A Travel Guide Of Amazing Places To See In Rajasthan

Rajasthan is one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. Located to the northwest of the country, this state is most famous for the Thar Desert. However, from its many forts and palaces and delicious Rajasthani food, there are lots of other places to see in Rajasthan, as we can see in this travel guide.

From its vibrant and colourful cities to its famous festivals, Rajasthan does everything with zeal; every part of it has something to offer to its visitors.

How to reach Rajasthan

The state is well connected through various modes of transport and travel.

By Air

Rajasthan is one of the largest Indian states, as so is well connected by air. Major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur all have domestic airports. International travellers can either land at Jaipur International Airport or at the Indira Gandhi Airport in Delhi, which is well connected to the state.

By Rail

There are regular overnight trains from both Mumbai and Delhi to cities in Rajasthan. The most popular are the Shatabdi and Rajdhani expresses. However, for a more luxurious experience, visitors can travel on the week-long Palace on Wheels or the Royal Rajasthan which travel around the state.

By Road

The National Highway 48, which connects Delhi to Mumbai, runs through most of Rajasthan. While Mumbai may be a bit far to reach via road, Jaipur is only 4 hours away from the capital, making it perfect for a weekend getaway from Delhi.

Places to see in Rajasthan

There are lots of famous historical forts places to see in Rajasthan. It is also known for its wildlife sanctuaries and natural sites. Here are some of the places to visit in Rajasthan.

Natural Places To Visit

• Ranthambore National Park — this is one of the most famous tiger reserves in the country and was the hunting ground for the Jaipur royal family. It is home to dense woodlands, as well as tigers and leopards.
• Desert Safari — explore Rajasthan’s famous Thar Desert and the beauty of its many villages.
• Pushkar Camel Fair — this fascinating fest sees the nomadic tribal peoples of Pushkar and Nimaj decorate, parade and race their camels near the Pushkar Lake.
• Pichola Lake — this lake in Udaipur, with its lavish palace, is the perfect getaway from the dry and arid desert.
• Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary — here, you have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with endangered river dolphins and rare birds.
• Mount Abu — the scenic oasis of Nakki Lake at Mount Abu is the only hill station in western Rajasthan. There are various temples, ghats, and palaces along its shores.

Cultural Sites to Visit

• Mehrangarh Fort —  located in Jodhpur this 15th-century royal palace has been transformed into a museum. It houses many weapons, artefacts, and paintings.
• Udaipur Palace — this majestic palace is located in Pichola Lake in Udaipur. It reflects the splendour and luxury that the Mewar rulers enjoyed and is surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains.
• Hawa Mahal — the “Palace of Winds” in Jaipur which is famous for its intricately carved red sandstone facade. It was built in 1799 and has 5 storeys.
• Amer Fort — this huge fort in Amer is known for the panoramic views from the ramparts. You can also ride an elephant up its massive ramps.
• Dilwara Jain Temples — these 5 temples on Mount Abu are famous for their excellent marble work and beautiful carvings on the walls.
• Chand Baori — this famous stepwell (baori) in Abhaneri was featured in Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises as Batman’s Prison.
• Jantar Mantar — this astronomical observatory was built in 1734 by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II and lets people observe astronomical positions with the naked eye.

Interesting facts about the state

Rajasthan’s rich culture is the result of several kings and dynasties that ruled here. These include the Rajputs, the Marathas, and various Muslim rulers. It led to the distinct cultures, distinct architectural designs, and customs of the state.

• Shopping: Rajasthan is famous for its jewellery, artefacts, and handicrafts. However, be sure to bargain, as many stores tend to hike prices.
• Folk music and Dance: There are two main types of Rajasthani folk music the Langas, and Manganiyars. Other significant groups are Mirasis, Banjaras, and Jogis.
• Local food: Rajasthani cuisine is famous for its variety of vegetarian dishes, all rich with ghee and spices. Classics include dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas.
• Festivals: Rajasthani festivals are full of excitement and fun. Some of the most famous festivals are Desert Festival, Teej Festival, Kite Festival, Mewar Festival, Elephant Fair, Pushkar Fair, and Brij Holi.

Rajasthan can be quite hot, and the best time to visit is during the winter from November to March. They also follow the custom of Atithi Devo Bhav. Here, guests are considered equal to god.