When we think about Rajasthan, we are pretty much aware of the popular destinations like Ajmer, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer, but if you are ready to look outside these touristy places, you will find that there are many offbeat places that can give you a taste of everything that Rajasthan is renowned for –palaces, forts, camels, and elephants.
Here are few offbeat places that are full of tranquility away from the chaos that has surpassed so many Rajasthan’s vacation spots.
1. Barmer:
Barmer is a desert settlement in western Rajasthan, about 150 KMs from Jaisalmer. Though most of it is a desolate desert land with harsh climate for most part of the year, Barmer is legendary for its historical sites such as Siwana fort and Juna remains. Barmer is becoming renowned for the cattle fair organized in the Tilwara and Thar festival as well. Travelers can get a glance of the rich culture of Rajasthan and taste the local cuisines as well.
2. Banswara:
Situated between Udaipur and Chittaurgarh, Banswara is an ancient city, enclosed by the historical walls. The city has some significant places which present a typical example of Rajput architecture. Some of the important places you can visit here are the City Palace. Anand Sagar Lake, an artificial lake situated on the eastern parts of the region; and Madareshwar, a grand temple of Lord Shiva which sits royally amidst quaint natural exquisiteness.
3. Bundi:
Bundi is a little unfamiliar gem of a place not much traveled by the tourists, Just about 40 KMs from Kota and surrounded by the Aravalli hills on 3 sides. The place is rich in history and known for its forts, palaces 50 step wells, most of which have not been maintained since the central water system was initiated, as well as the miniature paintings from the “Bundi School”.
4. Kuchaman:
Kuchaman is about 140 KMs from Jaipur. It is a small village that houses one attractive-looking fort. The fort still keeps much of its magnificence and maintains the soothing ambiance around the place. This fort is a key tourist spot and is also part of the route of Palace on Wheels. A few havelis have also unbolted their doors to the foreign guests, who travel during the winter. The rural setting adds to the joy of staying with peace and tranquility, being your best companions.
5. Jhalawar:
Situated in southeastern Rajasthan, Jhalawar is a former princely state famous for its old temples, forts and palaces. Much of the city was shattered during the reign of Aurangazeb, and one can easily find the remnants here. Jhalawar Fort, widely known as Garh Palace locally is the chief attraction here. There are some little known Buddhist Caves in Kolvi near Jhalawar. This place even has more than 50 caves in this area belonging to 5th to 8th century AD.
6. Rawla Narlai:
Situated in southern Rajasthan, Rawala Narlai is 17th century fortress placed underneath 350 ft high rock. For those who do not, who want to visit the same old tried places, they should explore this hidden gem in Rajasthan. The fort is now used as a heritage hotel, depicting its rare brilliancy of Rajput architecture. To add to the appeal, the place sits beautifully amid small hills and temples.
7. Baroli:
Baroli is a small village in Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, the fascinating structures of of this place is build in prathihara style of temple architecture which will hypnotize you with its splendid grandeur. The Ghateswar Shiva temple is the chief attraction here and believed to be the oldest temple in Rajasthan. Rana Pratap Sagar Dam and Dara Wildlife Sanctuary are in the region and can be visited on a trip to Baroli