Top Places to Explore in Dausa

Dausa, a city located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is the administrative center of the Dausa district. Situated 55 kilometers from Jaipur and 240 kilometers from Delhi, this city is nestled along the Jaipur-Agra National Highway. Also known as “Dev Nagari,” Dausa boasts a rich history and cultural heritage that attracts thousands of national and international tourists every year.

1. Mehandipur Balaji Temple

Mehandipur Balaji Temple is a famous religious site in Dausa, renowned for its healing powers. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, also known as Bajrang Bali, the temple is said to treat mentally troubled individuals. Despite advancements in medical sciences, people from all over India flock to this temple to seek relief from various psychological conditions.

Located approximately 40 kilometers from the district headquarters on NH11 towards Mahwa/Agra, the temple witnesses a massive influx of devotees every year. The number of visitors, residential accommodations, and donations received by the temple are a testament to the temple’s significance.

Accommodations near Mehandipur Balaji Temple

Many lodging options are available for visitors near Mehandipur Balaji Temple, ranging from budget hotels to guest houses. Some popular choices include:

• Balaji Guest House
• Shri Balaji Dharamshala
• Mehandipur Balaji Dham

2. Abhaneri

Abhaneri, a small village in Dausa, is well-known for its Post-Gupta and early medieval monuments. Situated approximately 33 kilometers from the district headquarters in the direction of Bandikui, Abhaneri is home to the famous Chand Baori (Step Well) and Harshat Mata Temple.

Chand Baori

Chand Baori is one of the oldest and most impressive stepwells in Rajasthan. With 3,500 narrow steps arranged in perfect symmetry over 13 stories, it descends 20 meters into the ground, making it one of the largest and deepest stepwells in India. The stepwell’s architectural and artistic grandeur attracts thousands of tourists each year.

Harshat Mata Temple

Adjacent to the Chand Baori is the Harshat Mata Temple, an exquisite example of intricate stone carvings. The temple is dedicated to Harshat Mata, the goddess of joy and happiness. According to local folklore, the goddess is always joyful and bestows blessings of happiness upon her devotees. The temple’s stunning architecture and sculptural styles make it a must-visit attraction in Abhaneri.

3. Khawaraoji

Khawaraoji, known for its natural beauty, is located 25 kilometers from the district headquarters in the direction of Sikrai. Home to the former ruler Raoji’s residence, Khawaraoji is nestled amidst lush green hills on three sides, with the serene Amol Ghati nearby.

The fort-like dwelling has now been transformed into the Khawaraoji Heritage Hotel, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the royal life of Rajasthan. With its picturesque surroundings and luxurious accommodations, Khawaraoji is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Activities at Khawaraoji Heritage Hotel

Guests at the Khawaraoji Heritage Hotel can enjoy various activities, such as:

• Horse riding
• Nature walks
• Village tours
• Bird watching

4. Bhandarej

Located approximately 10 kilometers from the main city, Bhandarej is another popular tourist spot in the Dausa region. The village is famous for its artistic walls, sculptures, and utensils, which reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Bhandarej Baori

Bhandarej Baori, a stepwell built on ancient architecture, is a significant historical site in the village. With its impressive design and intricate carvings, the stepwell offers a fascinating insight into the region’s architectural prowess.

Bhadravati Palace Hotel

The Bhadravati Palace Hotel, situated in Bhandarej, is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. This luxurious hotel offers an authentic royal experience to its guests, making it a popular choice among tourists visiting the region.

5. Jhajhirampura

Jhajhirampura, approximately 45 kilometers from the district headquarters in the direction of Baswa (Bandikui), is known for its natural water tank and various temples dedicated to Rudra (Shiv), Balaji (Hanuman), and other deities. This picturesque location is surrounded by hills and water resources, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and spiritual serenity.

Temples in Jhajhirampura

• Rudra Temple
• Balaji Temple
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

6. Bandikui Church

The Roman-style Protestant Church at Bandikui, situated about 35 kilometers from Dausa, is a major tourist attraction in dausa. The church’s beautiful architecture, along with its serene surroundings, makes it an ideal place for spiritual seekers and architecture enthusiasts.

7. Harshat Mata Temple (Abhaneri)

As previously mentioned, the Harshat Mata Temple in Abhaneri is an architectural marvel dedicated to the goddess of joy and happiness. The temple’s intricate carvings and splendid architecture make it a must-visit attraction for tourists in Dausa.

8. Lotwara

Located 110 kilometers from Jaipur, Lotwara is a small village with attractions such as the 17th-century Lotwara Garh (Fort) built by Thakur Ganga Singh and a large population of peacocks. The village is just 11 kilometers from Abhaneri and is easily accessible by road.

Attractions in Lotwara

• Lotwara Garh (Fort)
• Peacock sightings
• Village tours

Best Time to Visit Dausa

The ideal time to visit Dausa is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.

In conclusion, Dausa, Rajasthan’s hidden treasure, offers a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. Its architectural marvels, spiritual retreats, and picturesque landscapes make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Dausa, with its enigmatic charms and historical significance, invites you to embark on a journey of discovery with Thecitytraveller. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, a nature lover, or a spiritual seeker, Dausa has something to offer everyone. This comprehensive guide serves as your roadmap to uncovering the hidden treasures of Dausa and experiencing the magic of this lesser-known gem in the heart of Rajasthan.