Sikar, nestled in heart of Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, is a treasure trove of heritage, culture, and architectural wonders. Suppose you’re looking to explore Rajasthan beyond the usual tourist destinations. In that case, you can visit the top tourist places in Sikar, which offer a wonderful blend of history, spirituality, and rural beauty. You’ll find numerous Hindu temples that reflect Hindu spirituality, as well as ancient forts and parks.
This guide will highlight the hidden gems of this fascinating district, providing information on must-see destinations, and I’ll also share tips and the best time to visit Sikar.
Why Visit Sikar?
Sikar is famous for its stunning forts, beautiful havelis, colorful temples, and peaceful natural landscapes. It’s a new destination for travelers who want to feel the royal past of Rajasthan and the country’s rich local culture. The district has some stunning locations that portray the architecture and heritage of the erstwhile princely states of the Shekhawati belt.
Top Tourist Places in Sikar
1. Devgarh Fort
A magnificent hilltop fort, Deogarh Fort offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s rich history. It is said that Deogarh Fort was built by carving out massive rocky mountains. According to many historians, this fort was considered the most secure and even had an underground passage that connected Deogarh to Nagpur. It was built to provide safe passage for the king and queen in case of any attack. The fort’s preserved architecture and strong walls speak volumes about Rajput valor and grandeur.
2. Laxmangarh Fort
A short distance from Sikar is Laxmangarh, famous for the Laxmangarh Fort. Laxmangarh Fort, a wonderful blend of medieval military architecture and aesthetics, is a unique fort built on the scattered rocks in the early 19th century by Rao Raja Laxman Singh of Sikar. Tourists can enjoy the fort and the bustling markets nearby, where traditional crafts are sold.
The city is also known for its well-planned layout, believed to be inspired by Jaipur, and being part of the Shekhawati region, it is rich in historical mansions and art.
3. Harshnath Temple
The 10th-century Harshnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located atop Harsh Hill. It is not only a pilgrimage site but also a marvelous architectural masterpiece, with intricate carvings and ancient frescoes. The temple was originally built in the Mahameru style of North Indian temple architecture.
The original 10th-century temple was destroyed by the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb in 1679. Rao Shiv Singh renovated the temple in 1718 using the remaining ruins.
4. Khatushyam Temple
One of the most important spiritual sites in Sikar, the Khatushyam Temple attracts thousands of devotees every day. Located in Khatu village, 43 kilometers from Sikar city, the temple is dedicated to the Mahabharata warrior Barbarika, son of Ghatotkacha and Morvi. According to mythology, pleased with Barbarika’s great sacrifice, Lord Krishna granted him the boon of being worshipped in his name in the Kali Yuga. Hence, it is called Khatushyamji. It houses impressive religious artefacts and festivals.
5. Rani Palace
Also known as the Queen’s Palace, this palace is famous for its ornate frescoes and royal history. It vividly portrays the lifestyle of former royals and is a favorite spot for photographers. That’s why this is one of the tourist destination in Sikar.
6. Ganeshwar Village
Ganeshwar is an ancient archaeological site at a distance of 66 kilometers from Sikar city. It is well known for its copper artifacts and was one of the major copper production and supply centers in the Chalcolithic era (Copper Age). Ganeshwar village was the copper source of objects like arrowheads, spears, and tools, which were exchanged with the Indus Valley Civilization.
It is also renowned for its natural sulfur hot springs. Ganeshwar provides an exclusive blend of health and history tourism.
7. Nehru Park
Nehru Park, situated in the center of Sikar urban space, is a greenery-filled haven, ideal for recreation, walking, and discovery of local recreation places.
It is famous for its beauty of greenery, jogging paths, and peaceful environment. It’s a big, well-kept area that is also very popular for early morning walks, exercising, and picnics with family. Nehru Park is one of the top tourist places in Sikar.
8. Danta Ramgarh
Located 51 km from Sikar on the Sikar-Jaipur road, Danta Ramgarh village is famous for its wonderful mansions and the Ramgarh Danta Fort. Built in 1733 by Guman Singh Ladkhani, the fort offers a breathtaking view. It offers a picturesque day trip to explore the rural and royal heritage of Rajasthan. With the permission of the village headman, you can also visit other forts in the settlement.
9. Madho Niwas Kothi
Located in Devgarh, near Sikar, Madho Niwas Kothi is a historic mansion built by Madho Singh II. Renowned for its exquisite murals and gold paintings, it showcases the architecture, rich heritage, and prosperity of the Shekhawati region. Its artwork offers a glimpse into the lives and artistic tastes of the local rulers. It is a prime example of the grandeur and architecture of a bygone era. Its intricately carved walls, murals, and ornate interiors are a sight to behold, making it a truly beautiful tourist destination in Sikar.
10. Jeen Mata Temple
Located 29 km from Sikar, the Jeen Mata Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site, with a vibrant spiritual atmosphere and cultural significance in the region.
This sacred temple of Jeen Mata is believed to be thousands of years old. While its construction date is unknown, it is believed that the Pandavas, exiled from Hastinapur, rebuilt the temple in its current style.
11. Shekhawati Havelis in Sikar
The painted havelis of the Shekhawati region, including those of Sikar, are renowned for their frescoes depicting everyday life and mythology. These structures are among the major tourist attractions in Sikar, offering a glimpse into the opulence of the merchant class.
Intricate frescoes, courtyards, and cultural tourism are the main attractions.
The Poddar Haveli, known for its vibrant frescoes, and the Kanhaiyalal Bagla Haveli, known for its historical artifacts, are among the must-see havelis.
12. Sikar Fort (Raghunathgarh Fort)
Situated on a hill, Raghunathgarh Fort, also known as Sikar Fort, is located on a hill in the Aravalli Range, about 24 km from Sikar city. It is a historic fort which built by Rao Devi Singh in 1791, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding arid plains. One of the major tourist attractions in Sikar, the fort is a symbol of the region’s royal past.
You can hire a local guide for information; visiting during sunrise offers the best views and cool weather.
Best Time to Visit Sikar
The most favourable period for exploring the top tourist places in Sikar is from October to March, when the weather is cooler, making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Tips for Exploring Sikar
- Plan Your Itinerary: Take at least 2-3 days to explore the main forts, temples and heritage sites comfortably.
- Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available for local travel; guided tours are available for more historical information.
- Cultural Events: Try to combine your trip to places like Khatu Shyamji with local fairs or festivals for an enriching experience.
Conclusion
Discovering the best tourist spots in Sikar will unfold the untold historical and cultural treasures of Rajasthan. From the majesty of forts and palaces to the peacefulness of sacred temples, Sikar is an irreplaceable destination that enriches your travel experience with unspoken stories of a royal history and religious heritage.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit top tourist places in Sikar? A: The season from October to March is the most pleasant season for sightseeing in Sikar, although it is very cold in December and January. October, November, February, and March are the best months to visit Sikar.
Q: Are there tour guide available for top tourist places in Sikar? A: Yes, you will find local tour operators who offer comprehensive guided tours covering the major attractions.
Q: How many days are sufficient to explore Sikar? A: 2-3 days are ideal for a leisurely tour of Sikar’s main tourist attractions. Just make sure you have a good local guide who can get you around quickly.
