Whenever we think of Rajasthan, we get the royal vibe of different places that can take us to the rich history, culture, and tradition of India. Rajasthan means the outstanding Pichola Lake in Udaipur, the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, the Mehrangarh Fort, and many more places of historical interest. But, there are so many hidden gems under the sleeves of the state that can amaze you a lot.
Nathdwara is such a tourist spot, located in the lap of Aravallis and on the banks of the Banas River. It is known as the temple town in Rajasthan with so many beautiful temples in the city.
Here are some of the 10 Best Places to Visit in Nathdwara, Rajasthan:
1. Ranakpur
Let us begin the tour from Ranakpur, located on the western side of the Aravalli Range. This place is a must-visit in Nathdwara because of its outstanding Jain Temple. With its intricate architecture and fine cravings, this temple is a great attraction for tourists and pilgrims.
This Shwetambar Jain Temple is dedicated to Tirthankar Adinath, the founder of the Ikshvaku Dynasty and the first spiritual guru of Jainism. Besides this famous Jain Temple, Ranakpur is also the house of a small Sun Temple.
Getting There: About 90 km from Nathdwara; best reached by taxi
Things to Do: Explore the famous Ranakpur Jain Temple, admire the intricate marble carvings, and meditate in the serene temple surroundings. Don’t miss the unique experience of observing all 1,444 intricately designed pillars.
Additional Tips: Visit the nearby Sun Temple and enjoy nature walks in the surrounding forests.
2. Shrinathji Temple
Shrinathji Temple of Nathdwara is dedicated to Lord Krishna who he worshipped as a 7-year-old boy. Once you enter the temple, it is the divinity that will enchant you while the idol of Lord Krishna of black stone will wipe off all your stress and tension at once.
The calmness and spirituality you can feel here will show you the right path in life to go on. During the festivals of Holi, Diwali, or Janmashtami, the temple gets overcrowded.
Best Time to Visit: During Janmashtami and Diwali for special celebrations.
Getting There: Centrally located in Nathdwara, accessible by foot or local transport.
Things to Do: Participate in the temple’s daily aartis (prayer ceremonies), witness the beautiful decorations of the Shrinathji idol, and explore the nearby markets for religious artifacts and local sweets.
Additional Tips: Visit during Janmashtami or Diwali to experience grand celebrations and traditional performances.
3. Charbhuja
Travel to the outskirts of Nathdwara and you can visit Charbhuja, a well-known temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is the spectacular architecture of the door panels and the mesmerizing mirror works on the walls of the temples that can make you awe-struck.
Regarded as the fourth Dham of Lord Vishnu, this temple is one of the most-visited places in Nathdwara.
Getting There: Located about 35 km from Nathdwara, accessible by car or taxi.
Things to Do: Offer prayers, explore the ancient temple’s architecture, and observe the intricate stone carvings that depict Hindu legends. The temple’s surroundings provide a peaceful atmosphere for meditation.
Additional Tips: Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs from the nearby village markets.
4. Dwarkadheesh Temple
This is another historical and heritage site in Nathdwara that you should not miss visiting when you are here. Dwarkadheesh Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and it tells the story of his childhood and also how he became lord in later life.
For the Vaishnavites, this temple is one of the main attractions in Nathdwara. Besides its religious significance, the temple is also famous for its spectacular architectural style that will mesmerize you completely.
Getting There: About 18 km from Nathdwara; easily accessible by taxi.
Things to Do: Participate in the temple rituals, enjoy the views of Rajsamand Lake from the temple grounds, and explore the small shops nearby selling handicrafts and religious items.
Additional Tips: Stroll along Rajsamand Lake and consider an evening visit to see the temple beautifully illuminated.
5. Shri Eklingji Temple
It is difficult, to sum up, the most popular places to visit in Nathdwara in limited words; but when you have to do it, there is no other place to mention this incredible temple complex. Considered one of the best places to visit in Nathdwara, this architectural marvel will blow your mind with its surreal beauty.
Once you are here, you cannot stop appraising the craftsmanship of this 108-temple complex. Mainly dedicated to Eklingji, this temple also has deities of Mewar Rajputs. Besides, there are other idols of Goddess Durga, Sun God, etc.
Apart from these, there are several other places in Nathdwara you can visit. So, while you are making a plan to visit Rajasthan, include this temple town on your list and enjoy traveling over there. This temple town will give you inner peace and bring joy to your life.
Getting There: Located 30 km from Nathdwara; reachable by taxi or private car.
Things to Do: Observe the unique four-faced Shiva idol, offer prayers, and admire the temple’s architecture and sculptures, which date back centuries.
Additional Tips: Visit on a Monday for special prayers, and take time to visit the nearby temples and shrines within the complex.
6. Haldighati
Haldighati is a historic mountain pass in the Aravalli Range, famous for the fierce Battle of Haldighati fought in 1576 between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal forces led by Akbar’s general, Man Singh I. Known for its yellow soil, which resembles turmeric (hence the name “Haldighati”), this site is a symbol of Rajput valor and resistance.
Visitors can explore the Haldighati Museum, showcasing artifacts, weapons, and depictions of the legendary battle, making it a fascinating spot for history enthusiasts.
Getting There: About 18 km from Nathdwara, accessible by road.
Things to Do: Explore the Haldighati Museum to learn about Maharana Pratap’s life and the historic battle, take photos of the turmeric-colored hills, and visit the Chetak Smarak nearby.
Additional Tips: Enjoy the scenic drive through Haldighati and consider visiting during winter for the most comfortable weather.
7. Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Rajasthan’s grandest forts, famous for its impressive 36-km-long wall, the second longest in the world after the Great Wall of China. Built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century, this hilltop fortress offers panoramic views of the Aravalli Range.
The fort houses temples, palaces, and over 300 Jain and Hindu structures, reflecting its historical and architectural significance. A light and sound show in the evening narrates its rich history.
Getting There: Located 45 km from Nathdwara; best reached by taxi.
Things to Do: Walk along the fort’s extensive walls, visit the palace and temples within the complex, and enjoy panoramic views of the Aravalli hills. Attend the evening light and sound show for an immersive historical experience.
Additional Tips: Go early to explore the fort in cooler weather and capture sunrise views.
8. Rajsamand Lake
Rajsamand Lake, an artificial lake created in the 17th century by Maharana Raj Singh, is one of the largest man-made lakes in Rajasthan. Located near Nathdwara, this serene lake is adorned with beautiful marble embankments and steps, showcasing intricate carvings and historic inscriptions.
A favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, it is especially popular for its tranquil atmosphere and mesmerizing sunset views, making it an ideal place for picnics, leisurely strolls, and photography.
Getting There: About 15 km from Nathdwara, accessible by taxi or local transport.
Things to Do: Relax on the lake’s marble embankments, enjoy a scenic sunset, and stroll along the lakefront. This is an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or some quiet reflection.
Additional Tips: Visit the lake in the evening for stunning views and explore the nearby Dwarkadheesh Temple if you have time.
9. Chetak Smarak
Chetak Smarak is a memorial dedicated to Maharana Pratap’s loyal horse, Chetak, who played a heroic role in the Battle of Haldighati. Despite being gravely injured, Chetak carried Maharana Pratap to safety before succumbing to his wounds.
This site near Haldighati features a life-size statue of Chetak, symbolizing loyalty and bravery. The monument commemorates Chetak’s courage and has become an iconic attraction, particularly revered by those who admire Maharana Pratap’s legacy.
Getting There: Located around 20 km from Nathdwara, near Haldighati, accessible by taxi.
Things to Do: Pay respects to the statue of Chetak, Maharana Pratap’s loyal horse, and learn about their role in the Battle of Haldighati. Walk around the memorial area, set against a scenic landscape.
Additional Tips: Bring a camera to capture the serene surroundings and historical monument, especially around sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.
10. Ranakpur Jain Temple
The Ranakpur Jain Temple, located in the Ranakpur village, is one of the most magnificent Jain temples in India. Built in the 15th century, it is dedicated to Lord Adinatha, the first Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple is renowned for its exquisite marble architecture and features 1,444 uniquely carved pillars, each with intricate details.
Surrounded by lush forests, the temple offers a serene and spiritual experience. It stands as a testament to Rajasthan’s rich heritage and is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains.
Getting There: About 90 km from Nathdwara; best accessed by car or taxi.
Things to Do: Admire the stunning marble architecture, observe the detailed carvings on each of the 1,444 pillars, and take time for meditation within the peaceful temple surroundings.
Additional Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds and take advantage of guided tours available on-site for detailed information about the temple’s history.
How to Reach Nathdwara
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, about 48 km away.
- Travel Options: From Udaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Nathdwara, which takes about an hour.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Mavli Junction (approximately 30 km away) and Udaipur Railway Station (around 45 km away).
- Travel Options: From Mavli or Udaipur, taxis and local buses are available to reach Nathdwara.
By Road:
- From Udaipur: Nathdwara is approximately a one-hour drive from Udaipur. Regular state and private buses, as well as taxis, connect Udaipur to Nathdwara.
- From Jaipur: Nathdwara is about 350 km from Jaipur and can be reached by road in approximately 6-7 hours. Buses and taxis are available.
- From Ahmedabad: Nathdwara is around 300 km from Ahmedabad and takes approximately 5-6 hours by road. Many travelers from Gujarat prefer driving or taking private buses to Nathdwara.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the must-see places in Nathdwara?
Key attractions include the Shrinathji Temple, Eklingji Temple, Dwarkadheesh Temple, and Rajsamand Lake.
2. What is Shrinathji Temple known for?
Shrinathji Temple is famous for its deity of Lord Krishna and is a major pilgrimage site attracting many devotees.
3. Is there a lake worth visiting in Nathdwara?
Yes, Rajsamand Lake is popular for its scenic beauty and historic significance, perfect for a peaceful outing.
4. Are there any ancient temples nearby?
Yes, Eklingji Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient temple near Nathdwara, known for its remarkable architecture.
5. Can I find any forts or historical sites around Nathdwara?
Haldighati is a historical site nearby, known for the Battle of Haldighati and its significance in Rajput history.
6. Is Nathdwara suitable for a family visit?
Yes, Nathdwara offers family-friendly sites like temples, Rajsamand Lake, and historical places with peaceful surroundings.
7. What is unique about Dwarkadheesh Temple?
The Dwarkadheesh Temple in Kankroli is another popular Krishna temple near Nathdwara, known for its beautiful idol of Lord Krishna.
8. Are there any memorials or monuments in Nathdwara?
Chetak Smarak is a monument dedicated to the famous warhorse of Maharana Pratap, located near Haldighati.
9. What’s a good time to visit Nathdwara?
The best time to visit Nathdwara is from October to March, as the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and temple visits.
10. Are there any cultural events held in Nathdwara?
Yes, festivals like Janmashtami and Diwali are celebrated grandly at Shrinathji Temple, offering a rich cultural experience.
