Category Archives: Rajasthan Tourism

Shekhawati Travel Guide

Shekhawati Travel Guide is a region in the Thar Desert, the northern part of Rajasthan. This region is famous for its havelis which comprise of Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Churu. Shekhawati gives a colourful display of Rajasthani culture. As the history entails, Marwari merchant constructed these grand and beautiful havelis.

One will be awestruck by such huge havelis (mansions) which are a home of beautiful art, architecture as well as the commendable fresco paintings. Shekhawati is also known as “Open Art Gallery” and it is because, the showcase of architecture can be witnessed in the havelis which are present out in the open. Those who want to experience the rich heritage of India, Shekhawati can be the best place. Shekhawati Travel Guide is not only home of haveli but it is home of step wells, chhatris and forts build by Shekhawati Rajput rulers and Marwar community. It is undoubtedly a paradise for art and architecture lovers.


History of Shekhawati: a historical place of Rajasthan

The word ‘Shekhawati‘ originated from the ‘Garden of the Shekhas’. It comes from Rao Shekha who was the chief of a tribal community called Barwada. They used to rule in Amer which is currently known as Jaipur.

Rao always maintains a status of a quo and he was the first chieftain who signed a treaty with Amer that made him an independent ruler. Afterwards, the legacy of Shekhawati got linked with the Mughals, British East India Company and the state come under the British rule.

You can find a few strong pieces of evidence of Shekhawati in Marukantar Desha period of Ramayana. As we know that over the 16 mahajanapadas period to Buddha, we can find only two Janapadas like Avanti and Virata in Rajasthan.

Shekhawati was influenced by Avanti and later, it was occupied by Nandas of Magadha. According to some historians, Rajasthan, as well as Shekhawati Travel Guide, was obtained by Mauyas from Nandas. On the other part, during the ancient period, Shekhawati was divided into several janapadas and it was known as Matsya Kingdom.

Every Janapada was a free republic state and this system was developed by Aryan. After Gupta Dynasty, some parts of Shekhawati like, Jhunjhunu, Fatehpur, and Narhar were occupied by the Kaimkhanis, and later the entire Shekhawati region was occupied by Rajputs.

Rajasthan is a place of Rajputs and still, you can find some Rajput families in Rajasthan. It is true that they have lost their kingdom after India’s independence, but they have strong influences in Rajasthan. Shekhawati was founded and ruled by Shekhawat Rajputs, and Rao Shekha from Dhundhar established his independent kingdom with the capital at Amarsar.

After Rao Shekha, Rajasthan, as well as Shekhawati Travel Guide, was ruled by several rulers from the same dynasty as Rao Raimal, Rao Suja, and Rao Lunkaran. In the time of Rao Shekha, Shekhawati was divided into 33 thikanas which was known as Pargana. Each of them had their fort which was structured by mud and later, Rajputs developed some stone embedded forms in these Parganas as their head office. Even a few of them had their flag and emblems.


Architectural Style of Havelis in Shekhawati:

The word ‘fresco’ can be found in Michelangelo’s ‘The Creation of Adam’ and it is described the art of painting done by natural and wet plasters. If you want to explore some fresco arts then you must visit Shekhawati once because here you can find numerous havelis that designed with fresco paintings. Especially, you can find such havelis in Fatehpur, Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu and Mandawa regions of Shekhawati.

Earlier, traders or Bania in Rajasthan used to earn huge loyalty from their business, but they did not invest such amounts for building their own havelis. Rajput kings were wealthy enough to establish some magnificent havelis in Shekhawati and they were structured some havelis with particular theme and motifs Rajasthan Budget Tours.

But, you can find some small mansions made by traders in Shekhawati Travel Guide and these havelis are painted with fresco painting. Ilay Cooper already mentioned such paintings in his books named “The Painted Towns of Shekhawati” and he has written that those unexplored havelis were built by the Bania or traders.

They used to build such small havelis to represent their social status. You can travel through some small villages in Shekhawati to explore such havelis built between 1830 -1930. But, you will get surprised to see the significant proofs of the time machine in these havelis.

Do you know that an aeroplane was painted on the Belgian glass during that time? Even, Lord Krishna and his gopikas were painted with some modern ornaments designed with lapis lazuli and gold. We know that such fresco images were developed by the imagination of the painters, but they have predicted the future through their artworks, which is quite surprising.

Structure of the havelis in Shekhawati share some common layouts and you can find deep influences of Mughal’s artworks in their structures. Most of the havelis have at least two floors and the upper floors of these havelis are designed as an open balcony, which was known as ‘chajja’.

Apart from that, you can find few rooms on the terrace of these havelis and the ground floor of these mansions are designed separately to make a uniform structure.


Places to see in Shekhawati

There are many towns to see in Shekhawati Travel Guide and roam around to witness the beauty of this painted land. Here we have listed the best places to visit in Shekhawati, the main points of attraction in the region are Alsisar, Mandawa, Dundlod, Fatehpur, Ramgarh, Bissau, Mahansar, Khandela, Jhujhunu, Sikar, Khetri, Nawalgarh, Mukundgarh, Bagar, Chirawa and many more…We also covers parts of Churu and other adjoining districts of Shekhawati region where the art and culture attraction points are relevant to the visitors traveling this area of Rajasthan.

Nawalgarh

Nawalgarh was a prosperous town in the Shekhawati region. Thakur Nawal Singh was the founder of this city, and from here itself, the city has derived its name. Thakur Nawal Singh is considered to be the son of Shardul Singh (most successful ruler of Shekhawati). There are a lot of havelis in Nawalgarh with some of them being the Aath Haveli, Murarka Haveli, Khedwal Bhawan, Bhagton ki Haveli, and Anandi Lal Poddar Haveli and these are renowned as the top visited places of Nawalgarh.

Attractive frescoes and mural paintings are breath-taking and actually showcase the talent of workmen who created it. Apart from this Ganga Mai is one famous attraction of Nawalgarh. This temple is dedicated to goddess Ganga. Beautifully carved structure and the astonishing interior are worth visiting. Upper dome (mandapa) is filled with a lot of beautiful paintings.

Sethani Ka Johara

Showcasing the bravery and valour of the wives of warriors, the Sethani Ka Johara has always taken the tourists back to the bygone era. Sethani ka Johara is a reservoir located west to Churu, Shekhawati Travel Guide. All the havelis in Shekhawati region were built in 18th century and early 20th century. This reservoir was built in 1899 by a widow of Bhagwan das Bagla. It was the finest Johara in the area containing sufficient water in it. This attractive Johara not only attracts humans but also a large number of birds. This peaceful place is perfect for spending your evening while you witness picturesque sunset. One can actually spot the reflection of architecture in the water.

Tal Chappar sanctuary

Located in the Churu district of Rajasthan and 250km from Jaipur, Rajasthan “Tal Chappar sanctuary” is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Shekhawati Travel Guide region. It is known for the exquisite birds such as the Blackbug and other variety of birds. The name of this Sanctuary was given after the name of Chhapar village. The whole sanctuary is covered with open grassland and scattered Acacia and Prosopis trees.

Migratory birds visit this sanctuary in the month of September, which includes birds like Montagu’s harrier, marsh harrier, pale harrier, imperial eagle, tawny eagle, short-toed eagle, sparrow hawk, Skylark, crested lark, ring drove, brown dove, blue jay, southern grey shrike, etc. There are two rest houses situated in the sanctuary. It is Perfect home for birds’ lovers. One can spot the desert fox and also the desert cat here. It has become a hotspot among wildlife lovers.

Khetri Mahal

Known as wind palace of Jhunjhunu, Khetri Mahal is proudly situated in the Khetri. Surprisingly this Mahal has no windows still it is known as a wind palace. You can actually have a soothing feeling while exploring this Mahal because of the wind flow. Most of the rooms are connected through arched portals. This Mahal was built in the year 1770. The terrace gives an absolutely breathtaking view of all the buildings of that region.

It was famous for its paintings and murals, now fragments of these paintings are kept in private chamber of Thakurs. Structure of the Khetri Mahal is unique than any other building of that region. One can spot the gigantic Badalgarh Fort from Khetri Mahal which was constructed in the early 16th century. A large portion of the Mahal is covered with pinkish plaster.

Mandawa

Mandawa is a beautiful town of Shekhawati Travel Guide region. It is situated 190km off to Jaipur which is capital of Rajasthan. This town is filled with fort and Havelis. It once functioned as a trade hotspot for the goods from China and the Middle East. There are references regarding the founder of Mandawa and Mandu Jat. This place was known as ‘Mandu ki Dhani’, ‘Mandu ka Bas’ or ‘Manduwas’ which changed to ‘Manduwa’, ‘Mandwa’ and finally to ‘Mandawa’.

Thakur Nawal Singh was the ruler of Nawalgarh as well as Mandawa and magnificent Mandawa fort was built by him in the middle of the town. This fort is presently serving as a heritage hotel. One can experience the era of Lord Krishna after entering in the fort as its gateway is adorned with paintings of Lord Krishna and his cows.

Dundlod

Dundlod is the town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan. The town can be reached by road from Delhi, Bikaner and Jaipur. Dundlod is famous for its forts and havelis, which are decorated by richly fresco paintings. Dundlod fort is the massive Rajputana fort built by Keshari Singh in the year 1750 and later major additions were added by Sheo Singh in the 19th century. Beautiful Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenka is also one of the major tourist attractions here which was built in the year 1888, the dome of chhatri has beautifully carved floral motifs.

War panorama of Mahabharata is described in the paintings of inner base. Apart from the Chhatri, there is Satyanarayan Temple built by the Goenka Family. Dundlod fort can also be called as the most perfect mixture of Rajput as well as Mughal art. The Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of private audience) is decorated with fine antiques and an impressive library, the Zenana quarters are on the 1st floor, featuring furniture and exquisite décor.


Shekhawati Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Shekhawati

You can visit Shekhawati at any time, but it is better to visit during winter. The temperature during winter remains comfortable and this time is ideal for sightseeing. The best time to visit Shekhawati is from October to December.

Else, you can plan your trip during March to explore Shekhawati Travel Guide in moderate temperatures. The temperature during winter (November to February) in Shekhawati ranges 5°C to 28°C. But, you can find extreme heat during summer and the temperature during summer can reach up to 45°C.

Apart from that, you can visit Shekhawati during monsoon (July-September), and you will feel the cool breeze with a pleasant climate in Shekhawati. Check the Rajasthan Tour Packages of Colorful Indian Holidays to plan your heritage trips to the beautiful places in the state including Shekhawati.


How to Reach Shekhawati?

By Air : Saganer Airport in Jaipur is the nearest airport to reach Shekhawati by Air. You can take a bus or taxi to cover the rest of journey from airport to Shekhawati that is covered roughly in half an hour.

By Rail : Jhunjhunu is the nearest city having railway station to reach Shekhawati by train. There are regular trains to Jhunjhunu and Jaipur from rest of the country.

By Road : Jaipur is at the distance of 8 km from Shekhawati Travel Guide that is covered by bus or taxi. There are regular buses from other cities of Rajasthan to reach here. You can also reach by your own car.

Mount Abu Tour Guide

Mount Abu Tour Guide is a very beautiful place located in Rajasthan, India. Located on a high rocky plateau, this city experiences colder climates and offers pretty amazing sceneries. Well connected to other parts of the country, this city has been a popular tourist destination for various adventures and sightseeing.

Located on the beautiful Aravali Plateau, the city of Mount Abu is adorned by lush green forests and loaded with pristine beauty of lakes, architecture of temples and heritage of ancient forts and havelis. Exhibiting the best royalty of bygone times, this city is home to numerous marvels loaded with artistic features and picture worthy craftsmanship. Amidst this enchanting surroundings, the life here is very calm and the locals are friendly as well.

Home to various entrincing landmarks, the Mount Abu city has been exciting its visitors and tourists since ages. Be it the reflection of the starry sky on the Nakki Lake or the flawless ornamental carvings of Dilwara Jain Temple, here you will find some of the best sceneries which will soothe our eyes as well as souls. Here, you will find various serene spots like the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Peace Park, Guru Shikhar Peak, Sunset Point, Abu Road, Trevour’s Tank Toad Rock and many more.

Haven for the adrenaline junkies, the city of Mount Abu tour package has been blessed with beautiful surroundings as well as a plethora of adventures. Attracting flocks of tourists, one can try their hands on a number of adventures here. From camping below the starry nights to rowing the boat in Nakki Lake, Mount Abu Tour Guide is bestowed with some of the best adrenaline rushing activities.


Interesting facts about Mount Abu

  • Mount Abu is a mythologically and historically significant place.
  • It is the spiritual home of the Gurjars and the Rajputs.
  • It is the spiritual base for the Brahma Kumaris.
  • It is Rajasthan’s only hill-station, located along the Gujarat border.
  • Guru Shikhar is Mount Abu’s tallest peak, at about 1722 metres.
  • The Summer, Winter and Gangaur festivals are big annual celebrations.
  • Temples, monuments, nature, wildlife and adventure are the highlights of Mount Abu Tour Guide.

History of Mount Abu

The historical name of the region was Arbudaanchal. Native Gurjar people have resided in the area since 6th century. Rao Lumba of Chauhan Dynasty ended the rule of the Parmars in 1311. Their capital city of Chandravati was eventually shifted to Sirohi. Under the British rule, it was used as their headquarters.

One of the most favored summer destinations in India, Mount Abu Tour Guide is popular not just amidst the Gujaratis and Rajasthanis but visitors from around the world. Often referred to as ‘an oasis in the desert’, its heights are home to a number of rivers, lakes and evergreen forests that have made it a hit destination among honeymooners. In addition to the scenic beauty of the city, Mount Abu tourism takes you deep into the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan housing numerous forts and historical sites. No matter how long you come here for, your trip to Mount Abu will undoubtedly be a memorable one.


Tourist Places To Visit In Mount Abu

Mount Abu is nestled cozily in the Aravalli Range in Sirohi district of Rajasthan. Labeled ‘an oasis in the desert’, Mount Abu is home to a number of tourist attractions that cater to all sorts of tastes, preferences and budget. From Nakki lake, Gurushikhar, Mount Abu wild life sanctuary to the architectural delights like Dilwara Jain Temples, Adhar devi temple, AchalGarh fort, etc, the hill station has it all to keep you interested.

Till a few years back, Mount Abu Tour Guide used to be one of the most talked about holiday spot in the Bollywood movies. Popular daily soaps further highlighted its quintessential charm, and that’s how this ‘once-not-so-known-place’ emerged as one of the sought-after destinations among weekenders and travelers from different parts of the world. Here are the top tourist places to visit in Mount Abu.

Dilwara Jain Temples

This temple is famous for its architecture & history. Located at the distance of approx 2.5 KMs from mount Abu and built by the ministers of Solanki rulers of Gujarat in the 13th century. Dilwara Temple is one of the finest Jain temple known world over for its extraordinary architecture and marvelous marble stone carvings. You will seem this temple is fairly basic from outside but you must hear that every cloud has a silver lining, the interior showcases the extraordinary work of human craftsmanship. Beautiful lush green mountains surrounds the temple which gives you a very pleasant feeling. If you know the value of art then you will spend your many hours just looking at minutely carved ceilings and the pillars.

This temple opens daily even on public holidays and opening time is 12:00 PM and closing time is 06:00 PM. No fees for tourists but Photography is not allowed inside the temple.

Guru Shikhar

Guru Shikhar, a prominent peak in the Arbuda Mountains of Rajasthan, is the highest point of the Aravalli Range. It rises to a height of 1,722 metres 5,650 ft. It is 15 km from Mount Abu Tour Guide and a road from there leads nearly to the top of the mountain. Guru-Shikhar or ‘the peak of the guru’ named after Dattatreya, a manifestation of Vishnu, and a cave at the summit contains a temple dedicated to him, built in the early 14th Century, plus one dedicated his mother, Anasuya, wife of sage Atri nearby.

The Mount Abu Observatory is also located in this place which is under the management of Physical Research Laboratory, and is famous for conducting research and experiments regarding astronomical findings. This makes it a frequented tourist destination and popular all over the country.

Nakki Lake

If you are in Mount Abu, then you can’t skip this lake. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mount Abu. According to Hindu Mythology, this ancient lake was dug out from nails by gods for the protection against the demon ‘Bashkali’. Apart from its mythological story, this lake also named as love lake of Mount Abu. Nakki Lake has a very peaceful and romantic atmosphere around it. Sunset Point, Toad Rock, and the Maharaja Jaipur Palace in Mount Abu are very close to it.

The lake is in the length of about a half-mile and in width about a quarter of a mile and 20 to 30 ft. deep towards the dam on the west. It is also one of the largest manmade lakes at the height of 11,000 meters in India. You can do boating do in this Nakki Lake and timings are 09:30 AM to 06:00 PM. Mount Abu is also known for its relaxed culture and there are several markets and shops near Nakki Lake, known for its souvenirs, sandalwood products, and other handicraft items.

Sunset Point

The Mount Abu Sunset Point is a famous places to visit in Mount Abu, which lies to the south-west of Ionic Nakki Lake. This spot is popular for watching a scenic view of the sunset every day. It has delightful weather throughout the year so you can visit it during any season.

The central point which is famous for its sunset charm is the one at approx 5 to 10 minutes drive and around thirty minutes walking distance from the Nakki Bazar circle, at the southwest of Nakki Lake. Cabs are available on a sharing basis from the city center to this place at a cost of Rs 10/- per person. It is approx 15 minutes ride to a convenient road, from where one has to walk his way up. This cheery trek of 1km may take about 20 minutes to reach. Make sure to reach the place much before the sunset time, to find a good spot for yourself to enjoy the view.


Best time to visit Mount Abu:

Just by virtue of being a hill-station, you know Mount Abu Tour Guide has pleasant weather conditions for most part of the year. Even surrounded by desert down below, the town stays cool in the summers, with light showers in the monsoon and really chilly winters. It’s best to plan a tour during the season that best suits your interests.


How to get to Mount Abu

By Air : To fly to Mount Abu, you have to land 210 km away at Udaipur Airport, or Maharana Pratap Airport as it is also known. All the main domestic carriers have flights arriving here on a daily or weekly schedule from most major cities. Once you land, taxis and buses are available for hire that drive you to the hill-station.

By Road : The roads leading up to Mount Abu Tour Guide are surprisingly well-maintained, so you can easily reach the destina-tion via car or bus. The duration of the journey depends on where your drive begins, but it does offer the advantage of one’s own space and timing. Private and public buses ply the same highways, for which tickets can be booked in advance.

By Train : Arriving to Mount Abu by train is often considered more convenient than air travel, considering you arrive into Abu Road Station merely 28 km from the city. Trains from big cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jodhpur, Kolkata and more, pass by Abu Road, so finding a train is easy from any corner of the country.



Rajasthan Travel Guide

Rajasthan Travel Guide being a vibrant state is a perfect blend of ethnic and modern values. The state is also known as Land of Maharajas as it is home to splendid forts, palaces depicting richness, loyalty and romanticism. Rajasthan tourism has some of the fastest growing cities Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur and these cities are developing rapidly and adopting modernization, but yet they have retained the charm of rich Rajasthani culture. Rajasthan is a perfect place to shop some traditional handicrafts, attires with vibrant colors, ethnic jewelry and lot more.

The land of palaces and forts serves as a great inspiration for the history and architectural marvels. The vibrant culture of Rajasthan depicts the ancient lifestyle of India. The unique classical music and folkdances holds a special place in the heart of locals and tourists also. Rajasthan is also famous for wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. A portion of the notable National Parks in Rajasthan is Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Ranthambhor National Park, Desert National park in Rajasthan Travel Guide.

Rajasthan has been one of the gleaming social gems throughout the entire existence of Indian subcontinent. If you fancy elephant rides then you need to visit Udaipur to have a royal ride on the elephants. And the state has its own methods for entertainment and leisure. Witness the royalty of the state with our Rajasthan tour packages. Along with the culture, architecture, royality and festivals, Rajasthan is also known for lavish hotels and resorts.The state is known for hospitality as Rajasthan tourism welcomes tourists from across the world. To experience luxury to the best, stay at hotels like The Leela Palace Udaipur, Taj Aravali Resort and Spa Udaipur, the Oberoi Udaivilas Udaipur and more.


Jaipur- Travel Guide To Pink City Of Rajasthan

Famous as the one of the most famous cities in India, Jaipur is the gem set in the crown of Rajasthan Tourism. The city is also called Pink City and is considered as the epicenter of cultural wealth. Listed as the first planned city, Jaipur was established on the principal of Vastu Shastra (Indian archeological science).

Jaipur was established on 18th November 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and was christened after him. The capital city of Rajasthan grabs the attention of international travellers and makes this a significant tourist hub in India and in Rajasthan Travel Guide.

The city is compact with vibrant markets that are located in the narrow and bustling alleys. Famous for boasting handicrafts and ethnic items these shops are the best places where you can know more about the culture of the city. Apart from shops, Jaipur is also famous for organizing flourishing festivals and excitingfairs. Teej festival, Jaipur Kite Festival, are some of the cultural festivals in Jaipur. While Jaipur Literature Festival is one of its kinds festival that is considered as the biggest lit fest where, writers, authors, philosopher and philanthropist from all over the world comes under one roof to discuss one various topics, Rajasthan Travel Guide.

Along with the Shops, fairs and festivals, Jaipur is also known for its forts, palaces and historical and heritage sites. Amber Fort is the beautiful fort that is a prominent tourist hub in the city. Hawa Mahal is also a beautiful palace; here people can view the charming view of the city from 953 jharokas of the palace. City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Albert Hall also play a vital role in Jaipur tourism.


Udaipur- Tour Guide To City Of Lakes Of Rajasthan

Venice of the East, Udaipur, is a pleasing place which is visited by thousands of travelers from all over the world. Not only local but the city is also visited by various international travelers every year. The huge forts, majestic palaces and unparalleled beauty of Udaipur are also listed among the most romantic destinations of India. Mostly referred to as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is a perfect place for spending some really mesmerizing time Rajasthan Travel Guide.

The art and architecture of the city are worth exploring. Watching these arts and architecture would give a fine idea of the colorful soul of the city. The place is enchanting and is located in the Aravalli Hills.

Udaipur was established by Rana Udai Singh. The spectacular complexes, gardens, towers and monuments and lakes of the city exhibit the skill of medieval craftsmen. City Palace complex, Saheliyon Ki Bari and Lake Pichola are the most important places in terms of Udaipur tourism. Visiting these places surely will take you to the enchanting fairyland.


Jodhpur- Tourism Guide To Blue City Of Rajasthan

The city of Jodhpur is famous for its blue architecture and the impressive bulk of Meherangarh fort, is gorgeous, captivating and indeed a timeless wonder. It is the city of bazaars, incense, temples, and winding lanes. It is a magical slice of Indian beauty. The second largest city (after Jaipur) in Rajasthan Travel Guide, Jodhpur is an architecture- lover’s feat for sore eyes.

The older historic section of the city of Jodhpur is located around the grand Meherangarh fort, which is bounded by a wall and several gates. Also referred to as “Blue City”, Jodhpur is home to the magnificent Umaid Bhawan palace and Jaswant Thada (also known as Taj Mahal of Marwar). This sprawling city also makes for a perfect getaway from Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, and Mount Abu.

Mostly seen in the backdrop of the movie, the dark knight rises, Jodhpur attracts hundreds of visitors from all corners of the world. Jodhpur is conveniently located in the centre of Rajasthan making it easier for people visiting Jodhpur to explore other destinations to explore other destinations of the state. Present day Jodhpur has developed and extended through its castles, strongholds and sanctuaries are supported vacation spots highlighting delightful engineering supported in the sandy folds of the Thar Desert.

For those wanting to relish the culture and tradition of Jodhpur can best plan their holiday during the fairs and festivals like Marwar festival, Jodhpur kite festival and Nagur Fair. These popular sort of celebrations makes Rajasthan Travel Guide a land of culture and diversity; explore it with our Rajasthan Tour Packages.

The vivid history of Jodhpur in itself defines the vibrant culture and heritage of the place. You will be delighted to discover the mix of the rich ancient Rajasthani culture and modern sophistication. Jodhpur itself is loaded with plenty of exoticness. But it is also surrounded by exciting other Places to visit and Things to do for travelers to experience a perfect weekend getaway.


Jaisalmer- Guide To Golden City Of Rajasthan

Jaisalmer is a major tourist attraction located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan. It is also known as the “golden city” due to its plentiful golden dunes and castles clad in golden honey sandstone. Jaisalmer is embellished with lakes, luxurious Jain sanctuaries and havelis. Jump on to the camel seat and clear your path through this desert or camp under the night sky in this brilliant land for an extraordinary encounter.

The Jaisalmer post remains as a fortification and is encircled by slender rear entryways occupied by individuals living there for ages. With shops selling bright painstaking work and havelis that will make you travel back in time, Jaisalmer is an amalgam of intriguing Indian desert, culture, legacy and experience. Jaisalmer tourism is home to numerous attractions that showcases the magical past of the city. Jaipur is one of the most popular places to visit in Jaisalmer.

The mirage like golden city of Jaisalmer, in Rajasthan’s Thar Desert conjures up images of an Arabian Nights fable. A former medieval trading centre, the most notable characteristic of the town is an abundance of structure built using distinctive yellow sandstone- making any location a picture perfect spot. It attracts many couples, honeymooners and families with its erstwhile royal splendor.

Jaisalmer is a great place to simply wander. The old city was once totally encircled by a broad divider, quite a bit of which has unfortunately been torn away as of late for building material. Some of it remains, however including the city gates and inside them the massive fort which rises above the city is the essence of Jaisalmer. Some of the most popular bazaars in the city one must explore on Jaipur tour package are Pansari Bazaar, Sonaron ka baas, Bhatia Bazaar, Sardar Bazaar and Manak Chowk.

The city is also popular for its local food and dishes like Ghewar, Pyaaz Kachori and Dal Baati Churma. It is one of the largest cities in India and is also home to modern amenities with some of the most lavish and exotic Jaisalmer hotels and resorts. The city has an international airport and is also well-connected by rail and road Rajasthan Travel Guide.


Bikaner- Guide To Heritage City Of Rajasthan

Bikaner is said to be the most colourful of all the cities of Rajasthan. It is not as developed as the other touristy places and that’s probably why it still holds the Rajasthani spirit in its true form and colour. A maze of narrow streets, fort walls and fine old Havelis outline this medieval city. The Karni Mata Temple is believed to be the holiest temple in all of the city. Thousands of rats, who are considered pious, flock and run about the temple and are protected, worshipped and even fed. Rajput art and architecture shines in all its glory in this desert city with forts, palaces and temples modelled with red and yellow sandstone.

Most of the palaces, such as the Laxmi Niwas Palace and Lallgarh Palace have been turned into heritage hotels, where you may consider staying. Amongst all others, the colossal that stands out is the Junagarh Fort. The many palaces, temples in the premises are now preserved as museums and upholds the grandiose lifestyle of the past Maharanas. There are also a couple of notable Jain temples, the famous most being Jain Temple Bhandasar. Starting from Kalbeliya and Ghoomar dances to the taste and aroma of Dal Baati Churma, lehsun ki chutney and the sweetness of ghevar and halwa, from camel rides to sand dune camping, Bikaner is an array of experiences Rajasthan Travel Guide.


Pushkar- Guide To Holiest City Of Rajasthan

Pushkar doesn’t need any introduction for the glory, history and culture that it exhibits. It is one of the ancient cities of the country, located in Ajmer. And it has been largely known for its religious significance as the city boasts of one of the very rare temples of Lord Brahma. The annual cattle fair, the holy lake and a handful of adventure activities and endless emotions to capture on camera- Pushkar has it all for any avid traveler.

The place has a magnetic appeal with 400 temples that are blue white and number of bathing ghats. There are several temples in Pushkar and the most famous is Brahma temple, which is one of the few temples dedicated to Brahma in the world. It is also famous for Pushkar Lake which has 52 ghats. The streets of the town are lined with shops selling everything from tie-dye clothes, the musical instrument and other trinkets for tourists.

The mystical town retains its authentic flavor and charm despite the commercialization. The mountain rang Nag Pahar, which literally means Snake Mountain, separates Pushkar from Ajmer. Pushkar is emerging as one of the popular tourist destinations in India. It is connected to several stories and legends; this place is also amongst the most sacred pilgrim sites. The beautiful architecture legacy and the colorful fairs of Pushkar make it an interesting place to visit. Explore it with our Rajasthan tour packages.

The vivid history of Pushkar in itself defines the vibrant culture and heritage of the place. You will be delighted to discover the mix of the rich ancient Rajasthani culture and modern sophistication. Pushkar itself is loaded with plenty of exoticness. But it is also surrounded by exciting other Places to visit and Things to do for travelers to experience a perfect weekend getaway, Rajasthan Travel Guide.


Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur

Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan is spread over 392 sq km and is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the state where wildlife, history and nature come together. At the center of the park is the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort and scattered nearby are ancient temples and mosques, crocodile-filled lakes and chhatris (cenotaphs). The ruins of past give Ranthambore a unique and refreshing appeal.

Ranthambore National Park has done rather well in conservation of tigers, who are accustomed to human presence making it one of the best places to photograph tigers. The park also boasts of more than 300 species of birds. In 1955, Ranthambore National Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary. In 1980 it got the status of a National Park and in 1984, the north-east and southern forests were declared as Keladevi and Sawai Man Singh sanctuaries.

You can go for nature walks or go bird-watching or simply take a hike or go on a safari. If none of this interest you, pay a visit to the villages around to experience rural Rajasthan Travel Guide culture first hand. Alternatively, you can pack a mini lunch and relax at some nice spots on the outskirts of the park.


Monuments in Rajasthan

Rajasthan Budget Tours

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Rajasthan Special Tours


The Blue City of Jodhpur

The Blue City of Jodhpur The second-largest city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is famously well-known as “Blue City”. It is called so as the old part of the city is painted in blue color. It is also referred to as the “Gateway to Thar” sometimes due to being located in the proximity of the Thar Desert. It is also called as the “Sun City” because the weather in the city remains sunny and humid all-round the year.


Why is Jodhpur called the Blue City?

Jodhpur is known as the Blue City because all of the buildings in the oldest district are painted in a light shade of blue. This district lies to the north of the city and the colour scheme is almost uniform. The best vantage point to view the blue painting of Jodhpur is from the Meherangarh Fort’s battlements The Blue City of Jodhpur.


The Blue City of Jodhpur

Major Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur

There are several forts, palaces, castles, markets, lakes, and temples in the city. All of these together contribute to the popularity of Jodhpur. The city holds great historical importance and is also abundant in terms of culture and heritage. The Rajput chief of the Rathore clan laid foundations of the city. Despite modernism, the city has retained its traditional appearance. It is an epitome of the culture and lifestyle of Rajasthan. The Blue City of Jodhpur One can also see traditionalism in the colorful outfits of the locals.

Apart from the vibrant culture, Jodhpur is also famous for amusement parks, cafes, lounges, and malls. If you wish to join in the fairs and festivals, then visit Jodhpur during the festival season. Some of the most popular fairs and festivals hosted in Jodhpur are Nagaur Fair, Marwar Festival, and Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival. Adventure junkies can also get a fair share by trying hands-on activities like paragliding and zip-lining.


The Blue City of Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort

Surrounded by huge walls, Mehrangarh Fort is situated at a height of 410 feet. Covering an area of about 5 km of the hill, the fort is located in the heart of the hill. The fort features walls as tall as 36 m and as wide as 21 m. counted amongst the largest forts in India, this fort was constructed in 1459 by Rao Jodha. There are as many as 7 gates in the fort, namely Victory Gate, Fateh Gate, Gopal Gate, Bhairon Gate, Dedh Kamagra Gate, Marti Gate, and Loha Gate. It also consists of grand palaces – Sheesh Mahal and Phool Mahal.

The museum also contains some finest collection, which boasts of the glorious past of the region. The Blue City of Jodhpur Besides, there are many temples inside the fort such as Chamunda Temple, Nagnechi Mataji Temple, etc.


The Blue City of Jodhpur

Jaswant Thada

Another architectural wonder in Jodhpur is Jaswant Thada. It is located at a distance of 1 km from Mehrangarh Fort. Maharaja Sardar Singh constructed this cenotaph in 1899 as an honor to his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Carved out of white marble, the site is used as a cremation ground for the members of the royal family till date. Representing the captivating artwork including the portraits of Rathore kings, The Blue City of Jodhpur the royal edifice depicts a lot about the lifestyle of the royals. This cenotaph is also known as the Taj Mahal of Marwar sometimes.


The Blue City of Jodhpur

Mandore Gardens

These gardens are nestled at a distance of 9 km from north Jodhpur. These gardens are famous due to their exquisite architectural work, distinguished memorial, and lush green beauty. This is a perfect point of interest for nature lovers as well as history buffs. The architecture of the cenotaphs is inspired by that of the Hindu temples. The most famous cenotaph is dedicated to Maharaja Ajit Singh. The awe-inspiring charm of gardens and red sandstone structures together make up for the appeal of the site.

Constructed as a dedication to the deities and Rajput fighters, Hall of Heroes also features in the gardens. The artifacts are well-maintained in the museum, which is located in the garden complex. The Blue City of Jodhpur The gardens are worth a visit if you wish to inquire into history amidst the scenic surroundings.


Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park is an environmentally restored area, which has been created out of a barren desert. It is spread across a huge area near Mehrangarh Fort. The park was established in 2006 by making good use of a rocky wasteland. As many as 200 species of flora and fauna take shelter in the park, out of which the most notable ones are Rohido, Hingoto, Kumatiyo in the category of plants while in the category of birds, the most popular ones are the Indian Cormorant and the Great Egret, The Blue City of Jodhpur.

A visitor center is also there in the park to provide information. The park embodies the commitment of the locals towards their environment and culture. The park is considered as one of the major tourist spots in Jodhpur.


Umaid Bhawan Palace

Maharaja Umaid Singh of the Rathore Dynasty constructed this palace in 1943 to employ the inhabitants. Serving as a home to the royal members even today, the palace demonstrates marvelous architecture and is well-known to provide an extraordinary experience to tourists. The palace has as many as 347 rooms and is divided into three portions. One part is prohibited for tourists as it is a residential place to the royal family of Raja Gaj Singh. The second part of the palace has been converted to a five-star luxury hotel.

It is owned by the Taj group. The third part of the palace is a well-stocked museum, which has several articles representing the rich heritage and colorful culture of Rajasthan. The palace is also known as the Chittar Palace as it is nestled on the Chittar Hill. Furthermore, there is a graceful garden containing several varieties of flowers in the palace complex, The Blue City of Jodhpur.


Kaylana Lake

Kaylana Lake is the most famous tourist destination in Jodhpur for nature lovers. Tourists can enjoy a boat ride amidst scenic setting. Adding up to the beauty of the lake are gigantic rocks, babool trees, and elevated hills. Located at a distance of 8 km from the west Jodhpur, it is a man-made lake. The lake was shaped by Pratap Singh in 1872. It is spread over an area of 84 sq. km. The Blue City of Jodhpur The lake is also a perfect place to enjoy bird watching.


Jodhpur Tourism

Jodhpur Tour Packages

Jodhpur Places To Visit

Jodhpur Village Safari

Jodhpur Private Day Tours


Where to go in Rajasthan

Where to go in Rajasthan – Best Places to visit in Rajasthan When does a trip transcend a “holiday” to become “traveling” – something altogether more meaningful that takes you beyond the surface-level experience of the casual traveler?

Tucked away in the north-west corner of this vast country, on the border with Pakistan, Rajasthan is India’s largest state, renowned for the luxurious places and historical hill-forts that punctuate the horizon in virtually every direction. And yet barely any of the Brits who come here yearly stray from the mainstream comfort zones of Jaipur, Jodhpur as well as Udaipur – the last with its clogged streets, net cafés and the gleaming white wall surfaces of the Taj Lake palace hotel, which, situated in splendid isolation out on Lake Pichola, keeps visitors at arm’s length from the “Real” Rajasthan.


Jaipur — The Pink City

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a flamboyant city that never thinks twice before showing off its ancient regalia and beautiful culture. Chaotic, brashy and edgy, Jaipur takes you from timeless bazaars that are as old as the city itself to modern day restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines, from historic palaces and forts whose tales and stories are as famous as their architectural beauty to luxe hotels, in a single day. Also referred to as the Pink City, for the color of its historic buildings, visiting Jaipur is most likely the best way to experience the glorious past of the Mughal Empire Where to go in Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • Witness the city from behind the latticed windows of the most famous Hawa Mahal, the ‘Palace of the Winds’.
  • Fall in love with sculptures in Jantar Mantar, the world’s largest stone-built observatory.
  • Explore the city’s lively bazaars.
  • Get a sweeping view of the city from Amber Fort, when you are done appreciating the fort itself.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is winter (October – March). Daytime temperatures are pleasant, but nights can be cold. During summer (April – June), temperatures can be punishingly hot; the monsoon is from July to September, but Jaipur receives relatively little rainfall. If possible, try to coincide your visit with Jaipur’s elephant festival, which is held in March every year.


Jaisalmer — The Golden City

A city glistening with sand-stone houses, palaces and forts, Jaisalmer is an oasis in the middle of a desert — Thar Desert to be exact. A major tourist magnet, the city is an opulent experience of culture, heritage, architecture and history. While the humongous Jaisalmer Fort is an unmissable sight and a major highlight, the ancient lanes and by-lanes have more enchanting havelis waiting to be discovered with their stories waiting to be heard. The desert city is also the most popular base for camel safaris into the Thar Desert, taking you through undulating dunes, exotic desert scenes, and quite possibly the best sunsets and sunrises you’ll ever see, Where to go in Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • Visit Jaisalmer Fort, lose yourself in the labyrinthine warren of streets and seek out the havelis, extravagant mansions with intricate facades of lattice and floral design.
  • Go on a scenic camel safari into the Thar Desert.

Best time to visit: October, when the weather is at its most amenable, is considered the best month to visit Jaisalmer. Summer (April – July) is unbearable, with temperatures in the high 40s. Monsoon season (August – September) doesn’t always see a large amount of rain, but the humidity is unpleasant.


Where to go in Rajasthan

Udaipur — The Lake City

Udaipur, the land of lakes and palaces, really doesn’t need any introduction. Famous as the most romantic city in the country, Udaipur’s landscape always leaves you mesmerized. With neighbors like the serene Lake Pichola and the beautiful Aravalli hills, who wouldn’t feel beautiful and special! The city is dominated by its two prized jewels – the Lake Palace, an alluring palace-cum-hotel for the filthy rich, and the City Palace, an architectural jewel – but it also presents a fascinating art scene, old-world experiences, historic bazaars and tranquil boat rides.

You could also spend your time exploring the 14th century Jain Temple of Ranakpur, considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in India, and enjoy a unique Light and Sound Show at the Kumbhalgarh Fort. Rajasthan Tour Planner recommends you to try and visit the Shilpgram crafts fair held in Udaipur each year. Rajasthan is famous for its handicrafts and textiles, and Shilpgram is one of the best destinations to see some of the best embroideries, hand-woven clothes and camel leather work, Where to go in Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • Visit the City Palace,
  • admire the serenity of Lake Pichola and watch Octopussy in one of the restaurants while you have a drink or a meal – part of this James Bond film was filmed in Udaipur, and most places have it playing on a loop.

Best time to visit: Try to visit in winter (October – March) when days are warm, and nights are cold. Summer (mid-March – June) is uncomfortably hot; the monsoon season (July – September) brings occasional heavy rain, thunderstorms and dust.


Where to go in Rajasthan

Jodhpur — The Blue City

Huge fortress walls rise in stark contrast to the enchanting Thar Desert to protect the ancient city of Jodhpur, yet another Rajasthani gem famous for its palaces, temples, forts and bazaars. The majestic Mehrangarh fort is perhaps your first introduction to the city. After all, looking beyond its architectural brilliance can prove to be difficult. But, your best experiences in the ‘blue city’ are always found in its historic streets and lanes, Where to go in Rajasthan.

Other places of interest include the Umaid Bhawan Palace, famous for its collection of vintage cars, murals, miniature paintings, clocks and art-deco interiors, and Jaswant Thanda, a beautiful memorial dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Before leaving the city, make sure you spend some time in its ancient bazaars and purchase some of those breathtaking antiques, carpets, textiles, leather goods and figurines.

Highlights

  • Meherangarh Fort, perhaps Rajasthan’s most impressive and imposing, is the main draw here.
  • The maze of streets in the old town is also worth exploring for a taste of traditional life in the city. The view of the old city from above is also not to be missed.

Best time to visit: The winter (October – March) is the best time to visit, and during this period there are several interesting festivals — bring warm clothes as temperatures are occasionally chilly. Daytime in summer (April – July) is hot, but evenings can be cool and pleasant. Monsoon season (July – August) is cooler than summer and less busy, but during this period, the city sees moderate rainfall.


Where to go in Rajasthan

Ranthambore National Park — The Lure of the Tigers

Ranthambore is one of India’s best-known and most visited national parks. There is one good reason for this — although tigers are not present here in great numbers, they are well-accustomed to humans and tend to ignore the busloads of tourists, making them particularly easy to spot. Apart from the tigers, the park is characterised by evocative scenery and an abundance of other wildlife, making it well worth a visit, Where to go in Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • While never guaranteed, you have a good chance of spotting a tiger in the wild here.
  • The park is also home to many other species, including leopards, striped hyenas, sloth bears and crocodiles.
  • The 10th-century UNESCO-listed Ranthambore Fort, for which the park is named, is also recommended.

Best time to visit: The park is open from October to June, but the best time to see tigers is from October to March. November is considered the best month of all.


Where to go in Rajasthan

Pushkar — The Holy ‘Lotus’ Town

Pushkar feels entirely unique. Famous as a pilgrimage town, Pushkar revolves around an ancient lake which is believed to have appeared when Lord Brahma dropped a lotus. The town is also known to be one of the few destinations in the world having temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. That said, Pushkar’s popularity on the international stage is mostly because of the grand Pushkar Camel Fair, considered to be one of the most popular events in India.

The fair attracts close to 200,000 people and 50,000 camels and it acts as a stage for the locals to buy and sell horses, cattle and camels, and become a part of traditional sporting events and mustache competitions. Where to go in Rajasthan Tourists can have a blast exploring the unique scenes, taking part in exciting desert activities and exploring the Indian culture at its beautiful best.

Highlights

  • The largest camel mela (camel market) in India is held annually just to the west of Pushkar.
  • Two of the most unique are the Brahma Temple and the Savitri Temple.

Best time to visit: In terms of weather, the best time to visit is in winter (October – March) when temperatures are pleasantly cool. However, this is also the busiest time, especially during the mela, which takes place over 14 days around the full moon of November. The hotels are also at their most expensive. Summer (April – June) is uncomfortably hot; the monsoon season (July – September) is wet but can be fun since there are fewer tourists.


Where to go in Rajasthan

Bikaner — Gateway to the ‘Rat Temple’

First impressions of Bikaner are not always positive. It is a crowded and noisy commercial city that receives far fewer visitors than the better-known tourist destinations in the state, and those making their way here can find it all rather overwhelming. However, if you dig a little beneath the surface, there are more than enough attractions to keep you busy for a few days. Bikaner is also the best base from which to visit the infamous ‘rat temple’, one of Rajasthan’s most unusual sights, Where to go in Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • Junagarh Fort, containing fine decorations along with diverse curios and artefacts.
  • Karni Mata temple, about 20km south of Bikaner — this temple houses hundreds of venerated rats believed to be reincarnated souls, that run free throughout the building.
  • Bikaner is also an alternative base for Thar Desert camel treks.

Best time to visit: Winter (October – March) is the best season since the weather is cool and dry, although nights can be cold. Summer (April – June) is best avoided due to excessive heat. During the monsoon season (July-September), Bikaner receives moderate rainfall and humidity is high.


Jaipur Tour Planner

Udaipur Tour Planner

Jaisalmer Tour Planner

Pushkar Tour Planner

Jodhpur Tour Planner

Bikaner Tour Planner


UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan

UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan Four World Heritage Sites can be found in Rajasthan, India’s westernmost state. It’s also one of India’s most picturesque and well-known areas. Rajasthan’s UNESCO sites offer a wide range of experiences, from crowded cities to beautiful Mughal palaces. So keep reading for our guide to Rajasthan’s World Heritage Sites! Rajasthani culture is distinct in every way, from its cuisine to its dress sense. Many notable forts and palaces, as well as wildlife sanctuaries and other attractions, have attracted thousands of visitors, and some have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The region still has a variety of historical monuments from the Rajput and Mughal periods. Ancient majesty and magnificence are evoked by such historical monuments. The mood and atmosphere of these sites are reminiscent of the country’s Royalty under Mughal laws, which is difficult to duplicate nowadays. As a result of their unparalleled beauty and grandeur, UNESCO has designated some of these sites as UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.


Amber Fort

Amber Fort, located on a high hill, is one of Raja Shri Mann Singh Ji I’s most spectacular forts. Amber Fort’s aesthetic style is a mix of Hindu and Rajput features, making it one of the most well-known forts in the world. The mosaic work in the Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas, also known as the Public Hall and Private Public Hall, is exquisite. A Sukh Niwas or Sukh Mandir is also one of the top locations to UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.

Water channels stream through the gorgeous architecture into the hall, carrying cool water with a little aid from the breeze, which acts as an air conditioner. Sandalwood and ivory are used to make the doors. There’s also Sheesh Mahal which is beautifully placed on its wall with thousands of glasses. The famous Sheesh Mahal was designed to please the Queen as she enjoyed seeing the shining stars so the King ordered its architects to create it special. It’s made in such a way that if you burn two candles then the entire palace turns into emitting lights that turn into thousands of stars making it a great sightseeing spot and popular among tourists, UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.


Jaisalmer Fort

The Jaisalmer Fort, one of the greatest forts built by Bhati Rajput Ruler Rao Jaisal and known as Sone ka Quila because of its splendid appearance, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan in the Thar Desert. The most popular tourist sites in Jaisalmer are located on Trikuta Hill, which has seen numerous conflicts. Built from huge sandstone that looks with the Sunrise and Sunset in different shades and colors, and has a good mix of Islamic and Rajput architectural style that makes it distinctive.

The Jaisalmer Fort has four entrances on the outskirts of the town which makes it easily accessible and the entrances used to be guarded by the Canons during King’s rule. Jawahar Palace is one of the most magnificent palaces within the fort which was the royal families’ residence. Raj Mahal, Jain, and Laxmikanth temples are popular sightseeing spots here. There are also many families residing in the fort’s premises, and nearly one town is inside the fort.


Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the largest forts due to its massive construction and long fortifications that extend over an area of 36 km and is said to be the second-longest wall in the world, after the Great Wall of China. There are many palaces, gardens, and temples that add to its beauty and make it one of the best places to see in Rajasthan. The fort of Kumbhalgarh was founded in the 15th Century by Maharana Rana Kumbha from which it derived its name. It is built to an altitude of 1,914 meters above sea level.

The other major attraction Rajasthan tourism highlights is that it has no less than 360 temples located inside the fort. Shiva temple is worth a visit here and is one of the best places to visit. It is one of India’s great vacation destinations because it also has the Badal Mahal or the Cloud Palace. This also said it was Maharana Pratap’s birthplace. The palace is very stunning with a perfect mix of turquoise, green and white paint that adds charm and splendor UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.


Chittorgarh Fort

The first one on the list of UNESCO world heritage of Rajasthan is Chittorgarh Fort. The fort of Chittorgarh stands as a testimony of the architecture of Rajputana and is known among the people because of its massive structure. Bhima, who was one of the Pandavas Brothers during the Mahabharat, built this Chittorgarh fort in one night, according to mythology. Perhaps notably, it has been designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is also called the Water Fort since many water bodies are found inside the premises. It was said earlier that it had 84 bodies of water but now 22 exist and it is said that an army of 50,000 soldiers could stay there without the thirst for water for four years.

Rajasthan tourism promotes it as one of the best places for sightseeing and perfect for family vacations as well as adventure vacations. It is one of the places that must be seen and can be reached via a one-line mile-long serpentine road that leads to the fort, UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.


UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan

Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory designed by Prince Jai Singh II who built it to learn more about the concept of astronomy and cosmology. There are many instruments built there and it was the prince himself who had a deep interest in astronomy and cosmology that was scholarly. Designed for observing celestial bodies with naked eyes, and instruments such as sundial and numerous others are available that help to get the exact positions of stars and others. It is therefore fitting that it was designated one of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.

A great example of an observatory that exerts a profound celestial impact on medieval people. It has a very comprehensive set of astronomical devices and is located in the heart of Jaipur city making it easy for tourists to get to.

Every year thousands of tourists visit the famous observatory some of them are the largest ones installed in this group. It has been demolished and repaired several times, but it has now been fully restored, making it a spot that must be visited UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.


UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan

Ranthambore Fort

Ranthambore Fort is situated at Ranthambore National Park in Sawai Madhopur Rajasthan and from the fort, the park has its name. Although the test of the time has stood in ruins these days but is still famous as some of the parts, and they are still intact making it a UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan. Regularly spotted here was the famous tigress Machli who was the most photographed and died at the age of 19. She was also known as Ranthambore’s Queen because of her sheer power and beauty.

When we speak about the Ranthambore Fort, at a height of 700 feet, it is situated 5 km inside the city, on a hill. The Chauhan dynasty Rajput King Sapaldaksha laid the foundation stone of this fort and later many other Kings contributed to the fortification but Rao Hammir Deo Chauhan played the major role and there is still a major tourist attraction to honor his contribution 32 pillar canopy. It is the best sightseeing spot for adventure holidays and nature tours because several species are often seen here, including the much-awaited wild cat, UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.


Gagron Fort

Gagron is an area which has seen the huge fearlessness of Khinchi sovereigns/ patrons and the ideal sacrifice of the lives of Royal Rajput ladies as they performed the act of ‘Jauhar’. The region was at once the pre-eminent city in the Malwa region long before the popular urban communities like Bundi, Kota, and Jhalawar.

Located 12 km away from Jhalawar city, Gagron Fort is among the impressive medieval forts in Rajasthan. One among the six forts of Rajasthan, listed in UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan. It is a heritage fort covered by water on three sides & a thick forest on the other side.

It is the only glorious hill & water fort in Rajasthan which is on the banks of the meeting points of two rivers named Kalisidh & Ahu. This gigantic fort dots the landscape of royal Indian state attracting swarms of tourists every year. Built by the Doda Rajputs in the 8th century & was again rebuilt until the 14th century, the majestic fort was seized by the Chauhans in the 12th century. It is a place lesser known to the mainstream tourists & hence apart from peace and quietness. Thus, it is an iconic fort of Hadoti region UNESCO World Heritage site in Rajasthan.


World Heritage Sites

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Monuments in Rajasthan


Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu

Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu, is located in the Aravalli Mountains. This makes it a popular getaway for vacationers in the region, as it promises respite from the desert heat. Apart from the conventional ‘hill station activities’, there’s a lot of sightseeing that can be done in Mount Abu.

The Dilwara Jain Temples, located about 2 kilometers from here, are a respected pilgrimage destination for Jains in the region and across India. The Dilwara Jain temples are located in the lap of nature, surrounded by the canopy lush green hills and mango trees. According to historical records, these temples were built between the eleventh and the thirteenth century AD. Along with a regular influx of tourists that is steadily increasing, it is visited every year by devout Jains. The white marble temples are said to be a dedication to Jain saints.

When viewed from a distance, one might wonder why these temples are respected so much for their beauty. Though the temples seem to be ordinary from the outside, it’s only when one steps inside them will one be able to marvel at the feats of artistry. The incredibly ornate marble stone carvings and the precise engraving on the temple ceilings and pillars are a photographers’ delight Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu.

The ceilings feature ornate gold leaf work, and one will possibly need to zoom in with a pair of binoculars (photography is forbidden inside the temple complex) to appreciate the finer details of the ceiling paintings. The paintings depict the stories of Jain history and mythology. Open between noon and 3 pm, the entry to these temples is free. While there are other Jain temples across Rajasthan, the Dilwara temples are unmatched in their architectural perfection.

They are not only monuments – but fully functional temples that see hordes of Jains come to offer regular prayers. The temples have facilities for bathing, a necessary pre-requisite to the performance of ‘puja’ (prayer). In the winter months, the bathing facilities are heated by solar power for bathing, Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu.


HISTORY

There is only hill station in Rajasthan name : Mount Abu. Here a beautiful huge temple is situated, which is famous in the world with name of The Dilwara Temples located about 2½ km from Mount Abu, These Jain temples were built by Vimal Shah and designed by Vastapul-Tejpal, Jain laymen, between the 11th and 13th centuries AD and are famous for their use of marble and intricate marble carvings and architecture. The five marble temples of Dilwara are a sacred pilgrimage place of the Jains.

Some consider them to be one of the most beautiful Jain pilgrimage sites in the world. The temples have an Rich entranceway, the simplicity in architecture reflecting Jain values like honesty and frugality. The temples are in the midst of a range of forested hills. A high wall shrouds the temple complex, Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu.

This is one of the most beautiful example of architectural perfection The ornamental detail spreading over the minutely carved ceilings, doorways, pillars and panels is simply marvelous.There are so many small temples in Dilwara of all Jain Gurus.


Interesting Facts About Dilwara Temple Mount Abu

  • The Jain Dilwara temple complex is located 2.5 km from the Mount Abu town centre
  • It is a major sacred pilgrimage site for Jains worldwide and is Mount Abu’s most popular attraction
  • The temple complex is set in beautiful surroundings of mango trees and wooded hills – a walk around the complex is worth it
  • The Dilwara temples predates the town of Mount Abu by several centuries and was built when this site was just a remote mountain area
  • The complex contains five Jain temples which are known worldwide for their superb marble carvings
  • Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi temples are the most famous among the five Jain Dilwara temples
  • It is believed that the artisans were paid according to the amount of dust they collected, encouraging them to carve ever more intricately

Dilwara Jain Temple Timings:

CategoriesTimings
For Jain Community6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
For Non-Jain Community12:00 Pm to 6:00 PM

Dilwara Temple Attractions

Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu are among the famous pilgrimage sites for Jains which is also visited by a number of people from various religious sects. These temples are known for their architectural splendor. Set amidst picturesque hills, these shrines are carved out of white marvel. They are known for their carved ceilings, entryways, pillars and panels. The five shrines of the temple are dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, Lord Mahavir Swami, Lord Adinath, Lord Neminath and Lord Rishabhdeo.

The well known temples of this place are Vimal Vasahi Temple, Luna Vasahi Temple, Pittalhar Temple, Parshvanatha Temple and Mahavir Swami Temple. All these temples are known for their unique identity in terms of architecture, construction and decoration. The Vimal Vasahi Temple is the most grandiose one.

The Vimal Vasahi Temple

Carved entirely out of white marble, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rishaba. It was built in 1031 A.D by Vimal Shah, a minister during the reign of the Chalukya king Bhima I of Gujarat. This spectacular shrine is situated in the middle of a spacious courtyard surrounded by a corridor. Several smaller shrines within the premises house Idols of the Tirthankaras. The corridors, pillars, arches and mandaps of the temple feature intricate carvings which are strikingly beautiful.

The ceilings are replete with carvings depicting Jain mythological images and several engraved designs of various flowers. The elaborately carved nine rectangular ceilings of the Navchowki are supported by ornate pillars. The idol of Adinath (Lord Rishabdev) is installed in the Gudh Mandap and Aarti is performed here for the deity. The temple also features a Hathishala (Elephant courtyard), which was built in 1147 to 1149 A.D. Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu This is adorned with several intricate sculptures of Elephants depicted in rows.


The Luna Vasahi Temple

Built in 1230 A.D by the Porwal brothers, this spectacular temple is dedicated to Lord Neminath. The Luna Vasahi temple was built to commemorate the memory of their late brother and the design is similar to that of the Vimal Vashi temple. The spacious main hall is topped with a central dome with a huge decorative pendant hanging from the ceiling. Located within the hall are the 72 figures of Tirthankaras, which are depicted in a seated position and arranged in a circular fashion. Below this are the 360 small figures of Jain Monks also arranged in a circular band. Ten beautifully carved and polished marble images of Elephants are also found in the Hathishala.

Elaborate and beautifully carved marble stone work adorns the Navchowki and the nine ceilings are truly a sight to behold. A black marble Idol of the 22nd Tirthankar, Neminatha is installed in the Gudh mandap, which also features a black stone pillar on the left side Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu .


The Pittalhar Temple

Built by Bhima Shah, a minister in the royal court of Ahmedabad, the Pittalhar temple is an impressive structure. The Idol of Lord Adinath installed here is an alloy of five different metals, with brass being the main element. Hence the temple takes the name Pittalhar, which means brass. A Garbagriha, Gudh Mandap and Navchowki are the other predominant structures in the shrine. Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu Some portions of the temple were built in 1474 and 1490 A.D, after which construction was abandoned due to some inexplicable reasons.


The Parshvanatha Temple

Built by Mandlik and his family in 1458-1459, this majestic temple is dedicated to Lord Parshvanath. This three-storied structure is the tallest among the complex of temples found in Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu, with all four faces of the Sanctum on the ground floor featuring four large mandaps. Beautiful sculptures depicting Dipkals in gray sandstone adorn the outer walls of the Sanctum. Several other decorative sculptures portrayed here rival those of the Khaujuraho and Konark temples in sheer beauty and grace.


The Mahaveer Swami Temple

This relatively small structure was constructed in 1582. Dedicated to Lord Mahavira, this shrine is a masterpiece of architecture and its walls are adorned with beautiful carvings. The upper walls of the porch feature ancient images painted by artists from Sirohi in the year 1764 Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu.

These architectural marvels of the Jain community have undergone extensive repairs periodically. Ravaged and plundered by Muslim invaders on many occasions, these temples were restored and repaired by Hindu philanthropists several times. The indomitable spirit shown by these individuals has ensured the survival of these sacred temples to this day and hopefully they will remain for posterity as a tribute to the followers of the Jain community.


Other Tourist Places to Visit in Mount Abu:

  • Nakki Lake
  • Guru Shikhar
  • Toad Rock
  • Universal Peace Hall
  • Sunset point
  • Government Museum
  • Champa Cave

Best Time to Visit

The temples are open to visit from 12:00 pm to 03:00 pm all year long. Being a hill station, the climate is usually cool except for the summer season. In winters, the temperature falls to as low as -2 to -3 degree centigrade. During monsoon, moderate to heavy rainfalls are recorded, and it is advised that you carry an umbrella and raincoat to avoid getting caught in the spells, Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu .


How to Reach Mount Abu:

By Air: Nearest Airport to Mount Abu is at Udaipur, which is 185 km from Mount Abu. But I will suggest you for Ahmedabad airport as it has good connectivity and daily flights with other major cities of Gujarat. From Udaipur or Ahmedabad, you can easily get the privates Taxis or Buses for Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Mount Abu is at Abu road, the distance between Mount Abu and Abu Road is about 28 km. One can easily get the taxis and buses from Abu Road to Mount Abu.

By Road: Mount Abu has very well connected by road with major cities of the country. So, Tourists can easily reach Mount Abu by road.


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Religious Places Rajasthan


Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan

Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan carries the royal beauty of ancient times. Cities In Rajasthan are perhaps the magical land where history still talks about the long story saga. Rajasthan is a combination of lovely traditional cities with a rich culture and heritage. Each city in Rajasthan has its own distinct culture and colour. Jaipur is known as the Pink City, Jodhpur as the Blue City, and Jaisalmer, the desert city, is known as the Land of Sand.

Rajasthan was formed after independence by merging the princely states of Jaipur, Marwar, Mewar, Kota, Bundi and Bikaner. All these princely states were no bigger than the cities of today. Rajasthan today is a popular tourist state because of the presence of large number of forts, palaces and havelis in each city which were once the princely states. During the British rule, the region was popularly referred as Rajputana.

Visiting the cities of Rajasthan is like unravelling the pages of history one by one. Each and every monument narrates its story of glory, victory, defeat, conquest, chivalry and conspiracies. You begin exploring them and you realize how short your trip is for a complete coverage. A number of museums and other monuments also dot the land of these cities of Rajasthan, waiting just to reveal more of such stories.

It is not only the forts, palaces and architectural heritages that attracts visitors to Rajasthan. Many areas of the Rajasthan offers lot of adventure options such as wildlife, jeep safari, elephant safari and most attractive of all camel safari on Thar Desert which can be enjoyed from the cities of Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur in Rajasthan. Go through the city links below to know more about the attractions of each of the Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan.


Jaipur

The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the biggest city in this princely region. The beautiful pink and saffron colored buildings delivered this city its name as the ‘Pink City.’ The well-planned layout, artistic and unique architecture of the region was done according to the Vedic Vastu Shastra, and this also makes it one of the most preferred tourist destinations.

According to a recent travel survey, Jaipur was ranked as the 6th of the most amazing places to visit in Asia. Even an average tourist can enjoy a marvel time in the city. Temples, forts, gardens, monuments, museums and extensive marketplaces of the city offer great treats to tourists who visit from all across the world. With unique specializations, the place has lots to offer when it comes to art and craft Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan.

Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, City Palace Museum, Archaeological Museum, Nahargarh Fort and Chittorgarh Fort are some of the finest places in the city. If you wish to enjoy the monsoons then you can visit the city during July-August, or otherwise October – February is the best months to visit the region.

Places to Visit

  • City Palace
  • Amer Fort
  • Nahargarh Fort
  • Jaigarh Fort
  • Hawa Mahal
  • Jal Mahal
  • Jantar Mantar
  • Pink City Bazaars
  • Albert Hall Museum
  • Galtaji
  • Birla Temple
  • Govind Dev ji Temple

To learn more about the tourist places in Jaipur, please visit: places to visit in Jaipur. You might want to plan a separate 3 day itinerary for this city alone.


Jodhpur

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan, is fondly known as the “Blue City”. It blends the modern with the traditional in a beautiful way. As a tourist, you have much to look forward to here. However, the most dominating sight here is that of the Mehrangarh Fort, which overlooks the rest of the city. Not only is the fort an explorer’s paradise, but it offers spectacular views of the city from the top. It also plays host to the Jodhpur Flamenco and Gypsy Festival, which celebrates the gypsy culture of Spain and Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan.

Jodhpur is home to several tourist attractions. One of these is the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the only palace built in the 20th century and recognized as one of the private homes in the world. The other attraction is the Jaswant Thada, the milky white memorial built towards the end of the 19th century as a tribute to the leader Jaswant Singh. Take a zip lining tour, also called the Flying Fox, which provides you an aerial view of the Mehrangarh Fort, besides the several landscapes of this beautiful city. For a unique experience, take a Bishnoi Village Safari. The safari provides a glimpse of the cultural life of the Bishnoi villagers.

Places to Visit

  • Mehrangarh Fort
  • Umaid Bhawan Palace
  • Jaswant Thada
  • Mandore Gardens
  • Kailana Lake
  • Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
  • Clock Tower
  • Chamunda Mata Temple
  • Balsamand Lake
  • Masuria Hills Garden

To learn more about the famous tourist places in Jodhpur, please visit: places to visit in Jodhpur.


Udaipur

Udaipur sure knows how to do thing in style and with the utmost grace. One of the most iconic sights associated with this “lake city” of India is the sight of the serene waters of Lake Pichola. On its glistening waters floats Lake Palace, an 18th century structure widely built of pure marble. Needless to say, it sets the most romantic setting.

The City Palace is worth checking out during the daytime. It’s filled with tiny passageways that lead to wonderful courtyards and enclosures. Some of the other places of interest are the incredible Jain Temple of Ranakpur and the Fateh Bagh Palace, which now exists as a heritage hotel. For a perfect nighttime dinner, choose a rooftop restaurant here (you will find several of them in close proximity to the City Palace), and enjoy the incredible views of the city.

To witness the folk music and dance of the region, head to Bagore-Ki-Haveli which showcases dancers and artists from all over Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan. If you are a lover of vintage cars, check out the vintage and classic car museum, which features some of the rarest and vintage cars. Happen to be a music lover? Then, the Udaipur World Music Festival is just for you.

Places to Visit

  • City Palace
  • Lake Pichola
  • Lake Palace
  • Lake Garden Palace
  • The Royal Vintage Car Museum
  • Bagore Ki Haveli
  • Saheliyon Ki Bari
  • Jagdish Temple
  • Shilpgram
  • Moti Magri

To learn more about the popular tourist places in Udaipur, please visit: places to visit in Udaipur.


Bikaner

Bikaner, located in the northern region of Rajasthan, is famous for its forts, temples and camels. It holds the distinction of being only one of the two models used by the British during World War 1. Home to some of the world’s best riding camels, it’s also known as camel country.

On a holiday to Bikaner, you should visit the Junagarh Fort. Constructed in 1588 AD, its famous as a fort which was never captured. The other place worth checking out is the National Research Center on Camel. Located about 8km from the city, it’s the only one of its kind in Asia. Laxmi Niwas Palace, built between 1898 and 1902 by British architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, now functions as a luxury hotel.

For a “ratty experience”, head to the Karni Mata Temple, the temple where rats as venerated as gods. The highlight of your visit to Bikaner, however, is the Bikaner Camel Festival. An annual festival dedicated to the “ship of the desert”, it hosts events such as camel races, camel licking and camel beauty pageants, besides others, Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan.

Places to Visit

  • Junagarh Fort
  • Lalgarh Palace
  • National Research Centre on Camel
  • Shri Laxminath Temple
  • Ganga Singh Museum
  • Sadul Singh Museum
  • Jain Temple

To know more about the main tourist destinations in Bikaner, please visit: places to visit in Bikaner.


Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, carries a magical aura about it. A camel safari into the desert through the sand dunes forms part of the quintessential Jaisalmer experience, and in itself, is one of the top reasons to visit Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan. Camping in the midst of the seemingly endless desert, with the twinkling stars above and the gentle whisper of the wind keeping you company, it all sounds like a setting from the Arabian Nights.

However, desert safari is just one of the experiences in store for you here. There is the Jaisalmer Fort, which has allured visitors with its sand colored walls along with an old museum which tells stories of the royalty. Besides, this desert city is also dotted with elegant and fabulous havelis built by wealthy merchants. One of the most famous of these is the Patwon-ki-Haveli. If you are up for it, you might also want to try some “bhang” at The Lassi Shop, originally known as The Bhang Shop. Desert Festival, held in Jaisalmer, showcases the authentic culture and traditions of the state, and should be visited during your stay here.

Places to Visit

  • Jaisalmer Fort
  • Bada Bagh
  • Patwon-Ki-Haveli
  • Sam Sand Dunes
  • Thar Heritage Museum
  • Gadisar Lake
  • Nathmal Ki Haveli
  • Jain temples
  • Salim Singh Ki Haveli

To know more about the main tourist spots in Jaisalmer, please visit: places to visit in Jaisalmer.


Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan

Pushkar

Lying in the Ajmer District of Rajasthan, the holy City of Pushkar is often described as the king of pilgrimage sites in India. The town is located at the shores of the Pushkar Lake, which was created by the tears of Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest cities of India and the date of its origin is unknown and is often associated with the Hindu mythology. It is famous for its temples and various Ghats which are frequented by hundreds of visitors during the annual bath. The water of the lake is considered sacred and thus is responsible for the town’s repute as a pilgrimage spot.

Perhaps the most illustrious attraction of Pushkar is the annual camel fair. It is a five day fair held where people buy and sell livestock. But that’s not all; the fair is home to a large no. of tourist crowd that is attracted by the music, dance and various events that are held here during the camel fair. Camel races are one of the major attractions as well, Top 6 Most Popular Cities of Rajasthan.

Places to Visit

  • Pushkar Lake
  • Brahma Temple
  • Savitri temple
  • Apteshwar Temple
  • Varaha Temple
  • Rangji temple
  • Man Mahal

To learn more about tourist places in Pushkar, visit: Places to visit in Pushkar.


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Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan

Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan allures visitors with its larger than life monuments, fascinating cuisines, glorious heritage and folk culture which eulogies the bravery of its immortal kings and princes. In this state, a new experience awaits you at every turn, as you explore the top places to visit in Rajasthan. A safari on the desert, an exploration of a colossal fort, tasting an authentic dish or witnessing a lively folk performance, the options for discoveries and explorations here are limitless.

However, Rajasthan is an enormous state, and the visitor is often left wondering at the limitless options he is faced with. If you have been thinking of visiting this state, but are confused, or, desirous of experiencing the best that it has to offer, then this blog is for you. Here, we tell you the places which you should not miss during a holiday in Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.


Best Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan

From a plethora of beautiful places, Rajasthan Tour Planner has handpicked and shortlisted the Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan for you. Here is your ultimate travel list when it comes to exploring the royal state of Rajasthan:

Jaipur – The Pink City

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is one of the most visited tourist destination in Rajasthan. Founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727, its one of the most frequented city by the tourists. This city endears itself to tourists through its various palaces, forts and wonderful shopping opportunities. Once here, you should visit the Hawa Mahal, a palace built so that the ladies of the royal household could observe the daily life in the streets. A unique experience awaits you at the Amer Fort in the form of an elephant ride which takes you to the very Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.

If all this sightseeing leaves you hungry, head off to the Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar (known as LMB by foodies). In close proximity lies the shopping center where you come across vibrant bandhini works, traditional jewelry and jootis. If you happen to be visiting Jaipur in January, you should attend the Jaipur Literary Festival. For book lovers, this is the ultimate place to be in.

Highlights

  • Enjoy the view of the Pink City through the 953 jharokhas (windows) of the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds adorned with refined lattice-work. It is one of the best tourist places in Rajasthan.
  • Savour the mouth-watering Pyaaz Kachori at Rawat Mishtan Bhandar.
  • Cherish the renowned Bandhej textile art.
  • Buy exotic jewellery at the Johari Bazaar.
  • Participate in the annual Jaipur Literature Festival beaming with intellectual fervour.

Best Time to Visit Jaipur: October to March


Udaipur – The City of Lakes

Udaipur sure knows how to do thing in style and with the utmost grace. One of the most iconic sights associated with this “lake city” of India is the sight of the serene waters of Lake Pichola. On its glistening waters floats Lake Palace, an 18th century structure widely built of pure marble. Needless to say, it sets the most romantic setting.

The City Palace is worth checking out during the daytime. It’s filled with tiny passageways that lead to wonderful courtyards and enclosures. Some of the other places of interest are the incredible Jain Temple of Ranakpur and the Fateh Bagh Palace, which now exists as a heritage hotel. For a perfect nighttime dinner, choose a rooftop restaurant here (you will find several of them in close proximity to the City Palace), and enjoy the incredible views of the city.

To witness the folk music and dance of the region, head to Bagore-Ki-Haveli which showcases dancers and artists from all over Rajasthan. If you are a lover of vintage cars, check out the vintage and classic car museum, which features some of the rarest and vintage cars. Happen to be a music lover? Then, the Udaipur World Music Festival is just for you Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • You cannot miss out on the enthralling view of the City Palace from a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
  • Have the irresistible Dal Poodi and Dal Baati at Manoj Prakash Daal Poodi stall.
  • Buy the exquisite Pichwai and Phad paintings at Hathi Pol Bazaar.
  • Explore the famous Bandhni Craft of Udaipur.
  • Enjoy the dance procession in the Mewar Festival celebrated in April annually.

Best Time to Visit Udaipur: October to March


Jaisalmer – The Golden City

Jaisalmer, carries a magical aura about it. A camel safari into the desert through the sand dunes forms part of the quintessential Jaisalmer experience, and in itself, is one of the Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan. Camping in the midst of the seemingly endless desert, with the twinkling stars above and the gentle whisper of the wind keeping you company, it all sounds like a setting from the Arabian Nights.

However, desert safari is just one of the experiences in store for you here. There is the Jaisalmer Fort, which has allured visitors with its sand colored walls along with an old museum which tells stories of the royalty. Besides, this desert city is also dotted with elegant and fabulous havelis built by wealthy merchants. One of the most famous of these is the Patwon-ki-Haveli.

If you are up for it, you might also want to try some “bhang” at The Lassi Shop, originally known as The Bhang Shop. Desert Festival, held in Jaisalmer, showcases the authentic culture and traditions of the state, and should be visited during your stay here.

Highlights

  • Admire the golden view of the city from the Jaisalmer Fort, which is one of the best tourist places in Rajasthan.
  • Explore the famous hand block printing art.
  • Treasure the exquisite paintings and regal carpets at Sadar Bazzar.
  • Enjoy the mouth-watering Jaisalmer Kala Chana Kadhi cuisine.
  • Be a part of the annual Jaisalmer Desert Festival in the month of February.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer: October


Jodhpur – The Blue City

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan, is fondly known as the “Blue City”. It blends the modern with the traditional in a beautiful way. As a tourist, you have much to look forward to here. However, the most dominating sight here is that of the Mehrangarh Fort, which overlooks the rest of the city. Not only is the fort an explorer’s paradise, but it offers spectacular views of the city from the top. It also plays host to the Jodhpur Flamenco and Gypsy Festival, which celebrates the gypsy culture of Spain and Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.

Jodhpur is home to several tourist attractions. One of these is the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the only palace built in the 20th century and recognized as one of the private homes in the world. The other attraction is the Jaswant Thada, the milky white memorial built towards the end of the 19th century as a tribute to the leader Jaswant Singh. Take a zip lining tour, also called the Flying Fox, which provides you an aerial view of the Mehrangarh Fort, besides the several landscapes of this beautiful city. For a unique experience, take a Bishnoi Village Safari. The safari provides a glimpse of the cultural life of the Bishnoi villagers.

Highlights

  • The ancient charm of the gigantic Mehrangarh Fort makes it one of the best tourist places in Rajasthan.
  • The marvellous traditional textile printing at Jodhpur.
  • The hustle-bustle of the Clock Tower Market.
  • The tempting Lal Maas at Darikhana, Raas Haveli.
  • The vibrant Maand Festival held annually in October.

Best Time to Visit Jodhpur: November to February


Ranthambore

Ranthambore or Ranthambhore national park is one of the most popular tiger safari destination in North India. It is located in South East of Rajasthan state. As we all know that Rajasthan tourism is very much popular in tourism map of world thus large number of tourists from all over the world, visits this magnificent wildlife tourism destination, located just close to Sawai Madhopur town.

It is very well connected by train with Sawai Madhopur as nearest railway station and Jaipur Airport as its near by flight connectivity option. Presence of a huge historic Ranthambore Fort, inside the national park area makes this destination as historic wildlife tourism place where wildlife tourism and heritage tourism goes side by side.

Ranthambore Tiger Reserve was created on year 1973-74 with the inception of Project tiger. At present, its total area is 1411.291 Sq.kms. Ranthambore National Park was declared in year 1980. With the passage of time, some more forest area of Keladevi Sanctuary also ger included in it which increased it land area, Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.

It is just 13kms from Sawai Madhopur town where safari ticket booking office is located along with major accommodation options. Its forest area is spread over the confluence of Vindhya & Aravali ranges thus we will find some forest is on Vindhya range and some part of forest is in Aravali range. Here Jungle safari is the main activity to do and in addition to this, we can do village visit, visit to Ranthambore fort & temples. For visiting this national park, please plan your tour in advance (3-4 months).

Highlights

  • The enamouring sightseeing of the mighty Royal Tigers, Sloth Bears, Leopards, as well as crocodiles at the Ranthambore National Reserve.
  • The must-have churma ladoo among other sweet delicacies at the Oberoi Vanyavilas.
  • The rural handicrafts available at the Village Women Craft House.
  • The exuberant Ranthambore Music and Wildlife Festival held at Nahargarh Palace in the month of December every year.

Best Time to Visit Ranthambore: October to April


Bikaner – The Red City

The Camel Country or the Red City, Bikaner, is the third most prominent desert terrain in Rajasthan. Known for the international camel festival, its camel farm, and the National Research Centre on Camel, along with places such as Junagarh Fort, Rampuria Haveli, Karni Mata temple (the temple of rats), Bhandasar Jain Temple, Devi Kund Sagar, Lalgarh, and Gajner Palace, and Shri Sadul Museum, it is one of the most eminent cities of Rajasthan.

Its old town is adorned with red sandstone buildings and contributes to its making as the Red City of Rajasthan. Bikaner, with all its glory, stands as one of the most cherished Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • The sight of hundreds of deified rats wandering through the Karni Mata Temple makes it one of the best tourist places in Rajasthan.
  • The rich collection of Kundan Jewellery at the Mahatma Gandhi Market.
  • The warm woollen dhurries made of camel hair.
  • The enticing Raj Kachori and Bikaneri Bhujia.
  • The zeal of Bikaner Camel Festival.

Best Time to Visit Bikaner: October to March


Pushkar

Pushkar is not an unknown name, from the religious sights to the quirky cafes; there is an abundance of tourist places in Pushkar with hopeful surprises in every corner. The small shops lined up in the colorful streets are full of joy, vibrancy, culture, and warmth. Puskar is that corner of India where people get stunned by everything they see.

Puskar border the Thar Desert and hence desert safaris are the most common adventure activity that excites the visitors. Pushkar Lake has 52 Ghats and where one can bathe. Jagatpita Brahma Mandir is the only temple dedicated to the Lord of creation (Brahma). The place is definitely not a big town but a rustic village that has gone hippie in the last couple of years.

There are tons of items that you can take back home from the pretty markets of Pushkar like stunning silver jewelry, palazzos, bangles, bandhani sarees, artifacts made of mud and lovely dupattas. People mostly combine Ajmer and Pushkar in one trip due to the proximity they share, however, it is not a bad idea. Take a traditional homestay for your sojourn in Pushkar and you will undoubtedly fall in love with Pushkar, the village that gives an unforgettable experience Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.

Highlights

  • The captivating sight of over 500 temples around Pushkar Lake.
  • The delectable Kachori from Shri Pushkar Raj Shahi Kachori Samosa Bhandar.
  • The lively Sadar Bazaar situated on the northern side of Pushkar Lake.
  • The annual Pushkar Mela held in November known for livestock trade and recreational activities.

Best Time to Visit Pushkar: October to March


Shekhawati

The realm of lovely havelis, harking back to the yester years, epitomizes the beauty of Shekhawati – a region that comprises of Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu. It is a major landmark tourist destination of colourful Rajasthan. Once the bastion of Rao Shekha, this magnificent land, located on the North of Rajasthan, derives its nomenclature from the former Top 8 Places To Visit In Rajasthan.

Shekhawati is a tourist’s paradise. The land is laced with innumerable beautiful havelis or grand mansions that are guaranteed to capture one’s imagination. It is a haven for a true connoisseur of art and architecture. A riot of colours encapsulates the spirit of this vibrant landscape. Exquisitely embellished havelis mushroomed during the eighteenth century and former half of the twentieth. Mythology and fauna lies at the very core of this wonderful art.

Tales narrating the valour of Lord Rama and the miracles of Lord Krishna unfold on a journey of these marvellous mansions. The region also houses towering forts, baoris, and shrines, besides the ubiquitous havelis.

Highlights

  • The luxurious ancient grand havelis of Mahansar.
  • The beautiful fresco paintings adorn the architecture of the place.
  • Enjoy the experience of a breath-taking horseback riding activity through the town
  • The lip-smacking Rabdi at Mandawa Castle.
  • Shop in Ramgarh to get detailed wooden carvings and furnishings.
  • The annual Shekhawati Festival held every year in February.

Best Time to Visit Shekhawati: Months from November to March


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Offbeat Tourist Places in Rajasthan

Offbeat Tourist Places in Rajasthan is famed for its cultural legacy and natural beauty, which attracts visitors from all across the country. You will enjoy the best holiday of your life here, as it is home to many quirky spots in Rajasthan. You couldn’t ask for a better getaway with your family, friends, and partner than this perfect blend of beauty, adventure, and history.

Barmer, where you can see the beautiful colours, village life, and events such as the Thar Festival, Banswara, surrounded by bamboo grooves, where you can view the Bhils community, and Bundi, where you can see the fort that has never been conquered, are all offbeat sites to visit in Rajasthan. Mandawa, known as the Open Air Art Gallery because of the religious and historical paintings on the internal and external walls, Mahansar, known for the detailed gold leaf paintings on the havelis, and Kuchaman, known for its collection of inlay gold work, precious stones, and Jai Mahal, are some of the other Offbeat Tourist Places in Rajasthan.

There are also unique activities to do in Rajasthan that will satisfy your thirst for thrills and adventure while also adding to the enjoyment of your vacation. You must go to the unusual locations listed below and create memories and stories that will last a lifetime.


Bundi

The city of Baoris is yet another important tourist destination in Rajasthan. Located at a distance of 210 km from Jaipur. Bundi was once the native place of a tribe called Bunda Meena. Since then, it adopted the name. The city is known for its magnificent forts & palaces, lakes, baoris (step reservoirs), and old architectures. Offbeat Tourist Places in Rajasthan is a must-visit tourist destination in Rajasthan.

Set amidst the Aravalli Hills and around 36 km from Kota, Bundi is the headquarters of the district of the same name. This town in Hadoti Region of Rajasthan is also the place where Nobel laureate, Rudyard Kipling wrote his much acclaimed work, Kim. He is believed to be extremely impressed with this architecturally rich town in Rajasthan.

Once the capital of a princely state of Hadoti Kingdom, this popular town in Rajasthan was named after a Mina man, Bunda Meena. Mina and Bhil are the tribes that once dominated the region.

The top attractions of Bundi are its Taragarh Fort and Garh Palace which are perched on a hill and are adorned with fine Rajasthani Wall Art and architectural style. Jait Sagar, a 4 km lake is an important tourist place in Bundi. On one end of Jait Sagar Lake, sits another place to see in the town, Sukh Niwas, a palace converted to a museum. The 84-pillared Cenotaph, a little away from Bundi, is also a popular place to visit on a Bundi tour.

Major attractions: This magnificent town is filled with a no. of palaces & forts which include Bundi Palace, Taragarh Fort, Dabhai Kund, Sukh Mahal, Nawal Sagar, and many stepwell reservoirs.

Things to do/ explore: Explore the great forts and palaces along with Badal Mahal inside the Taragarh fort for the ancient painting that depicts the opium trade, visit the baoris and know about the ancient technique of water harvesting.


Bikaner

Bikaner is a precious gem in the Thar desert! Popularly known as Camel Country, Bikaner is home to the best riding camels, dunes, and mesmerizing landscapes. The vibrant culture of the city, the opulence that its majestic forts and palaces emit, the mythological stories and beliefs that live through its ancient temples have their admirers across the world.

Do you know that Bikaner also shares a history with World War I, Yes, it does! One of the two biplane models that were used during World war I by the Britishers is in Bikaner, and it was presented to the then ruler Maharaja Ganga Singh by Britishers, Offbeat Tourist Places in Rajasthan.

Capturing the beautiful sand dunes in your camera, experiencing desert safari, and enjoying camel rides are the best things to do in Bikaner that will remain garden-fresh in your memory forever! The period between October to March is the best time to visit Bikaner as the weather during this time is cold and apt to explore the city.

Major attractions: Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace & Museum, National Research Centre on Camel, Rampuria Haveli, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Gajner Palace & Lake, Shri Laxminath Temple and Bikaner Camel Festival.

Things to do/ explore: Be a part of the Bikaner Camel fest, buy some Usta and Chadwa artefacts and handicrafts.


Banswara

The city of hundred islands, Banswara got its name from the ‘bans’ or bamboo trees that once grew here in large quantity. Formerly, this district in Rajasthan was a princely state that was ruled by the Maharavals. With fertile, rich plains of wheat, maize, cotton, soya bean, rice, gram, the district is a mix of several kinds of geographies. All these make up the entire central and western regions while the Aravalli range covers the eastern side. Khajur (date) and mahua trees, rich teak forests and mango, are home to diverse wildlife. The archaeological significance of Arthuna town has made it one of the major attractions of Banswara.

Major attractions: Jua Falls, Mangarh Dham, Raj Mandir, Talwara Temple, and Anand Sagar Lake

Things to do/ explore: Engage in several adventurous activities, tours & temples that await you here as there is always something to explore.


Chittorgarh

the city of Chittorgarh is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan. Seated on the bank of Berach River, Chittorgarh is also the district headquarters of the same name and it once served as the capital of the Sisodia Clan of Rajputs of Mewar.

The major attraction of the city is inarguably Chittorgarh Fort, which is considered the largest fort complex in India with a total area of 700 acres. It was first built in the 7th Century AD by the Maurayans and then was later ruled by the Rajputs and Mughals.

In Chittorgarh Fort, the biggest Rajput Festival, Jauhar Mela is held annually on the anniversary of one of the jauhars (self-immolation of the women of Chittorgarh during three invasions in the fort). The festival commemorates the bravery of Rajput ancestors and all three jauhars. The descendants of the princely families hold a procession to celebrate the festival in Chittorgarh. Other than Jauhar Mela, Chittorgarh also celebrates festivals like Maharana Pratap Jayanti, Meera Mahotsav, Teej, Gangaur, Rang Teras – The Tribal Fair, Offbeat Tourist Places in Rajasthan.

Major attractions: Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, Rani Padmini Palace, Kirti Stambh, Vijay Stambh, Meerabai Temple and Kalika Mata Temple.

Things to do/ explore: Listen to the folk tales from the local people & savor mouth-watering delicious Rajasthani cuisines.


Ajmer – the holy city

Ajmer city was named in the memory of ‘Ajay Meru’. Expressing the tradition and culture of a historic gem, visiting Ajmer can be a truly unforgettable experience for many. The convivial charm of the Rajasthani royalness along with a perfect mix of architecture is perhaps what majorly draws tourists to this interesting city.

Surrounded by Aravalli hills, this city is known for a plethora of reasons out of which one is the presence of the famous Dargah Sharif of Saint Muin-ud-din-Chisti. Filled with the charm of old heritage, a trip to Ajmer is nothing short of a magical experience for travelers.

Brimming with some of the most gorgeous historic spots, Ajmer has every reason to be explored. It is the place to realize and relish the history, culture, and beauty of it. Being a historical city, it receives a great number of tourists on an annual basis. Everything about this city will help you discover undiscovered nuances about it.

The months from October to March is the best time to visit Ajmer. The overall climatic conditions are suitable for sightseeing during this time as compared to the summer months when the scorching sun is right above your head. And during the monsoon months, the city comes across as very refreshing, Offbeat Tourist Places in Rajasthan.

Major attractions: Naag Pathar ranges, Ana Sagar Lake, Dargah Sharif, Taragarh Fort, Adhai Din Ka Jhopra, Akbari Fort & Museum

Things to do/ explore: Offer chadar to the grave of Sufi saint, attend qawali at Dargah Sharif


Monuments in Rajasthan

Rajasthan Budget Tours

Tourist Places Rajasthan

Rajasthan Special Interest