Quintessentially Royal Rajasthan
The state which tops the list in India as far as tourism is concerned is unarguably Rajasthan. One of the most visited states in India. It’s not surprising because it shows India at its most colourful, iconic, and exotic best. The most common things that come to mind when you think of India can be found in Rajasthan—palaces, forts, desert, camels, and elephants. Don’t miss to visit these top tourist places when in Rajasthan.
Jaipur
The “Pink City” of Jaipur forms part of India’s renowned Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit and was recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Doesn’t come as a surprise why it is one of Rajasthan’s most popular tourist destinations. It has many famous forts and palaces, with most of them boasting evocative views and elaborate architecture. Staying & spending time in Jaipur is beyond mesmerizing. Accommodations are reasonably priced and many have been converted from heritage properties, giving guests a very regal experience! Jaipur is a perfect place for the shopaholic in you as well.
Udaipur
Often touted as the most romantic city in India, Udaipur is filled with expansive lakes and palaces. The landmark City Palace Complex, which stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, dominates the city and the royal family still lives in a part of it. Many personal royal heirlooms, family photos, and other memorabilia are displayed in the City Palace Museum, giving Udaipur a very regal feel. Believe us when we say, You can even stay in the City Palace! Alternatively, for those on a budget, there are heritage hotels by the lake with amazing views, such as the Jagat Niwas Palace hotel.
Jodhpur
Endearingly known as the “Blue City” because of its blue painted buildings, Jodhpur is the second-largest city in Rajasthan. The walled old part of the city is presided over by Mehrangarh Fort, which provides the best outlook across Jodhpur’s blue buildings. It’s one of the largest and best-maintained forts in India. Inside are a number of ornate palaces, a museum, and a restaurant. You can find many inexpensive yet characterful places to visit in Rajasthan and stay in Jodhpur with views of the fort. It’s refreshing to do nothing but relax on their rooftops and soak up the atmosphere. Here’s how to best experience Jodhpur.
Jaisalmer
An outstanding sandstone city that rises mysteriously from the sand dunes of the Thar desert, Jaisalmer looks like it’s straight out of an Arabian Nights fable. Its mesmerizing ancient fort, built-in 1156, is perched high on a pedestal overlooking the city. Inside the fort is full of life and enchanting. It boasts palaces, several temples, and some elegant Havelis (mansions), as well as shops and other residences. These top things to do in Jaisalmer cover the best of the city and its surroundings. Stay at a hotel with a fort view or a desert camp.
If you’re keen on a desert camel safari experience but without the crowds and commercialization, Osian is an ideal alternative option. This small town is about an hour and a half north of Jodhpur, on the way to Bikaner, and is surrounded by several sand dunes. Intricately carved stone temples dating back to the 8th century are interesting too. Stay at Osian Sand Dunes Resort and Camp or Reggie’s Camel Camp.
Pushkar
For most of the year, Pushkar is in slumber and this little holy town attracts a lot of backpackers and hippie types. Yet it really comes alive for a couple of weeks in October or November, when the Pushkar Camel Fair hits town. Pushkar is worth visiting at any time of year if you want to chill out. Sadly, the town isn’t like it used to be though. Lately, it is much more westernized and tourist-focused. The priests by the bathing ghats (steps) are nagging in demanding donations. Avoid this part, and head to the Pushkar market for some fun shopping instead!
Bikaner
The distant and picturesque desert town of Bikaner receives fewer tourists than many other prominent places to visit in Rajasthan because of its unique location over five hours north of Jodhpur. The main attractions are the atmospheric walled Old City and fort. Bikaner is renowned for the rather astonishing Karni Mata rat temple nearby as well. The Karni Mata Festival, held to worship the rats there, is one of the eccentric festivals in India. A Camel Fair also happens in Bikaner every January.
Kota and Chambal
Rajasthan’s third-largest city — Kota — sits alongside the Chambal River. Once you’re done revelling in the beauty of its palaces, temples and museums head out to explore the National Chambal Sanctuary and take a boat ride along the river. It’s home to rare wildlife such as the gharial (a long-snouted, fish-eating crocodile) and Gangetic river dolphin. Bhainsrorgarh Fort boutique heritage hotel was once a royal abode and has an enviable position atop the cliff. The view is breathtaking! Plus, the 9th century Badoli Temples are nearby. Kota is famous for its Dussehra festival and fair in October.
Ranthambore
Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan, India to spot a tiger in the wild. In contrast to many national parks in India, Ranthambore is also really accessible and easy to get to. This makes it very popular (and, unfortunately, it’s been facing a lot of tourist pressure). As well as nature, the park is home to the formidable 10th century, Ranthambore Fort. It’s a huge structure that contains ruined pavilions, monuments, and three Hindu temples. The park is packed with history, having witnessed many battles played out on its land, and the rise and fall of many rulers.
Bharatpur
One of India’s top bird sanctuaries for bird watching and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was formerly a duck-hunting reserve of the maharajas. More than 370 species of birds can be found there, including a large congregation of non-migratory resident breeding birds.
Mount Abu
The British preferred Mount Abu because of its comfortable climate, and they relocated the headquarters of their political Rajputana Agency therefrom Ajmer in 1857. Mount Abu has a reputation as a honeymooner’s haven but Indian families flock to the area as well. However, it remains an offbeat destination for foreigners. These top things to do in Mount Abu are centred around enjoying the great outdoors.