Rajasthan, the land of kings, is a fascinating destination in India that is steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. This desert state is renowned for its magnificent palaces, forts, temples, and beautiful landscapes that are a testament to the region's rich heritage. With so much to explore, Rajasthan has become a popular destination among tourists worldwide. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, wildlife, or simply seeking a break from your daily routine, Rajasthan has something to offer you. The list of the best places to visit in Rajasthan, we are going to bring here will surely leave you mesmerized.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Rajasthan: Where History and Culture Comes to Life
If you are looking for a vacation that is a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Rajasthan is surely the place to be. This vibrant state in India is a treasure trove of forts, palaces, havelis, temples, and national parks that offer a glimpse of the richness of the state. With its colorful markets, exquisite handicrafts, and delicious cuisine, Rajasthan is a paradise for tourists looking for an immersive travel experience. From the pink city of Jaipur to the blue city of Jodhpur, to the sand camps and lake palaces, here are the top 10 places to visit in Rajasthan that will leave you awestruck.
- Jaipur: Experience the Royalty of the Pink City
- Udaipur: Hop in the Lake City
- Jaisalmer: Admire the Golden Aura
- Jodhpur: Feel the Heat of the Sun in Sun City
- Pushkar: The Serene Land and Lake
- Ajmer: Seek Blessings at Dargah Shareef
- Bikaner: Visit State’s Camel Country
- Mount Abu: Hill Station of Deserts
- Chittorgarh: Explore the Largest Fort in Asia
- Sawai Madhopur: Meet and Greet the Wilds
1. Jaipur: Experience the Royalty of the Pink City
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is a vibrant destination in Rajasthan that is steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty and tops the list of tourists for best places to visit in Rajasthan in December. This city is famous for its rich Rajputana heritage which can be seen through the magnificent palaces, forts, temples, and bustling bazaars. One of the most famous places to visit in Jaipur is the Hawa Mahal, a stunning palace made of pink sandstone with over 900 intricately carved windows. Jaipur is also a shopper's paradise, with its colorful markets selling everything from traditional textiles and jewelry to handicrafts and pottery.
How to Reach Jaipur:
- Nearest Airport: Sanganer Airport (12 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Jaipur Junction railway station (4.9 km)
Best Time to Visit Jaipur: October to March
Ideal Duration in Jaipur: 3-4 days
Tourist Attractions in Jaipur: City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort and Palace, Nahargarh Fort, Jaygarh Fort, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Birla Mandir.
Things to Do in Jaipur: Wildlife safari, Shopping Souvenirs, Textiles, and Gems, Exploring the Forts and Palaces
2. Udaipur: Hop in the Lake City
Known as the City of Lakes, you may get a large number of stunning places to visit in Udaipur like marvelous palaces, serene lakes, and romantic ambiance. The city's most famous attraction is the City Palace, a magnificent complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens that offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Rajput rulers. Lake Pichola, a beautiful artificial lake that is surrounded by hills, palaces, and temples is among the top Rajasthan famous places in Udaipur. Udaipur is also famous for its exquisite handicrafts, particularly its colorful textiles, pottery, and miniature paintings. For a memorable experience, don't miss the chance to enjoy a traditional Rajasthani thali at one of the city's many rooftop restaurants.
How to Reach Udaipur:
- Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport (20 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur railway station (4.3 km)
Best Time to Visit Udaipur: July to September and November to February
Ideal Duration in Udaipur: 2-3 days
Tourist Attractions in Udaipur: Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, City Palace, Jag Mandir, Udai Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, Swaroop Sagar, Kumbhalgarh Fort.
Things to Do in Udaipur: Boating at Lake Pichola, visiting the palaces, visiting Kumbhalgarh fort, photography
3. Jaisalmer: Admire the Golden Aura
Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City, is a desert destination in Rajasthan that is famous for its magnificent forts, havelis, and dunes. One of the most Famous tourist attractions in Jaisalmer, Jaisalmer Fort is a massive fortress made of yellow sandstone. Visitors can explore the fort's narrow lanes, ornate palaces, and ancient temples on their tour while exploring the famous places to see in Rajasthan. Jaisalmer is also famous for its vibrant markets, a taste of the local cuisine, and the city's famous delicacies, such as Dal Bati Churma, Ker Sangri, and Gatte ki Sabzi. The Sam Sand Dunes are a stunning expanse of golden dunes that offer a perfect backdrop for a camel ride or a desert safari, which is one of the most fascinating things to do in Rajasthan.
How to Reach Jaisalmer:
- Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (285 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Jaisalmer railway station (2.8 km)
Best Time to Visit in Jaisalmer: September to April
Ideal Duration in Jaisalmer: 2-3 days
Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer Fort, Sam dunes, Gadisagar Lake, Tanot Mata Temple
Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Attend the Desert festival of Jaisalmer in January – February, take a camel safari to the Sam dunes, visit the Longewala border
4. Jodhpur: Feel the Heat of Sun in Sun City
Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City, is a historic destination in Rajasthan that is famous for its magnificent forts, palaces, and temples. The most popular tourist attractions in Jodhpur include the Mehrangarh Fort, a massive fortress that is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the city. Another must-visit place in Jodhpur is the Jaswant Thada, a stunning white marble mausoleum that is surrounded by gardens and a beautiful lake. Jodhpur is also known as Sun City because the sun always shines bright on the city and keeps it warm, hence the best season to visit Rajasthan for exploring Jodhpur is winter. One should not miss experiencing the colorful Marwar Festival and Rajasthan International Folk Festival in September that make Jodhpur one one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.
How to Reach Jodhpur:
- Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport-9.6 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Jodhpur Junction-9.2 km
Best Time to Visit in Jodhpur: November to February
Ideal Duration in Jodhpur: 2-3 days
Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort, the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Mandore Gardens, the Jaswant Thada, the Kalyana Lake, and Garden, the Ghanta Ghar, Sardar Samand Lake, and Masuria Hills
Things to Do in Jodhpur: Visit the palaces, and forts, and taste the local delicacies
5. Pushkar: The Serene Land and Lake
Pushkar is a small town located in the state of Rajasthan that is famous for its sacred lake, colorful bazaars, and vibrant festivals. The town's most famous attraction is Pushkar Lake, a sacred body of water that is surrounded by numerous temples and ghats. Visitors can take a dip in the lake's holy waters and attend the evening aarti ceremony to experience the town's spiritual ambiance. The town is particularly renowned for one of the most action-packed things to do in Pushkar which is the annual Pushkar Camel Fair, a vibrant festival that attracts visitors from all over the world to witness camel races, folk music performances, and colorful cultural activities.
How to Reach Pushkar:
- Nearest Airport: Sanganer Airport (154 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Ajmer junction (14 km)
Best Time to Visit in Pushkar: October-November
Ideal Duration in Pushkar: 1-2 days
Tourist Attractions in Pushkar: The world-famous camel fair, the serene Pushkar Lake, and Meerabai Temple
Things to Do in Pushkar: Exploring Pushkar Temple, Boating in the lake, Camel fair, and photography
6. Ajmer: Seek Blessings at Dargah Shareef
Ajmer is famous for its ancient shrines, magnificent forts, and vibrant bazaars. The city's most famous attraction is the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a magnificent shrine that is dedicated to the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, making it one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan. Visitors can offer prayers and attend the qawwali sessions to experience the shrine's spiritual ambiance. Ajmer tourist places also include the Taragarh Fort, a massive fortress that is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the city. The city is also a sacred site for the Jain community because of the Golden Jain Temple. Pushkar also boasts of other tourist attractions like Adhai Din ka Jhopra, Ana Sagar Lake, Foy Sagar Lake, and Ajmer Government Museum.
How to Reach Ajmer:
- Nearest Airport: Sanganer Airport (140 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Ajmer junction (1.6 km)
Best Time to Visit in Ajmer: October-March
Ideal Duration in Ajmer: 1-2 days
Tourist Attractions in Ajmer: Dargah Sharif, Ana Sagar Lake, Naag Pathar ranges, Adhai Din ka Jhopra
Things to Do in Ajmer: Attend Qawwali at Dargah Sharif, offer chadar to the grave of Sufi saint
7. Bikaner: Visit State’s Camel Country
Bikaner is a desert city located in the state of Rajasthan that is famous for its magnificent forts, havelis, and camel breeding farms. One of the most famous tourist places in Bikaner is the Junagarh Fort, a massive fortress that is renowned for its ornate palaces, courtyards, and museums. The other must-visit place in Rajasthan is the National Research Centre on Camel in Bikaner, a camel breeding farm that is located on the outskirts of the city. Visitors can learn about the importance of camels in the desert region and enjoy a camel ride.
How to Reach Bikaner:
- Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (249 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Bikaner Junction railway station (1.4 km)
Best Time to Visit in Bikaner: October- March
Ideal Duration in Bikaner: 1-2 days
Tourist Attractions in Bikaner: Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Karni Mata Temple, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Laxmi Nath Temple, Bikaner Camel Festival
Things to Do in Bikaner: Attend the Bikaner Camel Fest, and buy some Usta and Chadwa artifacts and handicrafts, Try the famous Bikaneri Bhujiya and Rasgulla
8. Mount Abu: Hill Station of Deserts
Another place to mark it's name in the list of top 10 places to visit in Rajasthan is Mount Abu hill station. It is located in the desert state of Rajasthan, famous for its picturesque landscapes, ancient temples, and serene lakes. One of the most famous tourist attractions in Mount Abu is the Dilwara Jain Temples, a group of stunning temples that are renowned for their intricate marble carvings and exquisite architecture. Nakki Lake, a serene body of water that is surrounded by hills and gardens is another stunning attraction for tourists. Visit Achaleshwar Mahadeva Temple, which offers a spectacular view of the neighborhood city and the hills, to get Mahadev's blessings.
How to Reach Mount Abu:
- Nearest Airport: Udaipur Airport (176 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Abu Road railway station (27 km)
Best Time to Visit Mount Abu: Throughout the year
Ideal Duration in Mount Abu: 1-2 days
Tourist Attractions in Mount Abu: Dilwara Jain Temples, Nakki Lake, Peace Park, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, and more
Things to Do in Mount Abu: Boating in Nakki Lake, trekking to Guru Shikhar, camping at Aravali, bird watching at Trevors Tank, wildlife sighting at Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
9. Chittorgarh: Explore the Largest Fort in Asia
Chittorgarh is a historic city, famous for its magnificent forts, palaces, and temples. The city's top attraction is the Chittorgarh Fort, a massive fortress that is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Vijay Stambh, a towering victory tower that is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, is amidst the captivating tourist attractions in Chittorgarh. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to witness the stunning views of the city.
How to Reach Chittorgarh:
- Nearest Airport: Udaipur Airport (120 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Chittaurgarh Junction railway station (2.2 km)
Best Time to Visit in Chittorgarh: October to March
Ideal Duration in Chittorgarh: 1-2 days
Tourist Attractions in Chittorgarh: Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha’s Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, Rani Padmini’s Palace, Kumbhaswamini Temple, Kirti Stambh, Vijay Stambha, Kalika Mata temple
Things to Do in Chittorgarh: Listening to the folk tales, Savoring authentic Rajasthani cuisine
10. Sawai Madhopur: Meet and Greet the Wilds
Sawai Madhopur, built by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh is home to the Ranthambore national park. The park is famous for its diverse wildlife, ancient forts, and temples. The park's most famous attraction is the Ranthambore Fort and Palace, which is a UNESCO heritage site. It is a massive fortress that is perched atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests. Don’t miss going to Ranthambore National Park, which is home to tigers, leopards, deer, and numerous other species of wildlife. You may take a jeep safari or a canter ride to explore the park's diverse flora and fauna which is among the best things to do in Ranthambore.
How to Reach Sawai Madhopur:
- Nearest Airport: Jaipur Airport (169 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Sawai Madhopur Junction railway station (900 m)
Best Time to Visit Sawai Madhopur: October to April
Ideal Duration in Sawai Madhopur: 1-2 days
Tourist Attractions in Sawai Madhopur: Ranthambhore National Park, 10th century Ranthambore palace
Things to Do in Sawai Madhopur: Jungle safari, photography, birdwatching
The marvelous places to visit in Rajasthan ornament the state with vivid colors, rich history, and vibrant culture that has captivated travelers for centuries. From the desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur to the picturesque hill stations of Mount Abu, from the forts and palaces to the dunes, the state offers a wide range of travel experiences. Whether you're a history buff, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Rajasthan has surely something for your vacation. So, avail yourself of the best Rajasthan tour packages and pack your bags, and yes, don't forget to carry your camera, and get ready to explore the incredible land of Rajasthan.
FAQs
Rajasthan is the land of forts and palaces, temples, and dunes. The state boasts of culture, history, heritage, architecture, and shopping for souvenirs.
Rajasthan is a hot state as the summer in the state goes up from 45 degrees – 47 degrees. Hence the best months to visit Rajasthan are between November to February.
The top 5 places to visit in Rajasthan are Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Pushkar, and Udaipur.
The best activities to do in Rajasthan are:
- Exploring the forts and palaces
- Shopping for souvenirs
- Savoring the delicacies
- Jungle safari
- Sand Dune safari
Lake Pichola Udaipur, Mount Abu, National Parks, Trevor’s Tank, and Nalli Lake are the best places to visit in Rajasthan in Summer.
The best places to visit in Rajasthan with family are Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bundi, Bikaner, Ajmer, Pushkar, Udaipur, Mount Abu, Chittorgarh, Jhunjhunu, and Sikar.
The top attractions in Rajasthan include:
Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Lake Pichola, City Palace of Udaipur, Amer Fort and Palace, Jaisalmer Fort, Ranthambore National Park, Bagore ki Haveli Museum, Jaigarh Fort, and Nimrana Fort.The ideal duration to explore the real beauty of Rajasthan is around 5 to 6 days. Though one can spend days more than this according to their type of tour and itinerary.
