22 Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan

If you are planning a trip to India, you are probably researching the best places to visit in Rajasthan. With a rich cultural heritage steeped in colorful history and a glimpse of authentic rural India, Rajasthan is truly one of the best places to visit in India. The state is nestled in the Aravalli mountain range with the Great Indian Desert winds flowing through it. It displays the Indian history of the valor of the Rajputs and the remnants of the Mughal invasions. A land of scarce resources, the region’s response to its arid climate resulted in the creation of some magnificent lakes, tanks, and step-wells. Plus, the royal forts, palaces, and intricately carved monuments such as Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal and Udaipur City Palace showcase the vast cultural history of the state. The geographical terrain has given rise to the stunning sand dunes of the Thar desert and the Ranthambore National Park – Rajasthan has a lot to offer to its guests. In this blog, we talk about some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan?

An architect’s dream, Rajasthan has a complex and rich history that has endowed the region with many famous places like colossal citadels, bejeweled palaces, lakeside temples, and princely mansions carved through sandstone, marble and indigenous rock. The sheer skill of their artisans is evident through the variety of handicraft, art, cloth and semi-precious stones sold in bazaars and stores.

Once you have explored all the magnificent forts,royal residences, some of the most ancient cities, memorials, and the history left behind, take a camel safari, explore the sand dunes, or camp in the desert. Experience the vibrant culture, colorful festivals and fairs where you can blend with the locals. Take a jungle safari around the wetlands and forests inhabited by majestic tigers and migratory birds. Stay in the large palaces and exuberant forts that are not grandiose heritage hotels. Every year, major attractions call out tourists to visit the beautiful state with so much to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.

If interested in planning a visit through Rajasthan, send us your preferences and we’ll get straight to it!

The Stunning Hawa Mahal, Jaipur (Photo Credit – Aditya Siva)

Best Places to Visit in Eastern Rajasthan

Jaipur

Painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1853, the Pink City Jaipur has magnificent forts, palaces, and heritage temples. One of the major cities and top tourist destinations in all of Asia, this capital city of Rajasthan is truly one of the most unique places to visit in the state. You can come visit tourist attractions like the Amer Fort, or Amber Fort, a sandstone and marble palace built in the late 16th century by Raja Man Singh I. Amber was the former capital of Rajasthan.

Apart from the unmissable Amer Fort (Amber Fort), the elevated Jaigarh Fort and Nahargarh Fort, located on the ‘Hill of Eagles’ in the Aravalli hills are part of the same complex and a beautiful sight to see. Jaigarh Fort, overlooking the bustling city of Jaipur, is home to Jaivana cannon, considered to be the largest in the world. Nahargarh Fort has been the backdrop for many Bollywood movies. You can also visit the Jaipur City palace and grab a meal at its popular restaurant Baradari. Just a few minutes away from the City Palace is Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Hindu Lord Vishnu. The stunning architecture of this finely carved temple is in the Indo-Aryan style.

The Albert Museum in Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II and named after the Prince of Wales, Albert Edward. The museum showcases a large collection of artefacts, an interesting visit for history buffs. Every evening, there is a light and sound show, something you should definitely check out while you are here!

Science lovers can visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory in the center of Jaipur. Built by Maharaja Jai SIngh II, this observatory is one of the five Jantar Mantars in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you want to experience luxury in Jaipur, visit Rambagh Palace, a 5-star hotel managed by the Taj Hotels Group. This palace was built in 1931. It acted as the residence of many Maharajas, a garden house, a hunting lodge, and then the residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. Today, it is a grand hotel and one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.

The Pink City is also great for walking around the different colorful markets. The city palace is at the center of the pink city walls and is also close to the observatory called Jantar Mantar which is fascinating and interesting. You can also find some lovely places to eat from old institutions like Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar to the new and innovative cocktails at The Johri.

Amidst the bylanes around the city palace shopaholics can lap up traditional footwear, textiles, crafts, and eye-catching gems. Participate in several festivals including the Elephant Festival in spring, when pachyderms pout and prance around. The Hawa Mahal, or the famous ‘Palace of Winds’ is just another site to go visit while in Jaipur. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 to provide a windy setting for the royal women of the family so that they could be comfortable. The Hawa Mahal is dedicated to Lord Krishna.

In the middle of a lake in Jaipur is the Jal Mahal, a beautiful mansion that was once a hunting lodge for kings. The magnificent architecture is sure to leave onlookers awestruck.

For a unique experience, you can try hot air ballooning in this city. For more details on things to do in Jaipur, you can visit our detailed blog. or get in touch with us to plan your trip to Jaipur.

Already planning on going but confused about what kind of accommodation you can find? Check out this Jaipur guide on homestays. 

Abhaneri (Chand Baori)

Abhaneri is the perfect pit stop to visit in Rajasthan between Agra and Jaipur. The region is known for its arid weather because of which, locals had to find inventive and innovative ways to combat the extreme conditions. Locals would build step-wells to try and trap rainwater to use throughout the year.

The Chand Baori step well in Abhaneri consists of 3,500 narrow stairs and 13 stories, Chand Baori is intricately designed with an interior palace built. It’s one of the biggest step-wells in India going as far as 30 meters underground.

Located opposite the step-wells is the Harshat Mata Temple, built a little after the step-wells in the 9th century. The temple is considered to have been a Vaishavite shrine earlier.

Bharatpur

The Eastern Gateway of India, Bharatpur is home to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and the petite Keoladeo National Park. This is a must for bird watching enthusiasts and nature lovers. Only 29 sq. km in total, more than 300 species of migratory birds from all around Asia have been recorded in the park, which also contains a lot of separate wildlife. It is a wonderful mosaic of different vegetation, ranging from swampy woodlands to dry grasslands, and hence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Another attraction in Bharatpur is the town of Deeg. It has several heritage forts, palaces, and gardens, along with many bazaars for shopping. In the past, Deeg was a summer resort for the royals of Bharatpur.

Everyone’s welcomed at the Pushkar Lake (Photo Credit – Max Art)

Pushkar

The holy city of Pushkar is one of the most largely visited city in Rajasthan, not only by foreigners but by many Indians. It is one of the most sacred places to visit in all of India, and consequently a popular Hindu pilgrimage site for Hindus and Sikhs. This is because of the serene Pushkar Lake, a holy lake from the Hindu epics the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, and also other scriptures mentioning the famous place and lake. The city is also known for its annual camel fair.

Due to its religious significance, Pushkar houses a myriad of temples and ghats that surround the sacred lake, including the extremely rare Brahma temple dedicated to Lord Brahma. The ghats host magnificent evening aarti (chants) every day. You will see that a lot of tourists visit Pushkar, especially younger travelers, as it attracts backpackers frequently. It’s a great break from the chaos of Delhi, Agra, or Jaipur, and it’s quite small so very easily accessible by foot. Try and go during the two-week annual world famous Camel Fair of Pushkar, one of the largest livestock fairs in India during October or November. Do remember that luxurious high-end accommodation is virtually non-existent in Pushkar. But if you are in Rajasthan and want to experience the spirituality of India, do not miss visiting Pushkar.

Mandawa

190 kms off Jaipur in the north, Mandawa is a small town that is most known for its small forts and most notably its intricately decorated havelis (mansions). The Mandawa Fort, founded in the 18th century is adorned with fantastic frescoes in the medieval style. Now a rich heritage hotel, couples can celebrate by having a romantic getaway to this picturesque stay. The town, because of the Havelis, is known as an open-air art museum, as their exteriors are intricately and lavishly painted and decorated. A worthwhile visit if time allows for it.

Find out India’s Pinnacle of Luxury Accommodations

Alwar

Situated in North-east Rajasthan, the city of Alwar is best known for the haunted place, Bhangarh Fort. Known as one of the most haunted places in India, the fort is off-limits for visitors after sunset. For all horror enthusiasts, this is one of the most popular places to visit in Rajasthan. We don’t know if the paranormal activities are true, but if you are interested in such stuff, you must definitely visit Bhangarh Fort.

Near the fort is the Sariska Tiger Reserve and Sariska National Park, major attractions of which include the royal Bengal tigers. It was once the private hunting ground of the Maharaja of Alwar.

Alwar was founded by Rajput ruler Pratap Singh in the 18th century and was a part of various battles. It was one of the first cities to sign a treaty with the East India Company. Apart from the haunted Bhangarh fort, you can visit many beautiful lakes, palaces, and grand forts in the city. The town of Neemrana is located in Alwar, popular for the Neemrana Fort Palace. Built in 1464, Rajput Maharaja Prithvi Raj Chauhan III reigned from here. Today, Neemrana Palace is converted into one of the oldest heritage luxury hotels in Rajasthan.

The 14th-century tomb of Tarang Sultan is also located in Alwar.

Jhunjhunu

Jhunjhunu district in the northern east part of Rajasthan is known for the beautiful Badalgarh Fort, built in the 16th century under Nawab Fazal Khan. The fort has many echo points that you must experience during your visit. The fort also has ancient painting exhibiting the tales of the early days of life at the fort.

Ajmer

Ajmer is a town in Rajasthan located at the center of the state, thus known as the heart of Rajasthan. It is famous for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the shrine of Sufi Saint Moinuddin Chishti. The fifth largest city in Rajasthan, Ajmer is nestled between the Aravalli and Naag Pathar Range. The Dargah is known to be one of the holiest Muslim shrines in the country. You can also visit the Ana Sagar Lake, an artificial lake built by the grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan in the 12th century A.D.

Sawai Madhopur/ Ranthambore

Sawai Madhopur in South-Eastern Rajasthan is a haven for wildlife lovers. Founded by Maharaja Sawai Madho SIngh in 1763, the place is home to Ranthambore National Park, known for its high population of royal Bengal tigers. The Ranthambore National Park is the perfect nature backdrop if you’re interested in seeing some tigers. It’s quite easy to spot tigers in this 392 sq. km park, prowling and roaming freely in their natural habitat. It also includes a variety of different wildlife and flora, like the native dhok trees. 

Another attraction here is the Ranthambhore Palace, one of the most majestic UNESCO world heritage sites in Rajasthan. The Ranthambore Fort is massive and overlooks the entire park from above offering a stunning sunset and sunrise. There are also many historical and religious sites in this place.

Here’s a guide on homestays in Ranthambore if interested. 

Welcome to the Jungle (Photo Credit – Syna Tiger Resort)

Best Places to visit in South Rajasthan

Bundi

Off the well-worn path, Bundi is another photographer’s delight with the phenomenal landscapes of medieval India. The major attractions from a visit to the ancient city include exquisite temples, sometimes even referred to as the Little Varanasi, ornate step-wells, slender by-lanes, and lively bazaars. Two of the most notable structures are the Bundi Palace and the incredibly built Taragarh Fort. The fort rises on a steep hill directly above the town, giving it the aura of an intimidating old guard watching over Bundi. Explore Badal Mahal inside, visit the ancient baoris (step-wells), sit by the lakes, and marvel at the beautiful architecture.

Kumbhalgarh

In the 15th century, the Gujarati rulers tried to attack Kumbhalgarh and failed quite miserably. Of course, this can be easily ascertained from the mammoth-sized Kumbhalgarh Fort, 36 km perimeter walls, and built 1,100 meters above sea level! One of the largest wall complexes in India and the world, the fort also houses water tanks and intricate Jain temples. Take a horse safari from the fort to the wildlife sanctuary to see leopards, gazelles, and antelopes. Visiting Kumbhalgarh Fort is a great option between Udaipur and Jodhpur.

Udaipur

Udaipur is undoubtedly a major tourist attraction, a romantic city of gleaming lakes and stately palaces that immediately catch the eye. Located amidst the hills of the Aravali range, the ‘City of Lakes’ attracts travelers with its many incredible accommodations of historic palaces converted into heritage hotels. Such palaces surround the famous Lake Pichola, including the marvelous City Palace, built over 400 years ago. In the vicinity, lie the Lake Palace and the Jag Mandir, both marble island palaces that sit majestically atop the lake.

Another attraction near Lake Pichola by the royal City Palace complex is the Fateh Prakash Palace, built by Maharana Fateh Singh. The marvelous Rajasthani architecture, large galleries, the huge tank, and Surajkund, an intricately carved pillar make Fateh Prakash Palace worth visiting.

Nearby is the Fateh Sagar Lake, named after Maharana Fateh Singh. It is the second-largest lake in Udaipur and is divided into three islands. Take a boat ride in this beautiful lake with a view of the Aravalli range surrounding the lake.

Bagore ki Haveli museum is located at the Lake Pichola waterfront. The museum has traditional Rajasthani artefacts on display, along with a cultural show every evening.

To the north of Udaipur is Eklingji Temple, one of the most famous temples devoted to Lord Shiva in Rajasthan. The temple dates back to 734 A.D. The ancient architecture of the double-storeyed temple is brilliant, with pyramid-style roof and intricate carvings.

One can also go horse riding, learn yoga, visit the museums, take cooking classes, or visit the Sajjan Garh Palace. Sajjangarh Palace, also known as Monsoon Palace, offers breathtaking views of the greenery, lakes, and stunning sunsets. The magnificent palace is known as Monsoon Palace because it is a sight to behold during this season.

Udaipur is a very popular destination and rightly so. Staying in the old city on the banks or on the lake is a very memorable experience. Do try the authentic Rajasthani cuisine at the many eateries around the city. You won’t regret including Udaipur to your list of places to visit in Rajasthan.

View from the Elegant Lake Palace, Udaipur (Photo Credit – Utturag)

To get the most out of your time here, here’s a route that includes Udaipur in a quick comprehensive tour of Rajasthan.

Jhalawar

Another royal place in Rajasthan, Jhalawar shares a border with Madhya Pradesh. The city is home to many palaces, religious places, and forts dating back to the medieval period. Explore the Jhalawar Fort, also known as Garh Palace. If you are an art lover, you wil surely appreciate the gorgeous paintings and artefacts present in the palace. Another place to visit is a government museum in the city, along with Virendra Bhawan and Prithvi Palace.

Ahar

Ahar, a couple of km east of Udaipur, can be a quick excursion if you’re interested in a little bit of history. It consists of a large area covered in domed cenotaphs, close to 400, of the Mewar maharajas and queens. It also includes an archaeological museum with relics dating back to before Christ. The cenotaphs themselves are also a wonderful view to take pictures and take a stroll around.

Deogarh

The area is primarily famous for the Deogarh Palace, an intricately beautiful yellow palace now one of the most luxurious hotels in Rajasthan. While Deogarh also has other luxury heritage hotels, the main palace is definitely worthwhile for those wanting to enjoy some alone time. Another spot to visit is the Dashavatara Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu.

Mount Abu

A change from the desert climate of most of Rajasthan, Mount Abu, famous for the Dilwara temples,is the state’s only hill station. Situated at 1722 meters above sea level, Mount Abu is nestled in the lush greenery of the Aravalli range in Sirohi district. Explore the famous Dilwara Jain temples, take a boat ride in Nakki Lake, or check out the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary if you love nature. Enjoy a stunning sunset from the sunset points and gorge on some delicious food from the many restaurants and eateries around Mount Abu. Visit the peace park near Brahma Kumaris headquarters at this hill station. Mount Abu is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan if you need a respite from the heat.

Chittorgarh

Situated in South-Eastern Rajasthan, Chittorgarh is known for its rich culture and the mighty Chittorgarh Fort, renowned for its unbelievable history of the royal family of Mewar. Spanning 700 acres, the historic fort is the largest in India built on a hilltop. The magnificent fortress was under the siege of Alauddin Khilji, who wanted a glimpse of the Queen of Mewar, Rani Padmini. However, before he could ever see her, Rani Padmini, along with the other women in the village, performed a self-sacrificing Jauhar, the ultimate act of courage to stop Khilji’s conquest.

You will need a few hours to explore the fort complex. See the Rana Kumbha Palace and the Padmini Palace, Rani Padmini’s palace in the fort. Rana Kumbha’s palace is the largest structure in Chittorgarh fort. You can also visit the Kalika Mata temple and Meera Temple in Chittorgarh.It is also the birthplace of many historical figures of India like Maharana Pratap and Meera Bai.

Ranakpur

The village of Ranakpur is most famous for its magnificent Jain temple. It’s said to be the most important and beautiful Jain temple in the world. The campus itself contains four separate Jain temples of lightly colored marble. Each of the 1444 marble pillars is distinctively different and supports the immensely intricate carved frame. This masterpiece attests to the skill of the Rajasthani builders and craftsmen of the past.

Marvel at the intricate designs on the Ranakpur Jain Temple (Photo Credit – Volker Glätsch)

Best Places to visit in Western Rajasthan

Jodhpur

The second largest city in the state is Jodhpur, popularly known as the ‘Blue City’ , or ‘Sun City’ of India. Just an extension of the royalty of Jaipur and Jaisalmer, Jodhpur is a very important tourist destination, although somewhat polluted. However, the major attractions in Jodhpur will leave you gaping in wonder at the architectural feats. The Mehrangarh Fort, a massive 15th-century structure sits high above the blue city itself, which is enclosed by thick and tall imposing walls. One of the largest forts in India, Mehrangarh Fort has seven gates built by Maharaja Man Singh to celebrate his victories. At the southern end of the mighty fortress is the Chamunda Mataji Temple, dedicated to Hindu Goddess Chamunda. The magnificent Mehrangarh fort offers a great view of the city.

The beautiful Umaid Bhawan Palace and the Jaswant Thada Mausoleum are another two sites worth visiting. The former was one of the largest residential buildings in the world, and now also one of the best hotels in the world.  Other sites include the blue houses which lend the city its name, the clock tower, and the famously vivid markets, including distinct Jodphuri shoes. The Mandore Gardens, an often-skipped tourist attraction, are home to cenotaphs of the royal house of Jodhpur. You can also visit the ancient town of Osian, which developed from an oasis in the Thar desert, and houses exquisitely sculpted Jain temples. You can also enjoy a desert safari in this old city.

Chandelao

This small town is known for its historical significance, being the home to the dynastic presence of the Chandelao Tikana. Chandelao Garh was built in the late 1700’s as the living palace and quarters for the Chandelao family. Now it’s a beautiful homestay that we’d highly recommend to anyone. It provides an authentic traditional Rajasthani experience and additionally offers a great change to the popular places to visit in Rajasthan.

For more homestays across the state, definitely visit here for more information. 

Jaisalmer

The desert city, aptly named the ‘Golden City,’ commands attention for its generous sprinklings of historic sites and heritage monuments. Jaisalmer’s most interesting monument is the Jaisalmer Fort. A fascinating fact about the Jaisalmer Fort is that a quarter of the population still resides inside the living fort. Set in the sandy expanse of the Thar Desert, it’s the second oldest fort in Rajasthan, built in the early 12th century. It has gargantuan yellow sandstone walls at the top of a hill, making it visible from miles away. This extremely imposing structure only becomes better during the evening when it’s lit. The Laxmi nath temple, dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu, is located inside the temple. The city also has old havelis, Jain temples, and spectacular camel rides in the desert. Patwon ki Haveli is a cluster of five havelis in Jaisalmer, built in the 19th century. Translated as the Mansion of Brocade Merchants, this is the first and largest haveli in the Golden City Jaisalmer.

The Sam Sand Dunes near Jaisalmer are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rajasthan. You can truly take in the Thar desert of Rajasthan by staying in tents and experiencing desert camping under the stars in the middle of the desert. You can also experience camel rides, desert safaris, camel cart rides, folk dance shows and bonfires in the desert. You can see the India Pakistan border in the desert. Visit the Tanot Mata temple, around 120 kms from the city. Attend the annual desert festival of Jaisalmer city, which takes place in February every year.

If you’re looking for another scenic touch to your trip, visit Ramdevra and the Gadisar Lake. Jaisalmer is definitely one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.

Need a little inspiration for a route? Check this trip we planned for a client that included the great Jaisalmer. 

Bikaner

Located northwest in the region, it’s the fourth largest city in Rajasthan, and contains a historical heritage worth mentioning. With extremely narrow streets, it’s best to travel with horse carts. The Junagarh Fort, from the late 16th century, is one of the major forts of Rajasthan not built on a hill. Historically, Junagarh Fort has only been captured once for a one-day occupation, the size of the fort extending almost 6 hectares. Other sites include the Laxmi Niwas Palace, a residential palace to the old kings of Bikaner, the Karni Mata Temple, and the Lalgarh Fort. The city Bikaner is part of the three desert triangle cities, with Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.

The Lalgarh Palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singhji a century ago. A blend of Indo-Mughal architecture, the palace is said to be its architect, Sir Samuel Jacob’s, finest creation. Today, a part of it has been converted into a heritage luxury hotel.

If you are in Rajasthan during January, you should not miss the Bikaner Camel Fest, an yearly camel festival in this desert city. The city is also famous for the Usta and Chadwa art forms, which use floral and geometric patterns in their artwork.

Discover More: Northern India’s 20 Travel Treasures

Wanderlust and desert dust (Photo Credit – Richard McAll)

Things to know before visiting Rajasthan

How to reach Rajasthan

You can explore Rajasthan as a part of the Golden Triangle tour, which includes Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Visit the Red Fort, India Gate, and Lotus Temple in Delhi, get mesmerized by the Taj Mahal in Agra, and marvel at the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur. After arriving in Delhi, one would usually drive to Jaipur via Agra and then start their Rajasthani tour. Alternatively, if you’re flying into Mumbai, one would take an internal flight to Udaipur. Udaipur, Jaipur and Jodhpur all have an active airport. Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport from Mumbai, Delhi, or Agra.

Getting around Rajasthan

Definitely travel by the local trains and buses. However, the state of Rajasthan is incredible to drive through; so try hiring a car and admire the impressive and unique landscape. Occasionally, you can hail a cycle rickshaw – the most environment-friendly option.

Accommodation options in Rajasthan

You can choose from top-notch heritage hotels in old, majestic forts and royal palaces we’ve listed above. Nevertheless, there will also be moderately priced rooms in guesthouses with families. Rajasthan definitely offers the most fantastic range of boarding and lodging options.

What is the best time to visit Rajasthan?

Best time to visit Rajasthan? The winter season from October to March is the peak season for tourism in Rajasthan. With sunny weather during the day and cool nights, it is indeed the best time to visit this desert state. Summers, from the end of March until June, can be scorching hot. It is not the best time to visit Rajasthan, but if you do, make sure you wear sunscreen and drink lots of fluids. The monsoon season is not considered the best time to visit Rajasthan, but we would recommend it if you do not mind a little rain. Since it is a desert state, Rajasthan does not get much rain. So from June to September, the state is beautiful with lush green surroundings. Plus, you will get accommodations at a much cheaper rate!

Read Further: Discover the Best Time to Embark on an Indian Journey

For every head there’s a headgear (Photo Credit – Christian Trachsel)

If you’re truly wondering about visiting India and need some general information, visit here. If you’ve already decided and are now trying to plan it out, let us plan your trip for you!

At India Someday, we plan the ideal trip anywhere in India according to your interests. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us and we will plan a customized trip to Rajasthan for you based on your preferences!