Rajasthan is a northern state in India, referred to as the ‘land of the kings. It takes you on a journey to witness India’s royal past, the grandeur, valor, and cultural richness. Taking a journey to Rajasthan is like time traveling; here know about the history, culture and heritage of the region, where every corner of the city tells a story.
From the grand forts and palaces to colorful markets and desert landscapes, every city in Rajasthan reveals a unique aspect of its splendor. With Tours India, you are going to have an amazing experience, visiting the major tourist attraction sites and offbeat destinations as well. Here is a short guide to know about the must-visit cities of Rajasthan, each city offering an unforgettable experience.
1. Jaipur: The Pink City
Start your Rajasthan trip by including Jaipur in your Rajasthan tour packages as the first destination. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and due to the pink colored buildings it is referred to as Pink City.
Important Highlights of Jaipur:
Amber Fort: Take a short drive from the main hub of Jaipur and you will see the majestic Amber Fort situated on a hill top, overlooking the Maota Lake and the surrounding vicinity. To reach the entrance gate of the fort you can either take a jeep or elephant ride.
City Palace: This is the official residence of the royal family of Jaipur, and a part of the palace is open to the public as a museum which houses royal artifacts.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): This palace was built for the ladies of the royal family so that they could sit behind the honeycomb windows to watch the events on the streets without being seen by anyone. The total number of windows in the Hawa Mahal is 953.
Jantar Mantar: This is one of the largest astronomical observatories, built in 18th century and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Apart from the forts and palaces, you should definitely visit the local bazaars to buy traditional items like block-printed textiles, handcrafted jewelry, blue pottery, and traditional Rajasthani attire to take back home. Also, don’t miss to try the traditional Rajasthani food like dal bati churma, and sweets like ghewar.
2. Udaipur: The City of Lakes
Udaipur is regarded as a romantic city, set around a series of lakes and surrounded by the Aravalli hills. As Udaipur has many lakes, it is referred to as the city of lakes, and offers some of the best scenic views with forts and palaces.
Important Highlights of Udaipur:
Lake Pichola: Situated in main hub of Udaipur, this lake is known for housing the Lake Palace, which is now converted into a luxury hotel. Take a boat ride in Lake Pichola and enjoy the views of the City Palace Udaipur.
City Palace Udaipur: This is one of the largest palaces in Rajasthan and comprises of courtyards, spacious rooms, balconies, and museums.
Jagdish Temple: This temple was built in the 17th century and is known for its splendid architectural design. The architectural design of the temple is a blend of Indo-Aryan architecture style.
Saheliyon Ki Bari (Garden of Maidens): This is a beautiful garden with fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions for having a peaceful retreat. It was built for the ladies of the royal family.
With Tours India, have a chance to explore the best of Udaipur, and know about its history, art and culture. This city is famous for miniature paintings, puppet shows, and folk music, don’t miss any of this activity.
3. Jodhpur: The Blue City
Jodhpur is located on the edge of the Thar Desert, and is known for its majestic Mehrangarh fort and the luxury Umaid Bhawan Palace. Jodhpur is referred to as the Blue City because the houses are painted blue, and are situated around the Mehrangarh fort.
Important Highlights of Jodhpur:
Mehrangarh Fort: It is one of the largest forts in India, offering beautiful views of the Blue city below. The architectural design of the fort is Rajasthani architectural style with intricate carvings on the stones. Within the complex of the fort, there are palaces (example Sheesh Mahal), courtyards, temple, private hall of audience, and public hall of audience.
Jaswant Thada: This is a royal cenotaph made of white marble and is often compared to the Taj Mahal. It is situated on a hill top and has a lake beside it, adding to the beauty of the place.
Umaid Bhawan Palace: This is the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur, a part of it is used by the royal family as residence, another as a luxury hotel and the third part is opened for the public as museum. This was built in the 20th century and is influenced by Indo-colonial architecture.
Apart from the forts and palaces, you should definitely visit the local bazaars near the Clock Tower to buy traditional items like spices, handicrafts, and Jodhpuri textiles. Also, don’t miss to try the traditional Rajasthani food like mirchi vadas (spicy chili fritters), mawa kachori, lassi and authentic Rajasthani thalis.
4. Jaisalmer: The Golden City
In your Rajasthan tour packages next on your list is Jaisalmer, the desert city of Rajasthan, situated in the Thar Desert. The moment you land in Jaisalmer, you feel like you have entered an ancient world. Most of the buildings are made of the local sandstone with intricate carvings in traditional Rajasthani style.
Important Highlights of Jaisalmer:
Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila): The Jaisalmer fort was built in 1156 CE by Rawal Jaisal, it is one of the largest living fort. Inside the fort there are local residence, shops, temples, cafes, hotels, havelis and the Maharaja Palace (opened for the public as museum).
Patwon Ki Haveli: There are total five havelis built closed to each other with intricate designs. It was built by a wealthy merchant for his five sons; its glory can be seen till today.
Desert Safari: Head to Sam or Khuri for enjoying desert activities and stay in a desert tent, enjoy traditional music and dance and the local Rajasthani food.
Gadisar Lake: This Lake is surrounded by temples and pavilions, and you can enjoy boat ride here as well.
5. Bikaner: The Desert Jewel
Bikaner is a hidden gem, but it is equally rich in history, heritage and culture. The city is famous for its red sandstone wonders, camel breeding, and spicy snacks.
Important Highlights of Bikaner: Junagarh Fort: A magnificent fort comprising of palaces, pavilions, and artifacts
Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple): This temple is dedicated to rats, a fascinating example of folk devotion.
National Research Centre on Camel: It is the breeding center of camels. Also you can even ride camels and check out the camel milk products.
Bikaneri Bhujia: The spicy snack that originated here, do try this bhujia
6. Pushkar: The Holy Town
This is a small town, located around the Pushkar Lake and is home to one of the Brahma temples in the world. It is believed that this temple was created by Lord Brahma himself.
Important Highlights of Pushkar:
Brahma Temple: One of the Brahma temples in the world and is believed that this temple was created by Lord Brahma himself.
Pushkar Lake: There are total 52 ghats in Pushkar Lake, where pilgrims bathe to wash away their sins and seek blessings from the Lord.
Pushkar Camel Fair: This fair is held every year in the month of November and apart from livestock trading, it is accompanied with cultural performances, competitions, and crafts.
7. Mount Abu: Rajasthan’s Hill Station
Visit the only hill station of Rajasthan, i.e. Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravalli Hills offering a refreshing experience. Get captivated by the lush greenery, scenic landscape, spiritual sites and cool weather.
Important Highlights of Mount Abu:
Dilwara Temples: Exquisitely designed Jain temples made of marble, offering one of the most amazing experiences to explore.
Guru Shikhar: Highest point in Rajasthan and has a temple dedicated to Guru Dattatreya
Nakki Lake: Known for scenic landscape, you can enjoy here boat rides and evening strolls.
Sunset Point: For stunning views.
Rajasthan tour packages lets you explore the best of Rajasthan, letting you have an immersive tour, knowing about its history, culture and heritage.
