Rajasthan Tourism and Travel Guide

From the vast stretches of deserts to the incredibly gorgeous royal palaces, from the breathtaking forts to the delicious cuisine of the land - Rajasthan truly is the 'Land of the Kings'.

Live the Royal life in the palaces or experience nights in desert camps!

Pink, Blue and Golden – Choose between cities that are uniquely identified. Discover perfect itineraries to experience the various destinations of Rajasthan

From safari in the sand dunes to safari in the forests of Ranthambore; from exploring the opulent palaces in the Pink city, to the forts in the Blue city, experience Rajasthan and create your own stories

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Rajasthan is a desert state and owing to its geographical location, it has harsh summers and cool winters. However, in Jaisalmer and surrounding areas, the temperatures are extreme but manageable.

If you are planning a trip to the state, the best time to explore Rajasthan tourism is between October and February. The day temperatures are pleasant and nights are cool – the ideal set-up for sightseeing tours and shopping trips.

At the same time, if you are travelling on a budget, you can book your trip between the months of August and October or between the months of March and June. Since it's off-season, there are umpteen discounts and you can enjoy a luxurious trip without any hassles. The state doesn't face extreme monsoon and the weather is quite pleasant with sporadic showers. This is also a beautiful time to explore Rajasthan tourism.

The efforts of Rajasthan tourism has made it easier for all kinds of travellers to have a memorable time in the state. Travelling to Rajasthan ensures that you have a trip suited to your budget.

Luxury travellers can explore Rajasthan tourism comfortably and spend up to Rs.20,000 every day. Depending on your itinerary, this includes accommodation, sightseeing and activities.

Mid-budget travellers can expect a relaxed and comfortable trip in the city without spending too much. If you book your trip in advance, per day costs for exploring Rajasthan tourism can be anywhere between Rs.3500 to Rs.6500.

At the same time, Rajasthan tourism offers budget travellers a plethora of experiences which fit the budget. You can choose between guest houses or hostels and book group sightseeing tours to save money while also ensuring you have a good time in the state. Budget travellers can spend between Rs.1000 to Rs.2000 per day.

Numerous tourist attractions are part of Rajasthan tourism, all of which promise memorable experiences for history lovers, photographers and backpackers.
Winter is the best time to explore Rajasthan tourism and we recommend booking your packages between October and February. Rajasthan is also a hidden treasure for luxury travellers. Not only does it give you an opportunity to experience the grandeur of the state, but it also offers a chance to stay in restored havelis and forts.

Jaipur 
Jaipur is typically the first destination that all travellers explore. Functioning as a gateway and the capital of Rajasthan, the Pink City is home to a plethora of forts and havelis. Promising you the perfect blend of urban comforts and an intriguing historical past, Jaipur is one of the busiest cities in Rajasthan tourism. In the past few years, Jaipur has seen drastic development which has hugely contributed to Rajasthan tourism.
Among the best attractions to visit in Jaipur which are a part of Rajasthan tourism, we recommend visiting Amber Fort, Nahargarh Fort, City Palace, Choki Dhani and the many bazaars in the city. Ideal for history lovers and photographers, you can choose to enjoy history walks or even opt for a cycle tour to explore the many monuments in the city.
Another big part of Rajasthan tourism is Choki Dhani which is a recreatedethnicvillage that hosts numerous dance performances, music shows and puppet performances. You can head here to enjoy local Rajasthani cuisine and also to complete your souvenir shopping.
For those who would like to experience Rajasthan tourism through its bustling shopping streets, we recommend heading to Johari Bazaar, Chandpole Bazaar, Nehru Bazaar, Anokhi museum and Sireh Deori Bazaar.

Udaipur
Centred around Lake Pichola, Udaipur is one of the most beautiful cities which is a part of Rajasthan tourism. Promising picturesque sunsets, a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal culture, delicious food and busy markets to keep shopaholics happy, Udaipur is a traveller’s delight. The city hosts thousands of backpackers and budget travellers from across the world and offers a typical Rajasthani experience. The older part of the city is located around Lake Pichola and is home to the City Palace. The urban part of the city promises high-end shopping malls and restaurants.
Among the best tourist attractions here, visitors shouldn’t miss a trip to Lake Garden Palace, Vintage Car Museum, Bagore ki Haveli, Saheliyon ki Bari and Fateh Sagar Lake.
Bagore ki Haveli hosts an enthralling dance and music show which sees performances from dancers from across the state and is a must-attend. The captivating performances will keep you hooked to your seat and ensure you have a memorable experience. One must also not miss boating on Lake Pichola. The ride gives you a tour of the beautiful hotels, the City Palace, Jag Mandir Palace, Mohan Mandir and Jag Nivas.
Shopaholics can also enjoy a beautiful tour of the local markets which promise a glimpse of Rajasthan’s local crafts. In fact, a big part of Rajasthan tourism is the state’s popular arts and crafts. Some of the more notable ones are block print, bandhani and lac jewellery. 

Ajmer
A big part of Rajasthan tourism for spiritual seekers, Ajmer is a small town which is home to the beautiful Ajmer Sharif. One of the most important places to visit in Rajasthan tourism, Ajmer Sharif is the Sufi shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Known for his secular teachings, Chishti is said to be an important person in Islamic faith.
One of the best things about exploring Ajmer in Rajasthan tourism is that you can combine a visit to the city with either a visit to Pushkar or Jaipur. You can start your trip early in the morning, seek blessings in the dargah and carry on with your itinerary. Situated in the midst of a busy market, the dargah attracts peace seekers from across the world. We urge you to look after your belongings here as well as to avoid engaging with flower-sellers and shoe-keepers.
For food lovers, Ajmer is a delight to explore. The markets are full of local vendors who offer popular street food including samosa chaat, aloo tikki, bhel puri and gol gappe. 

Pushkar 
Pushkar is a breath of fresh air for budget travellers and backpackers. Home to one of the few Brahma temples in India, it has slowly become a big part of budget Rajasthan tourism. Home to several hostels and small guesthouses, experiencing the spiritual and laid-back vibe in Pushkar doesn’t cost travellers much but does promise an experience you won’t forget.
Besides the archaic Savitri Temple and Brahma Temple, visitors can enjoy trekking and rock climbing in the small hills surrounding the town. While most travellers spend their evening in Pushkar Lake which offers breathtaking views of the sunset, you can also head up to Savitri Temple in Ratnagiri Hill.
Among the other beautiful places to visit in Pushkar which are a part of Rajasthan tourism, Man Mahal, Rangji Temple, Mahadeva Temple, Brahma Temple are the most visited. What also surprises travellers in Pushkar are the huge number of cafes. Since non-vegetarian food is restricted in the village, all cafes serve pure vegetarian food. The street food in the city is quite interesting and serves an assortment of falafel rolls, cabbage sandwiches and aubergine burgers.
If you are here on a luxurious trip, you can stay at one of the breathtaking properties near Pushkar. Promising comfort, luxury and efficient service, these properties are ideal for those who enjoy a little grandeur on their vacation. 

Jodhpur 
Jodhpur is an important part of Rajasthan tourism. Touted as the Blue City and Gateway to the Thar Desert, it’s a tourist attraction which sees thousands of history lovers, photographers and art enthusiasts every year. A popular family destination, it’s counted among the most popular cities in Rajasthan tourism.
Among the first few sites that travellers visit in Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort stands out for its beauty and grandeur. Built by Rao Jodha, it is said to be one of the largest forts in the country. Making an appearance in several Hollywood and Bollywood flicks, the fort has put Rajasthan tourism on the global map. There are seven gates in the fort which were built over time and served different purposes.
If this is your first visit here, we highly recommend opting for a historical tour of the fort which includes a visit to Sheesh Mahal and Phool Mahal. At the same time, art lovers should take note of the breathtaking intricate work which is carved in all walls and makes for an inspiring sight. You can also visit the alluring Mehrangarh Museum which is one of the best museums in Rajasthan tourism. Tracing the state’s history, you can learn about the various eras as well as admire some beautiful art.
But that’s not all. Jodhpur is also home to the stunning Umaid Bhawan Palace as well as Jaswant Tada. If you want to explore the city in all its glory, we recommend keeping aside at least three to four days here. Also, if you are planning a luxurious trip, you can easily stay at one of the mesmerising resorts in the city. Our favourites include Taj Hari Mahal, RAAS, the Ummed and Ajit Bhawan. 

Jaisalmer 
Jaisalmer is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities which is part of Rajasthan tourism. Popular among locals and tourists alike, it is better known as the Golden City. Unless you are travelling to the interior part of the state, this is one of the main cities where you can enjoy mesmerising views of sand dunes.
Jaislamer also contributes to adventure in Rajasthan tourism. You can book luxurious camps in the midst of sand dunes, enjoy an enthralling camel safari as well as folk dances and mesmerising musical performances. If a bumpy camel safari is not what you are looking forward to, you can simply enjoy a luxurious camping experience. Don’t forget to enjoy your lavish Rajasthani meal complete with daal baati churma, mutton saag and laal maas.
Visitors must also spend a few hours at Jaisalmer Fort which is in the centre of the city. The alleys of the fort are lined with age-old shops selling handicrafts, food items, vibrant apparel and lac jewellery. Remember, as is with most Indian markets, bargaining is your biggest asset here. 

Chittorgarh
The mere mention of the name Chittorgarh brings to mind the idea of bravery and valour. The city is home to India's largest fort complex, Chittorgarh Fort, which spans 6km in length and 500 metres in width. The fort and the city stand tall as symbols of Rajput chivalry, bravery and tragedy. Chittorgarh was the capital of the Rajput kingdom of Mewar and witnessed a number of attacks and sieges by rival kingdoms. The fort is most famous for the self-immolation (Jauhar) by Rani Padmani in response to Alauddin Khilji's siege.
The city today is an architectural marvel and an unforgettable experience for history lovers while exploring Rajasthan tourism. While Chittorgarh Fort is the most popular, there are other majestic monuments and temples across the city that provide a unique experience to travellers. Tourist sites such as Vijay Stambh, Maha Sati, Gaumukh Kund and Meera Temple are frequented by travellers and locals alike.
Apart from the majestic forts and temples, the city is also home to Bhainsrorgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located close to the convergence of Chambal and Bemany rivers and is home to antelopes, hyenas, chinkaras, foxes, wild boars, crocodiles, turtles and a number of migratory birds.
Chittorgarh is a huge part of Rajasthan tourism and is home to numerous luxurious resorts. Some of these properties are havelis and palaces of the erstwhile kingdom.

Bikaner 
An oasis amidst the Thar Desert, Bikaner is fast becoming one of the top destinations in Rajasthan tourism. The city has a lot to offer travellers including the brilliant architecture of forts and temples, shopping markets and bustling food streets.
The city was established in the 15th century by the Rajput ruler, Rao Bika. He also built the famous Junagadh Fort. Bikaner is one of the few cities in Rajasthan tourism which offers travellers a close tryst with the state’s vibrant culture.
The city is famous for a number of festivals that are celebrated with great vigour, among which the Camel Festival is one oaf the most important festivals. The festival involves a procession of beautiful camels and the parade is usually followed by a camel race and folk performances.
For travellers exploring Rajasthan tourism, the famous camel safari through the Thar Desert is an awe-inspiring experience. There are a number of other places one can explore including Karni Mata Temple, Gajner Palace and Station Road Market.

Ask a foodie about the best places to eat in Rajasthan and chances are that you will get a long list. An enthralling destination for food lovers, Rajasthan's royal past is indication enough of the kind of local food you can expect. A meal fit for royalty, the local cuisine has abundant vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

From the world-famous laal maas, daal baati churma to ker sangri, pyaaz kachori and ghee khichdi, there is little that will disappoint foodies in Rajasthan. While some parts only serve vegetarian cuisine, in most major cities, you'll get a wide variety.

While Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur are some of the best places to try Rajasthani cuisine, some of the small towns will surprise you with the variety available.

The best places to eat which are a part of Rajasthan tourism are Laxmi Misthan Bhandar and Cinnamon in Jaipur, Traditional Khana Restaurant in Udaipur and Baradari Restaurant in Jodhpur.

Safari in Ranthambore National Park

One of the biggest national parks in India, Ranthambore National Park is a huge attraction in Rajasthan tourism. Thousands of travellers head to this gorgeous national park during peak season and one can’t help but fall in love with the natural beauty the park promises. One of the biggest reasons for the national park’s popularity is its population of tigers. This is one of the few national parks which is part of Rajasthan tourism where you can hope for a tiger sighting.

Visited mostly by wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and nature lovers, the park is surrounded by low hills and deep valleys which is a big change from the usual Rajasthani landscape. Most travellers head here to enjoy the exciting jungle safari which is the best opportunity to spot the majestic tigers. Typically, safaris take place in the morning and during the evenings for a period of three to four hours. It’s best to book the first safari in the morning and the last one in the evening to increase your chances of tiger sightings.

Travellers have two options for a safari – a jeep and a bus. A jeep is definitely the better option since there are fewer people and the chances of a sighting are higher. Another reason why you should opt for a jeep is that it’s much easier to navigate and one can tackle the terrain easily. The most important thing to remember while visiting any forest area is to respect the environment and observe safety rules as told by the authorities.

Safari in Sariska National Park

If you are travelling to Sariska National Park, then the best way to explore the sanctuary is by booking a thrilling safari. Home to tigers, deer, elephants, crocodiles and a huge bird population, Sariska National Park has gradually become a safe haven for tigers.

Unfortunately, this has resulted in a huge inflow of tourists which has diminished chances of a tiger sighting. So if you are looking for a sighting of the beautiful animal, you may want to include more than two to three safaris in your itinerary.

There are various resorts around the sanctuary where you can book your stay to ensure you get the best out of your trip. We also recommend booking a tour of the jungle with approved Rajasthan tourism operators.

Camping in Jaisalmer

Camping in Jaisalmer is one of the best experiences which is a part of Rajasthan tourism. Offering visitors a chance to experience the warm hospitality of locals as well as the vibrant culture, a camping trip is a must in your Rajasthan itinerary.

Depending on your budget, you can choose from various camping options. From luxury, mid-budget to budget camps, travellers have a lot of choices. Most camping trips include a camel safari, cultural performances and delicious local cuisine. If you'd like to go for more elaborate camping trips, you can plan your itinerary accordingly.

Owing to the harsh temperatures in the desert, the best time to enjoy a camping trip is during winter. But it's important to remember that nights can get quite cold and you must be prepared to brave the chilly winds. Most camp operators also organise bonfires to ensure guests don't face any issues.

Some of the best hotels in India are located in Rajasthan. From five-star hotel chains, restored palaces which are now hotels to mid-budget guesthouses and hostels – Rajasthan tourism promises you a trip you won't forget. Of course, the kind of accommodation you book will depend on the kind of experience you are expecting but Rajasthan tourism has left no stone unturned to ensure that all travellers have a comfortable vacation.
While five-star properties across the state can cost up to Rs.70,000 a night, hostels and guesthouses can cost as low as Rs.300 a night. To ensure you get the best discounts on hotels, we suggest booking your accommodation well in advance.

Luxury hotels in Rajasthan
If you want to feel like royalty, there isn't a better place than a restored fort or haveli. Spread across Rajasthan, these properties effortlessly take you back into a bygone era and ensure you are pampered during the entire duration of your trip. An experience that shouldn't be missed if you have the budget for it, luxury hotels are the best way to experience Rajasthan tourism.

• The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
• Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner
• Chhatra Sagar
• Fairmont, Jaipur

Mid-budget hotels in Rajasthan
For those who are looking for a mid-budget accommodation option, Rajasthan tourism doesn't disappoint. Promising comfort and warm Rajasthani hospitality, you can expect a good time in most of the 3-star properties in the state. We do recommend planning your trip beforehand to avail the best discounts on hotels.

• Neemrana Hill Fort Kesroli
• Jaiwana Haveli, Udaipur
• Ibis, Jaipur
• Sterling, Mount Abu

Budget hotels in Rajasthan
If you will be spending most of your time outside your hotels, you can choose a budget accommodation option to explore Rajasthan tourism. This not only ensures you save money but also gives you more budget to include more experiences in your trip.

• Zostel
• Alwar Bagh
• Hotel The Tiger
• Mystic Jaisalmer Hotel
  
  

The sophisticated network of roads has ensured that travellers have a smooth experience while travelling between cities. In fact, Rajasthan tourism has made notable efforts to streamline bus timings so travellers don’t face any issues. Here is a list of the best ways to explore Rajasthan tourism.

Bus
Rajasthan tourism bus service is prompt and safe which means you can plan your itinerary to the last stop. Most cities in the state are connected by buses and you only need to book a day in advance. However, if you have planned your trip well, you can make bookings through the official website.

Autos
Most cities in Rajasthan give you the option of travelling by autos. While cab services are available in major cities, autos are quicker and much cheaper. In cities such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur, you can also hire an auto for the entire day to cover all tourist attractions.

Trains
Trains are undoubtedly the easiest way to travel intercity and explore Rajasthan tourism. However, owing to the huge demand, you may not be able to book tickets last minute. If you prefer travelling by train, we recommend booking your tickets beforehand.