Nathdwara, a small town in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and religious significance. The town is home to the famous Shrinathji Temple, which attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year. However, the area surrounding Nathdwara is equally captivating, boasting of several picturesque locations and historical landmarks that are worth exploring. In this article, we will discuss the best places to visit near Nathdwara, shedding light on their unique features and attractions.
Introduction to Nathdwara and its Surroundings
Nathdwara is a small town located in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan, India. It is situated on the banks of the Banas River and is approximately 48 kilometers north-east of Udaipur. The town is renowned for its Shrinathji Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Nathdwara is also known for its traditional handicrafts, Pichwai paintings, and terracotta work. The town’s serene environment and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for tourists seeking peace and tranquility.
The surroundings of Nathdwara are equally enchanting, with several picturesque locations and historical landmarks that are waiting to be explored. From the majestic forts and palaces to the serene lakes and temples, the area has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will discuss some of the best places to visit near Nathdwara, which are sure to leave you spellbound with their beauty and charm.
Haldighati
Haldighati is a historical battlefield located approximately 40 kilometers from Nathdwara. It is the site where the famous Battle of Haldighati was fought between the Rajputs led by Maharana Pratap and the Mughals led by Emperor Akbar in 1576. The name Haldighati translates to ‘the valley of turmeric,’ which comes from the yellow colored soil of the region. The place is of great historical significance and attracts tourists and history buffs from all over the world.
The main attraction of Haldighati is the cenotaph of Maharana Pratap, which is located at the center of the battlefield. The cenotaph is made of white marble and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. The place also has a museum that showcases the weapons and artifacts used during the battle. Haldighati is also famous for its rose water, which is produced in the nearby villages.
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a magnificent fort located approximately 65 kilometers from Nathdwara. It is situated on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The fort was built by Rana Kumbha, the ruler of Mewar, in the 15th century and is considered to be one of the largest forts in Rajasthan. The fort is surrounded by a massive wall, which is approximately 36 kilometers long and 15 meters wide. The wall is said to be the second-longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China.
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. The fort has several palaces, temples, and bastions, which are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The main palace of the fort, known as the Badal Mahal, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort is also home to several Jain and Hindu temples, which are worth exploring.
Rajsamand Lake
Rajsamand Lake is a serene lake located approximately 6 kilometers from Nathdwara. It was built by Maharana Raj Singh in the 17th century and is surrounded by majestic hills and lush greenery. The lake is approximately 6 kilometers long and 3 kilometers wide and is a popular spot for boating and picnicking. The place is also famous for its marble chattris, which are situated on the banks of the lake. The chattris are the cenotaphs of the Maharanas of Mewar and are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Ripon)
The main attraction of Rajsamand Lake is the Rajsamand Dam, which is built across the lake. The dam is approximately 5 kilometers long and is a marvel of engineering. The place also has a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum has several artifacts, weapons, and coins that date back to the 16th century.
Charbhuja Temple
Charbhuja Temple is a famous temple located approximately 45 kilometers from Nathdwara. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the four sacred temples of Rajasthan. The temple is built in the typical Rajasthani style and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The main deity of the temple, Lord Charbhuja, is depicted in a standing posture and is made of black stone.
The temple is surrounded by a massive wall, which is approximately 20 feet high and has four gates. The temple also has several other deities, including Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, and Goddess Durga. The place is of great religious significance and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple also has a beautiful garden and a guest house, which offer a peaceful and serene environment.
Conclusion
Nathdwara and its surroundings are a treasure trove of historical landmarks and picturesque locations that are waiting to be explored. From the majestic forts and palaces to the serene lakes and temples, the area has something to offer for everyone. The places mentioned in this article are just a few of the many attractions that the region has to offer. So, if you are planning a trip to Nathdwara, make sure to explore its surroundings and experience the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.
Best Places to Visit Near Nathdwara
Nathdwara, a small town in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is famous for its 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shrinathji. While the temple is the main attraction, there are several other places to visit near Nathdwara that are worth exploring. In this article, we will explore the top 5 places to visit near Nathdwara.
1. Haldighati
Haldighati is a historical site located around 40 km from Nathdwara. It is famous for the battle of Haldighati, which was fought between the Rajputs and the Mughals in 1576. The site is named after the yellow-colored soil, which resembles turmeric (haldi in Hindi). Visitors can see the cenotaphs of Rana Pratap, the Rajput king, and his horse Chetak. The place is also famous for its rose gardens and the Haldighati Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
2. Eklingji Temple
Eklingji Temple is located around 22 km from Nathdwara and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures. It was built in the 8th century and is considered one of the most important temples in Rajasthan. The temple complex has four entrance gates, and the main temple has a towering shikhar (spire) that is visible from a distance. Visitors can see the four-faced image of Lord Shiva, which is made of black marble.
3. Rajsamand Lake
Rajsamand Lake is a beautiful artificial lake located around 60 km from Nathdwara. It was built by Maharana Raj Singh in the 17th century and is surrounded by hills and temples. The lake is spread over an area of 60 sq km and is a popular spot for boating and picnicking. Visitors can see the marble chhatris (cenotaphs) of the Maharanas of Mewar on the banks of the lake. The place is also famous for its sunset views. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Trimbakeshwar Nashik)
4. Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a massive fort located around 85 km from Nathdwara. It was built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century and is considered one of the most important forts in Rajasthan. The fort is spread over an area of 36 km and has seven gates. The walls of the fort are 15 meters high and 35 meters wide. Visitors can see the palaces, temples, and museums inside the fort. The fort offers panoramic views of the Aravalli Hills and is a popular spot for trekking.
5. Charbhuja Temple
Charbhuja Temple is located around 50 km from Nathdwara and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is famous for its four-armed image of Lord Vishnu, which is made of black stone. The temple was built in the 14th century and is considered one of the most important temples in Rajasthan. The temple complex has a large courtyard and a beautiful entrance gate. Visitors can see the intricate carvings and sculptures inside the temple.
Conclusion
Nathdwara is a beautiful town that is surrounded by several historical and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the temples, forts, lakes, and museums near Nathdwara and experience the rich history and culture of Rajasthan. These places are a must-visit for anyone who is interested in history, architecture, and culture. So, plan your trip to Nathdwara and explore these beautiful places.
In conclusion, Nathdwara, a small town in Rajasthan, is not only a sacred destination for pilgrims but also a gateway to some of the most beautiful and less-explored places in India. From the historical fort of Kumbhalgarh to the serene lakes of Udaipur, and from the wildlife sanctuary of Rajsamand to the ancient temples of Eklingji and Nagda, there is no dearth of exciting places to visit near Nathdwara.
Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, be it the architectural grandeur of the forts and palaces, the spiritual solace of the temples, or the natural beauty of the lakes and sanctuaries. These places not only provide a visual treat but also offer insights into the rich history, culture, and traditions of Rajasthan.
So, if you are planning a visit to Nathdwara, make sure to include these places in your itinerary. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a spiritual seeker, you are sure to find these destinations fascinating and memorable. So, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an exciting journey of discovery and exploration near Nathdwara!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to ‘Best Places To Visit Near Nathdwara’
1. What is the distance between Nathdwara and the nearby city of Udaipur?
The distance between Nathdwara and Udaipur is approximately 48 kilometers, and it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach there by road. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Messina)
2. What are some popular temples to visit near Nathdwara?
Some popular temples near Nathdwara include the Eklingji Temple, which is just 14 kilometers away, and the Haldighati Mahalaxmi Temple, located 36 kilometers from Nathdwara.
3. Are there any wildlife sanctuaries near Nathdwara?
Yes, there are several wildlife sanctuaries near Nathdwara, including the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which is approximately 65 kilometers away, and the Rajsamand Wildlife Sanctuary, located 50 kilometers from Nathdwara.
4. What are some popular picnic spots near Nathdwara?
Some popular picnic spots near Nathdwara include the Rajsamand Lake, which is just 10 kilometers away, and the Charbhuja Temple, located 50 kilometers from Nathdwara.
5. What are some historical places to visit near Nathdwara?
Some historical places near Nathdwara include the Kumbhalgarh Fort, which is approximately 65 kilometers away, and the Haldighati, located 36 kilometers from Nathdwara. Haldighati is famous for the historical battle between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Emperor Akbar.