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About Rajasthan
Lying in northwestern India and sprawling across a whopping area of around 342239 sq km, the Indian state of Rajasthan is known all over the world for its glorious history, colourful culture, bountiful wildlife, and warm hospitality. Welcoming all kinds of tourists with its melodic greeting “Padharo Mhare Desh”, the “Land of Kings” introduces its visitors to its ancient royal grandeur and opulence.
The beauty of the flamboyant state of Rajasthan can be credited to its enchanting folk dance and music, majestic palaces and hill forts, flavoursome and spicy food, vast golden sandy desert, friendly camels, and colourful traditional attires. The state’s age-old temples, alluring art and crafts, and vibrant fairs and festivals also contribute equally to its unmatched charm and allure.
The largest state of India, Rajasthan lures millions of national as well as international travellers every year with its abundant attractions. While the capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur attracts tourists with its heritage buildings, the “City of Lakes”, Udaipur enchants visitors with its photogenic lakes. Bikaner propels travellers with its renowned Camel Festival, while Sawai Madhopur lures tourists with its rich wildlife population.
While in Rajasthan, the travellers can be sure to enjoy a truly exhilarating, action-packed desert holiday. While the shopaholics can shop their heart out for Meenakari jewellery, marble handicrafts, leather items, semi-precious stones, and lac bangles, the adrenaline seekers can go trekking in Mount Abu. The honeymooners can enjoy romantic boat rides on the mesmerizing lakes of Udaipur, while the history and architecture buffs can go explore the palaces and forts of Jodhpur.
Rajasthan state generally experiences an arid or semi-arid climatic condition with significantly hot temperatures throughout the year. The most ideal time for visiting Rajasthan is during the winter season (October to February) when the weather is pleasant during the daytime and cool at night.
Places to Visit in Rajasthan
Recently declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jaipur makes for the capital city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Known popularly as the “Pink City”, this adorable place forms an integral part of the famous Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit of India. Founded back in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, Jaipur city has gained a lot of popularity across the globe primarily for its heritage monuments and exemplary shopping options. Some of the important attractions of Jaipur include the City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Amber Fort, Birla Mandir, Rajasthani textiles, and handicrafts.
Known affectionately as the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur served as the Mewar kingdom’s capital in the times gone by. Also referred to as the “Venice of East”, this place is the land of rich traditions, glorious history, and charming landscapes. Udaipur is best known for its postcard perfect lakes, such as Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola, Swaroop Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, and Doodh Talai Lake. A visit to Udaipur is also not complete without an exploration tour of its spellbinding architectural wonders including Jag Mandir, Kumbhalgarh Fort, City Palace, and Monsoon Palace.
Lying north of the city of Jodhpur, the quaint Bikaner town is one of the least crowded yet renowned places to visit in Rajasthan state. More than anything, this remote desert town is famous for its magnificent forts, charming palaces, beautiful temples, impressive handicrafts, and annual Camel Festival. The city of Bikaner is also popular for its brilliant artforms of Usta and Chadwa. Some of the major places of interest that most tourists visit on a trip to Bikaner include Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Laxmi Nath Temple, Lalgarh Palace, and Laxmi Niwas Palace.
The colourful and flamboyant town of Pushkar is known popularly across the world for its fascinating yearly Camel Fair. Considered to be one of the country’s oldest cities, Pushkar also makes for one of the most important pilgrimage sites for the Hindus. The city is packed with a plethora of age-old Hindu temples, including Meerabai Temple, Brahma Temple, Gayatri Mata Temple, Rangji Temple, Varaha Temple, Mahadev Temple, Savitri Temple, and Apteshwar Temple. The sacred Pushkar Lake is also a revered pilgrimage destination in itself and features several ghats where the enchanting evening aarti is hosted.
Founded back in the year 1770 by Pratap Singh, the ancient town of Alwar makes for a paradise for history lovers. In regards to history, Alwar was the first city that signed the treaty with the British East Indian Company. This city is also known to have participated in a number of military engagements and wars in the times gone by. Alwar is also known for the Bhangarh Fort, which has been frequently linked with many haunted tales. Other primary attractions that attract tourists to Alwar include Pandupol and Sariska Tiger Reserve.
The quaint town of Mount Abu makes for the only hill station in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Located in the mighty Aravalli range, between Gujarat and Rajasthan, Mount Abu offers a respite from the state’s scorching heat. Counted among the most offbeat places to visit in Rajasthan, this hill station offers the travellers the chance to indulge in a number of adventure activities, such as wildlife safari at Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, night camping at Aravali, boating on Nakki Lake, and hiking to Guru Shikhar.
The offbeat town of Pali is categorized by wobbled plains, scattered hills, and a unique snail-like shape. Spread across a total area of around 12,387 square kilometres, the town shares common boundaries with a total of 8 districts of the state with Udaipur perched on the south-east and Jodhpur lying on the North. Pali has gained a lot of popularity across the country for its fascinating temples, including Om Banna Temple and Parshuram Mahadev Temple. This place is also known to host a number of adrenaline-pumping activities, such as trekking, village safari, desert safari, and lakeside camping.
Known as one of the most famous and largest national parks of the country, Ranthambore National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. This tiger-friendly land is home to more than 40 mammal species, 40 reptile species, 320 avian species, 2 amphibian species, and 300 plant species. This place offers the travellers a chance to enjoy a thrilling wildlife safari, allowing them to spot many different wildlife species, including leopards, chital, wild boar, nilgai, sloth bear, sambar, and hyena. Other important attractions to look out for in Ranthambore National Park include Ranthambore Fort, Jogi Mahal, Trinetra Ganesh Temple, and Kachida Valley.
Located at an approximate distance of around 210 kilometres from Jaipur, the small city of Bundi is the best place to explore the age-old step reservoirs or baoris of Rajasthan. This quaint and rustic city has been named after the ancient tribe Bunda Meena, which resided here in the times gone by. In addition to more than 50 fascinating baoris, Bundi is also home to a plethora of ancient architectural marvels, such as the Bundi Palace, Sukh Mahal, and Taragarh Fort. Other interesting attractions of Bundi city include the Nawal Sagar, miniature paintings, colourful markets, and vibrant blue houses.
Things to Do in Rajasthan
The Indian state of Rajasthan is home to a number of renowned animal and bird sanctuaries of the country. Almost all these wildlife reserves offer safari opportunities to the travellers and let them interact with their favourite animals in their habitat. While Ranthambore National Park and Sariska Tiger Reserve let you spot ferocious tigers, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary offers you the best birdwatching opportunity. Some of the other animals that the tourists can spot during their safari in the national parks of Rajasthan include bears, elephants, nilgais, deers, and hyenas.
Location: Sariska Tiger Reserve, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park, Ranthambore National Park.
One of the best ways to explore the state of Rajasthan is by floating in its blue sky. During their Hot air balloon ride, the travellers can soak in the mesmerizing views of the green expanses and the quaint desert villages of the state. They can also spot the beautiful camels and the golden sand dunes of the vast arid desert.
The state of Rajasthan is packed with a plethora of campsites that offer the adventure seekers all kinds of camping opportunities. While the city of Udaipur offers you the best lakeside camping options, Jaisalmer offers unmatched desert camping experience, and Ranthambore National Park lets you enjoy exemplary jungle camping.
During your night camp, you can enjoy delectable authentic Rajasthani meals, cozy beddings, and colourful cultural shows. Night camping in Rajasthan is best done during the winter season as the summers come with a humid weather condition.
Location: Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Udaipur, Mount Abu, Ranthambore National Park, Sariska Reserve.
Your trip to the state of Rajasthan will undoubtedly remain unfulfilled, if you miss out on trying the flavourful culinary preparations of the place. One of the best places where you can savour authentic Rajasthani delicacies is Chokhi Dhani, which is known across the country for its warm hospitality and delicious food. While you are dining at Chokhi Dhani, you can also treat yourself with the traditional Rajasthani decor and the alluring folk dance performances, magic shows, and puppet shows.
If you are an architecture enthusiast, go explore the age-old step wells of the state, which were constructed under its various Rajput rulers for harvesting and conserving water in the times gone by. The architecture of these step wells or baoris will leave you awestruck at the engineering skills of the architects of those times. Some of the best places to explore the ancient stepwells of Rajasthan state are Bundi and Abhineri. Dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries, most of the stepwells extend up to 100 feet beneath the ground and feature sound 3000 to 3500 steps.
Backpackers and adventure enthusiasts love to go trekking when in Rajasthan state. While most of the best treks are found in the hill station of Mount Abu, the hikers are also likely to find decent trekking trails in other places like Alwar. During their trekking tours, the hikers can explore the rich heritage density and greenery of the state, away from the regular desert sands. They can also interact with the native villages and enjoy spotting colourful birds. The trekkers will find both easy and challenging treks in Rajasthan, all of which are best done during the winters.
If you want to explore the state of Rajasthan like a local, spend some time with the beautiful camels at the Camel Breeding Farm located in the city of Bikaner. While you are here, learn important facts about the camels at the Camel Museum, enjoy an exhilarating camel ride, and click pictures with the “Ships of the Desert”. Also remember to relish their delicious ice-cream prepared using camel milk.
Wildlife lovers visiting the state of Rajasthan should never miss out on having a friendly day out with the elephants at the famous Dera Amer camp. During their visit to Dera Amer, the animal enthusiasts can enjoy feeding the elephants with sugarcanes and giving them a good bath. They can also enjoy painting their trunks creatively with harmless organic paints and click pictures. The visitors can also choose to head on an elephant safari, which is usually accompanied by a scrumptious authentic dinner and camp stay.
Couples, as well as families can head for an enchanting boat ride on the shimmering waters of the photogenic lakes of Udaipur city. While you enjoy boat riding in these historic lakes, you can explore the surrounding heritage buildings and soak in the mesmerizing mountain views. You can also take an evening boat ride to enjoy the gorgeous sunset from the waters.
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Rajasthan Most Popular Tours
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Rajasthan Most Popular Activities
Rajasthan FAQ's
What is the best time to visit Rajasthan?
What is the special food of Rajasthan?
- Laal Maas
- Mirchi Bada
- Pyaaz ki Kachori
- Gatte ki Sabji
- Masala chhach
- Bajra ki Raab
- Ghevar
- Moong Dal ka Halwa
- Balushahi
- Ker Sangagri
- Badam ka Halwa
- Gujia
- Kalmi Vada.
What is Rajasthan famous for?
- Glorious history and colourful culture
- Artistic handicrafts
- Abundant wildlife
- Adventurous desert activities like camel safari, hot air ballooning, and desert camping.
How much does a trip to Rajasthan cost?
How can I plan for the Rajasthan tour?
- Day 1: Arrival at Jaipur- Arrive at Jaipur and check in your hotel. Later in the evening, visit Chokhi Dhani for a delicious Rajasthani dinner.
- Day 2: Jaipur - Bikaner- Head for a journey to Bikaner via Shekhawati. Upon reaching Bikaner, pay a visit to the Camel Breeding Farm.
- Day 3: Bikaner - Jaisalmer- Proceed to Jaisalmer in the morning and reach before sundown. Visit the Jaisalmer Fort and see the fort soaked in the honey-glazed rays of the setting sun.
- Day 4: Jaisalmer Sightseeing- Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer with visits to Sam Sand Dunes and Kuldhara.
- Day 5: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur- Proceed to Jodhpur in the morning. Reach by afternoon and enjoy local sightseeing.
- Day 6: Jodhpur - Mount Abu- Head to Mount Abu via Ranakpur Temple. Upon reaching Mount Abu, pay a visit to Sunset Point in the evening.
- Day 7: Mount Abu - Udaipur- Visit Brahmakumari Ashram and Dilwara Temple in the first half of the day, Later, proceed to Udaipur.
- Day 8: Udaipur- Enjoy a full day exploration tour of City Palace, Saheliyon ki Badi, and Fateh Sagar Lake.
- Day 9: Udaipur - Pushkar -Jaipur- Head to Jaipur, via Ajmer and Pushkar.
- Day 10: Departure- Proceed on your journey back home from Jaipur.
How far is Rajasthan from Delhi?
When is the Pushkar Mela held?
Is Rajasthan safe for solo female travellers?
What is the distance from Jaipur to Udaipur?
How many days do you need in Jaipur?
What is the famous festival of Rajasthan?
2. Bikaner Camel Festival, Bikaner
3. Teej, Jaipur
4. Desert Festival, Jaisalmer
5. Summer Festival, Mount Abu
6. Winter Festival, Mount Abu
7. Braj Holi, Bharatpur
8. International Kite Festival, Jaipur & Jodhpur
9. Urs Festival, Ajmer
10. Gangaur Festival, Jaipur
11. Jaipur Literature Festival, Jaipur
12. World Sufi Spirit Festival, Gangaur, Jodhpur
13. Mewar Festival, Udaipur
14. Bundi Utsav, Bundi
15. Kumbhalgarh Festival, Kumbhalgarh.
Which is better to visit, Udaipur or Jaipur?
What is the language spoken in Rajasthan?
What is famous in Rajasthan for shopping?
- Phad and Pichwai paintings
- Ethnic carpets
- Blue pottery
- Stuffed dolls and puppets
- Block-printed fabric
- Metal figurines
- Spices, pickles, and papads
- Jodhpuri Juttis.
Which are the famous cities to visit in Rajasthan?
2. Jaisalmer: Perched at the central part of the Thar desert, the Golden City of Jaisalmer is famous for its rich traditions, sun-soaked dunes, and magnificent forts. Named after Maharaja Jaisal Singh, the city features many attractions, including Gadisagar Lake, Jaisalmer Fort, and Tanot Mata Temple.
3. Chittorgarh: Founded in 734 AD by the Maurya dynasty, Chittorgarh is one of the oldest cities of the country. Nestled on the beautiful banks of Berach river, the city is known to be the birthplace of many famous historical personalities, like Meera Bai and Maharana Pratap.
4. Kota: Lying near River Chambal, Kota is known as the educational hub of the country. Kota is also known for its tourist spots, like Chambal Garden and Maharao Madho Singh Museum.
5. Ajmer: Making for the fifth largest city of the state, Ajmer is known popularly for Dargah Sharif, which is the shrine of Moinuddin Chisti, a revered Sufi saint. Encompassed by the mighty Nag Pathar range and Aravalli range, the city is also packed with other attractions including the Ana Sagar Lake.
Which are some best resorts to stay in Rajasthan?
2. Rohet Garh, Jodhpur: Rohet Garh, Jodhpur is a renowned heritage resort, featuring tastefully adorned super deluxe rooms and suites and well-trimmed gardens. During your stay at Rohet Garh, spot dancing peacocks and colourful birds and relish authentic Rajasthani delicacies.
3. The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur: Manifesting an impressive traditional architectural design, The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur is known to offer a peaceful and tranquil staying experience. The resort offers a treat to the eyes with its high domed ceilings and gold leaf frescoes.
4. Khem Vilas, Sawai Madhopur: Established back in 1989, Khem Vilas, Sawai Madhopur is encircled by lush grasslands and serene water bodies. Featuring cozy tents and cottages, Khem Vilas offers you a jungle staying experience and also lets you spot wild animals, like jungle cats and desert foxes.
5. Lebua Lodge Amber, Jaipur: Nestled amidst Ballupura Farms, Lebua Lodge Amber is known for its top-notch services and world-class luxury. The guests staying here can enjoy a number of recreational activities, including table tennis, swimming, golf, and horse riding.
Which are the famous forts and palaces in Rajasthan?
2. Mehrangarh Fort: Known fondly as “Mehran Fort”, the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort was constructed by Rao Jodha back in 1459. Featuring 7 gates, the fort retains the cannonballs imprints it got subjected to during the wars fought here in the times gone by.
3. City Palace: Nestled in Jaipur and built between 1729 and 1732 by Jay Singh II, the glorious City Palace is home to the Chandra Mahal and the Mubarak Mahal both of which are a fascinating architectural marvel.
4. Ranthambore Fort: Located in Sawai Madhopur, within the Ranthambore National Park, the Ranthambore Fort is a very popular UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sturdy fort was built by the Nagil Jats in the 10th century and was later inhabited by the Chauhan dynasty.
5. Amer Fort: Set overlooking Lake Maota, Amer Fort is known popularly for its brilliant craftsmanship. Built by Raja Man Singh I in the 16th century, this fort features the Sheesh Mahal, Sheela Mata Temple, several huge gates, and beautiful cobbled paths.
Which are famous honeymoon places in Rajasthan?
2. Udaipur: With its mesmerizing gardens and lakes, Udaipur forms a paradise for the honeymooners. A romantic trip to Udaipur can be enjoyed by boating with your beloved at Lake Pichola, strolling hand-in-hand at Gulab Bagh, and having an intimate lunch date on a cozy shikara.
3. Bharatpur: If you are a nature and wildlife loving couple, head to Bharatpur for a romantic stay. While you are at Bharatpur for your honeymoon, enjoy bird watching at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, take a walk through history at the Bharatpur Palace & Museum, and seek blessings at the Bankey Bihari Temple for the wellbeing of your relationship.
4. Nathdwara: Often visited by offbeat couples, Nathdwara is one of the best kept secrets of Rajasthan state. While you are here with your sweetheart, shop for Pichwai paintings and terracotta work, enjoy a couple’s photoshoot with the age-old walls, and take a romantic stroll along the serene banks of Banas river.
Which are some famous fairs and festivals in Rajasthan?
2. Pushkar Camel Fair: Pushkar Camel Fair is an annual carnival, which is observed by hosting beauty contests and parades of decorated camels. Other attractions of this fair include hot air balloon rides, magic shows, and carousel rides.
3. Kolayat Fair: During the Kolayat Fair, devotees take a dip in the sacred Lake Kolayat and offer sweets to the deities.
4. International Kite Festival: Celebrated every year around Makar Sankranti, the International Kite Festival is observed by enjoying kite wars and relishing local sweets like Gajak, Til-patti, and Ghevar.
Which places are good for desert camping in Rajasthan?
2. Bikaner: Desert camping in Bikaner offers the campers a number of fun-filled experiences, such as village tours, camel safari, bonfire, and soaking in the picturesque desert sunset.
3. Udaipur: Enjoy a peaceful and undisturbed desert camping experience in the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur and spend time exploring the non-commercialized side of this exuberant city.
4. Jaisalmer: Head to Sam Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer and enjoy desert night camping amidst the dune landscape.
Where can I experience camel safari in Rajasthan?
2. Bikaner: Camel safari in Bikaner will take you through quaint settlements including Mohangarh, Kanasar, Naukh, Tadana, and Baru and expose you to the colourful local culture.
3. Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer allows the adrenaline seekers to enjoy thrilling camel rides through tall, rolling sand dunes with negligible vegetation.
4. Osian: Lying in the Thar Desert, the ancient town of Osian is one of the most preferred sites for enjoying peaceful camel rides with less crowds.
Which are some famous village tours in Rajasthan?
2. Bishnoi Village Tour: Tour to Bishnoi village will take you through the blooming flora until you reach a quaint little hamlet. You can explore the village by riding a jeep or a camel.
3. Mandawa Village Tour: With this tour, you will reach at the heart of the Shekhawati district and treat your eyes with the views of magnificent havelis and intricate artworks.
Which are the best places for shopping in Rajasthan?
Well known for the state’s arts and crafts, Rajasthan is a great place to buy traditional pieces such as hand woven sarees, ethnic jewellery and pottery work. Some of the best places for shopping in the region are:
1. Jaipur: For jewellery, gems, kundan work, minakari work, tie-dye fabrics, hand block printed textiles, etc.
2. Bikaner: For crafts made from animal skin like camel and sheep. Chairs, rugs, belts, bags, etc.
3. Jodhpur: For ethnic clothes, handicrafts and carved furniture.
4. Udaipur: Folk toys, bandini textile, bead and mirror works, puppets, woodencrafts, etc.
5. Pushkar: Leather goods, miniature pottery, brass utensils.
Which are famous Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks of Rajasthan?
The wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of Rajasthan are home to some of the most critically endangered species. Some of the famous ones are:
1. Ranthambore National Park – Sawai Madhopur.
2. Sariska National Park – Alwar.
3. Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary – Bharatpur.
4. Desert National Sanctuary – Jaisalmer.
5. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Kumbhalgarh.
6. Darrah Sanctuary – Kota.
7. Mount Abu Sanctuary – Mount Abu.
8. Sita Mata Sanctuary – Pratapgarh.
Where can I go for desert safari in Rajasthan?
Rajasthan has a plethora of options when it comes to desert safaris given its long stretches of deserts. Some places where they offer great desert safari tours are:
1. Sam desert in Jaisalmer
2. Khur desert in Jaisalmer
3. Osiyan desert in Jodhpur
4. Camel safari in Thar Desert, Jodhpur
5. Rajputana desert
Where can I get a chance to experience hot air balloon ride in Rajasthan?
Imagine flying over the glorious cities of palaces, lakes and sand dunes and witnessing this beauty from straight above at a 360 degree view. Rajasthan does have hot air balloon options to give you this experience:
1. Hot Air Ballooning in Jaipur: 3 hours, INR 9000 per person.
2. Pushkar Hot Air Balloon Festival: 1 hour, INR 12,000 per person.
3. Hot air ballooning at Ranthambore: 3 hours, INR 12,000 per person.
4. Hot air ballooning at Neemrana: 3 hours, INR 12, 000 per person.
How is the experience of travelling in luxury trains in Rajasthan? Which are the different luxury trains and what is cost of travelling?
Rajasthan has a couple of luxury trains that will take along the beautiful scenic views from one place to another. These luxury journeys are quite expensive but definitely worth it.
You can choose from cabins to rooms to suites and the services provided by the staff are outstanding. The experience is truly luxury on the go. Some of the popular luxury trains in Rajasthan are:
1. The Palace of wheels – USD 865 per person/per night or INR 56116.
2. Maharajs’ Express – USD 5980 for 8 days and 7 nights or INR 387952 (deluxe cabin).
3. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels – Different tariffs for foreigners and Indians, USD 6300 for foreigners and INR 3,78,000 for Indians (For 7 nights).
4. The Indian Maharaja-Deccan Odyssey – Different tariffs for foreigners and Indians, USD 6100 for foreigners and INR 4,27,000 (for 7 nights and 8 days – deluxe cabin prices).
Which are the famous temples in Rajasthan?
Along with its numerous architectural beauties, Rajasthan has some majestic temples too that are worth a visit. Some of the famous temples in Rajasthan are:
1. Birla Mandir, Jaipur
2. Ambika Mata Temple, Jagat
3. Karni Mata Temple, Deshnoke
4. Eklingji Temple, Udaipur
5. Galtaji Temple, Khania-Balaji
6. Mehandipur Balaji Temple, Karauli
7. Saidham, Rani
8. Salasar Balaji Temple, Salasar.
Which are some famous village tours in Rajasthan?
A visit to Rajasthan would be incomplete if you do not explore the village side of the desert capital. The best way to exploring the tradition and culture of the state is to take a village tour. The most popular village tours in Rajasthan are:
1. Khuri Village Tour
2. Bhijaipur Village Tour
3. Samode Village Tour
4. Mandawa Village Tour
5. Bishnoi Village Tour.
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