The Royal Land of Romance and Chivalry
Brimming with tangible history—an intoxicating blend of luxury, royalty and tale of mighty Maharajas—Rajasthan tourism endows a classic, vintage feel to India’s past. Still mushrooming with gigantic forts, often perched over hill-tops, providing a mystical bird’s eye view of the city—a trip to Rajasthan is meant for photography enthusiasts, wildlife lovers and history buffs. And nevertheless for those searching for intimacy, this romantic destination must top your bucket list.
Over the years, Rajasthan has emerged as a top most tourist destination in India, especially with fame of Golden Triangle Travel that includes Agra, Jaipur and Delhi—a must for first timers in India.
Be it forts, palaces, Havelis, lakes, luxury hotels, wildlife sanctuaries, UNESCO world heritage sites—Rajasthan is known for revealing the charm of bygone days of India, when it was ruled by ferocious Maharajas and enveloped with cultural traditions and festivals.
Following are the main tourist attractions of Rajasthan
Amber Fort
One of the most famous tourist attractions in Jaipur, the fort is an UNESCO world heritage site. Built by Raja Man Singh in 1592, the marble and red sandstone architecture of the fort as well as its spacious courtyards and pristine mosaic work is indeed enamouring. It flaunts the rich blend of both Islamic and Hindu architectural styles.
The main tourist attractions in Amber Fort include ‘Diwan-i-Aam’, ‘Sukh Mahal’, ‘Sheesh Mahal’, ‘Ganesh Pol’ and ‘Shila Devi Temple’. Foreigners simply love to take the elephant ride to reach the fort, perched on the hill-top.
City Palace
This majestic palatial complex in Jaipur was built in the 18th century. Reflecting the Rajput architectural style, it is known for linear courtyards, museums, royal residences and impressive galleries. The main tourist attractions in City Palace are Mubarak Mahal (Textile Gallery), Sarvato Bhadra, Pritam Niwas Chowk, Sileh Khana (armoury), Sabha Niwas (Durbar Hall) and Bagghi Khana.
The architectural elements in City Palace flaunt the European, Mughal, Rajput and Shilpa Shashtra style of designing, endowing it an enamouring outlook. Tourists can shop exquisite Indian jewelleries, apparels and handicraft items within the palace.
Hawa Mahal
One of the architectural delights of Jaipur, it is loved by history buffs, photographers and designing junkies. Literally meaning ‘A Palace of Winds’, it is built in red sandstone and is located at the bustling market place of the capital.
Built by King Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799, the architect Lal Chand Ustad had carved its majestic facade in the form of crown of Lord Krishna. One can spot the 953 jharokhas or small windows, layered in a honeycomb beehive structure, adding to its beauty. The latticework of jharokhas also lets the cool air enter in, thereby endowing it the name.
Jantar Mantar
A world famous astronomical observatory in Jaipur, it flaunts 19 beautiful monuments. It was built in 1738 by Rajput King Sawai Jai Singh. Now a UNESCO world heritage site, it preserves the largest stone sundial in the world.
Along with Sanskrit and Hindu texts, it also includes brass and stone instruments along with captivating elements of masonry. Explaining in the architectural innovation and vision prevalent in that era about the Rajput Kings, the instruments were helpful in tracking stars and predicting eclipses.
Mehrangarh Fort
One of the largest forts in India, it is located in Jodhpur and is famous for expansive courtyards and intricate carvings. Perched on the hill-top, it is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in India.
The main tourist attractions of Mehrangarh Fort are seven majestic gates with battle marks, the sprawling courtyards, Pearl Palace, temples, fort galleries and museum.
Famous Rajasthani cuisines
The delectable list of Rajasthani dishes includes Dal Bhati Churma, Laal Maas, Mohan Maas, Ker Sangri, Gatte ki Khichdi, Dil Khushal, Boondo Raita and Rajasthani Kadhi.
Festivals in Rajasthan
The distinctive style and charm of festivals celebrated in Rajasthan is a top-most tourist attraction. The main festivals include Desert Festival (January), Elephant Festival (March), Holi (March), Maha Shiva Ratri (March), Urs Ajmer Fair (June) and Bikaner Camel Festival (December).
Excursions from Rajasthan
Intrepid travellers can indulge in relaxing excursions, especially around the capital Jaipur. The Rajasthan travel guide includes off-beat destinations like Sanganer (16 km), Ramgarh Lake (28 km), Bagru (35 km), Samode (40 km) and Viratnagar (80 km).
When to Reach
Apart from visiting Rajasthan during the time of festivals, one can always choose to explore it in between the months of October and March.
How to Reach
Air: Along with the international airport at Jaipur, the two other airports are located at Udaipur and Jodhpur which are connected with frequent flights.
Rail: The railway track sprawls over 4600 km in the state, making it well connected with different parts of India. In fact, the North West Railways have their headquarters at Jaipur.
Road: The National highways connect Rajasthan with the neighbouring states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi and others. One can easily book a taxi or a cab while indulging into Rajasthan tourism.
So, be it Golden Triangle Tour or just a historic rendezvous with India’s cultural past, choose the trip to Rajasthan right away.