15 Best Places To Visit In Tonk: Historical And Cultural Experience

An image of Bisaldeo Temple, one of the places to visit in Tonk district, Rajasthan, India.

Tonk is a charming town steeped in a vibrant history and culture. Places to visit in Tonk are renowned for its different grand mosques, palaces, and colonial-era buildings. This place is also known as the “Lucknow of Rajasthan” for its great architectural beauty, Tonk has a rich heritage that dates back to the Mughal and Rajput eras and offers its visitors a perfect mix of history, religion, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travellers interested in exploring Rajasthan’s lesser-known gems.

Top 15 Places To Visit In Tonk

Discover the top places to visit in Tonk, Rajasthan – a treasure trove of historic forts, serene temples, stepwells, and timeless architectural charm.

1. Sunehri Kothi

An image of the historic Sunehri Kothi in Tonk, featuring traditional Indian architecture.

Photo: Mrvillainxx / Wikimedia Commons

Sunehri Kothi, also known as the “Golden Mansion,” is a stunning palace in Tonk. Built by Nawab Mohammed Ibrahim Ali Khan, this palace is renowned for its golden walls adorned with intricate mirror work, glass inlay, and vibrant colours. The opulent decor inside the mansion is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture and craftsmanship. The lavish interiors, with their gilded ceilings and floral patterns, make this mansion one of the most exquisite tourist attractions in Tonk. Its grandeur and historical significance draw visitors from all over India, making it a popular tourist places in Tonk.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Golden walls, intricate mirrorwork
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Suggested Read: Discover Top Places To Visit In Mansarovar Jaipur For A Peaceful Retreat

2. Hathi Bhata

An image showing an elephant strolling through a natural, lush green landscape.

Photo: laurentmarx / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Hathi Bhata is a unique historical monument which features a life-sized stone carving of an elephant, believed to have been built in the 12th century by local craftsmen. This monolithic sculpture is carved out of a single piece of rock and represents the rich artistic heritage of Rajasthan. The carving is located in a serene area, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Aravalli hills, making it a peaceful destination for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts. The intricate details of the sculpture are still well-preserved, making it one of the popular Tonk visiting places.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Monolithic elephant sculpture
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

3. Bisalpur Dam

A wide-angle view of Bisalpur Dam, which is one of the places to visit in Tonk, Rajasthan.

Photo: Eklavya Yadav / Wikimedia Commons

Bisalpur Dam, built on the Banas River, is one of the largest dams in Rajasthan and a popular tourist spot in Tonk. The dam provides water to nearby districts and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The reservoir formed by the dam creates a picturesque setting, perfect for photography and picnics. Visitors can enjoy the serenity of the water, especially during the monsoon season when the dam is full, and the area comes alive with lush greenery. The beauty of Bisalpur Dam makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers looking to relax and unwind.

Best Time To Visit: July to October
Major Attractions: Scenic views, water reservoir
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Suggested Read: Places Near Jaipur For Weekend

4. Jama Masjid

Explore mosque architecture in Jama Masjid, which is one of the places to visit in Tonk.

Photo: sofdoug / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Jama Masjid in Tonk is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Rajasthan. Built by Nawab Amir Khan in the early 19th century, the mosque is a magnificent example of Islamic architecture, featuring marble pillars, domes, and arches. The spacious courtyard and intricate designs on the walls make it a serene place for worship and reflection. The mosque is a major religious site, making it a popular attraction in Tonk attracting both pilgrims and tourists who come to admire its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Islamic architecture, marble pillars
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

5. Rajmahal Palace

A view of a grand palace, now functioning as a hotel, with intricate Indian architectural details.

Photo: dirkgauert / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Rajmahal Palace, once the residence of the royal family of Tonk, is now a heritage hotel. This grand palace is a beautiful blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, with intricate carvings and royal decor. The palace’s expansive courtyards, lush gardens, and beautifully designed rooms offer visitors a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the former royals. Staying at Rajmahal Palace gives visitors a chance to experience history firsthand. The palace is an ideal destination to visit in Tonk for history buffs and those looking for a luxurious stay.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Heritage architecture, royal decor
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Suggested Read: City Palace Museum In Jaipur

6. Chhatra Sagar

A panoramic view of a water reservoir, surrounded by rugged terrain and natural greenery.

Photo: Kevinsphotos / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Chhatra Sagar is a man-made reservoir known for its beautiful environment and natural beauty. The reservoir was built by the local rulers to conserve water and has since become a popular spot for birdwatching and picnics. During the monsoon season, the reservoir fills up, attracting migratory birds and creating a serene landscape. The surrounding hills and greenery make Chhatra Sagar an excellent destination for nature lovers who want to enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Best Time To Visit: July to October
Major Attractions: Birdwatching, serene landscape
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

7. Rasiya Ke Tekri

A scenic view of rolling hills covered in lush green grass, set in a rural landscape.

Photo: balouriarajesh / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Rasiya Ke Tekri is a hill known for its scenic views and historical significance. The site is named after a local folk tale about a romantic tragedy, making it a place of cultural importance in the region. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is an excellent spot for hiking and photography. Visitors can also explore the ruins of ancient structures on the hill, adding a touch of history to their visit. Rasiya Ke Tekri is a perfect destination for those looking for a blend of nature and history.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Scenic views, historical ruins
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

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8. Annapurna Dungri Ganesh Temple

A vibrant depiction of Lord Ganesh at a temple which is one of the places to visit in Tonk.

Photo: DEZALB / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Annapurna Dungri Ganesh Temple, located on the outskirts of Tonk, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is situated on a small hill, providing scenic views of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi when devotees gather to offer prayers. The peaceful ambiance of the temple, combined with its religious significance, makes it one of the places to visit in Tonk for spiritual seekers. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the temple, making it a serene spot for meditation and reflection.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Religious significance, scenic views
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

9. Bisaldeo Temple

A view of the Bisaldeo Temple which is one of the places to visit in Tonk, Rajasthan.

Photo: Siddharth tiwari / Wikimedia Commons

Bisaldeo Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple dates back to the 12th century and is known for its intricate stone carvings and architectural beauty. The temple’s serene location, near the banks of the Banas River, makes it a peaceful place for worship and meditation. The temple is especially popular during the festival of Mahashivratri when devotees gather to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Bisaldeo Temple is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts who want to explore Rajasthan’s spiritual heritage.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Ancient carvings, religious significance
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Suggested Read: Top Temples In Rajasthan To Visit On A Religious Trip

10. Tonk Museum

An old museum with beautiful architecture and stairs, a unique tourist place in Tonk, Rajasthan.

Photo: Acred99 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Tonk Museum is a small but well-curated museum that showcases the rich history and culture of Tonk. The museum houses a collection of artefacts, including ancient coins, manuscripts, weapons, and traditional Rajasthani costumes. It offers visitors a glimpse into the town’s royal past and the cultural heritage of the region. The museum is undoubtedly a popular tourist destination in Tonk for history buffs to learn about the various dynasties that ruled Tonk and their contributions to the town’s development. The museum’s well-preserved artefacts make it an important cultural institution in Tonk.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Artefacts, historical exhibits
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

11. Kalyanji Temple

Image of hindu pooja thali decorated with flowers, diya, incense stick and other hindu ritual essential items

Photo: suketdedhia / Wikimedia Commons

Kalyanji Temple in Tonk is a revered religious site known for its historical significance and peaceful surroundings. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple showcases beautiful Rajasthani architecture with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere that attracts devotees and tourists alike. The temple complex includes smaller shrines and is a prominent site during religious festivals. It’s an ideal spot for those interested in exploring the spiritual heritage of Rajasthan while enjoying the calm and reflective ambiance offered by this ancient temple.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Intricate carvings, spiritual ambience
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Suggested Read: Jaipur Temples That Will Take You On A Spiritual Journey

12. Raja Rai Singh Mahal

Image of Raja Rai Singh Mahal with beautiful architecture and a symbol bol historical significance

Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Wikimedia Commons

Raja Rai Singh Mahal stands as a testament to the regal past of Tonk, reflecting the region’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. The palace, with its grand corridors and intricately designed interiors, offers a glimpse into royal life. Though not as widely known as other Rajasthani palaces, it carries historical charm and is worth a visit for those keen on heritage architecture and local history. Its peaceful setting and old-world aesthetics make it a pleasant stop for history buffs and explorers.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Royal architecture, palace interiors
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

13. Hadi Rani Kund

Image of Hadirani ka kund - a stepwell that echoes, one of the best places to visit in Tonk

Photo: Dilipsinghshekhawat / Wikimedia Commons

Hadi Rani Kund is a beautifully constructed stepwell that echoes. Built in honour of Hadi Rani, a legendary figure known for her sacrifice, the Kund features traditional stepwell architecture, one of the popular Tonk tourist places. Surrounded by a rustic landscape, it offers a quiet spot for visitors to admire its symmetry and historical importance. The site is especially appealing to photography enthusiasts and those interested in exploring offbeat heritage sites.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Stepwell structure, historical significance
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Jaipur

14. Nagar Fort

Ruins of a fort - a very lesser known places you can explore - while exploring places to visit in Tonk

Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Nagar Fort is one of the lesser-known yet historically rich landmarks in Tonk. With its rugged architecture and timeworn walls, the fort paints a vivid picture of the region’s medieval past. It may not boast grandeur like other Rajasthani forts, but its understated charm lies in its raw, unpolished beauty and the stories embedded in its stone walls. Ideal for history enthusiasts and casual travellers alike, Nagar Fort offers a peaceful walk through history and a unique perspective on Rajasthan’s fortified legacy.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Fort ruins, ancient walls
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours

15. Todaraisingh

Image of a fort architecture designed beautifully in Rajastani culture - Todaraisingh a small town near Tonk

Photo: Recyclops Ss / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Todaraisingh is a small town near Tonk, known for its old havelis, stepwells, and temples that reflect the rich architectural traditions of Rajasthan. The town has a laid-back charm, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking a quiet, culturally immersive experience. Key attractions include the ancient stepwell called Hadi Rani Ka Kund and various small shrines with historic significance. Ideal for offbeat explorers, Todaraisingh provides a glimpse into rural Rajasthan’s heritage, away from the crowds of more popular destinations.

Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Stepwells, temples, heritage sites
Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tonk Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Suggested Read: Offbeat Places In Jaipur

Tonk is a town rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Places to visit in Tonk include opulent Sunehri Kothi and the Bisalpur Dam. Tonk offers a range of experiences for every traveller; whether you are drawn to the architectural grandeur of its palaces or the serene ambience of its temples, Tonk has something for everyone. Plan a trip with TripXL today and experience the charm.

Cover Photo: Mrvillainxx / Wikipedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Tonk is from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
Tonk is approximately 95 km from Jaipur, and it can be easily accessed by road.
Tonk is famous for its Indo-Islamic architecture, historical monuments like Sunehri Kothi, and the serene Bisalpur Dam.
Yes, festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Mahashivratri are celebrated with great fervour in Tonk, particularly at the Annapurna Dungri Ganesh Temple and Bisaldeo Temple.
Tonk is well-connected by road, with the nearest airport being Jaipur Airport (95 km away) and a railway station in the town itself.
Yes, Tonk is perfect for a one-day getaway. Most of the key attractions can be covered in a day due to their close proximity.
Tonk offers a taste of traditional Rajasthani cuisine - dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and local sweets like balushahi. Small local eateries serve authentic and affordable meals.
While Tonk doesn’t have many luxury hotels, it offers decent budget guesthouses and lodges for short stays. Many visitors prefer to stay in Jaipur and make a day trip to Tonk.

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