Rajasthan ‘Land of Kings’ or ‘Land of Kingdom’ is India’s largest state by area. The state located on northwest part of country and is a home of cultural diversity. Its features include the ruins of Indus Valley Civilization, Temples, Forts and Fortresses in almost every city. Rajasthan divided into 9 regions; Ajmer State, Hadoti, Dhundhar, Gorwar, Shekhawati, Mewar, Marwar, Vagad and Mewat which are equally rich in its heritage and artistic contribution. These regions have a parallel history which goes along with that of the state.
A world heritage site, Keoladeo National Park near Bharatpur, known for its bird life. Apart from this state has two national tiger reserves namely Ranthambore National Park at Sawai Madhopur and Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar.
The State was formed on 30th March 1949 when Rajputana – name as adopted by British Crown was merged into the Dominion of India. Jaipur being largest city was declared as capital of the state.
The early history of Rajasthan includes some of the great Maharanas, Nawabs and Rulers. Prominent among them were Prithiviraj Chouhan, Samrat Hem Chandra Vikramaditya (also known as Hemu), Mughal Emperor Akbar, Maharana Udai Singh, Maharana Pratap, Raja Maan Singh and others.
Rajasthan’s formerly independent kingdoms developed a rich architectural and cultural heritage; same can be seen today in numerous forts and palaces, which are enriched by feature of Muslim and Jain Architecture.
The beauty of Rajasthan is a mixture of rich heritage and languid modernity. As you explore towering forts, fairy-tale palaces and sweeping bazaars, you realize that Rajasthan holds its history close to its heart. A magical destination that comes alive when you witness camel bartering, twirling moustaches, and intricate handicrafts.
It is a multi-hued destination and the perfect getaway. Falling in love with the desert state is easy, and to make it easier for you, here’s a complete list of places to visit in Rajasthan that you simply cannot miss when you visit the biggest state in India.
JAIPUR— THE PINK CITY
The Pink City, situated on one end of the Thar Desert, encompassed by the Aravalli Hills, is the crowning jewel of Rajasthan. Whether you’re travelling solo or with your loved ones, Jaipur will mesmerise you with its palaces, forts, bazaars and cuisine. The city’s pink colour scheme is a joy to behold, and you’ll need more than a few days to get your fill of Jaipur and its many attractions.
Whether you’re exploring the royal observatory, or dodging foot traffic as you haggle in a multi-coloured bazaar, Jaipur will ensure you have the time of a lifetime. It comes as no surprise that Jaipur is part of India ‘golden triangle’ travel circuit, that includes Agra and Delhi.
Palace to visit in Jaipur : Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, City Palace, Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Birla Mandir, Raj Mandir Cinema, Albert Hall Museum, Rambagh Palace, Anokhi Museum, Maota Lake, Samode Palace, Bazaars of Jaipur, Jhalana Leopard Conservation Reserve, Man Sagar Lake, Sisodia Rani Garden and many colorful bazaar located inside old city .
JAISALMER— THE GOLDEN CITY
Jaisalmer situated in the middle of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer’s undulating sand dunes, and fort situated on Trikuta (three-peaked) Hill, is the perfect introduction to this city’s historical wonders. The fort is not simply a tourist destination; the families that continue to live there are descendants of the former maharajas workers. Jaisalmer was founded in the 12th century and as you explore this city, you will find that its history is intertwined with modernity. The sandstone havelis of the old city, art & craft shops, and camel safaris make Jaisalmer one of the most attractive places to visit in Rajasthan.
Palace to visit in Jaisalmer : Jaisalmer Fort, Sam Sand Dunes, Gadsisar Lake, Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh-ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, Kuldhara Village, Vyas Chhatri, Desert National Park, , Mandir Palace, Desert Culture Centre and Museum, Bada Bagh, Khuri Sand Dunes, Akal Wood Fossil Park, Tazia Tower, Lodhurva, Pokaran Fort etc.
UDAIPUR— THE CITY OF LAKES
Udaipur also known as ‘Venice of the East’, and surrounding by rippling green Aravalli Hills elevate this southern Rajasthan city’s natural splendour. Udaipur was born in the mid-1500s as the capital of the Mewar Kingdom. The palaces, temples, and lakes here are testament of a bygone royalty that charms and excites travellers. Explore the cream-coloured City Palace, in the middle of Pichola Lake, or the Monsoon Palace, that sits pretty on a peak like a beautiful mirage, to get a taste of the man-made structures of Udaipur. Whether you explore this romantic city on foot, or horseback, you will be taken in by the natural magnificence and royal grandeur. When it comes to romantic places to visit in Rajasthan, Udaipur is primary one.
Palace to visit in Udaipur : The Lake Palace, City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, Shilpgram, Udaipur Solar Observatory, Fateh Sagar Lake, Fateh Prakash Palace Crystal Gallery, Lake Pichola, Bagore ki Haveli, Eklingji Temple.
JODHPUR— THE BLUE CITY
The first thing that hits you when you enter Jodhpur in western Rajasthan is its mass of blue houses. As you enter the old part of the city, the blue walls dazzle in the noonday sun and create a magical setting heightened by the 16th century, 10km-long, wall that surrounds Jodhpur.
A walk through the medieval bazaars of Jodhpur and their meandering lanes is filled with surprises. Curio shops sell trumpets, saris and woodwork miniatures. The scent of roses and incense hangs heavy in the air. The second largest city in Rajasthan has a massive fort on a rocky ridge that looms over the blue houses of Jodhpur.
Palace to visit in Jodhpur : Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhavan Palace Museum, Ghanta Ghar ( Clock tower market ) Jaswant Thada, Mandore Gardens, Balsamand Lake, Masuria Hills, Guda Village, Osiyan temple & Dessert safari etc
