Bharatpur Diaries: Day 1 – Fort Walls, Bird Calls & Chaat Stalls

If you’re craving a weekend that’s a mix of royal history, wild nature, and street food magic, Bharatpur serves it all on one platter. Day 1 of our trip was proof—and here’s how it unfolded.

A Calm Start: Breakfast & Morning Coffee

Our day kicked off with a peaceful breakfast at our stay, which felt extra special with that crisp morning breeze and no deadlines in sight.

Stepping Into History: The Unshakable Lohagarh Fort

By mid-morning, we were standing before the mighty Lohagarh Fort, and let me tell you—it doesn’t try to charm you; it challenges you to understand its strength.

Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal, this “Iron Fort” earned its name by resisting countless British attacks without ever falling. No marble luxury here—just stone, strategy, and serious presence.

We explored its massive gates, strolled around the moat, climbed the Jawahar Burj, and soaked in centuries of resilience that seemed to echo off the walls.

Spicy Interlude: Chaat for Lunch

History makes you hungry—and what better way to refuel than with chaat from a local stall? We dove into crispy kachoris, tangy golgappas, and syrupy jalebis, standing shoulder to shoulder with locals. It wasn’t just food—it was an experience. Affordable, authentic, and bursting with flavour.

Nature’s Encore: Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary at Golden Hour

As the sun began to dip, we made our way to the peaceful haven that is Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary. It was like nature’s own orchestra—chirping birds, rustling trees, and the occasional splash of water. We were lucky to spot painted storks, Indian darters, and even a few migratory birds that had made this UNESCO World Heritage site their temporary home. The peacefulness was a welcome contrast to our otherwise hectic routines. We spotted painted storks, egrets, and flocks of migratory birds nesting quietly in the wetlands. The sunset cast a golden glow over everything, and for a moment, the world felt still.

Wrapped in Dust and Wonder

By the time we returned to our hotel, we were dusty, tired, and full of stories. Day 1 had given us a little of everything—heritage, flavours, and feathered friends. And we couldn’t wait to see what Day 2 would bring.