Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas, infinite lakes and towering palaces, is all that and more! Travellers who have spent years exploring the fantastic expanses of Rajasthan, will tell you that it's a land of unpredictability and holds a mind-blowing surprise around every corner. So much so, that if you have truly experienced Rajasthan once, it'll be difficult for you to go back!
Famous Offbeat Places in Rajasthan that should be at the top of your travel list:
SambharThe town of Sambhar is named after the largest inland salt lake in India, the Sambhar Lake. The origin of Sambhar Lake is unknown but its mention is found in the epic of Mahabharata. Legends claim that the regional deity, Shakambari Devi, is behind the flatland's formation. Irrespective of the narrative, the salt lake is a favourite with photographers, especially astrophotographers.
The night sky here is famous for offering a great view of the milky way. Other than photography and camping at the Sambhar Salt Lake, you can also pay a quick visit to the Shakambari Devi Temple or climb up the Devayani Tank for a panoramic view.
Kumbhalgarh :–Kumbhalgarh (literally "Kumbhal fort") is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli Hills, in the Rajsamand district near Udaipur of Rajasthan state in western India. It is a World Heritage Site included in Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Built during the course of the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. Occupied until the late 19th century, the fort is now open to the public and is spectacularly lit for a few minutes each evening. Kumbalgarh is situated 82 km northwest of Udaipur by road. It is the most important fort in Mewar after Chittorgarh Fort.
Ranakpur :-Ranakpur is a village located in Desuri tehsil near Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan in western India. It is located between Jodhpur and Udaipur. 162 km from Jodhpur and 91 km from Udaipur, in a valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range.
Barmer :-Situated in the Thar Desert region, this town is home to fascinating and lesser known sand dunes of Rajasthan. While tourists get lost in the Sam Dunes of Jaisalmer, they remain oblivious to the majestic Mahabar Dunes in Barmer. Along with dune bashing, you can also take a step back into time with its many historical attractions such as the Siwana Fort, Juna Ruins, Brahma Temple and Jogmaya Temple.
Kota :-Known around the world as the heart of regal India, Rajasthan has not yet received enough traction for its amazing wildlife and biodiversity. The Darrah National Park, in the scholar town of Kota, is a treasure trove of unique flora and fauna.
The Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaswant Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary make the 250 sq. km of the Darrah National Park in Kota and hosts species such as the wild boar, deer, nilgai, cheetah and wolves. The park remains open from 10am to 5pm everyday of the week.
Jhalawar :-Built in the 12th century, the Gagron Fort is the only fort in north India to be entirely surrounded by water. Along with achieving a remarkable feat with its engineering and architecture, the fort has also been pivotal to the history and culture of India. After being the seat of the Khinchi dynasty for about 300 years, the fort withstood over 14 battles and two jauhars (mass self-immolation by women of a family/community). Several fascinating tales from its vibrant and bloody past still echo the walls of the fort. Locals and visitors believe that King Achal Das can still be heard smoking his hookah, and ghosts of the thousands of women who committed suicide here still haunt the place.
The shrine of Mittheshah, a Sufi saint from the 15h century, was built by Akbar near the Gagron Fort in 1580. This highly revered spot is still frequented by believers, especially during the Islamic month of muharram when a colourful fair is organized here. On your trip through the historical gems of Jhalawar, don't forget the ancient Sun Temple at Jhalrapatan.
Bundi :–Renowned across Rajasthan as the city that has never been conquered, Bundi is a hidden gem of the glorious state. Hiding in plain sight near Kota, travellers passing through Bundi will be surprised to see the well-preserved historical and architectural sites here. With over 50 baoris (step wells), innumerable havelis, cave paintings and a beautiful waterfall (Bhimlat), Bundi has something to amuse every traveller. Every corner of Bundi holds a surprise, but places such as the Bundi Palace, Chitrashala, Taragarh Fort, Rani ji ki Baori, Dabhai ka Kund, Nawal Sagar, Sukh Mahal and Shikhar Burj, will especially blow your mind.
Narlai :–
If you plan on travelling to the Chaturmukha Jain Temples in Ranakpur, then you're guaranteed to have the once in a lifetime opportunity to live like royalty in Rawla Narlai.
Just 36km off the Udaipur-Jodhpur highway lies the heritage haveli which was once the hunting lodge of Jodhpur's royal family. Rawla Narlai has over 32 rooms, all embellished with mirror work and regal designs. The hotel also organises dinner at the Narlai Stepwell, which will definitely leave you feeling like Rajasthani royalty. The countryside of Narlai comprises of jungles of Aravali Hills where you can take a leopard safari. And if that doesn't interest you, then head to Seli Bandh, a dam which turns into a birdwatcher's haven during winters.
Longewala:–Remembered as one of the greatest displays of courage and military tactics by the Indian Army, Longewala is a site where in the year 1971, a small group of Indian soldiers chased off a battalion of 2,000-3,000 Pakistani soldiers. The Battle of Longewala is depicted in the famous JP Dutta feature film, 'Border', and the town where it occurred should definitely be visited by every Indian as it stands as a living example of the army's death-defying efforts in keeping us safe.
Longewala is just 120km from Jaisalmer and Indian civilians do not require a permit to visit the town. Civilians are allowed to visit the border post for a day trip (as there are no arrangements for a night stay there), interact with soldiers and see parts of the Pakistani tanks that were captured in 1971.
Banswara :-Situated by the Mahi River, Banswara in Rajasthan is a place full of surprises. From temples ruins in Arthuna dating back to the 11th century to waterfalls (Kagdi, Juha and Kadeliya) that turn into a cascading vision during the monsoon, Banswara is a treasure trove of historical, cultural and natural gems hiding in plain sight.
It is also known as the home of the Bhil tribe, known as the bow-men of Rajasthan, which still make up half of the population. Banswara has a fascinating mix of terrains which can rarely be found together in one place; the cave lake of Ram Kund, the wetlands of Diablab Lake and the hills around Samai Mata Temple are a few great places to see this.
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