Located in the Northwestern part of India, Rajasthan literally means ‘the land of Kings’. It is the largest state in India by area and the seventh largest in terms of population. It houses ‘the Great Indian Desert’ or the Thar, sharing borders with Pakistani Punjab and Sindh, fertilized by the auspicious Sutlej-Indus River Valley. Rajasthan is famously known for its Laal Maas and archaeological wonders. Starting with the Indus Valley ruins at Balathal or the Jain Dilwara Temples on Mount Abu to the World Heritage Site of Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur.
The Rajputs have been ruling over this region for decades, before merging with the British Empire. Its state capital is also renowned for having corresponded with the Matsya kingdom, existing since the Vedic Civilization, founded by King Virata. The incandescent beauty of the desert is a sight to behold. The following is an inexhaustive list of the must-visit places (out of many!) when in Rajasthan.
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Jaipur
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur has been one of the biggest exporters of precious gems for monarchs around the world. It was planned by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, evidently magnificent in the efficiency of a metro in sync with its magnanimous history. Maharaja Ram Singh is said to have painted the city pink in honor of the 1876 visit of the Prince of Wales. The Raja of Amber, Jai Singh II, had shifted his capital in 1727, as the growing population and water scarcity made it difficult to accommodate people.
Since then, Jaipur has been home to the architectural wonder Hawa Mahal, a palace enmeshed with small windows that allows cool wind to naturally pass across seasons. Built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this palace was significant as it allowed the royal women to observe the city’s festivities from the latent interiors. The scientific pioneer Jantar Mantar also rests here, known to be the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world, including 19 stone and brass instruments to note the celestial coordinates. The Amber Fort boasts of a serpentine structure with maze-like passages. Once in the city, enjoy a luxury stay at the heritage resort of Chokhi Dhani that gives one a glimpse of the folklore, sculptures and paintings of rural Rajasthan.
Jodhpur
Jodhpur, or the ‘Blue City’, is home to the Mehrangarh Fort, built in the 15th Century. Now turned into a museum, it displays royal weapons and relics of the Rathore clan of the Rajputs. The fort is said to be haunted by the ghost of Maharaja Rao Ganga. Smoking opium was a regular exercise for the royalty. He died on a parapet as he fell to his death in the 1530s after a session of consumption. However, legends say that his son Maldeo had apparently pushed him over the ledge.
Head to the Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park for an unforgettable bird watching experience or take a roundabout to the Umaid Bhawan Museum to witness the vintage car collection of extreme city views. The Ghanta Ghar area is the hub for all shoppers. Following that, relax by the Balsamand Lake and roam around the local blue alleyways.
Jaisalmer
Popularized by filmmaker Satyajit Ray’s timeless film ‘Sonar Kella’, Jaisalmer is called the ‘living fort’ as it still houses numerous families within its structure. Founded by Rawal Jaisal, it was renowned as a massively important medieval trading landmark, right in the center of the Thar Desert. Rightfully called the Golden City, the entirety of the old town is singularly formed by the yellow sandstone. Ninety-nine bastions can be seen on the hilltop citadel, with exquisite Jain temples lining its sides. The havelis and marketplaces within Fort Rajwada will stun any tourist.
Take a Camel Safari to witness the incomparable sunset. Visit Nathmal Ki Haveli and Kothari’s Patwaon Ki Haveli to get a taste of the latticed windows and ornate frescoes. You could also explore Kuldhara, an abandoned village inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, right in the outskirts. A collection of regional artifacts awaits you at the Desert Culture Center and Museum, the best place to gather souvenirs.
Kumbhalgarh
Built by Rana Kumbha, a Mewar king known for his pomp and splendor, the Kumbhal fortress is a sight to behold. This destination is significant as it separates the Mewar region from the Marwars, while heading towards Udaipur. Ruling over the Aravalli ranges from above, the huge ramparts and inseparable bastions make way to seven fortified gateways. The adjacent Wildlife Sanctuary is home to endangered species like the nilgai, white-breasted Kingfisher, leopards and the gray jungle fowl.
Do not miss the Badal Mahal at the peak, the palace of Rana Fateh Singh, that used to hold court amidst beautiful stone-carved halls. The Mammadev Temple blocks, built in 1460, will tell you the history of the Mewar heritage through inscriptions. The cenotaph in the name of Prithviraj Chauhan is located here. Visit the remarkable single-kasauti carved monolith Shivlinga at the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
Pushkar
A full-day trip to the temple town Pushkar will let you traverse over one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India. Surrounding the Pushkar Lake, you will find the red-pinnacled Jagatpita Brahma Temple, distinct with its bird motifs. Atop the Ratnagiri hills is the Savitri Temple, dedicated to the wife of Lord Brahma. It is said that Brahma tried to find an appropriate location to perform a sacred ritual. He had dropped a lotus that guided him to the present Pushkar Lake.
If you wish to see the legendary Pushkar Camel Fair or Kartik Mela, visit during late October or early November. Nearly 200,000 visitors are expected to go to this fair every year alone. Pushkar is also home to 52 Ghats or embankments, out of which Gau Ghat, surrounded by the Raj Babra Temple is a serene sight.
Ranthambore
When in Rajasthan, it is imperative that you visit the Ranthambore National Park, famous for its tiger sightings. A wildlife reserve located in Sawai Madhopur, it was the most sought-after hunting ground in Northern India and now inhabits leopards as well as marsh crocodiles. Founded in 944, the Ranthambore Fort lies within the vicinity. Constructed by various dynasties, including the Hada, Chahamana and Delhi Sultanate, it has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Trinetra Ganesha Temple, literally meaning the ‘Three-Eyed Ganesh’, was constructed by Raja Hameer when his life was saved by the deity.
Right beside the Padam Lake, you will see the Jogi Mahal, refurbished into a guesthouse for tourists and a brilliant spot to experience the most intricate Rajasthani architecture first-hand. If you are a nature enthusiast, go to the Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History to witness the rare plants and geology of the Western part of India. Hiring a jeep will take you to the Kachida Valley, a lush green stop on the outskirts of the park.
Ajmer
A unique center of pilgrimage for both Hindus and Muslims, Ajmer was the final abode of Sufi Saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The dargah shareef is still flocked by millions every year. Visit the Ana Sagar Lake built in the 12th Century AD to oversee the elegant marble pavilions. Next, head for the Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, built by Delhi’s first Sultan Qutub-ud-din-Aibak. The name literally connotes that it was built within a span of two and a half days. One of the rare visits to plan is Akbar’s Palace. Whenever the King wanted to pay homage to the Pir (Saint), his troops resided in the Akbari Fort.
Ajmer is also known for its Jain Temple. It is called Soniji Ki Nasiyan, dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev or the God of Fire. The central chamber is adorned with the Swarna Nagari, literally translated to ‘City of Gold’. The wooden figurines depicting Jaina myths and Tirthankaras are intricately plated with gold.
Neemrana
It is a historical town located in Kot Behror on the Delhi-Jaipur Highway. Being situated at a very strategic location between Behror and Shahjahanpur, Neemrana was the ideal spot to build the 15th Century Fort atop the Aravalli Hills. You can book a stay at the heritage fort palace, restored resplendently to give you a glimpse of the bygone era. The baori, or the stepwell within the fort walls, is the largest and deepest in the entire country. It is believed that frequent attacks by enemy clans had compelled the King to build secret passageways through the well. Decked up in traditional Rajasthani uniform, go for a safari in the main town or witness the grasslands and deciduous decadence in the Sariska Tiger Reserve.
Bundi
Located in the Hadoti region, Bundi is known for its stepwell reservoirs and countless temples. It has rightfully earned the name ‘Chhoti Kashi’. Shikar Burj is the most sought-after site in Bundi, built as a hunting lodge by Rao Vishnu Singh in the 17th Century. It is significant as it has successfully blended the Mughal and Rajasthani styles of architecture seamlessly. Look out for the Hathi Pol, gateway to the Garh Palace. At the same time, Chhatra Mahal is a marvelous complex of umbrella-shaped pavilions, adorning the roof of the palace. Phool Mahal is known for its detailed flower motifs, carved on pillars and ceilings of the Bundi Palace.
Sit by the banks of the Nawal Sagar Lake, famous for its island palace called the Jal Mahal. It is surrounded on all sides by sacred sites like Keshav Rai Temple, Naval Nath Temple, and Varuna Temple.
Udaipur
Udaipur is also called the ‘city of lakes’ and has gained popularity as a wedding destination for many Indians. Boat rides on Lake Pichola and the tranquil island forums are enough to calm anyone. The City Palace is 450 years old. It overlooks the lake and houses the Lake Palace, Jagdish Temple, Jag Mandir, Neemach Mata Temple, and Monsoon Palace within its structure. The historical insights about the ancient town can be found in Bagore Ki Haveli Museum. Go for a bike ride around town to visit the Eklingji Temple.
You can also stroll around the sound-sensitive fountains at the Sahelion Ki Bari, a garden engraved with fountains, built exclusively for the former royal women. Last, but not the least, do not miss out on the magnificent Daal Baati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi and Banjara Chicken Curry at Ambrai or Khamma Ghani Restaurant.
Where to Visit in Rajasthan
For more on Rajasthan, read about what goes into a Rajasthani Thali and How to Travel More Sustainably on Your Next Trip to Rajasthan.
