Rajasthan Tourism is popularly known to many as the Land of the Kings, is a beautiful example of India?s age-old opulence and grandeur, traces of which still linger in the air of this state. One of the most colourful and vibrant states in the country, with a strong blend of culture, history, music, cuisine falling in love with Rajasthan doesn't take much time. Rajasthan has more history than the entire country put together- it is the realm of erstwhile Maharajas and their lavish palaces and majestic forts. Golden-sand deserts, traditional handicrafts, authentic cuisine and awe-inspiring palaces all contribute to making Rajasthan an ideal vacation spot. Don't forget to wish everyone with "Khamma Ghani" while you're here!
Rajasthan abounds in forts which offer sweeping views of the panoramic landscape. Three most essential forts in Rajasthan are the Amber Fort in Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and Jaisalmer Fort, commonly known as Sonar Quila.
Rajasthan also has a significant number of palaces that are of historical significance, the famous ones being the Umaid Bhawan Palace and the Jaipur City Palace. Both of these palaces date back to the high times, and you can see the furniture and other objects used by the royal families on view in these palaces.
1. Jaipur
Jaipur The Pink City stands out from all the other cities because of its forts, architecture, monuments, palaces, culture, art, craft, astrology and also the lavish cuisines as well as the traditional attires. Jaipur is also the first modern city of India that was planned. It has some magnificent hilltops and their combination with fortresses attracts tourists from all over the world. Modern architects from all over the world are studying the architecture of the buildings here.
The city has some very rich culture, traditions and customs. The art, artefacts, civilisation and festivals make this city one of the best tourist attractions. Jaipur also hosts some of the most reputed festivals and fairs every year for the people there and also the tourists. There are also some amazing places for the tourists to visit in this city like the Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Rambagh Palace, City Palace, Jaigarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, Birla Mandir and more.
2. Udaipur
Udaipur The beautiful city of Udaipur is one of the best locations in the whole country to visit for a romantic trip. This city is mostly referred to as the ‘City of Lakes’, however, there are a lot of other names given to this beautiful city, like the ‘Venice of the East’. The city has a very soothing ambience and the tourists find themselves spending their time literally in the alp of nature, as the city of Udaipur is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills.
The presence of numerous water bodies here like the Pichola Lake, Swaroop Sagar and the Fateh Sagar lake looks to it that the name, ‘City of Lakes’ is justified. The buildings and forts in this city are the combination of the Mughal as well as the Rajput architecture. The numerous forts, palaces, temples, havelis and the gardens give this place a look which is both royal and romantic.
Along with the architecture, the city also looks magnificent because of the perfect combination of the lush greenery as well as the presence of water bodies.
3. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Jaisalmer is the city that is located in the middle of the Thar Desert and is also famous as the ‘Golden City’. The city has some amazing history and lies right before the border of India and Pakistan. It received its name from the Rajput king called Maharawal Jaisal Singh who gave this city some of its best architecture and constructions.
The constructions in the city, the bright sun, and the Thar Desert gives this whole place a Golden Shade, thus making its name, the Golden City. The whole city was built in a very stylish and impressive way, bringing a magical ambience to this city and the constructions also bring more charm and beauty to it.
Every construction in this city is a sign of the history and heritage of the Rajputs of the city. There are some amazing temples here, some ancient havelis and some marvellous bungalows that just make it even more majestic.
4. Jodhpur
Jodhpur Jodhpur, also famous as the Sun City, is the second largest city in the whole desert state of Rajasthan. Since all the houses in this city are painted blue, it is also known as the Blue City. The city also has some example of the amazing architecture of the Rajputs, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Recognised as the Sun City, Jodhpur is a fascinating city in Rajasthan that got its name because how sunny and bright the days here are throughout the year. This region is famous for its excellent exquisiteness and grand buildings, monuments and forts. People who plan to have a magnificent time and take a vacation somewhere can definitely spend some quality time in this city.
The royal city has a dreamy atmosphere and the individuals here are constantly busy with the colourful fiestas, cultural celebrations, and marvellous fairs. Apart from the exceptional partying it is needed to be in the city to explore the architectural elegance and unique designs of the impressive and sophisticated constructions.
5. Pushkar
Pushkar Another great location in the state of Rajasthan is the City of Pushkar. It is a sacred town that dazzles the people with its charm and beauty. The land is alluringly beautiful and is situated close to Ajmer. There are several picturesque locations here, like some water bodies, temples and also, the amazing Pushkar Fair.
The city is also known as the Tirth-Raj because of its immense holiness and importance. Enclosed by hills on three sides, the entire area is small and attractive letting one to sink in its natural exquisiteness as well as holiness. The city is famous for the Pushkar Lake that is believed to be made by the tears of Lord Shiva, and also the Brahma Temple.
6. Bikaner
Bikaner Rajasthan is mostly a place which captures the attention of the history lovers and the architecture buffs, and so does the city of Bikaner in this state. There is a lot of history and legendary stories surrounding the city of Bikaner that brings a lot of tourists here. The city was built in the year 1486 by Rao Bikaji.
This city is famous as the Oasis of the Thar Desert and is one of the largest towns in Rajasthan. The city lies in the middle of the Thar Desert and also houses some beautiful structures and forts. It is in this city of Bikaner that several archaeologists have signs of the pre-existing Harappa civilisation. Some brave rulers have ruled over this city, giving this city great historical significance. There are several monuments and temples in this city which stand as a symbol of the mastery and skill of the craftsmen of the time.
7. Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore Ranthambore National Park, situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, can be considered as one of the largest and most famous national parks located in North India. This park is also famous as the hunting grounds of the Rajputs of Rajasthan.
Currently, the Ranthambore National Park is a major wildlife tourist charm that has been attracting tourists as well as wildlife photographers from all around the world.
The park extends over an area of about 392 square kilometres. It is mostly famous because of the tigers present here and is one of the best spots in the whole country where the predators can be observed in their natural habitat. There are also some picturesque ruins in this park that makes it a heritage site.
8. Mount Abu
Mount Abu Mount Abu is the one and only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan. It keeps mesmerising the tourists with its amazing beauty and landscape. This beauty is even further accentuated by the presence of the numerous architectural wanders here, making it a perfect location for a relaxing getaway. Mount Abu is located in the south western part of the Aravalli Ranges.
It is also considered as the Royal Summer Resort as the whole place is surrounded by some beautiful greenery. The ancient ranges of Mount Abu have maintained this place as one of the best tourist destinations in the city. There are also some ancient temples found here that have some very intricate designs and carvings on them.
The famous Dilwara temple of the Jain Community is also located here. The province has an excessive historical connotation and is also mentioned in numerous puranas and the classics of Hindu mythologies. Many ancient constructions are found in this beautiful destination increasing the beauty of this place.
9. Bharatpur
Bharatpur Bharatpur is another one of the majestic cities in the state of Rajasthan in India. Just like the other cities in Rajasthan, this city also holds some amazing forts and palaces with magnificent architecture which along with the natural landscape of the city amazes the tourists. The region of Bharatpur is mostly known as the Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan.
It is a beautiful city with some amazing spots that reflect the history of the state. The carvings and the style of architecture of the ancient construction make it one of the top features that attract the tourists. Bharatpur is close to Agra and the National Park here is a UNESCO heritage site.
The constructions here are an example of the imperial lifestyle of the Jat rulers and also their royalty. The marvellous art and architecture of this place, which is a combination of the Rajput and Mughal style is one of the most charming features of this city.
10. Ajmer
Ajmer The city of Ajmer is one of the most wonderful locations in the desert state of Rajasthan. The city has numerous magnificent palaces as well as some other heritage sites. It is one of the ancient cities in Rajasthan and is also a famous pilgrimage destination. Lying on the Aravalli ranges, the city was founded in the 7th century by the brave Chauhan rulers.
The beautiful city has been home to several dynasties and each and every ruler of these dynasties made sure to leave their mark in the city by building some amazing forts and palaces, contributing to making the city a great tourist destination. The blend of Islam and Hinduism can be very easily seen in the buildings in Ajmer. The scenic beauty of this place along with this amazing merge of two styles of architecture makes this city one of the tourist favourites.