Banswara, a beautiful city in the state of Rajasthan, India, is known for its unique cultural, historical, and natural riches. It is surrounded by the magnificent Aravali hills and lush green scenery, which make it an ideal destination for tourists. The city has managed to preserve its heritage despite external invasions, and it offers a plethora of tourist attractions to explore. In this article, we will discuss the top places to visit in Banswara and provide you with all the necessary information to make your trip a memorable one.
Chacha Kota
Chacha Kota, a picturesque natural site located 14 kilometers from Banswara, is set amidst the backwaters of the Mahi Dam. The route to this location is equally enchanting, with Kalpvriksha and Baitalaab lakes adding to the beauty of the journey. The stunning hills, beach-like landscape, and serpentine zigzag roads, along with the lush greenery and waterfalls, create an atmosphere akin to Switzerland. Chacha Kota, a haven for nature lovers, attracts tourists all year round.
How to reach Chacha Kota
To reach Chacha Kota, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city in Rajasthan. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
Mahi Dam
The Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam is the lifeline of Banswara district and has played a significant role in the agricultural and economic development of the region. The dam is the largest water reservoir in the Udaipur division and is situated 18 kilometers northeast of the district headquarters. Surrounded by high-rising hills, the dam boasts a total length of 3.10 kilometers and a water reserve capacity of 77 TMC.
The dam’s backwaters create a beautiful view of the small islands, earning Banswara the nickname “City of Hundred Islands.” During the rainy season, the main dam gates open to release surplus water, providing a mesmerizing sight for tourists. The Mahi Dam is a must-visit tourist attraction in Banswara.
How to reach Mahi Dam
To reach Mahi Dam, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
Tripura Sundari
The ancient temple of Raj Rajeshwari Tripura Sundari, the presiding mother deity of the region, is located near Talwara on the Banswara-Dungarpur road. The temple is a sacred site for Shakti upasana or mother deity worship and is believed to have been constructed based on Shakti darshan, following the tantric worship style.
The temple is assumed to have existed before the reign of King Kanishka due to the presence of a Shiv linga from his era. The main attraction of the temple is the striking black stone idol of the deity, with eighteen arms carrying various weapons, riding a lion. The Shrichakra at the feet of the idol is considered the most potent symbol of tantric adoration.
During Navratri, a grand Garba (Dandiya) festival takes place, attracting devotees from far and wide. Tripura Sundari is a significant spiritual destination in Banswara and is worth a visit.
How to reach Tripura Sundari
To reach Tripura Sundari, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
Andeshwar-Parshwanath Teerth
The prominent Jain pilgrimage site of Andeshwar temple is situated 40 kilometers from Banswara on the Kushalgarh route. The temple houses the stone idol of Jain Tirthankar Parshwanath, and features beautiful mirror paintings of key Jain pilgrimage sites. Additionally, stunning marble sculptures adorn the temple premises.
The temple attracts visitors of all faiths, who come for picnics, religious, and scholarly purposes.
How to reach Andeshwar-Parshwanath Teerth
To reach Andeshwar-Parshwanath Teerth, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Abdullah Pir
The Dargah of Abdul Rasul, also known as “Abdullah Pir,” is situated on the southern outskirts of Banswara city. The Dargah hosts an annual “Urs” event, which is popular among the general public and attracts a considerable number of people from the Bohara community.
How to reach Abdullah Pir
To reach Abdullah Pir, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Kagdi Pickup
Located on the eastern outskirts of Banswara city, Kagdi Pickup is a popular tourist destination featuring a lake and a garden. The lake is home to several migratory birds, especially during the monsoon season, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching at sunrise and sunset.
How to reach Kagdi Pickup
To reach Kagdi Pickup, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Mangarh Dham
Mangarh Dham is a religious center established by the prominent Bhil saint, Govind Guru. He awakened the Bhil community and instilled a sense of patriotism in them, inspiring them to fight for their freedom. In a battle against the British forces, 1500 Gurubhakt Bhils lost their lives, and as a result, Mangarh Dham is also known as the “Jallianwala Bagh of Rajasthan.”
How to reach Mangarh Dham
To reach Mangarh Dham, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.
Arthuna Temple
Arthuna Temple is an archaeologically significant site and the main attraction of Banswara district. The ancient temple complex, built in the 11th and 12th centuries, was once the capital city of the Parmar rulers. The site showcases the splendid past of our rich heritage and is known as the “village of old and shattered temples.”
How to reach Arthuna Temple
To reach Arthuna Temple, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours.
Brahma Ji Temple Cheech
Located in Chinch village on the Banswara-Bagidora route, the famous Brahma Ji Temple was established in the 12th century. The temple houses a Saptdhatu idol of Lord Brahma, showcasing the exceptional sculptural brilliance of the era. Brahma temples are rare, making this temple a unique attraction in Banswara.
How to reach Brahma Ji Temple Cheech
To reach Brahma Ji Temple Cheech, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Datt Madareshwar Mahadev
The renowned Lord Shiva temple, Datt Madareshwar Mahadev, is located to the northeast of Banswara city. The temple features a massive Shivalinga inside a mountain cave and is a prominent center of Shiva devotion. The temple has been carved out of the mountain, and the surrounding environment provides a serene atmosphere for visitors.
Every year on Maha Shivratri, a grand fair takes place, attracting devotees from far and wide. Additionally, Kavad Yatris undertake a 42-kilometer walk to collect holy water for a special abhishekha, or holy bath, of the Shivalinga.
How to reach Datt Madareshwar Mahadev
To reach Datt Madareshwar Mahadev, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
Beneshwar Dham
Beneshwar Dham, considered the Wagad region’s prayag, is the confluence of three rivers – Mahi, Jhakham, and Som. The site serves as an important center for religious, cultural, and social activities. It houses ancient temples dedicated to Shiva, Radhakrishna, Brahma, and Lakshmi Narayan.
Every year during Magh Poornima in February, Rajasthan’s largest tribal fair takes place at Beneshwar Dham. The seven-day fair is co-organized by the district administrations of Dungarpur and Banswara, and during this time, tourists can also view Sant Mavji’s Chopra (Mavji’s composition, also known as Mavji’s Chopra).
How to reach Beneshwar Dham
To reach Beneshwar Dham, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Ghotia Amba
Located 35 kilometers from Banswara, Ghotia Amba is believed to have been the hiding place of the Pandavas during the Mahabharat period. The site holds particular significance among the district’s tourist attractions. The name Ghotia Amba is said to have originated from the mango trees (called Amba in the local dialect) planted by the Pandavas.
Every year during the Hindu month of Chetra, a grand fair takes place at Ghotia Amba, attracting pilgrims from Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Another nearby place of worship, Kela Pani, is believed to be the site where the Pandavas served food to Rishis and Sages in banana leaves.
How to reach Ghotia Amba
To reach Ghotia Amba, take a taxi or a bus from Banswara city. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Best Time to Visit Banswara
The best time to visit Banswara is during the months of October to December, when the weather is warm and pleasant, with just the right amount of humidity in the air.
How to Reach Banswara
By Air
The nearest airports to Banswara are Delhi Airport (163 kilometers) and Jaipur Airport (165 kilometers).
By Road
Banswara is well-connected by road to tourist destinations such as Delhi, Sariska, Bharatpur, Deeg, and Jaipur through well-maintained highways.
By Rail
The railway network connects Banswara to Delhi, Jaipur, and other significant tourist destinations in India.
Local Transport
Autos, tempos, and Alwar Vahinis are the most convenient modes of transportation within the city and to nearby areas. Additionally, cycle rickshaws are readily available and significantly cheaper than other means of transportation.
In Conclusion, We encourage you to explore these remarkable places in Banswara, immerse yourself in its vibrant traditions, and marvel at the untouched natural beauty that abounds. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Banswara has something to offer. So, pack your bags, set out on an adventure, and uncover the hidden treasures of Banswara with Thecitytraveller. It’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
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