Off Beat Experiences in Rajasthan: Beyond Palaces and Forts

Rajasthan, the colorful desert resort, Kathputlis, and palaces, have a multitude of features that no one knows much about. Yes, we are in Rajasthan thinking about offbeat attractions and experiences. The next time you visit any of Rajasthan’s magnificent cities, try to look beyond the imposing palaces and ancient forts and uncover most uniquely the hidden stories of the villages and towns.

Hundreds of years of fascinating traditions are home to the villages of Rajasthan, many of which will be wiped away with the older generation.

Summers in Rajasthan last from April to June and are particularly harsh with daytime temperatures escalating to 48 C. That said if you are planning a summer visit to Rajasthan, head to places like Mount Abu, Kumbhalgarh, or Ranakpur. The weather here is nice and stunning views are offered. In other cities, in the early evenings, the weather is ideal for roaming outside in the early mornings and late evenings, and otherwise, it is advisable to stay indoors.

Suggested itineraries for a trip to Rajasthan: Rajasthan travel guide 10 days

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Here are a few amazing experiences of Rajasthan:

1. Rural Udaipur

If the old city of Udaipur is as big a turn-off for you, with its open drains and the explosion of “hello madam” touts, escape to Mountain Ridge Homestay nestled on a wooded hill away from town. Read Also: Top Places to Visit in the Udaipur

This is your gateway to rural Udaipur, its stunning mountain views, and quaint tribal villages, lovingly and tastefully built by Piers and his team. You’re not going to see this city again with the same sight. Also, read 10 Best Wedding Hotels in Udaipur

Things to Do:

Village Tours: Take a guided tour through local villages like Shilpgram or Delwara to witness traditional Rajasthani life, including farming, pottery, and weaving. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts.
Homestays: Experience Rajasthani hospitality by staying in a rural homestay or a heritage property that offers insights into the local culture and daily life.
Cultural Performances: Enjoy evening performances of Rajasthani folk music and dance, such as Ghoomar and Kalbelia, often arranged by local communities or at rural resorts.
Craft Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops where you can learn traditional crafts like pottery, block printing, and miniature painting from local artisans.
Nature Walks and Trekking: Explore the scenic countryside through guided nature walks or treks in the Aravalli hills, offering opportunities to see wildlife and picturesque landscapes.

3 Days Udaipur Trip Package

2 Days Udaipur Sightseeing Tour

2. Ride on Marwari horses

Pure-bred Marwari horses arrived with the Persians in Rajasthan, and their numbers are declining as quickly as the wealth of the royals of the state. Landowners still rear these horses in small villages in the Pali district and are proud to be great riders.

Horse races are now rare in these parts, but travelers are welcomed for a rural ride. I never have ridden before (except as a kid in a touristy setting), but I had to wear my leg and headgear for a few minutes crash course, holding my reins, and almost trotting like a pro!

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Things to Do:

Horse Safaris: Embark on a Marwari horse safari through the Thar Desert, exploring remote villages, ancient temples, and rural landscapes. Safaris can range from a few hours to multi-day adventures.
Riding Lessons: Learn to ride Marwari horses with professional trainers, perfect for beginners and enthusiasts interested in equestrian activities.
Heritage Rides: Explore historical sites like forts and palaces on horseback, often combined with picnics in scenic locations.
Local Culture Immersion: Stay in traditional Rajasthani forts or havelis that offer horse-riding experiences, combined with cultural activities like folk music, cooking classes, and village tours.

Suggested itineraries for a trip to Rajasthan:

3. Hot Air Balloon Jaipur

Though not yet very popular, the best way to explore the beauty of desert cities and rustic old towns in Rajasthan is to ride a hot air balloon ride. This displays Rajasthan’s beauty in a unique way; imagine you gliding effortlessly across the Pink City and admiring the aerial views of the grand Amber Fort in Jaipur.

These trips last an hour or so and believe me, you’ll have the most enlivening experience! This is the best time for getting into your adventure mode and going 4000 ft high in the sky and treating your eyes with some royalty! The hot air balloon trips in Pushkar are not to be missed too.

Read also: A Cyclist’s Guide to Touring Rajasthan

Things to Do:

Balloon Ride over Jaipur: Enjoy a serene hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset, offering panoramic views of Jaipur’s landmarks like Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, and the Aravalli hills.
Photography: Capture stunning aerial photographs of Jaipur’s architecture and landscapes, with the golden hues of sunrise or sunset adding to the beauty.
Luxury Experiences: Some operators offer exclusive packages with champagne breakfasts or private balloon rides, perfect for special occasions like honeymoons or anniversaries.
Cultural Insights: The balloon ride often includes commentary from the pilot, providing insights into Jaipur’s history, culture, and geography as you glide over the city.

2 Nights 3 Days Jaipur Itinerary

Jaipur Package for 2 Days

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4. Ghost Hunting

Spirits and ghosts and their mysteries! Rajasthan is inundated with unresolved mysteries and mysterious stories. Within the ancient Havelis and palaces of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, and other cities, there is much buried. The old walls and high ceilings are engraved with frightening tales of the bygone era.

Among those stories that are daunting yet incredible (in a different way) to hear, are those from Kuldhara’s old ruins, Brijraj Bhavan, Jagatpura, and Bhangarh. What comes with these are some colorful tales which people still believe. Also, read Top Ten Haunted Places in India.

Read also:

Discovering Ranakpur’s Unexplored Paths

Explore the Hidden Villages of Rajasthan

Things to Do:

Explore Bhangarh Fort: Visit Bhangarh Fort, reputed to be one of the most haunted places in India. Explore the ruins, hear the eerie legends, and experience the atmosphere after dark (with caution and following local rules).
Visit Kuldhara Village: Wander through the abandoned village of Kuldhara, where tales of a curse have kept it uninhabited for centuries. Guided tours often include local legends and history.
Guided Ghost Tours: Join a guided ghost tour that includes historical narratives, paranormal stories, and the exploration of haunted sites with experts.
Photography and Storytelling: Capture the haunting beauty of these locations and listen to the stories shared by locals or guides, adding to the mysterious allure.

6 Days Jodhpur Jaisalmer Bikaner Jaipur Tour

5. Mandawa

Thakur Nawal Singh, ruler of the Sekhavat Rajput had founded Mandawa Fort in Mandawa. It is currently renowned as a Rajasthan Palace hotel. To explore ancient architectural designs and paintings you can visit certain manors or Havelis.

Mandawa is now referred to as an Open-Air Art Gallery’ because of these paintings. You can also enjoy camel riding in Rajasthan which is one of the most exciting things to do. Read More: Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Mandawa.

Things to Do:

Explore Havelis: Discover the beautifully painted havelis of Mandawa, adorned with intricate frescoes and murals depicting mythological themes and historical events.
Visit Mandawa Fort: Explore Mandawa Fort, a historic structure offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding desert. The fort is now a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to stay in a royal setting.
Walking Tours: Take guided walking tours through the narrow lanes of Mandawa to uncover hidden architectural gems and learn about the town’s rich history and culture.
Art and Photography: Mandawa is a paradise for art lovers and photographers, with its colorful frescoes, detailed carvings, and vibrant street life.
Cultural Experiences: Stay in heritage hotels or havelis that offer cultural programs, including Rajasthani music, dance, and traditional cuisine.

6. Kumbhalgarh Fort

The highest, nearly invincible, and most formidable fort of the Mewar region stands just about 50 kilometers from Narlai. Kumbhalgarh was built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century and is Maharana Pratap’s birthplace. This magnificent fort testifies to the Rajput’s valor, and how even the mighty Mughals could not take it on their own!

The fort Kumbhalgarh is protected by the 13 Aravalli mountain peaks. Inside the fort’s walls are 360 temples. Although Kumbhalgarh Fort is 700 years old, it is still intact and in good shape, making it truly one of Rajasthan’s hidden gems. Read Also: Top 10 Destinations to Visit Rajasthan in September.

Things to Do:

Explore the Fort: Wander through the expansive Kumbhalgarh Fort, known for its massive walls stretching over 36 km, second only to the Great Wall of China.
Visit Temples: Explore the various temples within the fort complex, including the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, known for its beautiful architecture.
Light and Sound Show: Attend the evening light and sound show that narrates the history of the fort and its significance in the region.
Trekking and Wildlife: Trek through the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, wolves, and birds.
Photography: Capture stunning views from the fort, including the panoramic vistas of the surrounding Aravalli hills and forests.

5 Days Kumbhalgarh Chittorgarh Udaipur Trip

7. Camping in the Golden Desert

If your favorite activity is to look at the stars and endless sky, imagine doing the same lying on your back in desert silence. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan’s Golden City, is renowned for having offered such experiences that will last with you for life. A variety of tour operators in the city are arranging camping in the middle of the desert and planning bonfires and cultural activities if you like.

You should opt for camel rides as well as enjoy the sunset. It just looks magical and sumptuous. The best thing about Rajasthan is camping in the sand dunes, particularly when these are Sam Sand Dunes, and perhaps the most unique way of experiencing the beauty of this region.

Read more: Explore Rajasthan: Best Places to See in December

Things to Do:

Desert Camping: Set up camp in the Thar Desert near Jaisalmer or Sam Sand Dunes, where you can experience the solitude and beauty of the desert landscape.
Camel Safaris: Ride through the sand dunes on a camel, exploring remote desert areas and watching the sunset over the dunes.
Cultural Nights: Enjoy traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances around a campfire, often arranged as part of the camping experience.
Stargazing: Experience the clear night skies of the desert, perfect for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts.
Desert Adventure: Engage in activities like dune bashing, quad biking, and jeep safaris for an adrenaline-filled experience.

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8. Sariska Tiger Reserve

The Sariska Tiger Reserve is a dream come true for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located in the Alwar district of Aravalli Hills, this place is home to many species of animals including sambar deer, tiger, wild boars, monkeys, and jackals.

If you visit the monsoon square, you might get lucky and dance peafowls to find. With its deep green woods and a range of wildlife, the destination will mesmerize you. Travelers can choose to safari in the forest and discover the jungle inside.

Also read: Exploring the Best Eateries in Jodhpur

Things to Do:

Jungle Safari: Go on a safari through Sariska Tiger Reserve to spot tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird species. Safaris are usually conducted in the early morning and late afternoon.
Visit Kankwari Fort: Explore the ruins of Kankwari Fort located within the reserve, offering historical insights and panoramic views.
Pandupol Hanuman Temple: Visit this ancient temple inside the reserve, believed to have mythological significance related to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.
Bird Watching: Sariska is a haven for bird watchers, with over 200 species of birds, including peafowl, partridges, and quails.
Nature Walks: Explore the reserve on foot through guided nature walks, learning about the diverse flora and fauna.

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When to visit Rajasthan?

Winter is the best time to visit Rajasthan, offering an excellent view of Rajasthan, although the temperatures are known to touch minimum lows of around 0 degrees Celsius during this period. Winter arrival heralds the peak tourism season in Rajasthan with destinations like Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Jaipur becoming the hot tourist favorite.

Rajasthan Tour Packages from Major Cities:

FAQ About Off-Beat Experiences in Rajasthan:

Is Rajasthan safe to visit?

Sure, Rajasthan state is safe for tourists but the secret is to take basic safety precautions. A few safety tips for traveling in Rajasthan would be to avoid going out late at night, avoid using unlit washrooms, remember to keep your valuables on you, and don't trust people too easily.

What is the best time to visit Rajasthan?

The period between November to February months is recommended by local and travel experts as the best time to visit Rajasthan. Summers scorch while temperatures fall to the bottom of the mercury level during the winters.

What is the budget for Rajasthan?

You should plan to spend your holiday in Rajasthan around Rs1,194 per day, which is the average daily price based on other visitors ' expenses. On average, past travelers spent Rs 400 on one-day meals and Rs102 on local transportation. So, that can be up to 10,000 for a week on average.

More Information on Rajasthan:

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are some offbeat destinations to visit in Rajasthan?

Offbeat destinations in Rajasthan include Bundi, Barmer, Shekhawati, and Khimsar. These places offer unique cultural experiences and are less crowded than popular tourist spots.

2. What makes Bundi an offbeat destination?

Bundi is known for its beautiful stepwells, narrow streets, and the stunning Bundi Palace. It’s a peaceful town with a rich history, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan’s lesser-known heritage.

3. Are there any unique experiences in Udaipur away from the usual tourist spots?

Yes, in Udaipur, you can visit the quiet Badi Lake, explore the village of Delwara, and hike up to the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary for a peaceful and unique experience.

4. What are the hidden gems in Jaisalmer for an offbeat experience?

Hidden gems in Jaisalmer include Khaba Fort, the abandoned village of Kuldhara, and the serene Khuri Sand Dunes, offering a quieter alternative to the more crowded Sam Sand Dunes.

5. Can I experience rural life in Rajasthan?

Yes, you can experience rural life by visiting villages like Samode near Jaipur or the Bishnoi villages near Jodhpur. These visits offer insights into traditional Rajasthani culture and lifestyle.

6. What offbeat activities can I do in Jaipur?

In Jaipur, you can explore the stepwells of Panna Meena Ka Kund, hike to Nahargarh Fort for sunset views, and visit the peaceful Galta Ji (Monkey Temple) for a unique experience away from the crowds.

7. What are some lesser-known forts in Rajasthan?

Lesser-known forts include Kumbhalgarh Fort, known for its massive wall, and the Chittorgarh Fort, which is steeped in history and offers a quieter alternative to the more famous forts.

8. Are there any offbeat desert experiences in Rajasthan?

Yes, you can visit the remote dunes of Khuri near Jaisalmer or the Thar Desert near Barmer for an offbeat desert experience. These areas are less crowded and offer a more authentic desert adventure.

9. What makes Shekhawati an offbeat destination?

Shekhawati is known for its beautifully painted havelis (mansions) with intricate frescoes. It’s an open-air gallery of art and architecture, providing a unique cultural experience.

10. How can I explore Rajasthan’s wildlife in an offbeat way?

Explore Rajasthan’s wildlife by visiting the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary for blackbuck sightings, or the Jawai Leopard Conservation Reserve, known for its leopard population and less touristy experience.

11. What is the village life like in Rajasthan?

Village life in Rajasthan is traditional and deeply rooted in culture. Villages often have mud houses, people wearing colorful attire, and local crafts like pottery and weaving. Visiting a village like Samode near Jaipur can give you an authentic experience.

12. Can you suggest offbeat places to visit near Jaisalmer?

Near Jaisalmer, visit Khaba Fort, Kuldhara (a deserted village), and the dunes of Khuri. These locations offer a unique glimpse into the desert life and history of the region.

13. What makes Kumbhalgarh a unique destination?

Kumbhalgarh is unique for its massive fort, which has the second-longest continuous wall in the world. The fort offers stunning views and is surrounded by wildlife, making it an offbeat yet fascinating destination.

14. How many villages are there in Rajasthan?

Rajasthan has over 44,000 villages, each with its own distinct culture, traditions, and way of life. Exploring these villages can provide a deep insight into the rural life of the state.

8 Famous Off Beat Experiences in Rajasthan