Banswara, known as the City of Hundred Islands, is a green travel destination in southern Rajasthan famous for Mahi River backwaters, lakes, temples, and tribal culture.
The region attracts travelers looking for boating, short road trips, temple visits, photography spots, and quieter alternatives to Udaipur or Jaipur. Most visitors explore Mahi Dam backwaters, Kagdi Pick-Up Weir, Arthuna temple ruins, and nearby island viewpoints during the monsoon and winter seasons.
Why Banswara Is Called the City of Hundred Islands in Rajasthan
Banswara gets its nickname from the Mahi River, which creates dozens of small green islands during the monsoon season. From a boat, these islands look like green dots on the water. A boat ride here is calm and refreshing, especially after the rains.
- There is a great river called the Mahi River running through Banswara.
- The river becomes full and overflowed during the rainy season. Thus, creating several small islands. These small islands also appear like small green spots on the water.
- When you take a boat ride during or after the rains, you can view all these islands.
- Also, experience the fresh air and cool water. It’s too much fun and peaceful!
Quick Facts About Banswara
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern Rajasthan near the Gujarat border |
| Distance from Udaipur | 165 km (around 4 hours by road) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Ratlam Junction (80 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | July to March |
| Ideal Trip Duration | 2 days |
| Known For | River islands, lakes, temples, and monsoon scenery |
| Budget Range | ₹800–₹3,500 per night |
Banswara’s History – The Story Behind the City of Hundred Islands
Let us now talk about the history of Banswara. There was a king named King Bansia who ruled here long back. The region had many bamboo forests. Hence the name “Banswara” is derived from the Hindi word “baans,” meaning bamboo. Also, most of the people residing here belong to the Bhil tribal community.
Moreover, they dress in colorful attire and perform thrilling dances. This tradition includes the Ghoomar dance and organizing festive fairs such as the Ghotia Amba fair. They even prepare special cuisine made from corn, bajra (millet), and mahua flowers.
There are many cool activities in Rajasthan. Let’s explore what to check out.
Must-Visit Tourist Places in Banswara Rajasthan
Mahi Dam, Kagdi Weir, Tripura Sundari Temple, and Arthuna ruins are the top tourist attractions in Banswara.
- Mahi Dam and Backwaters: You can avail of boating. Also, view the water surrounding the small islands. It’s best done during the rainy season.
- Kagdi Pick-Up Weir: A peaceful and serene place for a picnic and boat tour.
- Diablab Lake: There are lotus flowers floating in the lake! There’s also a serene garden where you can relax.
- Tripura Sundari Temple: A well-known temple where lots of people come to pray.
- Madareshwar Temple: Situated within a cave on a mountain. Also, you get great views from here.
- Arthuna Temple Ruins: These temples are old and built centuries ago. Furthermore, you can observe how smart people built them!
- Andeshwar Parshwanath Jain Temple: A serene temple with nice walls and soothing atmosphere.
Top Things to Do in Banswara – City of Hundred Islands
- Take boat rides in Banswara on rivers and lakes.
- Moreover, photograph the temples, flowers, and tribal folk.
- Attend a local fair or dance during the rains. Additionally, it’s music, colors, and enjoyment galore!
If you wish to cover other cities on your trip too, check out the 8 days Rajasthan tour from Delhi.
Best Time to Visit Banswara – Weather, Festivals & Ideal Months
Banswara changes completely after the monsoon. Dry hills turn green, the Mahi River expands across the region, and small islands become visible around the backwaters. This period attracts most travelers looking for boating, photography, waterfalls, and cooler weather.
| Season | What to Expect | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| July to September | Heavy rainfall, green scenery, full lakes | Best for island views, boating, and photography |
| October to February | Cooler temperatures and clearer roads | Comfortable for sightseeing and temple visits |
| March to June | Hot afternoons and dry weather | Better for short morning trips only |
The monsoon season brings local fairs, gatherings of tribal people, and seasonal waterfalls in the villages nearby. The winter is a much better time for families to travel. Road trips in the winter provide a longer route to see many sights.
What Is the Weather Like in Banswara Throughout the Year?
Banswara remains the hottest in summer, greenest during monsoon and most comfortable for sightseeing from October to March.
| Season | Temperature | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 32°C–42°C | Hot afternoons and dry roads |
| Monsoon | 24°C–32°C | Green scenery, full lakes, island views |
| Winter | 12°C–28°C | Pleasant weather for sightseeing |
The monsoon completely changes the landscape, while winter makes it easier for families to travel and visit temples.
How to Reach Banswara – Travel Guide for Rajasthan Visitors
- By Road: Banswara is 165 km from Udaipur and connects by road through Ratlam, Dungarpur, and major cities in southern Rajasthan.
- By Train: The nearest major train station is at Ratlam, 80 km away.
- By Air: The airport is in Udaipur. So, you can go to Banswara by car ride.
Where to Stay in Banswara – Hotels, Guesthouses & Local Options
These are some decent places to stay in Banswara. Prices for one night:
| Hotel Name | Area | Price (Approx.) | What’s Good |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels. | Industrial Area Road, No. 5 | ₹2,300–3500. | Decent rooms with breakfast. |
| Hotel Nakshatra. | Pipli Chowk. | ₹1,800–2,200. | Clean, couple-friendly, good reviews. |
| Utsav Hotel & Resort. | City Center. | ₹2,500–3,500. | Comfortable and good service. |
There are even cheaper guesthouses for ₹720–₹850 for a night. Additionally, if you go during weekdays or off-season (such as rainy season), rates may be lower.
Entry Fees, Opening Hours & Travel Timings for Banswara Attractions.
- Most temples and lakes in Banswara charge nothing to enter.
- Boat trips cost approximately ₹50–₹100 per head.
- Temples open in the morning until evening. You may also refer to signs there for specific timings.
2-Day Banswara Itinerary
A 2-day trip covers Banswara’s lakes, island viewpoints, temples, tribal culture, and historic ruins at a comfortable pace.
Day 1
- Visit Mahi Dam and nearby backwaters
- Take a boat ride during monsoon season
- Relax at Kagdi Pick-Up Weir
- Watch sunset near Diablab Lake
Day 2
- Visit Tripura Sundari Temple early morning
- Explore Arthuna temple ruins
- Stop at Madareshwar cave temple
- Try local food in the city market area
If you travel during monsoon, keep extra time for photography and short roadside stops near water-filled areas.
Travel Tips for Visiting Banswara – Rajasthan’s Island City.
Follow these travel tips for a safe journey.
- Keep a water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses handy, particularly during summer.
- It’s comfortable to wear shoes as you will be walking too much.
- If photography is your interest, go early in the morning or late afternoon to get the best light.
- Be respectful and do not harass tribal people or their residences.
- Wear decent clothes when visiting temples or going boat riding. This makes exploring the offbeat places of Rajasthan easy.
- Don’t litter or remove stones or objects from temples or lakes.
Other Rajasthan Tour Package Suggestions:
- Rajasthan tour 3 days from Delhi
- 4 days Rajasthan tour from Delhi
- Rajasthan 5 days tour
- 6 days Rajasthan tour from Udaipur
FAQs
The top places include Mahi Dam, Kagdi Pick-Up Veer, Diablab Lake, Tripura Sundari Temple, Madareshwar Temple, Rosquito of Arthuna Temple, and Andeshwar Parswana Jain Temple.
During monsoon, the Mahi River fills the surrounding region and creates many small islands. The green scenery, backwaters, and boating routes make this season popular among nature lovers and photographers.
Yes, Banswara is worth visiting for its green monsoon landscapes, river islands, lakes, tribal culture, and quieter atmosphere compared to Rajasthan’s crowded tourist cities.
Most attractions are free to enter. Boat rides on rivers and lakes cost around ₹50-100 per person.
Yes, visitors can experience tribal fairs like Ghotia Amba and can see colorful Bhil tribal dances such as Ghoomar, especially during the festive season.
Banswara is famous for the Mahi River islands, Tripura Sundari Temple, Arthuna ruins, tribal culture, and seasonal greenery during the monsoon months.
Two days are enough for you to see the primary sites in and around Banswara like the lakes, temples, island views, and more at a comfortable pace.
You can visit the towns of Dungarpur, Udaipur, Mangarh Dham, and Ratlam while in Banswara, as all of these towns are connected through Southern Rajasthan’s road routes.
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