While Rajasthan is known for its forts, palaces, lively markets and delectable cuisine, the state has something to offer to all kinds of travellers. Additionally, some of the lesser-known places here make for ideal weekend getaways with friends and family alike. By Moyena Parikh
Having witnessed several kings and queens, touring Rajasthan is like riding on the sands of time laden with rich cultural history. From marvelling at the architectural magnificence of the Kuchaman Fort and riding a bike on the rough terrains of Barmer to being awed by the intricate carvings of the Sachiya Mata Temple, the hidden gems in the state are a treasure trove for tourists.
So, if you are looking to take the road less travelled and discover Rajasthan like never before, we suggest visiting these highly underrated places.
Here are some hidden treasures of Rajasthan that you must add to your travel list
Bundi
Bundi serves as a much-needed escape from the stressful and monotonous city life. Filled with blue houses, lakes, hills, bazaars and a temple at every other turn, this place has also found a mention in Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling’s famous novel Kim.
Describing the Palace of Bundi, he wrote, “Jaipur Palace may be called the ‘Versailles of India’. Jodhpur’s House of strife, grey 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.”
Other places like Sukh Mahal, Kshar Bag, Dabhai Kund, Rani Ji Ki Baori, Taragarh Fort and Lake Jait Sagar in this tiny, old city will charm you with their mediaeval grandeur. The city used to be a capital of the kingdom of Hadoti, known for their architecture, art and sculpture. Hence, the blue houses and stepwells never fail to fascinate tourists.
While the nearest airport to Bundi is in Jaipur, you can also change trains at the well-connected Chittorgarh railhead to arrive at the Bundi railway station. The city is also accessible by road easily.
Barmer
Nestled in the Thar Desert, Barmer is known for its mud houses, wood carving, embroidery, pottery and ajrak prints. Because of its arid climate, the city attracts adventure seekers who can enjoy bike and car rides on rough terrains and long stretches of barren land.
Some of the popular tourist spots are Kiradu Temple, Barmer Fort, Garh Temple, Juna Fort, Shri Nakoda Jain Temple and Chintamani Parasnath Jain Temple. Formerly known as Mallani, the region earned its present name from a Parmar ruler, Bahada Rao (or Bar Rao).
The nearest airport and railhead are in Jodhpur. Additionally, many state-run buses regularly ply from major cities, such as Jodhpur, Jaipur and Udaipur, to Barmer.
Dungarpur
Every architectural enthusiast must plan a trip to Dungarpur as you will be enthralled by the city’s impressive royal residences and palaces. Additionally, the stone structures, showcasing lovely jharokhas (windows) built during the reign of Maharawal Shiv Singh (1730-1785 AD), will leave you spellbound.
While the city was founded by a Mewar Prince Rawal Veer Singh in 1258 AD, its subsequent rulers enhanced Dungarpur’s architectural heritage with their personal aesthetics. It is also famous for sourcing green marble from the foothills of the Aravalli range.
Other major places to visit include Udai Bilas Palace, Juna Mahal, Badal Mahal and Deo Somnath, which offer a good chance to learn about the city’s history.
The best way to reach Dungarpur by road is by taking the National Highway 8. Travellers can also choose to take a train to the city or fly to the nearest airport in Udaipur.
Kuchaman City
Just about 100 kilometres from Pushkar, lies another hidden treasure of Rajasthan called Kuchaman City. Known for housing the Kuchaman Fort, which was constructed by Gurjara Pratihara King, this famous tourist attraction is a must-visit.
It showcases some of the finest inlay work of glass, semi-precious stones and gold paint and has now been converted into a heritage hotel. You can shop for handicrafts and fabrics at the market underneath the Kuchaman Fort.
Kuchaman City has been well-maintained and kept eco-friendly. It is known as ‘Green and Clean City’. Other popular places to visit here are Sheesh Mahal, Meera Mahal, Jal Mahal, Lok Dev Temple and Ganesh Dungri. The miniature paintings and murals seen in the regal palaces take you on a trip down the bygone era.
Kuchaman City can be reached via the Jaipur airport and trains. Well-connected by roads, the city is accessible from Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer and Delhi.
Osian
Adding to the list of hidden treasures in Rajasthan, is Osian, a historical city in the Jodhpur district. It used to be a major trading centre on the Silk Route from the eighth to 12th century AD, along with being a prominent pilgrimage site of the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty.
The quaint town has 16 gorgeous temples, a cluster of Hindu and Jain temples, whose intricate designs and ingenious architecture truly reflect the rich cultural heritage of the place. The temples and shrines, dating back to the period between the eighth and 11th centuries, are known for detailed carvings that can still be seen even though most of the temples are in ruins.
One of the most famous temples to visit is the Sachiya Mata Temple. Also known as Osian Mata Temple, some of the depictions that can be seen here, consisting of Sachiya deity, Vasudeva carrying baby Krishna on his head and images of Balram, who is considered to be the incarnation of Seshnaga, will leave you in awe.
Other places to visit include Surya Temple, Kali Temple, Mahavira Temple and the Harihara Temples.
Jodhpur is well-connected by major airports and rail stations, from where you can book a cab or take a bus to reach Osian.
Nagaur
The next time you visit the north-western state, plan a trip to Nagaur, one of the many hidden treasures in Rajasthan waiting to be explored.
Home to one of India’s largest salt water lakes, Sambhar Lake, this enchanting little corner of Rajasthan still stands strong when it comes to cultural heritage and traditions. According to Rajasthan’s official tourism website, Nagaur also finds a mention in the Mahabharata as ‘Jangladesh‘. Over the centuries, the city has been ruled by the Nagas, the Chauhans, the Rathores, the Mughals and the British and has witnessed several battles.
You can also visit places such as Nagaur Fort, Ladnun, Jhorda, Khatu and the spice markets. Interestingly, the Dargah of Sufi Saint Hamiduddin Chisti Faruqui Nagauri, one of the chief disciples of Khwaja Moinuddin, is also situated here.
Jodhpur has the nearest airport and a railhead. Nagaur can also be reached easily by road.
Hero and Featured Image Credit: Rajasthan.gov.in
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