A Monuments Tour to Rajasthan brings out the true essence of Rajput pride, romance, culture and glory. The monuments in Rajasthan reverberate with history of heroism and sacrifice and they are living examples of the royal bygone era of the state. These heritage buildings truly depict the aesthetic sense of the medieval Rajput warriors. The Monuments in Rajasthan India are exemplary embodiments of the glorious architectural heritage of the state.
Jaipur :- Jaipur is the capital city of Indian state of Rajasthan; it is located at a distance of 250 km from New Delhi national capital city of India. This fortified city has many monuments in its bucket; some of them are listed below:
• City Palace : City Palace is the residential house of former Royal family of Amber after the establishment of Jaipur city. It was built between 1729 to 1732 by Sawai Jai Singh II (King of Amber).
• Amber Fort : Amber fort which is witnessed today was built by Raja Man Singh I which was further expanded by Raja Jai Singh I. Amber fort…….
• Jantar Mantar Observatory : Jantar Mantar is an observatory established by great scholar & King Sawai Jai Singh II in 1734. This observatory is a UNESCO world heritage site;
• Jaigarh Fort : Jaigarh fort is referred as the military fort of Kachwah Rajput dynasty. It was built by King Sawai Jai Singh II in 1726 with the motive to…..
• Nahargarh Fort : Nahargarh literally means “Adobe of tigers”. This fort was built by King Sawai Jai Singh II in order to strengthen the military power of Kachwah dynasty;.
Udaipur :- Udaipur was also known as “Lake City” or “Venice of East”; it third largest city of Indian state of Rajasthan; it is located at 400 km from Jaipur state capital city of India. Udaipur was the home of most fierce Rajput warriors; capital city of mighty Mewar Rajput kingdom. Rajputs known for their love for forts, palaces, warfare intelligence & royal lifestyle has embraced this city, hence Udaipur is proud of many palaces & forts which are capable of taking anyone to a ride inglorious past of this pious land; some of them are listed below:
• City Palace : This beautiful palace of Kings of Mewar is situated on the banks of iconic Pichola Lake of Udaipur. City Palace was built by Maharana Udai Singh II (Founder King of Udaipur hailing from Sisodiya Rajput Clan of Mewar) in 1553;
• Jag Mandir Palace : Jag Mandir is a palace built on a natural island in Lake Pichola; the foundation of this palace was laid by Maharana Amar Singh in 1553. This palace has witnessed the infinite number of lavish parties hosted by Kings of Mewar;.
• Bagore Ki Haveli : Bagore ki Haveli is a large museum standing on Gangaur Ghat on the banks of beautiful Lake Pichola in Udaipur city of Rajasthan. It was built by Amir Chand Badwa, the then prime minister of Mewar.
Jodhpur :- Jodhpur is the second largest city of Indian state of Rajasthan, also known as “Sun City” or “Blue City”; it is located at a distance of 350 km from Jaipur state capital city of Rajasthan. In 1459 AD Rao Jodha of Rajput Rathore clan founded this city as a more secure option for his kingdom named as Marwar. Jodhpur has magnificent forts, palaces & monuments which awestruck the tourists; some of them are listed below:
• Mehrangarh Fort : Mehrangarh Fort was built by Rao Jodha( founder of Jodhpur city) around 1460; initially its name was Mihirgarh which literally means fort of God Sun, the name symbolized the connection of Rathore Rajput clan with God Sun as his descendants. It is situated at the height of nearly 125 meters on a hilltop known as Bhaurcheeria;
• Ummaid Bhawan Palace : Ummaid Bhavan Palace is the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur. It is the youngest royal palace built in India.
• Jaswant Thada : Jaswant Thada is cenotaph built in 1899 by Maharaja Sardar Singh of Jodhpur princely state in the loving memory of his father Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, this cenotaph was manufactured using white marble is an extraordinary example.
• Mandore Garden : Mandore is known as the former capital of kings of Jodhpur. Before the founding stone of Jodhpur was laid by Rao Jodha Mandore was the capital of former kings. Mandore garden is a big lush green garden with the monuments.
Bikaner :- Bikaner is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan; it is located at a distance of 340 km from Jaipur state capital city. In 1488, Maharaja Rao Bika son of Rao Jodha (Founder of the city of Jodhpur) hailing from Rajput Rathore clan laid the foundation stone of this city in the barren wilderness known as Jangladesh. Bikaner is home for a unique palace built exceptionally on plain land, unlike its counterparts which were built on hilltops. Some of the monuments are listed below:
• Junagarh Fort : Junagarh Fort is one of the very few forts in Rajasthan that are not built on the hilltop. Junagarh Fort was built in many stages but the foundation stone was laid by founder King Rao Bika of Bikaner; the first complex of existing building was built by another celebrated king in the royal linage named as Raja Rai.
• Lalgarh Palace : Lal Garh Palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, is located at a distance of 8 km from Junagarh Fort. Lal Garh palace was dedicated in the memory of Late King Lal Singh father of Maharaja Ganga Singh.
• Ganga Singh Museum : Ganga Singh Museum is a part of Junagarh Museum; it is locally also known as Ganga Singh Golden Jubilee Museum. A wide collection of weapons like swords, daggers, spears, baghnakha, shields, armors, rifles & pistols are kept for display in this museum. Also a plane.
• Parchina Museum : Parchina Museum doesn’t mainly focus on the arms & armors of Rajput warriors but the emphasis on the lifestyle of royals during that era. A complete range of textiles
Jaisalmer :- Jaisalmer, also known as “Golden City” is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan; it is located at a distance of 600 km from Jaipur state capital city. This largest district of Rajasthan is also claimed as the largest fortress city. There are many monuments in this historical oasis city in between nowhere; some of the monuments are listed below:
• Jaisalmer Fort : Jaisalmer Fort also known as Sonar Qilla(Fort of Gold) was built by Rao Jaisal of Bhati Rajput clan in 1156 AD. The fort is standing proudly in the middle of The Great Thar Desert for centuries. The city of Jaisalmer which was inside this magnificent fortress.
• Jain Temples : Apart from fact that Jain population is very less in Jaisalmer, the Jain temples built here are a perfect example of elegance & architectural craftsmanship.
Famous and most beautiful monuments with rock-sculpture, monolith statues and archaeological sites. The Most Famous Indian Landmarks, prominent monuments and temples includes Sanchi Stupa, Gwalior Fort, City Palace, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Ram Setu, Ghat in Varanasi and Ajanta Ellora Caves.
What are some must-visit monuments in Rajasthan?
Some must-visit monuments in Rajasthan include the Amber Fort, Jaipur City Palace, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, and Hawa Mahal.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Rajasthan?
Yes, Rajasthan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jantar Mantar in Jaipur and the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, which include Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, and others.
What is the best time to visit Rajasthan monuments?
The best time to visit Rajasthan monuments is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant for exploring.
Are there any audio guides available at Rajasthan monuments?
Yes, many Rajasthan monuments offer audio guides in multiple languages to enhance the visitor experience.
Do Rajasthan monuments have entry fees?
Yes, most Rajasthan monuments have entry fees for both domestic and international visitors. However, there may be separate fees for Indian and foreign tourists.
Are photography permits required at Rajasthan monuments?
Yes, some monuments in Rajasthan require visitors to purchase photography permits for capturing images inside the premises.
Are there wheelchair-accessible facilities at Rajasthan monuments?
Some Rajasthan monuments have wheelchair-accessible facilities, but it's advisable to check with each monument individually for specific accessibility features.
Can I hire a guide at Rajasthan monuments?
Yes, visitors can often hire licensed guides at Rajasthan monuments to provide informative tours and insights into the history and architecture.
What are the opening hours of Rajasthan monuments?
Opening hours vary for each monument but generally range from early morning to late afternoon. Some monuments may have extended hours during peak tourist seasons.
Are there any night tours available at Rajasthan monuments?
Some Rajasthan monuments offer night tours during specific times or events, providing a unique perspective of the architecture illuminated after dark.
Are there any restrictions on attire when visiting Rajasthan monuments?
While there are no specific dress codes enforced at most Rajasthan monuments, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Can I bring food and drinks inside Rajasthan monuments?
Outside food and drinks are usually not allowed inside Rajasthan monuments to preserve the historical integrity of the sites.
Are there restroom facilities available at Rajasthan monuments?
Yes, most Rajasthan monuments have restroom facilities available for visitors.
Are there any age restrictions for visiting Rajasthan monuments?
There are typically no age restrictions for visiting Rajasthan monuments, but children must be accompanied by adults for safety.
Are Rajasthan monuments crowded during peak tourist seasons?
Yes, Rajasthan monuments can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it's advisable to plan visits early in the day or during off-peak hours for a more comfortable experience.
