Bharatpur is a small city in the eastern part of Rajasthan which successfully mingles natural wonders, rich history and vibrant culture. Bharatpur is often called the 'Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan' and the Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the site where Bharatpur is best known. While there is a lot to see in this quaint town, there is much more to discover from forts and palaces from the past to busy local markets and spiritual points of interest. No matter what type of traveller you are, history lover, nature lover or a casual traveller, Bharatpur has stories to be told. If you want to find what to do in Bharatpur, here is a detailed guide of its best attractions.

Visit the Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)

Keoladeo National Park is the most famous of the bharatpur tour and no trip to Bharatpur is complete without a visit. This 29 square kilometer park has originally been a royal hunting reserve and is nowadays one of the world's most important bird sanctuaries. Over 370 species of birds, some of which migrated from Siberian Crane, call the region home during the winter season.

With knowledgeable guides you can spot and identify the various species with a guided walk, by bicycle or in a cycle rickshaw. The best time to go birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon. Apart from birds, the park is also home to deer, jackals, pythons et al.

Tip: Suggested to take binoculars and a good camera along with you to photograph the magical moments!

Visit the Historical Lohagarh Fort

Lohagarh Fort that means 'Iron Fort' built in the 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal is symbolic of the indomitable spirit of Bharatpur. In contrast to most other forts of Rajasthan which were meant for grandeur, Lohagarh was a fort strictly meant for defense and strength.

Famously, the fort never fell to several British attacks. Apart from that, the Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas are a few of the fascinating buildings within the walls that give us an idea of the city's royal history. The Ashtadhatu Gate made out of eight metals is another notable one.

When you explore the fort and its history, you get a lot of appreciation for how Bharatpur stood up and also how cleverly the original plan was done for the fort.

Marvel at Deeg Palace

Nowadays, a 2 hour long drive is required to reach this place from Bharatpur, and when tourism is included in the mix, Deeg Palace emerges as a hidden gem showcasing the lavishness of the life of Jat rulers that could be enjoyed. The palace complex, built in the 18th century, contains grand halls, beautiful gardens, beautiful fountains and very intricate architecture.

The Gopal Bhawan, Krishna Bhawan, and Suraj Bhawan are the major structures here and lots of decorations are applied on each of these structures and they offer fabulous views of the landscaped gardens and artificial lakes.

The most famous among them is the monsoon festival of Deeg, when all the fountains are made to work, which creates a magical spectacle.

Pay Respect at Ganga Mandir

A magnificent temple devoted to River Goddess Ganga, the Ganga Mandir is located at Bharatpur. Over 90 years, the temple was built and it depicts intricate carvings, majestic pillars and statues of deities and kings.

The architecture is an ideal combination of both Rajput and Mughal styles. If you are not so religious, then the temple’s artistic details and peaceful environment also make it worth a visit.

Furthermore, the temple complex is well made and it provides a serene place to escape from the rush of the city.

Walk Around Laxman Mandir

The Laxman Mandir, dedicated to the brother of Lord Rama, Lord Laxman is another notable temple in Bharatpur. These make this temple highly special as it contains detailed stone carvings, intricate marble work and silver doors.

The temple has a spiritual and quiet ambiance with plenty of artistic richness and attracts devotees and history lovers.

The historical merge of cultures is also reflected in the fact that the locals believe these statues of Laxman here were gifted by the Mughal emperor himself.

Visit Government Museum Bharatpur

Visiting the Government Museum, inside the Lohagarh Fort complex is a must if you want to understand the history and more about the history and culture of Bharatpur. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, ancient weapons, sculptures, manuscripts and local art.

But the displays offer an incredible story of the region’s past, the valor of its rulers and of its art.

Most of the time you are allowed to take photographs inside, so you can record your favorite exhibits!

Leisurely Stroll Around Bharatpur Palace

Another attraction of the city is the Bharatpur Palace, a wonderful conglomeration of Mughal and Rajput architecture. While much has been turned into a museum, they also stroll through the grand courtyards and ornate chambers as if transported back in time.

The era defines the intricate floor tiles, majestic halls and beautiful jharokhas (overhanging balconies).

Less popular than Jaipur or Udaipur’s palaces, Bharatpur Palace allows one a peaceful, crowd free experience.

Experience Local Markets and Shopping

Bharatpur has a very local market for the one who loves to explore markets. Though not as large as other Rajasthani cities, Bharatpur has facilities for excellent handicrafts and colorful textiles along with traditional accessories.

Don’t forget to buy:

- Traditional Jat jewelry.

- Hand-block printed fabrics.

- Brassware and local artifacts.

Around Bharatpur Junction and near to the City Palace are alive with markets which are splendid places to pick up the right unique souvenirs.

Taste Local Rajasthani Cuisine

Rajasthani flavors can be experienced on the culinary scene of Bharatpur. Some of the dishes you should not miss within this city include:

Dal Baati Churma: A Rajasthani classic of baked wheat balls with spicy lentils and sweet crushed wheat.

Ker Sangri: A traditional dessert bean and berry curry.

Gatte ki Sabzi: Gram flour dumplings cooked in spicy yogurt gravy is known as Gatte ki Sabzi.

Rabri and Ghevar: Traditional sweets that are bound to please your taste buds are Rabri and Ghevar.

The authentic flavors can be relished by visitors at local eateries and dhabas with decent prices located nearby in park and palace areas.

Go for a Village Tour

However, for a taste of real rural Rajasthan a village tour around Bharatpur is a better idea. Villages like Sinsini and Weir showcase rustic life, traditional farming practices, and local crafts.

Interaction with villagers, experience of traditional Rajasthani hospitable atmosphere and indulging in the cultural activities present a real and engaging experience.

A great number of eco tourism groups arrange village tours combined with camel cart rides and provide a slow moving but memorable experience.

Attend the Brij Festival

You are lucky when visiting in March as it’s the time for the Brij Festival that takes place a few days before Holi. It is a colorful festival, danced to the tunes of folk songs, and stage plays traditional rituals for Lord Krishna.

The whole atmosphere is lively and festive with locals clad in bright clothes and singing bhajans (devotional songs). Were numerous tourists welcomed heartily to join the festivities.

Brij Festival displays the culture, range of the colour and spirit of Bharatpur and surrounding regions.

Relax and Enjoy Photography

Bharatpur is heaven for photographer’s. The Keoladeo National Park is all about birds, while the historical forts, the colourful markets or the vibrant festivals are aplenty to fill the frame.

Take your best gear if you enjoy wildlife or heritage photography because early mornings and late evenings are the best time for photos.

A casual stroll around the city would reveal unsuspecting gems that deserve to be captured.

Conclusion: 

If there is nowhere else in the world like Bharatpur, it is not Jaipur, Delhi, Udaipur, or Pushkar. In order to explore the bird paradise of Keoladeo National Park and the wayfare to ancient forts and palaces every single moment in Bharatpur is filled with authenticity.

Whether you are an adventurous traveler, lover of birds, history or just an idler wanting some off the beaten path things to do, Bharatpur offers memories which will only get stronger once you are away. Therefore, if you want to have a truly wonderful time, and not just call yourself a birder, pack your binoculars, your walking shoes and come, come to enchant you because Bharatpur is waiting!