Things to see in Rajasthan, the “Land of Kings,” offers a tapestry of vibrant history, majestic forts, and cultural wonders. Key attractions include Jaipur’s Amber Fort, known for its grandeur and Sheesh Mahal, and Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. In Udaipur, City Palace and Lake Pichola are iconic for their architecture and scenic boat rides.
Jaisalmer Fort, also called the Golden Fort, is a living fort with markets and residences, while Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur provides breathtaking views of the Blue City. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit Ranthambore National Park for tiger sightings, and Kumbhalgarh Fort boasts the second-longest wall globally.
For pilgrims, Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple are sacred, while Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu showcase intricate marble work. Explore the heroic Chittorgarh Fort and Bundi’s stepwells with intricate carvings. Each site captures Rajasthan’s regal heritage and architectural brilliance, offering an unforgettable travel experience.
Amber Fort (Jaipur)
Amber Fort, also known as Amer Fort, is a majestic fortress located on a hill overlooking Maota Lake near Jaipur, Rajasthan. Built in 1592 by Raja Man Singh, it’s renowned for its grand architecture, combining Mughal and Rajput styles. The fort is made of red sandstone and marble, giving it an enchanting golden hue at sunrise and sunset.
Visitors can explore its magnificent courtyards, gates, and temples. Highlights include the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), where intricate mirror mosaics sparkle under candlelight, and the Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) with its impressive pillars and arches. The fort also houses the Sukh Niwas, a cooling chamber with water channels designed to keep the air pleasant in summer.
A popular attraction is the traditional elephant ride up the cobbled pathway to the fort’s entrance, though jeeps and other transportation are available. With its stunning views and intricate interiors, Amber Fort is an essential visit for anyone exploring Jaipur’s royal past.
City Palace (Udaipur)
The City Palace in Udaipur is a sprawling royal complex located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola. It was built over nearly 400 years, starting in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, and showcases a beautiful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace is a labyrinth of 11 palaces, courtyards, gardens, and temples, all adorned with intricate carvings, mirror work, and stunning frescoes.
Notable sections include the Zenana Mahal (Queen’s quarters), Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard), and the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace). The Bhima Vilas gallery is particularly famous for its painted walls depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, while the Crystal Gallery displays rare crystal furniture and artifacts.
The palace offers breathtaking views of Lake Pichola, the Jag Mandir Island Palace, and the surrounding Aravalli hills. The City Palace is not only a magnificent historical site but also a living testament to the opulent lifestyle of Rajasthan’s royalty. It also houses a museum showcasing royal artifacts and art.
Jaisalmer Fort (Jaisalmer)
Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Golden Fort, is one of the largest living forts in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, it stands proudly on a rocky hilltop and is renowned for its stunning golden sandstone architecture, which gives it a golden hue, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Built in 1156 AD by Rao Jaisal, the fort is a blend of Rajput, Mughal, and Jain architectural styles. It houses palaces, temples, and residential areas, with narrow lanes filled with shops, markets, and eateries, making it a vibrant living fort. The Raj Mahal (Royal Palace) and Jain Temples within the fort are notable attractions, featuring intricate carvings and paintings.
The fort’s walls are lined with defensive bastions and offer panoramic views of the desert landscape and the town of Jaisalmer. Visitors can explore the fort’s rich history, architecture, and experience the desert culture that still thrives within its walls.
Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur)
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is one of the largest and most impressive forts in India, perched 400 feet above the city on a rocky hilltop. Built in 1459 by Maharaja Rao Jodha, the fort spans over 5 kilometers and is known for its majestic architecture, intricate carvings, and historical significance.
The fort’s massive walls and seven gates, which have withstood numerous battles, are awe-inspiring. Inside, the fort houses several exquisite palaces and courtyards, including the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) with its stunning mirror work and the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) adorned with beautiful frescoes. The Jaswant Thada, a white marble cenotaph near the fort, is another architectural marvel.
Mehrangarh also offers panoramic views of Jodhpur, famously known as the Blue City due to its distinct blue-painted houses. The Mehrangarh Museum, located within the fort, displays artifacts from Rajasthan’s royal history, including armor, costumes, and paintings. A visit to this fort provides a glimpse into the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park, located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, is one of India’s largest and most renowned wildlife sanctuaries, famous for its population of Bengal tigers. Covering an area of about 1,334 square kilometers, it is part of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve and is a major destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
The park is known for its dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and open grasslands, which provide a diverse habitat for a variety of wildlife. Apart from tigers, you can spot animals such as leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, spotted deer, sambar, and crocodiles. Over 270 species of birds, including owls, eagles, and kingfishers, make it a paradise for birdwatchers.
At the heart of the park lies the Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers historical charm amidst the natural beauty. The park offers jeep and canter safaris for visitors to explore its rich biodiversity, especially tiger sightings. Best visited between October and April, Ranthambore is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple (Pushkar)
Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple are two of the most significant landmarks in Pushkar, a sacred town in Rajasthan.
Pushkar Lake is one of the oldest and holiest lakes in India, revered by Hindus for its spiritual significance. The lake is surrounded by 52 ghats (steps) where pilgrims come to bathe and perform rituals, believed to cleanse their sins. The serene atmosphere of the lake, especially at sunrise and sunset, is a popular draw for both devotees and tourists. The water is dotted with temples, and the ghats are often filled with pilgrims performing sacred rites.
Brahma Temple in Pushkar is one of the very few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator god in Hinduism, making it a unique and important religious site. According to Hindu legend, this is the spot where Lord Brahma performed a yagna (sacred fire ritual). The temple features distinct architecture with a red spire and a central marble altar. Inside, there is a statue of Lord Brahma, and the atmosphere is both peaceful and spiritually uplifting Things to see in Rajasthan.
Pushkar is also known for its vibrant Pushkar Camel Fair, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Hawa Mahal (Jaipur)
Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the palace is a striking example of Rajput architecture, blending elements of Hindu and Mughal styles.
The palace’s most distinctive feature is its facade, which is made up of 953 small windows (or jharokhas) adorned with intricate latticework. The design allowed the royal women, who were secluded in the palace, to observe street festivals and life outside without being seen. The structure is made from pink and red sandstone, giving it a soft, delicate appearance, especially when lit by the setting sun.
The palace is five stories tall, and although there are no grand interiors, the upper floors offer stunning views of Jaipur‘s bustling streets, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar (an astronomical observatory). Hawa Mahal is a must-see for its architectural beauty and historical significance, making it a popular spot for both tourists and photographers, Things to see in Rajasthan.
Lake Pichola (Udaipur)
Lake Pichola is a picturesque, man-made lake situated in the heart of Udaipur, Rajasthan. It was created in the 14th century by King Maharana Lakha, primarily for irrigation purposes, but over the centuries, it has become one of the most famous and scenic spots in the city.
The lake is surrounded by lush hills and majestic palaces, including the City Palace and Jag Mandir, an island palace located in the middle of the lake. A boat ride on Lake Pichola offers stunning views of these grand structures, along with the surrounding Aravalli mountains and Udaipur’s scenic landscape.
The lake is also home to two islands: Jag Mandir, a historical palace, and Lake Palace (now a luxury hotel), which is often seen rising like a jewel in the middle of the water. The tranquil environment and the reflections of the palaces and temples on the lake create a breathtaking setting, particularly during the evening, when the sun sets behind the hills.
Lake Pichola is a key attraction for visitors, offering boat rides, cultural experiences, and picturesque views, embodying the regal charm of Things to see in Rajasthan.
Kumbhalgarh Fort (Rajsamand)
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a historic fortress located in the Rajsamand District of Rajasthan, about 85 kilometers northwest of Udaipur. Built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha, this massive fort is one of Rajasthan’s most impressive architectural feats and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The fort is known for its massive walls, which stretch over 36 kilometers, making it the second-longest continuous wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. The fort sits atop the Aravalli Hills at an altitude of 1,100 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and plains.
Inside the fort, visitors can explore several temples, palaces, and gates, including the Vedi Temple and Kumbha Mahal, which showcases beautiful carvings and intricate architecture. The fort also features a baori (stepwell) and many beautiful gates, which were built for defensive purposes.
The fort is surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary, making it a unique blend of history, architecture, and nature. A visit to Kumbhalgarh offers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s military history and the grandeur of Rajput architecture. It is particularly famous for its stunning light and sound show in the evening, which narrates the fort’s history, Things to see in Rajasthan.
Dilwara Temples (Mount Abu)
The Dilwara Temples are a group of stunning Jain temples located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, about 2.5 kilometers from the main town. These temples are renowned for their intricate marble carvings, fine architecture, and spiritual significance, making them one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Jains in India.
Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the Dilwara Temples are known for their remarkable craftsmanship and architectural excellence. The temples are dedicated to various Tirthankaras, with each temple showcasing different forms of Jain art and sculptures. The most famous temples include:
- Vimal Vasahi Temple – Dedicated to Lord Adinatha, the first Tirthankara, this temple features exquisite marble carvings and an elaborate central hall with intricately detailed pillars and arches.
- Luna Vasahi Temple – Dedicated to Lord Neminatha, it is renowned for its elaborate marble work, particularly the stunning dome, which has carvings of celestial beings and intricate designs.
- Pittalhar Temple – Dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev, it houses a large idol of Lord Rishabhdev, carved in brass, and is known for its peaceful ambiance.
The temples are built with high-quality marble and are famous for their unique, detailed sculptures, which cover the walls, ceilings, and floors. The Dilwara Temples stand as a testament to the refined artistry and spiritual devotion of the Jain community. Visitors are awestruck by the delicate, lifelike carvings and the serene atmosphere that envelops these sacred sites, Things to see in Rajasthan.
Chittorgarh Fort (Chittorgarh)
Chittorgarh Fort, located in the city of Chittorgarh in Rajasthan, is one of the largest and most historically significant forts in India. Built in the 7th century by the Maurya dynasty, this sprawling fort covers an area of over 700 acres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing Rajasthan’s rich Rajput heritage.
The fort is known for its architectural grandeur, defensive structures, and historical significance, with several important monuments inside, including palaces, temples, gates, and towers. Key highlights of the fort include:
- Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) – A 37-meter-high tower built to commemorate Maharana Kumbha’s victory over the Sultan of Malwa. It features intricate carvings and is a dominant feature of the fort’s skyline.
- Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame) – Dedicated to the Jain Tirthankara, Adinatha, this tower is an impressive structure adorned with detailed carvings.
- Rani Padmini’s Palace – A palace associated with the legendary queen Rani Padmini, known for her beauty and bravery, which was the site of the famous battle between Maharana Ratan Singh and Alauddin Khilji. The palace has a small lake with a pavilion from where Rani Padmini is said to have viewed the invading army.
- Gaumukh Reservoir – A sacred spot with a natural spring that provides water to the fort, symbolizing the resilience of its inhabitants Things to see in Rajasthan.
The fort’s walls and gates bear witness to numerous battles and sieges, including the famous siege by Alauddin Khilji in the 14th century, after which the Rajput defenders chose Jauhar (self-immolation) rather than surrender. Today, Chittorgarh Fort stands as a symbol of Rajput valor and sacrifice and offers visitors a glimpse into Rajasthan’s turbulent and heroic past. The fort provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and remains one of the most important tourist and historical sites in the state.
Bundi Stepwells (Bundi)
The Bundi Stepwells are a collection of intricate, ancient stepwells located in Bundi, a charming town in Rajasthan. Bundi, known for its historic forts and palaces, is also home to some of the finest examples of stepwells, which were used for water storage, especially during the arid months. These stepwells, also known as baoris, are architectural marvels and a testimony to the region’s water management systems.
Notable stepwells in Bundi include:
- Raniji ki Baori (Queen’s Stepwell) – The most famous and largest stepwell in Bundi, built by Rani Nathavati Ji in the 16th century. This magnificent structure has over 200 steps and is adorned with beautiful carvings of elephants, deities, and floral motifs. The well is deep and architecturally stunning, with three stories of steps, creating a dramatic and peaceful atmosphere.
- Jaswant Sagar Baori – Another stepwell in Bundi, known for its intricate design and historical significance. This stepwell is slightly less crowded, making it a serene place to explore.
These stepwells were more than just functional water storage systems; they were often built with artistic and architectural finesse. The carved stonework, along with the atmospheric surroundings, makes these stepwells a unique attraction in Bundi. They showcase the ingenuity of ancient water engineering while offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors to Bundi will find these stepwells to be hidden gems, offering both historical insight and aesthetic beauty Things to see in Rajasthan.
