Rajasthan the land of palaces and forts is one of the most visited tourist destinations in India. It has some of the most colourful cities in India. Lying in north-western India and sprawling across a whopping area of around 342239 sq km, the Indian state of Rajasthan is known all over the world for its glorious history, colourful culture, bountiful wildlife, and warm hospitality.

The best time to visit Rajasthan will mostly depend on what you plan to do when you visit the state. While the summers are rather hot in Rajasthan, they may not be the best time to visit Rajasthan, as the temperatures may severely impact your sightseeing schedules, winters are generally considered to be the best season to visit Rajasthan. However, it all depends on what you plan to do and how much you can stand the heat. Some knowledge about what the temperature and weather is like during the year can help you in better planning your itinerary.

Rajasthan’s cuisine is world-renowned for its wide variety of vegetarian options. Be it classic dishes, like Dal Bati Churma or Gatte Ki Sabzi, or traditional thali, Rajasthan has something for every vegetarian foodie. While its vegetarian cuisine is famous all over the world, there are several options for meat eaters as well, like Laal Maas (meat curry), Safed Maas (meat dish) and bhuna kukda (chicken dish). Each and every dish in Rajasthan is bound to leave you craving more.

In Jaipur head to Bapu Bazaar, MI Road and Masala Chowk for delicious Chaat. LMB, one of Jaipur’s oldest sweet shops serves the best samosas, pyaaz kachoris, sweets and chaat. In Udaipur, one must try the unique Jhakolma Pudi, prepared from a soft dough of coarse wheat flour, seasoned with salt and deep-fried in pure desi ghee, served with spicy Chane ki Daal (chickpea curry) and sweet and tangy chutney of Amchur (dry mango powder).

Every big city in Rajasthan has a central market area that is a treasure trove of sorts. One can spend time shopping for widely popular Rajasthani handicrafts; Silver and Kundan jewellery, colourful zari embroidered clothes, handbags and accessories, and Meenakari Jewellery. Meenakari is the art of colouring or decorating a metal surface by attaching, or fusing, pieces of different mineral substances over it. This art of enameling was alien to India and was introduced by the Mughals. In the past, enameling was only done on gold, but presently it is also done on other metals like silver and copper. Barmer and Sanganer in Rajasthan are known for block printing and tie and dye work, while Kota is known for its embroidery.

In Udaipur, head to Bapu Bazaar and Bada Bazaar, among the oldest markets in the city located close to Clock Tower, for traditional Rajasthani clothes, expensive gold and silver jewellery, Bandhani and Batik print sarees and textile, cosmetics and souvenirs. An important segment of this market is Mochiwada Bazaar, where you can shop for beautiful handmade juttis. Udaipur is also famous for miniature paintings. In Jaipur, a city that has always been popular for its precious gemstones and artisans who create world-class jewellery, you cannot miss the Johari Bazaar in the walled city that is now on UNESCO World Heritage list. In the by-lanes of Johari Bazaar, one can spot craftsmen at their workstations, known as ‘Gaddis’ – many of them have been jewellers for generations.  Traditional Thewa and Kundan jewellery, a specialty of Rajasthan, are crafted here. Another famous street, ‘Haldiyon ka Rasta’, is famous for its jewellery, silverware, junk jewellery and gemstones, and much more. Shop for Jaipur’s famed blue pottery at Mirza Ismail Road (MI Road). In Jodhpur’s Clock Tower Market you can buy a variety of spices and the special Mathaniya red chilies commonly used to make Laal Maas. Jodhpur is also known for its wood work and antique furniture that can be bought at unbelievable prices. Many of Delhi and Mumbai’s furniture boutiques source their products from Jodhpur. In Jaisalmer’s Manak Chowk one can find the finest leather products.

Rajasthan is principally a Hindi-speaking region in its various dialects. Rajasthani comprises of five primary dialects – Marwari, Mewari, Dhundhari, Mewati and Harauti along with several other forms.

1. MAGNIFICENT FORTS & PALACES

A wide array of historical forts and splendid palaces set Rajasthan aside from other Indian states. Built by the many Rajput kings that ruled this land, each has its own unique blend of architecture and design. Ride an elephant up the massive ramps of Amer Fort, marvel at the panoramic views from the ramparts of Jaisalmer Fort and Mehrangarh Fort, or get lost in the splendour of Jaipur’s City Palace. And these are just the tip of the architectural iceberg!

2. ITS FOOD IS A GASTRONOMIC DELIGHT

Rajasthani cuisine is famous for its variety of vegetarian dishes, all rich with ghee and spices. From classics like dal bati churma (roasted dumplings with spiced lentils) or gatte ki sabzi (steamed gram flour balls cooked in curd gravy) there is something for everyone. Though perhaps less well known, Rajasthan also has many meat curries, such as laal maas and safed maas.

3. THE MANY COLORFUL CITIES

Rajasthan is one of the most colourful places in the country. Apart from the colourful dress of its people and the red desert sands, it is also home to many vividly coloured cities. From the golden city of Jaisalmer, the pink city of Jaipur, the blue city of Jodhpur, to the white marble of Ajmer and the calm lakes of Udaipur, each city has something unique to offer.

4. STAY IN A LAVISH HERITAGE HOTEL

Many of the stunning palaces of Rajasthan have been turned into opulent heritage hotels, with all the royal comforts of the Rajas and Ranis who once lived there. The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, the Lake Palace in Udaipur, Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, and Samode Palace in Jaipur are just a few of the popular hotels that keep alive the princely traditions and culture of the state.

5. THE DIVERSE WILDLIFE

Nature lovers have much to look forward to in this royal state. Its vast landscape is home to some incredibly varied wildlife. From the tigers at the Ranthambore National Park and the Sariska Tiger Reserve, to the endangered river dolphins and rare birds the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, the National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary and the Keoladeo National Park, you have an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals.

6. EXCITING FESTIVALS

Rajasthan is famed all over the world for its colourful fairs and festivals, held throughout the year. It seems that every month hosts some exciting event, such as the International Kite Festival (Jan), the Desert Festival (Feb), the Elephant Fair (Mar), the Teej Festival (August), Rajasthan International Folk Festival (Oct), the Pushkar Fair (Nov), and the Magnetic Fields Festival (Dec). These are of course separate from the many religious festivals, such as Holi.

7. IT IS FULL OF FASCINATING HISTORY

The historic forts, palaces, and stepwells hint at a long and fascinating history of the people who thrived in this arid and at times inhospitable area. It has many innovations such as the Jantar Mantar in Jaipur. This astronomical observatory was built in 1734 by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II and lets people observe astronomical positions with the naked eye.

8. THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Rajasthan has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Keoladeo National Park, the Jantar Mantar (Astronomical Observatory in Jaipur), and the Hill Forts of Rajasthan (comprising six majestic forts – Jaisalmer Fort, Amer Fort, Gagron Fort, Ranthambore Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort and Chittorgarh Fort).

Hot Air Balloon Rides: One can enjoy a hot air balloon ride in Neemrana, Ranthambhore, Pushkar, and Jaipur.

Paragliding: Jaipur and Jodhpur are the top destinations for paragliding in Rajasthan.

Camping: Camping is one of the most sought after activities in Rajasthan. Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Pushkar, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Udaipur, etc. are the perfect spots for camping.

Camel Safari: Camel Safari is a must-do activity on your visit to Rajasthan. Through this activity, you will get to enjoy glimpses of sand dunes.

Wildlife Safari: One can also enjoy a wildlife safari in Ranthambore National Park.

Zipline: There are several spots where you can also enjoy the adrenaline rush of ziplining.

1. JAIPUR

Also called the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital of the royal state of Rajasthan. Along with Delhi and Agra, Jaipur forms the Golden Triangle and hails as one of the most famous tourist circuits in the country.

Rajputs ruled Jaipur for many centuries and developed as a planned city in the 17th century AD. With the old city surrounded by walls and gates decorated with drawings on the backdrop of a beautiful pink hue, Jaipur, the pink city, successfully retains its old-world charm. Home to a few UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Amer Fort and Jantar Mantar, Jaipur holds many magnificent forts, palaces, temples and museums and brims with bustling local bazaars where you can shop to your heart’s content. The city is also very well known for its local food, and the most famous dishes include the Ghewar, Pyaaz Kachori and Dal Baati Churma.

2. UDAIPUR

Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is one of the most visited tourist places in Rajasthan. Located around stunning water lakes and enveloped by the Aravalli Hills in all directions, Udaipur is known for its azure lakes, magnificent palaces, vibrant culture and delectable food.

Boating through the shimmering Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful sights and highlights of every Udaipur trip. Also known as the “Venice of the East”, Udaipur is inarguably one of the most romantic cities in India. Visit its larger than life havelis and monuments, stroll through the bustling street markets, ride through one of the seven lakes of the city or relax in one of the extraordinary hotels, and you will discover the charm of Udaipur.

Lake Pichola, Jaisamand Lake, City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Jagmandir, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple and Saheliyon ki Baari are some of the popular tourist places in Udaipur.

3. JAISALMER

Jaisalmer is known as the ‘golden city’ due to its golden dunes and castles clad in golden honey sandstone. Jaisalmer is adorned with lakes, ornate Jain temples and havelis. Climb onto the camel saddle and make your way through this desert to camp under the starry night sky for an unforgettable experience.

The Jaisalmer Fort stands as a citadel with narrow alleys inhabited by people for generations and shops selling colourful handicrafts. Jaisalmer is a town, and to reach the Sand Dunes, travellers have to take a jeep safari followed by a camel ride. Thus, Jaisalmer is an amalgamation of exotic Indian desert culture, heritage and adventure.

4. JODHPUR

Jodhpur is popularly called “the Blue City” as it looks completely blue from an aerial view because of its blue walls and houses. Jodhpur is primarily famous for its temples, lakes and snacks, with the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort being the main attraction.

The magic of Jodhpur lies in the streets of the old city itself, which circles the mighty Mehrangarh. Hundreds of shops, guesthouses, eating joints, and vendors make it a bustling chirpy town, especially near the landmark clock tower and

Sardar Market. The new and modern Jodhpur lies beyond Mehrangarh. Nearby Jaswant Tada and Umaid Bhawan Palace are also among the top attractions in Jodhpur.

5. BIKANER

Bikaner with its magnificence in architecture, art and culture is filled with colour, festivity and cultural marvels. The city will mesmerize you with the camels sauntering the beautiful sand dunes, its ancient palaces and forts. Sand Dunes and the Desert Safari are among major attractions. Bikaner is also famous for hosting the international Camel festival which draws tourists from the world over. Other attractions here include experiencing delicacies such as Thandai, Bhujias, shopping for the fascinating Ivory and Lacquer items or simply witnessing the immense heritage taking the form of wall paintings and arts and crafts in the area.

6. RANTHAMBORE

This is one of the best tiger reserves of the country, known to have “friendly” tigers and chances of sighting one here is reasonably better than many other tiger reserves of India. Along with this Ranthambore has one of the richest flora and fauna making it an absolutely must visit area.

7. PUSHKAR

Pushkar is a small temple town located around 15 km from Ajmer in Rajasthan. A perfect choice for a weekend getaway from Jaipur, Pushkar has an array of cafes and hostels for a backpacking trip. Every November, Pushkar is host to the Pushkar Mela, one of the biggest camel fairs in the country. Known for the world’s only dedicated Brahma temple, Pushkar is primarily a pilgrimage site for Hindus.

8. MOUNT ABU

The only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is located in the Aravali range. The most important attraction, however, are undoubtedly the Dilwara temples, which is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in the country.  Travellers can enjoy calm and relaxed boating in Nakki Lake and a view of the sunset from the vista points.

The highest peak of the Aravali Range – Guru Shikhar also lies in Mt. Abu. Mount Abu Forest Sanctuary with an abundance of flora and fauna is also a highlight.

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