What is a famous place in Rajasthan? is just like that long chapter in history books that make you wonder about the lives our ancestors might have. The forts and palaces urge you to imagine the grandeur of the royalty in ancient times. The golden sands of the Thar Desert inspire you to reach the oasis battling strong sandy storms and the scorching heat of the sun. The old alleys of the state whisper legends of Rajput valour and sacrifice. The artistic hands of the rural communities build dreams for people who buy them. The beautiful blue pottery or the intricate wooden blocks of printing attracts you like a magnet towards the world of great art and skills.
The key highlight of the state of Rajasthan is the rich cultural heritage. Bestowed with monuments listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, every element of its being scream of the legacy of Rajputana. So much so that this state is one of the most desired travel destinations in the world. Not only by Indians Rajasthan is admired by international explorers and travellers for its great insight into the history and sacrifice of the glorious Indian era. The forts and palaces represent the different clans of Rajputs and their diverse cultural practices. Undoubtedly, Rajasthan is the best heritage travel destination in India.
When we talk about the religious importance of a state like Rajasthan, we picturise the serene town of Pushkar or the solace felt while visiting the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The majestic Ranakpur Jain Temple is completely on another level in terms of architectural brilliance. The beautifully painted frescos and murals on the temples date back to centuries when men were greatly admired for their artistic abilities. Rajasthan houses the only Brahma Temple in the world which places it among the top religious destinations of India. Jagdish Temple, Karni Mata Temple, Dilwara Temple, Khwaja Garib Niwas Dargah and Galtaji Temple among many others showcase the religious diversity and harmony of the state.
While discussing the various elements which make Rajasthan the best travel destination, we cannot forget the rich wildlife diversity of the state. Ranthambore National Park has recorded a population of 72 tigers in its periphery, making it a major contributor to wildlife tourism of the state. From the arid vegetation of the desert to the lush green jungles amidst the Aravalli hills along with the marshlands of Bharatpur, Rajasthan is a rainbow of different species of flora and fauna. Some of the leading wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Rajasthan are Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo National Park and Desert National Park among many others.
Best Places To Visit In Rajasthan
From a plethora of beautiful places, HikerWolf has handpicked and shortlisted the 50 best tourist places in Rajasthan for you. Here is your ultimate travel list when it comes to exploring the royal state of Rajasthan:
Jaipur “The Fantastic Pink City”
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is also counted amongst the most gorgeous cities to visit in Rajasthan. The city is home to several monuments and architectural delights like City Palace, Amber Fort and Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Birla Mandir, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Albert Hall Museum and Jaigarh Fort. Also known as the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur is India’s first planned city. The city has witnessed rapid development over the years and is now counted among India’s metropolitan cities. The presence of the rich historical heritage along with glamorous shopping complexes and skyscrapers make the city an incredible combination of old and new.
Jaipur can be visited at any time of the year, although it is recommended to avoid the summers since the weather is extremely hot. Booking a flight to Jaipur International Airport is the best way to reach the city.
Jaisalmer “All that glows are here”
Jaisalmer, located at the heart of the Thar Desert in the west of Rajasthan, is known for its beautiful arid landscape and the majestic golden sandstone forts. The beauty of Jaisalmer is amplified by the Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Golden Fort, which is named due to the golden sunset hue.
The amazing Gadisar Lake, with stunning views and boat rides, lies in the middle of the city. Desert National Park is a sanctuary for desert wildlife like foxes, chinkara, and blackbuck. The city is also famous for the numerous traditional mansions known as Haveli, which high officials and royal families once owned.
Jaisalmer is indeed one of the most interesting and best places in Rajasthan.
Jodhpur “For a royal experience”
Indeed an iconic historical landmark, Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City, is situated west of Rajasthan. The name Blue City comes from the fact that a majority of the houses in the city are colored iconic blue. Rich with culture and heritage, it is known best for holding the largest fort in India, the Mehrangarh fort. The fort is famed for housing the famous Sheesh Mahal and Phool Mahal.
Other major city attractions are the white marble Jaswant Thada monument, Umaid Bhawan Palace, an iconic Clock Tower, the ecological Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, and Mandore Gardens.
Jodhpur is indeed one of the unique places in Rajasthan in terms of historical architecture, luxurious accommodations, ancient forts, and palaces.
Udaipur “Go around the Lake City”
The City of lakes and palaces, often dubbed as the ‘Venice of the East,’ Udaipur, is a popular tourist destination in the southern part of Rajasthan. The verdant hills of Aravallis and the silent water lakes surrounding historical palaces add to the beauty of Udaipur.
Some beautiful sights in Udaipur are the City Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Sajjangarh Palace, Eklingji temple, and even the Vintage Car Museum. Amidst all, the bright beauty of the Lake Palace surrounded by Lake Pichola is the major attraction of Udaipur. There is also the 19th-century Monsoon Palace located on a hill overlooking the city with panoramic views.
A mixture of ancient palaces, forts, lakes, and scenic beauty makes Udaipur a highlight of Rajasthan.
Bundi “To discover the Historic Baoris”
Brimming with striking palaces, magnificent forts, huge step wells, majestic havelis, stunning temples and intricate chhatris with carved pillars, the district of Bundi is situated at a distance of 36 km from the city of Kota. Orchards lined with guava, orange, mango and pomegranate trees, the Aravalli range, sparkling rivers and fields of cotton, wheat and barley provide Bundi with picturesque landscapes, which make it one of the best offbeat places to visit in Rajasthan. Sukh Mahal, Nawal Sagar, Dabhai Kund, Bundi Palace, Taragarh Fort, Moti Mahal, Badal Mahal, Garh Palace, Raniji ki Baori and 84 Pillared Cenotaph are some of the attractions that add to this place’s charm.
The best time to travel to Bundi is from October to March. Jaipur’s Sanganer Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 204 km and Bundi Railway Station is directly linked to Chittorgarh.
Bikaner “The amazing religious Temples & Forts”
Situated amidst the Thar Desert, the city is counted among the most stunning and rich-cultured places to visit in Rajasthan. Its grand palaces and forts along with its delicious food and impressive art forms give the city an old-world charm. Camel festival held here adds to the city’s popularity. Architectural delights like Lalgarh Palace, Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Laxmi Nath Temple, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Gajner Palace and Lake and Lalgarh Palace and Museum make Bikaner even more appealing for the tourists.
January- February is the best time to explore Bikaner. To reach Bikaner, book a flight to Nal Airport which is just 13 km away from the city.
Pushkar “Delve in Rituals & Religions”
Located 15 km away from Ajmer, Pushkar, a seemingly small town, forms the epicentre of the spiritual life of the city. With 52 ghats around the Pushkar Lake and with a variety of temples such as the Brahma, Mahadeva, Savitri, and Varaha Temple, Pushkar is the residence of some of the holiest places in the world.
It is best known for the renowned evening aarti at the Brahama Ghat. While feeding your soul’s spirituality, it will also be a treat for your senses with its street food, local markets, and the ever famous annual Pushkar Mela. It is thus a paradise for gypsies and backpackers and one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.
Ajmer “Embark historic Dargah Sharif”
The dwelling of the Dargah Sharif, Ajmer holds the most sacred Muslim shrine in India and is a pilgrimage that comes second only to Mecca in South Arabia. Located near the Aravalli hills, Ajmer, dating back to the 7th century, is drenched in culture, religion, and history. A residence of both Islamic as well as Jain temples and shrines, it represents the hybridity and diversity that rules the state of Rajasthan.
It accommodates various Islamic shrines and Mughal forts such as Akbar Palace and Museum, Dargah Sharif, and Taragarh Fort, as well as Jain temples namely Nareli Jain Temple, Soni Ji ki Nasiyan(Red temple), and Dhai Din ka Jhopda which was first constructed as a Jain temple in 660 AD. With the local market prospering with treasured jewels and handicrafts, and traditional food delicacies, Ajmer is always beaming with culture and is the spiritual and cultural refuge that will redeem your soul.
Mount Abu “The Flamboyant Hill Station”
The only hill station in Rajasthan deserves a spot in the best places to visit in Rajasthan. The stunning natural beauty of the hill station offers a great escape from the heat in the central city area of Rajasthan. The landscape also includes the highest point of Rajasthan, Guru Shikhar offering fantastic views from the top.
The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is inhabited by leopards, sloth bears, and many other wildlife, which can be explored via jeep safari. The beautiful Nakki Lake is famous among tourists as a boating and picnic destination.
Apart from the wildlife and natural beauty, it boasts the architecturally beautiful Dilwara Jain temples and the Achalgarh fort.
Sawai Madhopur “A retreat for Wildlife Lovers”
The town has made its place among the best tourist places in Rajasthan mainly for housing one of the country’s best tiger reserves, Ranthambore. You can explore the prosperous flora and fauna of the gorgeous town through a thrilling wildlife safari in the national park. Also, the town houses Ranthambore Fort which is named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Other must-see spots of this town include Padam Lake, Kacheeda Valley and Khandar Fort.
It is much easier to spot a tiger during November-February. Also, the weather is very pleasing during these months. The closest airport to the town is 160 km away in Jaipur. Railway station in Sawai Madhopur is well-linked to the major railway lines.
Bharatpur “Beauty that brings you in awe”
Renowned for housing Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur is a beautiful place with a rich history and bright culture. Keoladeo National Park is a breathtaking bird sanctuary that is home to numerous species of birds and animals and has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bharatpur Museum and Palac, Ganga Mandir, Lohagarh Fort, Deeg, Banke Bihari Temple, Band Baretha and Dholpur Palace are some other attractions that make it one of the remarkable places to visit in Rajasthan.
The best time to travel to Bharatpur is from August-November. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport in Agra is the nearest airport, about 56 km away. Bharatpur’s railway station is on the Delhi-Mumbai railway line and is well-linked to Kota, Sawai Madhopur and Agra.
Alwar “Unveil the Majestic Past”
Alwar, a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is nestled in the Aravalli Hills and is home to several forts, palaces, and lakes. The Bala Qila, a majestic fort, stands tall on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the city. The City Palace, a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, houses a museum with a collection of royal artifacts.
Alwar is also famous for its serene lakes, such as the Siliserh Lake and the Sagar Lake. The Sariska Tiger Reserve, a short distance from the city, is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a chance to spot tigers, leopards, and various other animals. The city’s vibrant markets are a treat for shoppers, with traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles. Alwar’s cuisine, particularly its famous “Mawa,” a sweet made from milk, is a must-try for food lovers. With its historical significance and natural beauty, Alwar offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers.
Chittorgarh “Landmark of Largest Fort”
Often referenced for its historical significance, Chittorgarh is a major city in Rajasthan in the west. It is known for famous historical wars between the Rajputs and Muslims, the remnants of which are seen in forts and palaces in the city.
Revered as one of the largest forts in India, the Chittorgarh fort has received the UNESCO World Heritage Site honors for stunning architecture. A 12-century tower called Kirti Stambh and a 9-story tower called Vijay Stambh within the fort mark the victories of the Rajputs over the Muslims.
The historical significance attracts many tourists to Chittorgarh and makes it one of the best places in Rajasthan.
