21 Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan (2023)

 

Rajasthan is a state located in the north western part of India. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and vast stretches of desert. Here are some key highlights about Rajasthan :-

 1.       History and Heritage    Rajasthan is often referred to as the "Land of Kings" due to its glorious past and the presence of numerous forts, palaces, and historical sites. The state was ruled by various Rajput clans and witnessed the rise and fall of several kingdoms.

 2.       Forts and Palaces     Rajasthan is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces that showcase the architectural grandeur of the bygone era. Some iconic examples include Amer Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Jaipur City Palace, Udaipur City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.

 3.       Thar Desert     A significant portion of Rajasthan is covered by the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert. The desert offers a unique landscape of sand dunes, camel safaris, and the opportunity to experience desert culture and hospitality in towns like Jaisalmer.

 4.       Wildlife and National Parks        Rajasthan is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Ranthambore National Park is famous for its tiger population, while Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is a paradise for birdwatchers. Other notable parks include Sariska Tiger Reserve and Desert National Park.

 5.       Colorful Festivals      Rajasthan is renowned for its vibrant festivals that showcase the rich cultural traditions and heritage of the state. Festivals like Pushkar Camel Fair, Jaipur's Elephant Festival, Jaisalmer Desert Festival, and the colorful Holi celebrations in various cities attract tourists from all over the world.

 6.       Arts and Crafts   Rajasthan is known for its intricate handicrafts, textiles, and traditional art forms. The state is famous for block printing, Bandhani (tie and dye) textiles, miniature paintings, pottery, and jewelry. Cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Pushkar are popular shopping destinations for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts.

 7.       Cuisine       Rajasthani cuisine is known for its rich and spicy flavors. Dal Bati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Laal Maas (spicy red meat curry), and Ker Sangri are some of the popular dishes. Rajasthan also offers unique dining experiences like traditional Rajasthani thali meals and rooftop dining in heritage properties.

 8.       Cultural Performances     Rajasthan is known for its vibrant folk music and dance forms like Ghoomar, Kalbeliya, Kathputli (puppetry), and Bhavai. These cultural performances can be enjoyed at various festivals, cultural events, and in some heritage hotels.

 

Places to Visit

5 Best Places to visit in Jaipur District

1.       Amber Fort    A magnificent fort known for its artistic Hindu-style architecture and elephant rides.

2.       Hawa Mahal       A unique palace with a façade of intricate windows, offering great views of the city.

3.       City Palace       A grand palace complex that showcases a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.

4.       Jantar Mantar    An astronomical observatory with a collection of architectural instruments.

 5.       Nahargarh Fort  Located on the Aravalli hills, it offers panoramic views of the city and houses a wax museum.

 

4 Best Places to Visit in Udaipur District

 1.       Lake Pichola       A picturesque lake surrounded by palaces, including the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir.

 2.       City Palace        A stunning palace complex with intricate architecture, museums, and beautiful gardens.

 3.       Lake Palace       A magnificent palace floating on Lake Pichola, now converted into a luxury hotel.

 4.       Saheliyon-ki-Bari     A beautiful garden adorned with fountains, kiosks, marble elephants, and a delightful lotus pool.

 

4 Best Places to Visit in Jodhpur District

1.       Mehrangarh Fort       A massive fort with intricate carvings and stunning views of the Blue City.

2.       Jaswant Thada   A beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

3.       Umaid Bhawan Palace      A grand palace now partly converted into a luxury hotel and museum.

4.       Mandore Gardens     An ancient cenotaph garden with beautiful temples and memorials.

 

3 Best Places to Visit in Pushkar District

 1.       Pushkar Lake      A sacred lake surrounded by ghats, where pilgrims take ritual baths.

 2.       Brahma Temple       One of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma, known for its unique architecture.

 3.       Pushkar Camel Fair (seasonal)       A famous event where thousands of camels are traded and cultural activities take place.

 

3 Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer District

 1.       Jaisalmer Fort     A massive sandstone fort offering stunning views of the Golden City.

 2.       Patwon Ki Haveli     A collection of intricately carved havelis showcasing exquisite architecture.

 3.       Sam Sand Dunes     A popular spot for desert safari, camel rides, and witnessing beautiful sunsets.

 

2 Best Places to Visit in Ajmer District

1.       Ajmer Sharif Dargah   A famous Sufi shrine dedicated to Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti.

2.       Ana Sagar Lake A scenic artificial lake surrounded by gardens and marble pavilions.

Rajasthan offers many more attractions and activities to explore. Rajasthan is also known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional folk performances, and delicious Rajasthani cuisine.

 

Best Time to Visit Rajasthan

 The best time to visit Rajasthan and its various places depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons and the ideal time to visit specific places in Rajasthan

 1.       October to March         This period is considered the best time to visit Rajasthan as the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. It is the peak tourist season when the days are sunny and the nights are cool. This is a great time to visit cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Pushkar.

 2.       November to February        These months are especially pleasant, and the weather is relatively cooler. It is the perfect time for exploring the desert regions of Jaisalmer and enjoying camel safaris and camping under the starry sky. The annual Pushkar Camel Fair, held in November, is also a major attraction.

 3.       July to September         This is the monsoon season in Rajasthan when the state experiences occasional rainfall. The weather is relatively cooler, and the landscape becomes lush and green. It is a good time to visit wildlife sanctuaries like Ranthambore and Bharatpur, as the forests are rejuvenated, and wildlife sightings are common.

 4.       April to June       These months mark the summer season in Rajasthan, and the temperatures can soar, especially in desert regions. However, if you can tolerate the heat, this is a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices. Some hill stations like Mount Abu offer a respite from the heat and pleasant weather.

 Note: Rajasthan has a desert climate, with extreme temperatures in summers and relatively colder nights in winters. It is advisable to carry appropriate clothing, sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated while exploring during summers.

 

How to Reach and Connectivity

Reaching Rajasthan

1.       By Air        Rajasthan has several airports, including Jaipur International Airport, Jodhpur Airport, Udaipur Airport, and Ajmer Airport, among others. These airports have regular domestic and some international flights, connecting Rajasthan to major cities in India and a few international destinations.

2.       By Train    Rajasthan has an extensive railway network, and most major cities have railway stations. Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ajmer, and Bikaner are well-connected by train to various cities in India. Trains like the Palace on Wheels and Maharajas' Express offer luxury train travel experiences in Rajasthan.

3.       By Road     Rajasthan has a well-developed road network, and National Highways connect it to neighboring states. You can reach Rajasthan by bus or hire private taxis or self-drive cars. Several cities in Rajasthan have bus terminals, offering both state-run and private bus services.

 

Connectivity within Rajasthan

1.       Public Transport       Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates regular bus services connecting major cities and towns within Rajasthan. Local buses, both government and private, are available for travel within cities and towns.

2.       Trains        Rajasthan has a good railway network connecting major cities and towns. Trains run by Indian Railways provide connectivity within the state and to other parts of India. Major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Ajmer have well-connected railway stations.

3. Taxis and Car Rentals       Taxis, both government-approved and private, are readily available for travel within cities and towns. You can also hire self-drive cars from various rental agencies in Rajasthan.

 4.       Intercity Buses     Private bus operators offer intercity bus services, connecting major cities and towns in Rajasthan. These buses are a convenient mode of travel for short to medium distances.

 It's advisable to plan your travel in advance and check the availability of flights, trains, and buses. Private transport options like taxis and rental cars offer more flexibility and convenience for exploring different places within Rajasthan.

 Note: Connectivity options may vary based on the specific destinations within Rajasthan, and it's recommended to check the latest information and schedules for travel within the state.

 

Best Accommodation Options

 Jaipur

 1.       Hotels         Jaipur offers a wide range of hotels, ranging from budget to luxury options. Some popular hotels include Taj Rambagh Palace, The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jai Mahal Palace, and Trident Jaipur.

 2.       Resorts       There are several luxurious resorts in and around Jaipur, such as The Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Chokhi Dhani Resort, Fairmont Jaipur, and Rajasthali Resort & Spa.

 3.       Heritage Havelis      Experience the charm of heritage havelis turned into boutique hotels, like Samode Haveli, Alsisar Haveli, and Narain Niwas Palace.

 

Udaipur

 1.       Lakefront Hotels       Udaipur is known for its stunning lakefront hotels. Some popular options include Taj Lake Palace, The Leela Palace Udaipur, Fateh Prakash Palace, and Jagmandir Island Palace.

 2.       Heritage Hotels         Experience the royal ambiance of heritage hotels, such as Shiv Niwas Palace, The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace, and Fateh Garh.

 3.       Resorts       Udaipur has several luxury resorts offering picturesque views, including The Oberoi Udaivilas, The Ananta Udaipur, and Trident Udaipur.

 

Jodhpur

 1.       Heritage Hotels    Jodhpur has a range of heritage hotels, including Umaid Bhawan Palace (now partly a hotel), Ajit Bhawan Palace, and Raas Jodhpur.

 2.       Hotels and Resorts        Other accommodation options in Jodhpur include luxury hotels like Taj Hari Mahal, Vivanta Jodhpur, and Welcomhotel Jodhpur.

 

Pushkar

 1.       Resorts       Pushkar offers resorts near the Pushkar Lake and surrounding areas, such as The Westin Pushkar Resort & Spa, Ananta Spa & Resorts, and Pushkar Resorts.

 2.       Heritage Havelis      Experience the traditional charm of heritage havelis-turned-hotels like Pushkar Palace Hotel and Jagat Palace Hotel.

 3.       Tent Accommodation   Enjoy the unique experience of staying in luxury tents at campsites like Orchard Tents & Tranquility and The Royal Safari Camp.

 

Jaisalmer

 1.       Desert Camps      Jaisalmer is famous for its desert camps offering a stay amidst sand dunes. Some popular options include The Serai, Suryagarh, and Damodra Desert Camp.

 2.       Heritage Hotels      Experience the regal ambiance of heritage hotels in Jaisalmer, such as Fort Rajwada, Mandir Palace, and Jawahar Niwas Palace.

 3.       Boutique Hotels        Jaisalmer also has boutique hotels like Rang Mahal Hotel and Killa Bhawan.

 It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred choice of accommodation.

 

Best Rajasthani Food

1.       Rajasthani Cuisine       Indulge in authentic Rajasthani cuisine, which includes dishes like Dal Bati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Laal Maas (spicy meat curry), Ker Sangri, and Bajre ki Roti (millet bread). You can find Rajasthani specialties in local restaurants, heritage hotels, and street food stalls.

2.       Street Food          Explore the streets of Rajasthan for lip-smacking street food. Enjoy snacks like Pyaaz Kachori, Mirchi Bada, Mawa Kachori, and Rabri at popular street food markets like Jaipur's Ramganj Bazaar and Jodhpur's Sardar Market.

3.       International Cuisine    In major cities like Jaipur and Udaipur, you can find a wide range of international cuisine options, including Indian, Chinese, Italian, Continental, and more.

 

Best Shopping Options

1.       World Trade Park, Jaipur    One of the largest shopping malls in Jaipur, offering a mix of national and international brands, a multiplex cinema, food court, and entertainment options.

2.       Pink Square Mall, Jaipur      Located in the heart of the city, this mall offers a range of fashion brands, food outlets, and entertainment facilities.

3.       Triton Mall, Jaipur      Situated on Jhotwara Road, this mall houses various retail stores, a multiplex cinema, a food court, and a gaming zone.

4.       Crystal Palm Mall, Jaipur     Known for its range of clothing stores, electronics shops, food outlets, and entertainment options.

5.       Lake City Mall, Udaipur       A popular mall in Udaipur, offering a variety of fashion brands, a food court, and a multiplex cinema.

6.       Celebration Mall, Udaipur    Located near Fateh Sagar Lake, this mall has a mix of retail outlets, restaurants, and a cinema hall.

 You can also explore local markets in different cities of Rajasthan, such as Johari Bazaar and Tripolia Bazaar in Jaipur, Clock Tower Market in Jodhpur, and Bada Bazaar in Udaipur. These markets offer a wide range of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and other souvenirs.

 

 There are a few places in Rajasthan that cater to night out lovers with options for dining, live music, and entertainment.

 1.       Jaipur

 

- MI Road: This bustling area in Jaipur offers a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can enjoy a night out with friends. Some popular places include Blackout, The Forresta Kitchen & Bar, and Replay.

 

- Chokhi Dhani: This ethnic village resort on the outskirts of Jaipur offers an evening of cultural performances, traditional Rajasthani cuisine, and various entertainment activities.

 

2.       Udaipur

 

- Lake Pichola: Enjoy a romantic boat ride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, where you can witness the mesmerizing views of the illuminated City Palace and surrounding areas.

 

- Rooftop Restaurants: Udaipur is known for its stunning rooftop restaurants offering beautiful views of the city. Some popular options include Ambrai Restaurant, Rooftop Bar at Fateh Prakash Palace, and Udai Kothi Terrace Restaurant.

 

3.       Jodhpur

 

- Clock Tower Market: The vibrant Clock Tower Market in Jodhpur comes alive in the evening with street food stalls, local shops, and live music performances.

 

- Stepwell Square: Located near the historic stepwell of Toorji Ka Jhalra, this area offers trendy cafes, restaurants, and rooftop bars where you can relax and enjoy the ambiance.

 

4.       Pushkar

 

- Sunset Cafes: Many cafes and restaurants in Pushkar offer a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful sunset views over the Pushkar Lake. You can unwind, enjoy live music, and socialize with fellow travelers.

 

Note: While these places offer options for a night out, it's important to respect local customs and regulations regarding alcohol consumption and closing times. It's always advisable to check the operating hours and availability of specific places before planning your night out in Rajasthan.

 

Best Honeymoon and Wedding Destinations in Rajasthan

1.       Udaipur     Known as the "City of Lakes" and one of the most romantic cities in India, Udaipur offers a picturesque setting for weddings and honeymoons. The city is dotted with beautiful lakes, palaces, and gardens. Popular wedding venues include the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Jagmandir Island Palace. Udaipur also has several luxury resorts and hotels overlooking Lake Pichola, offering a romantic ambiance for honeymooners.

2.       Jaipur        The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur, offers a blend of history, culture, and luxury. The city boasts stunning palaces, forts, and gardens that make for perfect wedding venues. Some popular wedding venues include Samode Palace, Raj Palace, and Alsisar Haveli. Jaipur also offers luxurious heritage hotels and resorts for honeymooners to experience the royal lifestyle.

3.       Jodhpur     Jodhpur, known as the "Blue City," is famous for its magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and the charming blue-painted houses in the old city. It offers a unique and romantic ambiance for weddings and honeymoons. Wedding venues like Umaid Bhawan Palace and Mehrangarh Fort provide a regal and memorable setting. Honeymooners can enjoy the city's vibrant culture and explore the romantic streets of the old city.

4.       Pushkar     Pushkar is a sacred town famous for its lakes, temples, and the annual Pushkar Camel Fair. It offers a serene and spiritual ambiance for intimate weddings and peaceful honeymoons. Pushkar has several heritage havelis and resorts that provide an intimate and rustic setting for couples.

5.       Jaisalmer     Jaisalmer, known as the "Golden City," is renowned for its stunning sandstone architecture and the vast Thar Desert. It offers a unique and adventurous setting for weddings and honeymoons. Couples can have a desert wedding or enjoy a romantic camel safari amidst the sand dunes. Jaisalmer Fort and heritage havelis like Suryagarh and Fort Rajwada provide memorable wedding venues.

These destinations offer a perfect blend of history, culture, romance, and luxury for unforgettable weddings and honeymoons. Each place has its own charm and unique experiences to offer, making Rajasthan a sought-after destination for couples looking to celebrate their special moments.