Nathdwara Travel Guide

Read about the culturally important and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, transportation options, and nearby destinations of Nathdwara, a city in Rajasthan, India.


Introduction to Nathdwara

Located in the Udaipur Division of Rajasthan, Nathdwara is a city that is steeped in Hindu culture and tradition. The city is famous for its temples, including the Shrinathji Temple, which attracts thousands of devotees every year. Nathdwara is also a treasure trove of scenic beauty, with the foothills of the Aravalli Mountains providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Nathdwara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Nathdwara is undoubtedly the Shrinathji Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is believed to have been built in the 17th century by Vallabhacharya. The temple is home to a sacred image of Lord Krishna that is believed to have been brought to Nathdwara from Mewar during the reign of Maharana Raj Singh.

Another cultural attraction worth visiting is the Dwarkadhish Temple. This temple is also dedicated to Lord Krishna and is famous for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful paintings. It is believed that the temple was built in the 19th century by Seth Gokul Das Parikh.

Natural Attractions of Nathdwara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views, Nathdwara has plenty to offer. One of the most popular places to visit is the Eklingji Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 97 square kilometers and is home to several endangered species of animals, including the Indian wolf and the sloth bear.

Another must-visit location is the Haldighati Pass. This mountain pass played a crucial role in the Battle of Haldighati, which was fought between Maharana Pratap Singh and the Mughal army in 1576. Today, the pass offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and trekking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nathdwara

Nathdwara is surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains, which offer several hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best routes is the Kumbhalgarh-Ghanerao cycle trail, which covers a distance of 50 kilometers and offers stunning views of the Kumbhalgarh Fort and the surrounding countryside. Another popular hiking trail is the Banas River Trail, which is a 15-kilometer trek that takes visitors along the banks of the Banas River.

Best Things to Do in Nathdwara: Activities and Tours

Aside from visiting the temples and enjoying the outdoor adventures, Nathdwara offers several other activities and tours for visitors. One of the most popular tours is the Nathdwara Heritage Walk, which takes visitors through the narrow lanes of the city and offers an insight into the local way of life. Another popular activity is a camel safari, which takes visitors through the rural countryside and gives them a taste of traditional Rajasthan.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nathdwara

Day 1: Visit the Shrinathji Temple and the Dwarkadhish Temple. Day 2: Go on a wildlife safari at the Eklingji Wildlife Sanctuary. Day 3: Explore the Haldighati Pass and enjoy a hike in the Aravalli Mountains. Day 4: Take a heritage walk through the city and learn about the local culture and traditions. Day 5: Go on a camel safari and experience the rural countryside. Day 6: Visit the Kumbhalgarh Fort and explore the surrounding area. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenic views of Nathdwara.

Food and Drink Scene of Nathdwara

Must-Try Dishes

Nathdwara is famous for its vegetarian cuisine, which is a tribute to the local Hindu culture. Some of the must-try dishes include dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and kachori. Other local specialties include papad ki sabzi, laal maas, and ghevar.

Local Beverages

Nathdwara is also famous for its sweet lassi, which is made from yogurt and sugar. Other popular beverages include masala chai and thandai.

Where to Stay in Nathdwara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nathdwara offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the best options include the Hotel Shrinath Inn, the Gopal Niwas Palace, and the Fateh Bagh Palace.

What to Buy in Nathdwara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Nathdwara is famous for its handicrafts, including brass statues, woodcarvings, and paintings. Other popular souvenirs include traditional Rajasthani clothing, jewelry, and puppets.

Local Culture and Customs of Nathdwara

The local culture of Nathdwara is heavily influenced by Hindu traditions and customs. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and to avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts when visiting the temples. Additionally, it is also customary to remove your shoes before entering the temples.

Best Time to Visit Nathdwara

The best time to visit Nathdwara is from October to February, when the weather is cool and dry. The summer months of March to June can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nathdwara

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the temples.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures inside the temples without permission.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture and traditions.
  • Worry too much about the language barrier, as many locals speak English.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nathdwara

Nathdwara is generally a safe city for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take precautions against pickpocketing and theft, especially in crowded areas. It is also important to be cautious when crossing the roads, as traffic can be heavy.

Health in Nathdwara

Visitors to Nathdwara should take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration, especially during the summer months. It is also advisable to drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach problems.

Getting to Nathdwara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nathdwara

The nearest airport to Nathdwara is the Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, which is around 50 kilometers away. This airport is well-connected to major cities in India, including New Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.

Bus Stations Near Nathdwara

Nathdwara has a well-connected bus service that connects the city to nearby towns and cities. The main bus station in Nathdwara is the Nathdwara Bus Depot, which is located in the heart of the city.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Nathdwara by train, with the nearest railway station being the Rani Railway Station, which is around 12 kilometers away. Taxis and private cars can also be hired to reach Nathdwara from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Nathdwara

Nathdwara is a small city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and rickshaws are also easily available and can be hired to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Nathdwara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nathdwara is located in close proximity to several other popular tourist destinations, including Udaipur, Ajmer, and Pushkar. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby Kumbhalgarh Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its stunning architecture and scenic views.

Conclusion

Nathdwara is a city that is rich in culture, tradition, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Nathdwara has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of Nathdwara!

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