Rajasthan is a treasure trove of history.
The rich history, tradition, culture, and architecture of the place reveal something new with every visit.
The places which catch our fancy every time we think of Rajasthan are Hawa Mahal, Jaipur, and Udaipur.
But there are other hidden gems ,
that are equally worth exploring. Here are five of them.
Bundi
This little city,
takes pride in a towering fort that has never been conquered,
the Nawal Sagar Lake,
a palace with gorgeous mirrors and frescos, and over fifty stepwells,
with the most beautiful architecture.
Bundi has some real concealed beauties,
from huge rock formations to beautiful waterfalls,
prehistoric rock paintings and ancient temples,
this city never fails to surprise.
How to reach
The nearest airports from Bundi,
are in Jaipur (at a distance of 210 kilometers|) and Udaipur (at a distance of 261 kilometers).
You can also take a train to Bundi,
since it has its own railway station.
Travel Tip
While in a restaurant,
slot at least half an hour for your meal to arrive,
since the food is freshly made and once you taste it,
you will find that it was worth the wait!
Kumbalgarh Fort
One of the highest,
most formidable,
and almost invincible forts of the Mewar Region,
Kumbalgarh Fort was built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century.
The magnificent fort bears testimony to the valor of the Rajputs.
Kumbalgarh Fort is nestled amidst the 13 peaks of the Aravallis.
Can be entered through seven striking gates.
Second only to the Great Wall of China,
a 36 kilometers wall surrounds the fort within which are 360 temples.
In spite of being around 700 years old,
Kumbalgarh Fort still stands intact and in good shape,
and you can even see the Kumbalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary from atop the walls of this glorious fort.
How to reach
Kumbalgarh Fort lies about 180 kilometers from Jodhpur and 100 kilometers from Udaipur.
The nearest railway station is at Falna, about 50 kilometers away.
Travel Tip
Enjoy the light and sound show hosted at the fort in the evenings.
Narlai, Pali
Situated right in the centre of the Aravalli mountain ranges,
Narlai,
Pali lies midway between Udaipur and Jaipur.
Here, you can enjoy the wilderness at the old havelis that have been converted into hotels.
A trip in a jeep will help you spot chitals, leopards, and deer.
Narlai also houses several centers with picture perfect craft textiles and durries.
Laze around and enjoy the authentic Rajasthani cuisine or go for a trek around the area.
Do not forget to visit the Lord Shiva and Adinath Temples to witness the intricate mural work.
How to reach
Narlai,
Pali is situated 123 kilometers away from Udaipur and 144 kilometers from Jodhpur.
If you prefer train journeys,
the nearest railway station is 45 kilometers away at Falna.
Travel Tip
While on the road,
you can take a short trip to Kumbalgarh Fort,
only fifty kilometers away.
Image credit: Robert Harding
Mahansar
The quaint little town of Mahansar,
boasts of five glorious havelis in Shekhavati region,
which are embellished with intricate gold leaf paintings.
With three vaulted ceilings that have,
breathtaking scenic paintings from The Ramayana, the life of Krishna and the incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
The havelis are guaranteed to leave lasting impression.
The walls are also beautifully adorned
with meenakari work in tree and floral motifs, and figurines of birds.
Mahansar is also widely known for its heritage Mahansar wine.
How to reach
At a distance of 276 kilometers from Mahansar lies the capital city of India;
and the nearest railway station at Churu is 22 kilometers from the former.
Travel tip
A visit to the Sone-Chandi ki Dukaan, which dates back to 1846, is a must.
Kuchaman
Kuchaman,
is a small village that was founded in 1781 AD by Thakur Zalim Singh.
The Kuchaman Fort,
perched about 1100 feet high on a cliff has ,
a rich display inlay work comprising glass, gold, and semi-precious stones.
Kuchaman also houses a Sheesh Mahal which is absolutely breathtaking.
The Meera Mahal,
dedicated to Meerabai,
is adorned with numerous miniature paintings.
While in Kuchaman,
make sure to also pay a visit to the Jal Mahal,
which is believed to have been conceptualized,
to give princesses and queens privacy while they dipped in to the ponds to bathe.
How to reach
By road,
Kuchaman is 344 kilometers away from Delhi and about 140 kilometers from Jaipur.
The village has its own railway station.
Travel tip
The best time to visit Kuchaman is between the months of October and March.
Want some help to go to these cool places?
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