Bharatpur, located in Rajasthan, is famous for its rich wildlife, especially the Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its cultural heritage. With its bird sanctuaries, temples, and lakes, Bharatpur is an ideal destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and budget travelers. If you are planning a quick trip to Bharatpur, here’s a 2-Day Budget Travel Plan for Bharatpur that covers the best of what the city has to offer.
Day 1: Wildlife, Temples, and Local Exploration
Morning: Visit Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)
Start your day early by heading to Keoladeo National Park, one of India’s most famous bird sanctuaries. It’s home to thousands of migratory birds, especially during the winter months. The park is a must-visit for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers. You can explore the park by cycle rickshaw or on foot, with a guide to enhance the experience.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians and ₹200 for foreign nationals. Cycle rickshaw ride or a guide will cost around ₹300–₹400.
Spend your morning watching a variety of birds and enjoying the serene atmosphere of the park. If you’re visiting in winter, you can spot species like siberian cranes and painted storks.
Breakfast: Local Breakfast
After your visit to the park, stop by a local eatery for a light breakfast. You can enjoy poha, paratha, or samosa along with a hot cup of chai for ₹50–₹100.
Mid-Morning: Visit Ganga Temple
Next, visit Ganga Temple, a serene and historical temple dedicated to the River Ganga. Located near the Keoladeo Park, this temple is a peaceful spot where you can explore the architecture and take in the calm surroundings.
Entry Fee: Free.
Lunch: Traditional Rajasthani Meal
For lunch, head to Shivam Restaurant or Hotel Sundar for a simple, budget-friendly Rajasthani meal. A dal baati churma meal will cost you around ₹150–₹250. Enjoy the traditional flavors of Rajasthan in these local restaurants.
Afternoon: Visit the Lohagarh Fort
After lunch, explore Lohagarh Fort, which is also known as the “Iron Fort” due to its impressive defensive architecture. The fort has several historical structures, including gates, temples, and old buildings.
Entry Fee: ₹20.
Take a walk around the fort to learn about the city’s rich history. This lesser-known fort provides a great experience without the crowds found in other Rajasthan forts.
Evening: Visit the Bharatpur Palace and Museum
Spend your evening exploring the Bharatpur Palace and Museum, which showcases the city’s royal past. The museum has a collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings related to the royal family.
Entry Fee: ₹30.
Afterward, stroll through the beautiful Saman Bird Sanctuary, located near the palace, for a peaceful evening.
Dinner: Local Dining Experience
End your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant like Bikanerwala or Hotel Krishan Palace, where you can try a vegetarian thali or some North Indian specialties. Expect to pay ₹200–₹300 for a hearty meal.
Day 2: Temples, Local Markets, and Culture
Morning: Visit the Baldev Temple
Start your second day by visiting the Baldev Temple, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple’s architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a great place to start your day.
Entry Fee: Free.
Breakfast: Café or Local Snack
For breakfast, try some jalebi or kachori from a local stall, or opt for dahi puri for a filling start to the day. Street food in Bharatpur is both delicious and affordable, with prices ranging from ₹30–₹80.
Mid-Morning: Visit the Deeg Palace
After breakfast, take a short trip to Deeg Palace, located around 30 km from Bharatpur. The palace is known for its stunning Mughal architecture and beautiful gardens. You can explore the well-maintained grounds, fountains, and ornate rooms.
Entry Fee: ₹30–₹50.
This peaceful palace offers a quieter alternative to the more crowded tourist spots in Bharatpur.
Lunch: Simple Indian Meal
On your way back to Bharatpur, stop for a simple meal at Hotel Tej Palace or Bundi Tandoor for some roti and dal. These local restaurants offer filling meals at affordable prices (₹150–₹200).
Afternoon: Explore the Local Markets
Post-lunch, take a walk through Bharatpur’s local markets. The markets here are vibrant, with shops selling handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani products like lac bangles and pottery. You can bargain and pick up souvenirs for ₹100–₹300.
Evening: Visit the Pataleshwar Temple
As the day winds down, visit the Pataleshwar Temple, a peaceful spot with a quiet ambiance. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in the heart of the city and is known for its simple yet stunning architecture.
Entry Fee: Free.
Dinner: End with Local Cuisine
For your final dinner in Bharatpur, enjoy some Rajasthani gatte ki sabzi or ker sangri (a traditional Rajasthani dish) at a local restaurant like Shivam Restaurant or Rajasthan Bhojanalay. Expect to spend ₹200–₹300 for a satisfying meal.
Budget Tips for Bharatpur:
- Stay: Budget accommodations are available starting from ₹500–₹800 per night.
- Food: Stick to local restaurants and street food for an affordable and authentic experience. Meals typically cost ₹150–₹250.
- Transport: Bharatpur is a small city, and most attractions are within walking distance. Rickshaws are available for short trips (₹20–₹50).
- Attractions: Many attractions, like temples and local markets, are free or have minimal entry fees (₹20–₹50).
Final Thoughts:
Bharatpur offers a fantastic mix of nature, history, and culture that can be explored without a hefty budget. From the stunning Keoladeo National Park to the peaceful temples and palaces, Bharatpur has something for everyone. In just two days, you can explore the rich heritage of the city while staying within a budget of ₹3000–₹4000 for the entire trip.
