Dausa

As its name suggests in Sanskrit, the small town of Dausa is truly ‘beautiful like heaven’. Completing the perfect ring with other Indian highlights Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, Dausa blends spiritual heritage with the charm of the raw countryside. The town is washed in a rusty mustard color that lends it an old-world feeling, surrounded by the uneventful nature of Rajasthan. Visitors typically cherish it for the small details like the local food, traditional living, and historical sights. A day’s visit is more than enough to experience them all and get a taste of India’s centuries-old traditions.

Culture is the main event in Dausa, but everything happens on a much simpler level. Here, you will hardly witness the flamboyance common across the country. Still, there is no shortage of Hindu shrines and sacred sites. The otherworldly Galta Temple is among the most riveting, luring visitors in with its serene atmosphere. It is also famous for being home to a great number of Macaque monkeys. It will mark your trip with these cheerful creatures hopping around in every corner. For the true splendor of Dausa, head to Abhaneri, home to an epic two-day festival. There, you will find a treasure trove of early medieval monuments. The Abhaneri Stepwell is among the city’s highlights. It is one of the largest and deepest in India, featuring 3,500 steps over 13 stories. It is as impressive as it gets in terms of a photographic experience.

If you have time, wander the creative headquarters of Dausa to see Indian handcrafts in full motion. From carpet weaving to pottery, many old practices journey all the way from the town’s cozy villages to its center.