Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of Rajasthan, the town Kishangarh holds a special mention when it comes to beautiful places in this desert state creating an otherworldly experience like no other. Giving you a sense of a small utopia on earth, Kishangarh or the Moonland of Rajasthan is a gem of a spot; yet, not many are familiar with it! This mystical destination never fails to mesmerize the travelers with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Though it’s a place you won’t find in your generic Rajasthan itineraries it has now become one of the best offbeat attractions in Rajasthan. Let’s explore more about it.
Kishangarh is a small town in Ajmer, Rajasthan which has the major marble market in the country and thus is famously recognized as the Marble city of India. This town got its name from Kishan Singh, the prince of Jodhpur who founded the state in the 16th century. The place drew interest in 1973, when the Government of India put out a postage stamp on Bani Thani, a miniature painting of Kishangarh. The old-world charm of this small town is alive in its ancient forts, historical temples and its miniature art paintings.
Apart from its historical places and spiritual spots, this small industrial town is also popular to view white sand in Rajasthan, its marble dumping yard. This marble dumping yard of Kishangarh captivates tons of travelers every year with its pure and abloom magnificence. This absurdly surreal-looking marble dumping yard is also known as ‘the Moonland of Rajasthan’.
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Switzerland of Rajasthan
Not initially developed as a visitor’s sight, this place earned attention in recent years through Instagram. At this white desert in Rajasthan, you will be surrounded by a panoramic landscape of white snowy lands and heaps that look similar to the captivating snow hills. Adding to its magnificence, there are small lakes, tall marble stones, and white trees that make this man-made wasteland the white beauty. There are a lot of small ponds available in the dumping yard and with rain water stored in them. The water is so clear that one can see the bottom through it.
The picturesque place also popular as ‘Switzerland of Rajasthan’ has become a popular tourist destination of Rajasthan is not just a nature’s creation but a human made art. Believe it or not, that sprawling landscape resembling a snowy paradise is actually a massive pile of marble waste! This situation arose when Kishangarh residents tussled with the issue of mounting marble discards from processing activities.
Back in 2003, the Kishangarh Marble Association along with RICCO came up with a solution to settle the issue of fast-accumulating marble scrap. A centralized dumping site was established for marble waste generated by surrounding marble processing facilities, to ensure a cleaner and less-polluted environment. Since then, this marble surplus has accumulated to such an extent that it has taken the form of a plateau looking like snowy hills and mountains and an extensive stretch of captivating white sand.
Trending Instagrammable spot
Spread around 332 bigha land this white desert in Rajasthan looks ethereal during sunsets and sunrises. This makes one feel like they are walking on the moon under a mesmerizing orange sky, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. The breathtaking backdrop of the snowy landscape makes it the perfect place to take photos and videos.
Also check: 10 best Jaipur photoshoot locations
Famous for Film shootings
This marvelous white lake in Rajasthan does look like the snow wrapped valley of Kashmir making it a preferred destination for movies, short films or music video shooting. Since 5-6 years, a ton of Rajasthani as well as Punjabi songs have been filmed here. The moonland of Rajasthan got limelight from the song of the film ‘Kis Kisko Pyaar Karu’ shot here. Songs like ‘saiyaan ji’, ‘samandar mein’ and ‘uski aankhon me baatein’ were also shooted here.
Hotspot Pre wedding shoot destination
Over the years the area turned into an excellent setting for videography and photoshoots. This place acting as a wistful Switzerland background is also called ‘Rajasthan ka Switzerland’. People travel to this area to appreciate its ecstatic grace, take photographs and videos, and create memories around the panorama. This place also drags couples for pre-wedding photoshoots.
Also read: Best pre wedding photo shoot destinations in jaipur
Kishangarh white desert location
It is situated in Paryavaran 2nd Rd, RIICO Industrial Area, Kishangarh, Rajasthan. Jaipur to Kishangarh dumping yard distance is approximately 150 kms away and Ajmer to Kishangarh dumping yard distance is 30 kms.
How to reach moonland of Rajasthan
It is only 8 km from the Kishangarh Airport so you can book a cab to reach the dumping yard. If you are traveling by bus then the main bus stand is only 5 km away from the dumping yard. You can get an auto or a taxi to the Kishangarh white desert location.
Timings
10:00 AM – 06:00 PM
Best time to visit the moonland of Rajasthan
To best capture the moon-like atmosphere, visit this amazing spot early in the morning. Visit here before 11 am or in the evening after 4 pm to enjoy the sunset. Winter sunsets are particularly stunning here.
Things to keep in mind
- The air is a little thick around here, and you can feel the particles in your mouth and nose after spending a little time so it is suggested to carry face masks on your visit.
- People who have asthma or are allergic to dust or have breathing problems are not advisable to visit this place.
- Take your own food or water bottles as there are no shops nearby.
- Please refrain from littering or spitting on the pristine white marble, and maintain the cleanliness and beauty of this offbeat attraction.
- Though there are various ponds, do not try to go inside or take a bath there because the water might have some chemicals which can give rashes to your skin.
- If you are going along with your car inside then make sure not to park on marble waste as it might not be strong enough to hold.
Vehicles allowed
All kinds of light vehicles are allowed to enter into the dumping yard to the top of the hill.
Photography allowed
DSLR charges are extra. You need permission prior to a photo or video shoot with any drone or camera before a night of the shoot. Otherwise you will be fined 5,000 INR or 11,000 INR for breaking rules by the marble association center. However, you can take as many pictures and videos as you want with your mobile camera.
Entry fee
The entry is for free and you just need to take permission from the Marble Association Office. The office is just 500 meters away from the dumping yard. You will be allowed to enter the yard by paying a refundable amount of Rs 50 per person. You will also need to show an Id proof and have to answer some normal questions to get a pass to enter the yard.
Moonland distance from Jaipur and Ajmer
It takes half an hour from Ajmer and 2 hours from Jaipur to reach Kishangarh. It is easily accessible from both by road and by air.
Other tourist places in Kishangarh
Kishangarh tourism is furthermore popular for its amazing historical and spiritual attractions. Here is a list of places to visit in Kishangarh to relieve your wanderlust with the richness of the town.
Kishangarh Fort
Perched majestically atop a hill, the Kishangarh Fort is a symbol of the town’s rich history and royal legacy. The fort is located on the road which connects India and Pakistan and is hence kept under crucial supervision. This fort is private property and guests can explore it only by staying at the adjoining Hotel Phool Mahal Palace.
Gundolav Lake
Gundolav Lake nestles between the ancient town and the new town. The quiet water flowing in front of the Phool Mahal Palace makes the spot relaxing, soul-soothing, and free of chaos. Boating and fish feeding being the prime attractions at Kishangarh lake, offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature.
Phool Mahal Palace
Step back in time as you wander through the Phool Mahal Palace, once the residence of Kishangarh’s royal family. Built in 1870, Phool Mahal Palace is presently a boutique hotel with Kishangarh Fort in its background and the soothing elegance of the Gundolav Lake in front of it. Far away from all the clutter, it is regarded as a haven for nature buffs.
Mokham Vilas
Mokham Vilas which is also regarded as Jannat nestles in the middle of Gundolav Lake. The lake is a thin bridge established to commute to the Vilas. Migratory birds take shelter on the lands of this spot providing nature lovers and bird watchers an additional reason to explore it.
Khoda Ganesh Temple
It is a must-visit for stout devotees of Lord Ganesh. Formed around 250 years ago by the royal family, the locals see this temple as one of the holiest places in town. You will find peace and spirit awakened at this famous place of worship.
So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious adventurer, Kishangarh’s white sand beckons with its timeless charm and beguiling beauty. Come, lose yourself in the magic of the Moonland of Rajasthan where every moment is a celestial delight.
