Famous for the historical ruins and the ghost stories, Bhangarh has been regarded as the most haunted place in the country. It is located on the way between Jaipur and Delhi.
Distance from Jaipur: 83 km
Nestled in the Aravali Hills over an area of about 800 Sq. Km covering the grasslands, dry deciduous forests, cliffs and rocky landscape, lays the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, now known as The Sariska Tiger Reserve. This area was once a hunting preservation of The Maharaja of Alwar. The Reserve is known for its majestic Royal Bengal Tigers. It is the first tiger reserve to relocate the Tigers (from Ranthambore) successfully. As it lies in the lap of Aravali Hills, it holds an abundant amount of mineral resources like copper.
Distance from Jaipur: 127 km
Located on the outskirts of the regal city of Jaipur, Galtaji Temple is a prehistoric Hindu pilgrimage site. Outlined by the striking Aravalli hills, it consists of several shrines, holy kunds, pavilions and natural springs. This majestic temple is situated in the heart of a hilly terrain that is bounded by a beautiful gorge which attracts tourists here every year. Galtaji Temple was built using pink colour sandstone and is a vast temple complex housing varied shrines. Located inside the City Palace, the walls of this temple are beautifully adorned with carvings and paintings that make this place worth visiting.
Distance from Jaipur: 11 km
Bhandarej located in the Duasa district in Rajasthan is a quaint and perfect place to getaway from the hustle bustle of the city. This is a vibrant and colourful place that is beautifully juxtaposed with the intricate stone monuments. Bhandarej is full of scenic beauty and picturesque landscapes. The various flora and fauna that inhabit here makes the place even more mesmerizing. The ancient temples dating back to the Mahabharata period are quite a sight to see and would leave you awestruck. This place is ideal for people who are seeking for serenity and calmness.
Distance from Jaipur: 70 km
Chokhi Dhani is a luxury heritage resort that tries to bring home the essence of Rajasthani village culture and hospitality. It is located a little on the outskirts of the city on the Tonk Road. Chokhi Dhani is a miniature model version of an ethnic Rajasthani village equipped with all modern- day amenities to provide its guests with the best of both worlds- a peek into the ethnic, cultural past with the luxuries of the modern world. The village offers myriad entertainment options- folk dances, singing, camel rides, puppet shows, fortune-tellers, acrobatics, predicting parrots, magic shows, horse riding, boating etc. In addition to that, it has an art gallery, mouth-watering food, shopping arcade and royal accommodation. Everything from the construction to décor to culture to food and hospitality gives you the feel of being in a traditional village.
Distance from Jaipur: 19 km
Located at a close distance from Jaipur city, Vidhyadhar Garden is a beautiful sprawling garden. It attracts people to its amazing architecture and the view of the Jaipur city from here. It consists of a terrace garden, galleries adorned with the murals of Lord Krishna, fountains and a well-maintained garden. This garden was constructed in 1988 in the memory of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya who was the chief architect of the Jaipur city. It is believed that this place was once a vineyard of the royal family. It is a perfect place for a weekend getaway near Jaipur. You can take a walk across the enthralling garden, observe the blooming flower, and the intricate architecture of the place.
Ramgarh Lake is an artificial lake spread across an area of 15.5 square kilometres. This lake was once a major water supplier for the city of Jaipur. Being surrounded by forested hills, Ramgarh is a perfect picnic spot during March and October, when it is relatively cooler outside. One can indulge in wildlife safaris in the forest area which is home to animals like Nilgai, Chital and lions. You can also partake in boating in the human-made lake or birdwatching. There is also a sprawling polo ground nearby. The area is easily accessible by road making it an amazing places to picnic near Jaipur.
Chandlai lake is a lesser-known lake situated on the outskirts of the Jaipur city on Tonk road. This lake is around 140 years old and attracts a lot of migratory birds. One can spend the day here either observing the birds or sitting beside the lake area, snacking on some sandwiches. If you are a keen birdwatcher, visit it during December as you have a chance of spotting Pied Avocet (a rare bird species). This makes for a good picnic spot near Jaipur as it does not remain too crowded.
Sambhar Lake is India's largest saltwater lake and is surrounded by the Sambhar Lake Town. There are vast stretches of land, and the lake offers a fantastic view of sunset and sunrise. This is an excellent place to indulge in some bird watching. You can set up camp beside the lake and spend hours watching flamingos who visit this lake in huge numbers while munching on some snacks. You can also visit the Shakambhari Devi temple while visiting this place to picnic near Jaipur.
Located on the Jaipur Ajmer Expressway, Pink Pearl Water Park is an ideal picnic spot. This is one of the biggest water parks around Jaipur and is popular among families. It is managed by the Chokhi Dhani Group and therefore is well maintained. You can spend an entire day here with your family or friends going through joy rides, adventure rides and slides, shake a leg in the rain dance section or lie and relax in the wave pool. The park has something for every age group.
Bagru Village is the area surrounding the famous Bagru Fort. Located on the Jaipur-Ajmer road, this village is an ideal location for a day out. Here, you can witness the artisans of the great hand-printed textile industry at work. The Bagru village is known for producing beautiful block print handlooms. You can visit the shops, purchase the locally made prints and can also try out your hand at this age-old craft.
Bhangarh Fort is a 16th-century fortress in Rundh Bhangarh. It was built by the Kachwaha ruler of Amber, Raja Bhagwant Singh, for his younger son Madho Singh. The reputation of this place, as the most haunted place in India, precedes it. But during the daytime, it is a beautiful majestic fort. Entry into the fort is not allowed before sunrise or after sunset. You can head here with a group of friends or family and make an adventurous day out of it. Be sure to hire a local guide who will tell you some eerie as well fascinating stories. There are three stories to explore although most of the fort now stands in ruins. Despite the legends attached to it, the fortress is truly enchanting.
Samode Palace is an architectural marvel as it beautifully blends the Rajasthani and Mughal styles of architecture. Despite being around 500 years old, it still exudes beauty. A part of the palace has been turned into a luxurious heritage hotel. This is perfect for a day excursion. You can revel in the elegant architecture of mirror work, the beautifully maintained garden, and even dine in luxury at the hotel restaurant. You can also shop for bangles in the surrounding town, a craft at which this place excels.
Siliserh Lake is favourite picnic spot located in Alwar. Spread across an area of 7 km and is situated close to the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary. You can pack your food and enjoy it beside the lake, against the backdrop of the Aravali hills. You can also partake in boating or sit and enjoy the beautiful view.
Don't let the scorching heat of the day or the bone-chilling cold of the night deter the feeling of wanderlust in you. Off all the places to visit near Jaipur within 100 kms let us know in the comments below how many have you covered.