Things to do in Rajasthan

If you are searching for things to do in Rajasthan, you will be spoilt for choice. The royal state of Rajasthan in India is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and there is so much to do here that one trip may not be enough! However, we have tried to enclose some of the best things to do in Rajasthan in this blog. Read on to find out more!

Visit the grand palaces

Rajasthan is the state of the royals, and you will know why when you visit. Rich in history and culture, Rajasthan once was home to many royal families of India, and still is for some. The state has many opulent palaces that will dazzle you with their sheer size and beauty.

The Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is one of the most  iconic palaces of Rajasthan. Translating to “The Palace of Winds”, the structure is built in a way that cool wind always enters the palace and keeps it comfortable in the hot climate of Rajasthan.

The City Palace of Jaipur and Udaipur are two other palaces you must visit. Jal Mahal is a stunning palace floating in the midst of Lake Sagar. Once a shooting lodge for Maharajas, the Water Palace sees a lot of tourists from around the world.

The Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the largest private residences in the world, and a part of it is still home to the royal family of Jodhpur. The other part is a museum displaying the history of the royals.

Hawa Mahal

Explore the mighty forts

The Jaisalmer Fort in the midst of the Thar Desert is also known as the Golden Fort, and rightly so. The sandstone structures with their intricate carvings and beautiful havelis offer a glimpse into the history of the fort. When the sun sets, it casts a golden glow on the fort, making it a sight to behold. The Mehrangarh Fort looks over the blue city of Jodhpur, offering a stunning view of the city. The fort also has a museum showcasing royal artifacts of the Rathore dynasty. The Amer Fort in Jaipur, Chittorgarh Fort in Chittorgarh, and Kumbhalgarh Fort in Kumbhalgarh are some other majestic forts you should visit.

If the majestic forts aren’t thrilling enough for you, how about touring a haunted fort? The Bhangarh Fort in Rajasthan is known to be one of the most haunted places in India. People are not permitted in the fort after dusk, although it is favored during the daytime by curious travelers seeking some thrill.

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur (Photo Credits – Francisco Anzola)

Enjoy a camel safari through the desert

A trip to the desert state of Rajasthan is incomplete without taking a camel ride through the vast desert. The Bikaner desert, Jodhpur, or the sand dunes at Jaisalmer are perfect to experience this. Witness the sun set over the golden sand dunes as you stroll the desert on camelback. A camel safari in the Thar Desert is a bucket list item for many tourists. You can also indulge in cultural activities and local food amidst the desert.

Camel safari

Stay at a heritage hotel

If you visit Rajasthan, you will fall in love with the architectural marvels of the state – its palaces, temples, forts, and havelis. The best part is that you can also stay at many of these structures! Yes, Rajasthan has many heritage hotels you can book for a royal, luxurious stay. The Neemrana Fort Palace is one such heritage hotel with traditional decor complete with modern amenities. The Samode Palace and Devigarh are other heritage hotels in Rajasthan.

Neemrana Fort Palace

Savor the local food

Rajasthan has some delicious food, and you need to try the authentic food of the state while you are here. The signature non-vegetarian dish of the region is Lal Maas, a red meat curry made in a traditional Rajasthani style. Other food items you must try here are daal baati churma, dabeli, pyaaz ki kachori, and Bikaneri bhurji.

 Dal Baati Churma

Participate in adventure activities

If you want an adrenaline rush, Rajasthan has got you covered. Try dune bashing in Jaisalmer – drive through the golden dunes of Rajasthan while you are safely in the car with seatbelts on.

Quad biking is another fun thing to do in the deserts of Jaisalmer. Ride an ATV bike under the strict supervision of a professional.

You can also soar through the sky by parasailing above the magnificent state, getting a unique view of the royal cities. Neemrana and Jodhpur offer zip-lining or Flying Fox for adventure enthusiasts, where you can zip across the region overlooking the mighty fort and lush green landscapes.

The Pink City of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a popular tourist destination. Along with historic forts, palaces, and monuments, the city has also introduced hot air balloon rides. Imagine flying over the gorgeous pink city in an hour-long ride!

Hot air balloon ride (Picture credits: Rajwada Desert Camp)

Go shopping for souvenirs

Rajasthan has many souvenirs you can take back home with you. The state is famous for handmade mojris (shoes), block-print fabrics, ethnic jewelry, unique home decor items, textiles, and so much more. The state is also renowned for miniature paintings. The Hathi Pol Bazaar in Udaipur is perfect for shopping for all these items. Some other famous markets in Rajasthan are Johari Bazaar, Nehru Bazaar, and Kote Gate Bazaar.

Bapu Bazaar, Jaipur

Go on a wildlife safari

Rajasthan is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Perhaps one of the most popular places to spot tigers, leopards and hyenas in the wild is Ranthambore and Sariska National Park. However, the park is also inhabited by more than 300 species of birds, perfect for bird watching.

Bharatpur National Park, also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With varied geographical terrains, the national park is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is especially famous for a pack of 40 wolves that inhabits the sanctuary. There are also many other animals and more than 200 species of birds at this place. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is in Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan.

Raanthambore National Park

Take a boat ride

A boat ride in the many lakes of Rajasthan is a soothing experience. Enjoy a boat ride as it glides across the calm waters of Lake Pichola during sunset. Another beautiful place for a boat ride is the Ana Sagar Lake in Ajmer, with the Aravalli Hills in the background.

There are many other lakes in Rajasthan, and although not all of them offer boat rides, they are beautiful nonetheless. The Pushkar Lake in Pushkar is considered to be a sacred lake, and the water is believed to have medicinal properties. Some other famous lakes in Rajasthan are Fateh Sagar Lake, Nakki Lake, and Gadisar Lake.

Pushkar Lake

Visit the religious places of worship

The Ajmer Sharif, or Dargah Sharif of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer is one of the most renowned Sufi shrines in India. People from different faiths from all over the country come to see this holy place.

Karauli in Rajasthan has many majestic temples, especially the Madan Mohan Ji Temple, known for its detailed carvings.

Among the Aravalli Hills in Mount Abu is the Dilwara Temple, known for the stunning use of marble and intricate carvings. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the temple is beautiful and definitely worth a visit.

Dargah Sharif of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti

Camp in the desert under the stars

The Thar desert in India, is not as expansive as those in the middle east of Africa but it is still a unique experience in every sense. You can camp under the stars in the vast deserts of Rajasthan.  Away from the chaos of the cities, lights, and pollution, you can see clear night skies with millions of stars. The nights are full of Rajasthani musical and dance performances, a beautiful experience like no other.

Camping in the desert

Attend the many festivals

The rich culture of Rajasthan celebrates many festivals throughout the year. No matter when you visit the state, you will always find something to look forward to. The Jodhpur International Kite Festival is a vibrant event with kites of many shapes and sizes flying across the blue sky. It happens during Makar Sakranti on 14-15th January.

Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated in different ways in different regions of the state. Jaipur, Udaipur, and Pushkar are especially famous for their larger-than-life Holi celebrations.

Preceding the Holi festival in March is the Brij Festival in Bharatpur. The Jodhpur Flamenco and Gypsy Festival is a unique blend of Rajasthan and Spain set against the backdrop of Mehrangarh Fort. The Camel Festival in Pushkar every October or November displays the heritage of Rajasthan with adorned camels, parades, traditional dances, and camel races. 

There are many music festivals as well, from the sacred Sufi festival in Jodhpur in february to the famous Magnetic Fields electronic festival in Alsisar every December.

So, what are you going to indulge in once you are in Rajasthan? Let us know! At India Someday, we create personalized trips to India for you based on your requirements and interests. Contact us and we will plan the perfect trip to India for you!

Pushkar Fair

FAQs

What are the best things to do in Rajasthan?

Visit the forts and palaces of Rajasthan like Ajmer fort and City Palace, indulge in adventure activities such as camel safaris and dune bashing, or experience the culture of Rajasthan through its festivals and landscapes – there is a lot to do in Rajasthan!

Which are the famous tourist attractions in Rajasthan?

Ajmer Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, City Palace, Ranthambore National Park, Hawa Mahal, Chittorgarh Fort, and Mount Abu are some of the most famous tourist attractions in Rajasthan.

Which is the best time to visit Rajasthan?

The best time to visit Rajasthan is from November to February, which is the winter season in Rajasthan. The temperatures range from 10 to 27 degrees Celsius during this time, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the majestic state.

How many days are enough to see Rajasthan?

You need at least 6 to 7 days to experience the state of Rajasthan. You can do a small 2-3 days trip and explore one region or one city like Jaipur or Udaipur.