Top holiday places to visit in Rajasthan
Rajasthan, a land of unprecedented architectural grandeur, diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, unique ecosystem, amazing culture, and vibrant colors that brings smile on the face of every visitor must be on the bucket list of every person who is crazy about exploring North India. Rajasthan's splendid landscape makes it an incredible travel destination, especially the amazing Aravalli Mountains, the great Thar Desert, lakes and rivers, oasis, gardens and parks, and more. Given the prevailing Rajput culture in Rajasthan, its temples and palaces offer a unique and royal grandeur to the visitors who seem to be transported into the erstwhile Royal era. Most of these world-famous buildings were built by former Rajput kings. Here, we bring you a well-curated list of some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan. Plan a trip to any of these cities or cover it completely on a comprehensive tour package and witness the incredible beauty of this state.
Best time to Visit Rajasthan
Winters are the best time to plan a trip to this magnificent state, showcasing a melange of folk dances, music, culture, fairs, festivals, and food. The temperature during the daytime is perfect for exploring the state. Temperature falls during the nighttime. It is the best time to explore cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures soaring up to 48 degrees centigrade. It is the best time to visit places like Kumbhalgarh, Mount Abu, and Ranakpur. Rainy season changes the look of the state completely. Freshly washed palaces and forts shine from a far distance when the rays of sun fall over them. It seems as if the arid landscape of the state has been touched by a magic wand, changing it suddenly into verdant and scenic beauty. It is the best time to visit Udaipur, Bundi, and Keoladeo National Park.
Top 12 Places to Visit in Rajasthan
Approximately 60 percent of the state is under the influence of the Thar Desert. With the Indira Gandhi Canal coming in this area, it is gradually transforming into an emerald green space. The lure of some of the top cities has however not abated even for a bit and looks as majestic as ever. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan.
1. Jaipur
Jaipur, "the Pink City" and Rajasthan's capital, is one of the largest cities in the state. Jaipur had its origin in the year 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. The long list of heritage palaces and historic monuments, organized city plan, and its connectivity to major cities make Jaipur a city to marvel at. The streets in Jaipur are planned from east to west.
Best time to visit. Throughout the year. However, you should avoid the City in the summer as it is very hot.
Tourist Attractions in Jaipur. Amber Palace and Fort, Jaigarh, Nahargarh, City Palace, Birla Mandir, Jantar Mantar Observatory.
2. Jaisalmer
Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is popularly referred to as "the Golden City." Its sun-soaked golden sand dunes, rich culture and cuisines, and exuberant forts allure tourists from all over the world. The City has been named after Maharaja Jaisal Singh. Interestingly, the City's aerial view is similar to a portrait of a prince seated on sand dunes. Plan a trip to this beautiful city during the Desert Festival and experience its majestic grandeur.
Best time to visit. September, October, November, December, January, February, March, and April
Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer. Tanot Mata Temple, Gadisar Lake, Sam sand dunes, Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli.
3. Jodhpur
Looking for the best places to visit in Rajasthan in December? Renowned as the Sun City due to its sunny weather, Jodhpur extends the royal touch offered to you by Jaipur and Jaisalmer. The Royal City houses several palaces, temples, and forts to attract travelers from every nook and corner of the world. Jodhpur was the power of the former Merwar state. Besides, Jodhpur is referred to as the Blue City due to the presence of blue houses located around Mehrangarh Fort. The blue houses have been appreciated by the famous photographer Steve McCurry.
Best time to visit. Throughout the year
Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur. Umaid Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Mandore Gardens, Kalyana Lake, Jaswant Thada, Ghanta Ghar, Masuria Hills, Sardar Samand lake.
4. Bikaner
Founded by the Nehra jats and Rao Bhika, Bikaner is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan. Bikaner city is renowned for the Camel Festival held from January to February. The two best features of Bikaner are Chadwa and Usta- the artforms of geometric and floral patterns.
Best time to visit. The months of January to February
Tourist Attractions in Bikaner. Laxmi Niwas Palace, Lalgarh Palace, Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Laxmi Nath Temple, Bikaner Camel Festival.
5. Ajmer
Renowned for its Dargah Sharif- Ajmer is Rajasthan's fifth-largest City. It houses the Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisti's shrine. Surrounded by the Naag Pathar range and the Aravalli range, Ajmer is shielded from the heat of Thar desert. It is famous among celebrities who visit the dargah for holy reasons, apart from its tourist attractions.
Best time to visit. Throughout the year
Tourist Attractions in Ajmer. Ana Sagar lake, Dargah Sharif, Naag Pather ranges.
6. Pushkar
Pushkar is one of the best tourist destinations in Rajasthan. It's known as a riot of vibrant colors. The Holy City of Pushkar is praised all over the world due to its annual Camel Fair. Pushkar, an ancient city in India, is also famous for its rare Brahma temple. The City's Pushkar Lake is a renowned pilgrimage site for Hindus as it hosts evening aarti while housing numerous ghats. Photography enthusiasts shouldn't miss out on a chance to visit Pushkar as it offers the best rural touch. Don't forget to attend Pushkar's evening aarti.
Best time to visit. The months of October to November as the renowned Pushkar Camel Fair is held around this time
Tourist Attractions in Pushkar. The renowned Meerabai Temple, peaceful Pushkar lake, and amazing camel fair.
7. Udaipur