Tucked away in southern Rajasthan, Banswara is a land of islands, waterfalls, emerald hills and ancient temples; a destination that transforms into a breathtaking paradise during the monsoon.
There are places that have always been on the tourist map, and then there are places that quietly wait to be discovered. Banswara, in southern Rajasthan, belongs to the latter.
Once relatively unexplored and rarely spoken about beyond the region, this tribal-dominated city is now steadily drawing the attention of travellers from across India and beyond. Known as the “City of Hundred Islands,” Banswara offers a side of Rajasthan that is strikingly different from the desert landscapes and forts the state is traditionally known for.
In fact, its lush green landscapes, mist-covered hills, vast water bodies and cascading waterfalls can easily remind one of the scenic beauty of Meghalaya or the Northeast. And yet, this spectacular landscape lies right here in Rajasthan.
Located around 165 kilometres from Udaipur and positioned close to the borders of three states, Banswara is emerging as one of southern Rajasthan’s most fascinating destinations.
A City of Islands
The most distinctive feature of Banswara is its landscape of hundreds of small and large islands surrounded by water, which gives the city its popular identity as the City of Hundred Islands.
Among them, Chachakota offers one of the most spectacular views. During the monsoon, when the surrounding hills turn lush green and the vast expanse of water stretches across the landscape, the islands appear to float like little green worlds.
The scenery becomes especially magical in August, when the region is at its verdant best. The combination of water, greenery and hills creates a landscape that looks almost like a painting created by nature itself.
Adding to this beauty is the Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam, an important landmark of southern Rajasthan. Its enormous water reservoir, rivers, canals and surrounding greenery give the region a distinct character and make the landscape even more captivating.
Where Waterfalls Come Alive
If waterfalls are what you seek, Banswara can feel nothing short of a paradise during the rainy season.
The monsoon brings hundreds of waterfalls and seasonal cascades to life. Singpura, Jua, Jhola and Kadaliya Waterfalls are among the places that offer spectacular views during the rains, while some waterfalls continue to flow throughout the year.
As the rain fills the streams and the hills turn green, these waterfalls become natural attractions for travellers looking to experience Banswara beyond its conventional tourist sites.
Sacred Landscapes and Ancient Heritage
Banswara is not only about nature. Its landscape is also deeply connected with faith and history.
Located nearby is the renowned Mata Rani Tripura Sundari Shakti Peeth, an important pilgrimage destination where devotees from across the country come to seek blessings.
For history and heritage enthusiasts, Arthuna adds another dimension to the journey. The ancient temples here offer a glimpse into the region’s rich architectural and cultural past.
Then there are the Jagmer Hills, known for their natural beauty and panoramic landscapes. Atop the hill stands a nearly 500-year-old Hanuman temple. From an altitude of around 2,500 to 3,000 feet, the view of the surrounding landscape is extraordinary.
Early mornings can be particularly enchanting. When clouds envelop the hills and mist settles over the landscape, standing here can feel like being surrounded by clouds. The lush green hills disappearing into the mist create a scene that seems straight out of a painting.
Rajasthan’s Hidden Green Face
For years, Banswara remained far behind on Rajasthan’s mainstream tourism map. But its identity as the City of Hundred Islands, coupled with its unique natural landscape, is changing that.
Travellers are increasingly discovering a Rajasthan that is green, watery, misty and remarkably serene. The destination is gradually attracting visitors not only from different parts of the country but also from abroad.
And if there is one season when Banswara reveals its most beautiful side, it is undoubtedly the monsoon, particularly August.
This is when rivers swell, waterfalls come alive, hills wear a blanket of green and the islands of Chachakota seem to emerge from a dream.
It is this unusual combination that makes Banswara so special, a destination that challenges the conventional image of Rajasthan and reveals a completely different face of the state.
How to Reach Banswara
For travellers planning a visit, road travel is currently the primary option, as Banswara does not have direct rail or air connectivity.
One of the most convenient options for travellers arriving from different parts of the country is Ratlam Junction. Trains connect Ratlam with Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities. From Ratlam, Banswara is around 70 kilometres away, and the remaining journey can be covered by bus or taxi.
Another option is Dungarpur Junction, located approximately 100 kilometres from Banswara, from where the journey can again be continued by road.
How Many Days Are Enough?
Banswara is not a destination that should be rushed through in a single day.
There are now around 15-20 good hotels available for visitors, along with several beautiful homestays where travellers can experience the local atmosphere more closely.
To explore Banswara properly, two nights and three days are recommended.
This gives you enough time to explore the islands of Chachakota, waterfalls, hills and landscapes, while also visiting Tripura Sundari Temple and the ancient temples of Arthuna.
Because Banswara is not merely a place to stop at and leave. It is a destination to slow down, explore and experience.
Give it two nights and three days, and you may discover a side of Rajasthan you never knew existed.
City of Hundred Islands- Banswara
Rajasthan’s hidden green face is waiting to be discovered.
Come during the monsoon. Follow the roads towards its hills, waterfalls and islands. Watch the clouds settle over the landscape, the greenery spread across the hills and the waters surround Chachakota.
And once you see Banswara in its rain-soaked glory, this lesser-known corner of Rajasthan may be difficult to forget.
(Information and Picture credit: Bharat Kansara)