Explore a quiet corner in Rajasthan this winter

With its myriad colours and timeless charm, Rajasthan has much more to offer than its iconic forts and palaces. This winter, uncover hidden gems, ancient villages, serene retreats and mystical towns waiting to be explored beyond the usual tourist trails.

Rajasthan is a land of untold stories, its vast deserts and majestic palaces offering glimpses of royalty and history. While cities like Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur often steal the limelight, the heart of Rajasthan lies in its lesser-known villages, wildlife sanctuaries, and forgotten towns.

So if you are planning a trip to Rajasthan but, want to see something other than the same old destinations that flood every travel guide and social media feed. Then rest assured beyond the usual suspects like Jaipur and Jaisalmer that are stunning, there are hidden treasures scattered across the state, waiting to be discovered. Places that are not plastered all over Instagram and Facebook destinations where you can experience the authentic charm of Rajasthan without the crowds. It is time to step off the beaten path and dive into Rajasthan’s lesser-known gems, where history, culture, and nature converge in ways you have never seen before.

Here is a list of undiscovered, untouched and absolutely beautiful places that deserve more than just a passing glance. These are the places that will allow you to truly connect with the essence of Rajasthan, away from the usual tourist trails.

Rusirani Village

If you have an appetite for village walks and if you prefer learning culture from its roots rather than experiencing a whitewashed version of then Rusirani is definitely a place which you should explore.

Tucked away just 40 km from Udaipur, Rusirani is a 2,000-year-old village that feels like a time capsule. Here, you won’t find the glitz and glam of modern tourism, what you will find instead is an untouched slice of Rajasthan’s rural life, preserved for centuries.

In Rusirani, you will get a chance to cook with local women on a coal stove, experiencing the traditional culinary techniques that have been passed down through generations. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you will witness the simple yet beautiful life of its residents, living in homes adorned with mirror work and vibrant frescoes.

The village’s greatest treasure, however, is its connection to history. Explore Mahabharata-era ruins and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this ancient community.

What sets Rusirani apart is that the community runs the tour, making the experience deeply authentic and impactful. Your visit helps the village build a better future, creating a win-win for both traveller and resident.

Bishnoi Village

Bishnoi, about 60 km from Jodhpur, is not just a village, it is a community that has been a steward of nature for over 500 years. The Bishnoi community, known for their deep reverence for wildlife, live by a unique code of ethics that focuses on the conservation of trees and animals.

The community, follows 29 sacred rules that protect both wildlife and the environment. Visiting this village is like stepping into a timeless tradition where conservation is not a choice, it is a way of life.

Visitors to Bishnoi can witness this age-old bond between humans and nature, with an abundance of wildlife, including blackbuck and peacocks, thriving in the area. The village offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking to connect with the environment in its most pure form.

Narlai

Situated 90 km from Udaipur, this hidden village is a godsend for those seeking an authentic rural experience with a touch of elegance.

Known for its heritage stays, Narlai offers the rare opportunity to unwind in restored havelis that blend rustic charm with modern luxury. Imagine enjoying a candlelit dinner by an ancient stepwell, the air filled with the sound of nature and the soft glow of lanterns.

For the adventurous, Elephant Hill awaits with breathtaking panoramic views, and ancient caves dotted around the village provide a glimpse into centuries-old history.

But Narlai’s true gem is its leopard spotting experience, where you can see these elusive creatures roam freely in the wild. To truly appreciate the magic of Narlai, you need an appetite for rural travel it is where rugged landscapes meet refined luxury for a journey like no other.

Mandawa

If your heart beats for art, then Mandawa is calling your name. Located around 170 km from Jaipur, this quaint town in the Shekhawati region is home to the largest open-air art gallery in the world, and yet it remains surprisingly under the radar. Known for its fresco havelis, Mandawa is a place where history, culture, and art converge in stunning visual displays.

These ornate 18th-century havelis, built by wealthy merchants, are covered in intricate frescoes depicting everything from Hindu deities to technology, royalty, and even scenes of daily life. The beauty of Mandawa lies in the fact that everywhere you look, there is a masterpiece waiting to be admired. Whether you are wandering through the town or inside one of the grand havelis, you will find something fascinating at every turn.

Still relatively unknown to mass tourism, Mandawa offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for those who appreciate art, history, and quiet beauty.

Kuldhara

Unlike ancient ruins, ghost towns offer a rare peek into the past, giving you a glimpse of what could have been. Kuldhara, located around 20 km from Jaisalmer, is one such place, a hauntingly beautiful settlement frozen in time. Famous for its eerie abandonment, Kuldhara is one of Rajasthan’s most intriguing ghost towns.

Once home to the Paliwal Brahmins, Kuldhara now stands deserted, with its crumbling houses and empty streets evoking a sense of mystery. The town’s eerie ambiance, enhanced by the monochrome desert landscape and balmy winds, creates an unsettling yet fascinating atmosphere.

There is a famous legend that claims Kuldhara is haunted, said to be cursed after the villagers fled overnight, leaving behind their homes, untouched and untarnished. Others believe the harsh desert conditions and lack of resources led to the town’s abandonment.

A trip to Kuldhara takes you through the labyrinth of ruins, where you can explore clusters of ancient houses, narrow alleys, and the temple at the heart of the village. Whether you believe in its legends or not, Kuldhara offers an eerie yet captivating glimpse into Rajasthan’s forgotten past.

Abhaneri

Located 95 km from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Agra highway, Abhaneri is a small village that brims with history and architectural brilliance. Often overlooked, this “village of happiness” is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers.

Abhaneri is widely famous for two remarkable landmarks: the Harshat Mata Temple and the Chand Baori stepwell. The Harshat Mata Temple, dedicated to the goddess of happiness, is a 10th-century shrine that stands in partial ruins today. Despite its dilapidated state, the temple showcases intricate carvings and sculptural details, reflecting the artistic excellence of medieval India.

The real gem of Abhaneri, however, is the Chand Baori, one of the largest and deepest stepwells in India. This magnificent stepwell is a feat of engineering and artistry, descending 20 metres into the ground with 13 levels of symmetrical steps. Its geometric precision and finely carved panels make it a stunning sight, offering visitors a unique glimpse into ancient water conservation techniques.

Abhaneri provides a quiet yet fascinating detour from the bustling cities of Rajasthan. For those exploring the Jaipur-Agra route, this hamlet offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and architectural wonder that should not be missed.

Sawai Madhopur

Nestled 180 km from Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur is more than just a gateway to the wild. It  is where Rajasthan’s regal past blends seamlessly with the untamed beauty of nature. Known primarily as the entrance to Ranthambore National Park, this town offers a safari experience like no other, where the mighty Bengal Tiger reigns supreme.

You may have been on many safaris in your life and there is a possibility that you may have spotted tigers, however, there is nothing even remotely compared to the experience you will have in Sawai Madhopur. That is because this town puts a monochrome filter over your whole safari experience. This is not only unique, but it also makes tiger spotting quite easy for avid wildlife lovers.

In Sawai Madhopur, you get to see some historical landmarks in the backseat of your gypsies. Among these, right at the centre of this wild jungle scrub is the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort that looms over the park. The fort’s ancient stone walls stand in stark contrast to the wild, offering a fascinating blend of nature and history.

As you explore the park, you will pass crumbling temples, historic mosques, and elegant Chhatris scattered across the landscape. The sight of the tiger is the cherry on top, but the experience here is about much more than just the majestic creature. It is a journey where every turn offers a new story where history roams free.