Rajasthan is vast, charming and all shades wonderful. The best places to visit in Rajasthan are counted among the best of India. But, beyond these touristy trails lay the real heart of Rajasthan. The offbeat destinations in Rajasthan are worth exploring as here you come across the real glorious Rajputana. The fascinating history, the incredible architecture, the legends, traditions, and culture make you yearn for the glorious grandeur of the past.
If you want to explore the offbeat gems on your Rajasthan tour, here’s where you can go:
Bundi
A picture-perfect town with its unconquerable fortress, Bundi is one of the amazing lesser-known destinations in Rajasthan. The rustic charm of Bundi is what captures the hearts. It is interesting to note that Bundi’s houses have a bluish-hue like other places in Rajasthan to stay cool during the hot summer.
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Coming to the attractions of Bundi, The Taragarh Fort is a must-visit for its charm of medieval grandeur. The Sukh Mahal and the Garh Palace have a fairy tale quality about it. Visit the step-wells, the baoris for incredible architecture, and ornate craftsmanship. Glassy lakes in Bundi add to its charm as do the vibrant markets.
Tourist Attractions in Bundi
- Taragarh Fort
- Raniji Ki Baori
- Sukh Mahal
- Garh Palace
- Jait Sagar Lake
Mandawa
A scenic town in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, Mandawa is one of the offbeat treasures of the land and a perfect place for City break. Located in the heart of the Shekhawati region, a part of the Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan, Mandawa is dotted with forts, palaces and splendid mansions (Havelis). Mandawa is one of the oldest cities in the region that surprises visitors at every turn.
The charming palaces, Havelis, and forts are a treasure of colourful frescoes and painted masterpieces inspired by Hindu Mythology. If you would like to appreciate art, handicraft, and a royal stay; then the Mandawa Castle is worth a stay during your trip to Rajasthan and also an amazing weekend getaway near Delhi. The royal heritage hotel with antique furniture and classic art gives you a chance to experience royal life.
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Tourist Attractions
- Snehi Ram Ladia Haveli
- Harlalka Well
- Seth Dayaram Dedraj Goenka Haveli
Kota
Painting quite a different picture from the quintessential Rajasthani image of the desert, Kota is a lush green town. Nestled by the River Chambal, the town is dotted with history, heritage, vibrant culture, and incredible experiences.
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Sightseeing here includes the Kota Garh, or City Palace, the Maharao Madho Singh Museum, the 18th-century Jagmandir Palace amid Kishore Sagar Lake, tranquil Chambal Garden and more.
Tourist Attractions in Kota
- Kotah Garh
- Kishore Sagar
- Jag Mandir
- Maharao Madho Singh Museum
Bikaner
The ‘Camel Country’, Bikaner is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan. Surrounded by the golden sand dunes of the Thar Desert, the historic town has much to offer. The 16th-century Junagarh Fort is the star attraction. Of note is the Prachina Museum that displays traditional textiles and royal portraits.
The other tourist places in Bikaner include Lalgarh Palace, Gajner Palace, Gajner Lake, etc. Nearby, the Karni Mata temple, the temple of rats is a visit for the ones who are not faint-hearted. An evening on the sand dunes of Bikaner is a cherished experience as is dining on the mouthwatering Rajasthan dishes.
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Tourist Attractions in Bikaner
- Junagarh Fort
- Jain Temple
- National Research Centre on Camel
- Lalgarh Palace and Museum
- Rampuria Havelis
Alwar
Counted among the best places to visit in Rajasthan, Alwar is a city of many charms. Nestled at the lush foothills of the Aravallis, the town is one of the ancient kingdoms of the Rajputana. It is a treasure of history, heritage, culture, adventure, wildlife, and many more.
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The Neemrana Fort is a major tourist attraction of the city as is the City Palace, the SiliSerh Lake, and the Siliserh Lake Palace. Wildlife safari at the Sariska Nature Reserve is also a must-try. Alwar is among the best places to visit in Jaipur. The haunted Bhangarh Fort is for the brave hearts and another famous place situated nearby Alwar and Jaipur.
Tourist Attractions in Alwar
- Sariska Tiger Reserve
- City Palace
- Bhangarh Fort
- Siliserh Lake
- Bala Quila
Deogarh
A picture-perfect royal kingdom with its own Palace, Deogarh is a charming destination to visit during the Rajasthan tour. An estate of Chundawat Rajputs, the Deogarh Mahal in the town is the most prized tourist attraction. For some serene royal vacation, this is the ideal getaway in the royal state.
Deogarh is a popular place to visit around Jodhpur. This town is situated on the eastern side of the Aravalli ranges atop a small hill. The famous attractions of this quaint little town are Kunjbihari Temple, Charbhuja Temple, and Anjaneshwar Mahadev Temple which is renowned for its Shivalinga which formed naturally as a result of rainwater dissolving calcium in the rocks.
Tourist Attractions in Deogarh
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- Basukinath
- Naulakha Mandir
- Jain Tirthankar Shantinath Temple
- Trikut
Dungarpur
Known as ‘The City of Hills’, Dungarpur is an exotic beauty snuggled in the lush foothills of the Aravallis, nourished by the rivers. One of Rajasthan’s best kept secrets, the town is dotted with the beautiful architecture of embellished ‘jharokhas’ (windows). You can marvel at the ornate window structures at Udai Bilas Palace, Juna Mahal, and Badal Mahal. This is one of the best offbeat destinations in Rajasthan and a perfect place to adore the architectural beauty of the bygone era.
Besides enjoying the sights, enjoy the serenity of Baneshwar Temple, Nagfanji, Deo Somnath, Kshetrapal, and Shrinathji, which lies on the bank of the pristine Gaib Sagar Lake. For some memorable moments of bliss, Dungarpur is a beautiful travel getaway.
Tourist Attractions in Dungarpur
- Badal Mahal
- Juna Mahal
- Shrinathji Mandir
- Gap Sagar Lake
Churu
Known as the gateway to the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, Churu is a beautiful less-known tourist destination of Rajasthan. Snuggled on the edge of the Thar Desert and located amid the golden dunes, Churu is famous for the 400-year old fort. Typical villages, shifting golden sand dunes, grand Havelis, fresco paintings, and unique architecture make it a worthwhile vacation getaway.
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Tourist Attractions in Churu
- Churu Fort
- Babosa Dham
- Surana Haveli
Author Bio:
A soul bred in the mountains, Akansha Negi doles out travel inspiration from solo wandering, exploring heritage and culture, tasting local cuisine, adventures, and experiences of her travels. As a travel enthusiast, she loves to travel in India as this country is a sumptuous amalgam of traditions, spiritual beliefs, and magnificent landscapes. She keeps penning down and capturing her travel experiences and loves to share them with all. She wishes to travel across the globe in the years to come.