temple and enjoy the lake’s aesthetic beauty and picturesque setting amidst the backdrop of Aravalli Hills. The stunning scenic surroundings of the Nawal Sagar Lake make it one of the famous Offbeat Destination in Rajasthan to Explore.
Cultural Heritage of Bundi
Explore the Chitrashala
Explore the cultural heritage of Bundi, at this famous Chitrashala, an artistic delight in the list of Offbeat Destinations in Rajasthan to explore. Also known as the Ummed Mahal, The Chitrashala in Bundi consists of a gallery of murals that adorn the palace.
Cultural Significance- Built by Raja Rao Umed Singh, The Chitrashala in Bundi displays some of the most stunning and embellished paintings depicting the Raas-Leela, Radha-Krishna history, court life, and the royal family of Bundi. The paintings at the Chitrashala exude timeless beauty and elegance, are of great cultural significance, and resemble great artistic creativity and excellent preservation.
Entry Fees- Rs 100 per person.
Visiting Hours- 8 am to 5 pm.
- The Stepwells of Bundi
RaniJi Ki Baori
The Queen’s stepwell or the Rani Ki Baori is an ancient structure built by the former Rani Nathawati, one of the queens of the ruler of Bundi, Raja Rao Anirudh Singh. This vintage yet captivating 17th-century structure has a spot in the offbeat destinations to explore in Bundi.
History- As per the legends, Rani Nathwati was the youngest wife of King Anirudh Singh. She gave birth to his successor, Raja Rao Budh Singh which made the previous wife of the king envy her. Thus, Rani Nathwati gave her son to the previous queen and devoted herself to the well-being of the common people.
Structure- Queen Nathawati undertook the task of constructing the stepwell under the reign of her son, Raja Rao Budh Singh, which later came to be known as the RaniJi ki Baori. The Baori of Rani is about 46 meters deep and has a narrow entrance, with statues of elephants on each corner, and is adorned with delicate carvings that enhance the beauty of the step-well.
Entry Fees- Rs 50 for Indians, Rs 200 for Foreigners
Timings- 9 am to 5 pm.
The City of Hundred Islands- Banswara
Banswara is among the enchanting offbeat destinations to explore in Rajasthan. Located about 500 km from Jaipur, Banswara is renowned for its lush greenery, serene lakes, and ancient temples, earning it the nickname “City of Hundred Islands”. Apart from its natural beauty, Banswara is also famous for its vibrant tribal culture and heritage. Colorful festivals, traditional music and dance, and exquisite handicrafts captivate the interest of visitors to Banswara. The city’s unique blend of nature and culture offers a refreshing contrast to Rajasthan’s desert landscapes.
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The Tranquil Lakes and of Banswara
The Dailab Lake
Dailab lake in Banswara is a scenic lake covered with pink Lotus flowers and surrounded by lush surroundings which makes it a captivating sight for the visitors in Banswara. The Dailab also has a temple near its banks and is an example of rich diversity of flora and fauna in Banswara town of Rajasthan.
Anand Sagar Lake
Anand Sagar Lake is another picturesque destination in Banswara. Famous for its lush surroundings, dazzling waters, and spiritual trees, the Anand Sagar Lake in Banswara was built by Maharana Jagimi’s Rani: Lalchi Bai. Capture some stunning images and soak in the beauty of this picturesque location in Banswara for a memory to cherish for lifetime.
Spiritual Journey to the Temples of Banswara
The Tripura Sundari Temple
The tripura Sundari temple is another ancient yet exotic temple, 20 km away from the town of Banswara in Rajasthan. Located in the lap of greenery, Tripura Sundari temple is visited by thousands of devotees every day due to its religious and spiritual significance.
Andeshwar Parshwanathji
The Andeshwar Temple in Rajasthan is another famous Jain Temple, located 40 km away from the town of Banswara in Rajasthan. Adorned with rare scriptures and inscriptions that dates back to about 4th century, The Andeshwar Temple in Banswara is a popular tourist spot and a revered Jain pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees for its architectural beauty and opulent structure.
The Majestic City of Alwar
Alwar is among the intriguing offbeat destinations to explore in Rajasthan. Situated just 150 km from Jaipur, Alwar is famous for its majestic forts, opulent palaces, tranquil lakes, and rich wildlife. Apart from its historical monuments, Alwar is also renowned for its proximity to the Sariska Tiger Reserve and its status as the gateway to Rajasthan. The city’s bustling bazaars, traditional crafts, and mouthwatering cuisine fascinate visitors to Alwar. With its perfect blend of history, nature, and culture, Alwar offers a unique glimpse into Rajasthan’s diverse heritage.
Exploring Forts and Palaces at Alwar
The Bhangarh Fort
The Bhangarh Fort is among the indulging Offbeat Destination in Rajasthan to explore in Rajasthan. Referred to as the most haunted fort in India, The Bhangarh Fort still attracts a large number of tourists every year owing to its serene atmosphere and magnificent structure.
History- The majestic Bhangarh Fort in Alwar was constructed in the 17th century by Raja Madho Singh. According to the legends, Madho Singh built the palace after taking permission from an ascetic Bala Nath that the shadow of the fort should not fall upon his house. But the ambitious successors of Raja Madho Singh added to the fortification vertically which engulfed the abode of the ascetic in its shadow, and the mighty Bhangarh fort became haunted.
Structure – The Bhangarh now being haunted and in ruins, was once a flourished structure with four magnificent entrances to the fort. The fort houses a number of temples within, a Dancers haveli and a Johari Bazaar.
Visiting hours- 10 am to 5 pm.
Bala Quila Fort
Also known as the Alwar Fort, The Bala Quila Fort is situated atop the steep Aravalli Hills, overlooking the town of Alwar.
History- The Bala Quila Fort is an ancient fort in the Alwar City, with a history that dates back to the 15th century. The fort was renovated by Hasan Khan Mewati and was the abode of the Mughal emperor Babur, who stayed here for a few days. Also Prince Salim, son of Mughal emperor Akbar was exiled and sent to reside in the Balagarh Fort for a period of 3 years.
Bala Quila Safari – The Bala Quila Fort was declared a part of Sariska in the year 2013. The forest range of Bala Quila has an exquisite range of flora and fauna. The wildlife diversity includes Tigers, Leopards, Jackals, Desert cats, Foxes and Hyenas. The wildlife Safari at Bala Quila Fort is accessible through a jeep and takes a time of about 2 hours.
