Home to hundreds of years of fascinating traditions, the state of Rajasthan is like a ride on the sands of time. While Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur are often the most sought out places in Rajasthan, but the land of maharajas has so much more to offer than just those three cities.
The mighty Mehrangarh, the shimmering Lake Pichola, and the lustrous Amber Fort are worth all the hype, but if you get off the tourist circuit in Rajasthan, you’ll discover quite a few unexpected getaways in India’s most flamboyant state. Rajasthan is a treasure trove of history and one can spend years trying to unearth its hidden gems. Every time I visit a new place, I get blown in Air with the history, architecture, culture, tradition and beauty of the place.
Bundi :-
Bundi is a town that you might have a picture of its in your head, but often struggle to place in the real world. Dotted with blue houses, lakes, hills, bazaars and a temple at every turn, Bundi is straight out of a fairy tale. It is believed that Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling penned part of his famous novel Kim in Bundi and this is what he had to say about the Bundi palace.
‘Jaipur Palace may be called the ‘Versailles of India’. Jodhpur’s House of strife, gray towers on red rock, is the work of giants, but the Palace of Bundi, even in broad daylight, is such a palace as men build for themselves in uneasy dreams – the work of goblins rather than of men.’
Places to visit in Bundi :– Sukh Mahal, Kshar Bag, Dabhai Kund, Raniji Ki Baori, Taragarh Fort, Lake Jait Sagar.
Barmer :-
Known for its ultra rich crafts that include wood carving, pottery, embroidery work and ajrak prints, the town of Barmer in western Rajasthan is located 153 km from Jaisalmer. Formerly know as Mallani, the present name of Barmer was given by its founder Bahada Rao, popularly known as Bar Rao, who was a Parmar ruler. Barmer captures the imagination of everyone who visits it, and has successfully stood the test of time and circumstances.
Places to visit in Barmer :- Kiradu Temple, Barmer Fort and Garh Temple, Shri Nakoda Jain Temple, Chintamani Parasnath Jain Temple, Juna Fort and Temple.
Kuchaman :-
An important chapter in the book called Rajasthan, Kuchaman is 100 kilometres from Pushkar. The historical city of Kuchaman houses an impressive looking fort which is currently a heritage hotel. The scenic surrounding of the fort is alluring and the sky is radiant blue, unlike in the cities where pollution has taken its toll and a clear sky is often like a mirage. The fort also has a rich collection of original inlay work in semi-precious stones, glass, and gold paint. Even the Sheesh Mahal at Kuchaman fort is a sight to marvel at.
Meera Mahal is another beautiful palace in Kuchaman city, representing the life of the poet saint Meerabai. The folklore is displayed on the palace walls with exquisite paintings and murals that illustrate her life.
Dungarpur :-
Bounded on the east by the state of Gujarat and situated at the foothills of the Aravalli Hills, Dungarpur is as eye-catching as the green marble found here.
The exceptional architecture of Dungarpur’s palaces and royal residences offers a sight that you’ll struggle to find elsewhere. The stone structures are adorned with jharokhas and built in a style that emerged during the times of Maharawal Shiv Singh (1730-1785 AD).
Places to visit In Dungarpur :- Deo Somnath, Galiakot, Nagfanji, Vijay Raj Rajeshwer Temple, Badal Mahal
Sawai Madhopur :-
Popularly known as the ‘Gateway to Ranthambore‘, Sawai Madhopur is a beautiful and legendary city in the desert state of India. Surrounded by Vindhyas & Aravalis, it is an ideal for adventure enthusiasts. Also, the guavas are incredible.
Places to visit in Sawai Madhopur :- Ranthambore Fort, Sunheri Kothi, Jama Masjid and Khandhar Fort.
