Rajasthan ㅡ famously known as the “Land of Kings” is the largest state in India. The most interesting thing is that it is covered by Thar ㅡ the Great Indian Desert. Rajasthan is the state of princes and undoubtedly has an amazing display of arts and architecture. Each kingdom of Rajasthan has a unique architectural and artistic style that makes it one of the most culturally diverse places in the world. This is mostly demanded by the travelers in India Tour Packages from USA as they want to experience the Rajasthani Culture.
So, I have listed the top 10 places to visit in Rajasthan that you can visit not once but as many times as you can in your life.
1. Jaipur
The capital of the state, Jaipur also known as the “Pink City of India” is the largest city of Rajasthan. It was founded by the Kachwaha Rajput Ruler Sawai Jaisingh II in 1727. City planning was done as per the Vedic Vastu Shastra (Indian Architecture). Well-designed streets and detailed and artistic architecture make it one of the most popular tourist destinations.
- Best time to visit: All through the year, except summers.
- Major attractions: City Palace, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Birla Mandir, Jal Mahal.
2. Udaipur
The city of lakes ㅡ Udaipur is also known as “Venice of the East”. The picturesque location at the foot of the Aravalli Mountains, Udaipur is a unique destination. In addition to its various palaces, the forts are also popular with marketplaces and temples. The cities are well planned and the people are welcoming, not only the place is famous for its palaces and monuments, but also the city of Udaipur has a lot to offer its visitors. This is mostly included in India Tour Packages from USA.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon (July to September) and Winter (November to February)
- Major attractions: Lake Pichola, City Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir, Monsoon Palace, Swaroop Sagar, Jagdish Temple, Kumbhalgarh Fort
3. Jodhpur
Rajasthan’s second-largest city, Jodhpur, is located in the center of Rajasthan and it is also an important tourist destination. The various hill forts, palaces, and old walled city are just a handful of the sights that this wonderful city has to offer.
- Best time to visit: All through the year
- Places To Visit: Mehrangarh Fort, the Mandore Gardens, Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Kalyana Lake, Jaswant Thada, Garden, Sardar Samand Lake, the Ghanta Ghar, and Masuria Hills
4. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer got its name ‘golden city’ from its view during the day because it lies in the heart of the Thar Desert. Architecture is the unique feature of Jaisalmer. It was built as a walled city, making it one of the largest fortresses in the world. You may want to pack lots of paper bags and almost 3-4 days to enjoy your full life in this city. The castle has numerous eateries serving Italian, French and local cuisine.
- Best time to visit: September to April
- Places to visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Gadi Sagar Lake, Sam sand dunes, Tanot Mata Temple
5. Bikaner
Bikaner is another major tourist destination and famous for sweets and snacks. The place is known for its fortresses and food. The various arts and crafts of this place are also unique, especially the intricately carved windows, known as jharokhas. This is one city we recommend for you to visit in person if you want to experience the authentic taste of Rajasthan cuisine. The various fairs held in Bikaner also attract a huge amount. visitors from all over India and around the world.
- Best time to visit: January-February
- Major attractions: Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Lalgarh Palace, Laxmi Nath Temple, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Bikaner Camel Festival
6. Pushkar
The holy city of Pushkar in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan is often described as the king of pilgrimages to India. The city is located on the shore of Lake Pushkar, created by the tears of Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest cities in India. It is famous for its temples and various ghats that are visited by hundreds of visitors during the annual bath. Lake water is considered sacred and therefore responsible for the city’s reputation as a place of pilgrimage.
- Best time to visit: October-November for the world-famous Pushkar Camel Fair
- Major attractions: The serene Pushkar Lake, the world-famous camel fair, and Meerabai Temple
7. Sawai Madhopur
Sawai Madhopur was founded in 1763 and was built by Kachwaha Rajputs Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh. The city has only two sights that have made it a popular place to visit in Rajasthan – Ranthambore Castle and Ranthambore National Park. Until India’s independence, the forests of Ranthambore were the hunting grounds of Jaipur’s Kachwaha Rajputs.
- Best time to visit: November – February
- Major attractions: The tigers at Ranthambore National Park, 10th century Ranthambore palace
8. Chittorgarh
This ancient city contains many different palaces, temples, and forts with the most advanced architectural designs and artistic craftsmanship.
One of the main places to visit in Chittorgarh is the Chittorgarh Castle, India’s largest fortress. As you visit, you will experience and witness Rajput-style architecture in the best possible way. The fortress complex includes several palaces, gardens, and temples, most of which are of great historical importance.
- Best time to visit: All through the year
- Major attractions: Chittorgarh Fort, Fateh Prakash Palace, Rana Kumbha’s Palace, Kumbhaswamini temple, Rani Padmini’s palace, Vijay Stambha, Kirti Stambha, Kalika Mata temple
9. Mount Abu
Mount Abu is the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan which is situated in the Aravalli mountain range. Mount Abu was known as Mount Arbuda, mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharat and known to be where the Great Sage Vasistha retired. The hill station is home to many ancient sites and temples frequented by many pilgrims from all over India, with many forts and lakes.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- Places to visit: Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Dilwara Jain Temples, Peace Park, Nakki Lake, and more
10. Ajmer
Surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains, Ajmer is a city burnt down in history and culture. It is located near Pushkar, the main Hindu pilgrimage site, and is the home of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. This makes it a unique pilgrimage site for both the religion – Hindus and Muslims. In addition to the pilgrimage site, it is also home to many fascinating historic sites and therefore welcomes tourists from around the world.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- Major attractions: Dargah Sharif, Naag Pathar ranges, Ana Sagar Lake
Conclusion
Each place has its own story so it is better to visit each place and reach out to its history. Travel with Times India Travels for the best package and affordability. Best is India Tour Packages from USA which includes most of the destinations of Rajasthan.