Magical places to visit in Rajasthan
Table of Contents
‘Royal’ is the first word that comes to mind while trying to describe the enchanting land of Rajasthan. The state is an ideal example of India’s magnificence, grandeur and beauty. From rich history to intricate architecture, treasured heritage to colourful culture, impressive shopping hubs to old-world lifestyle, and warm hospitality to delectable food, the place has so much. With its striking forts, stunning landscapes, awe-inspiring sand dunes, rocky peaks, sparkling lakes and opulent palaces, there are numerous remarkable places to visit in Rajasthan. So, here is a list of the amazing places to see in Rajasthan for you to explore.
1. Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is also counted amongst the most gorgeous cities to visit in Rajasthan. The city is home to several monuments and architectural delights like City Palace, Amber Fort and Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Birla Mandir, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Albert Hall Museum and Jaigarh Fort. Also known as the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur is India’s first planned city. The city has witnessed rapid development over the years and is now counted among India’s metropolitan cities. The presence of the rich historical heritage along with glamorous shopping complexes and skyscrapers make the city an incredible combination of old and new.
Jaipur can be visited at any time of the year, although it is recommended to avoid the summers since the weather is extremely hot. Booking a flight to Jaipur International Airport is the best way to reach the city.
2. Jaisalmer
The vast stretches of the Thar Desert and the breathtaking sand dunes covering the landscapes of Jaisalmer has led to the city being popularly known as the ‘Golden City’. Attractions like Jaisalmer Fort, Gadi Sagar Lake, Sam sand dunes, Tanot Mata Temple, Kuldhara Village, Tazia Tower and Badal Palace, Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli and Amar Sagar Lake has made it an important tourist destination in Rajasthan. You can enjoy camel safaris or witness the desert festival organized in the month of January-February, all for a memorable experience.
September-November and January-April is the most favourable time to visit the city. To reach Jaisalmer, you can book a flight to Jaisalmer Airport.
3. Udaipur
Owing to its sparkling lakes and lush green hills, Udaipur is also called ‘the Venice of the East’ and ‘the city of lakes’. It is listed among the most amazing places to visit in Rajasthan in 3 days due to the many tourist attractions such as Lake Pichola, City Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir, Udai Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Swaroop Sagar, Ahar Museum, Jag Mandir, Bagore ki Haveli, Saheliyo ki Bari and Haldighati.
November to March is the best time to visit Udaipur. You can book a flight to Maharana Pratap Airport to reach the city.
4. Jodhpur
Jodhpur is also called ‘the Blue City’ due to the vivid shades of blue covering the city’s forts, houses, buildings, palaces, havelis and temples. The city is one of the best tourist places in Rajasthan with many remarkable attractions like the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Jaswant Thada, Mehrangarh Fort, the Mandore Gardens, the Kalyana Lake and Garden, Sardar Samand Lake, Masuria Hills, Ranisar Padamsar, the Ghanta Ghar and Khejarla Fort.
You can visit Jodhpur throughout the year but the most pleasant weather is encountered in the month of October and March. To reach the city, you can book a flight to Jodhpur Airport.
5. Sawai Madhopur
The town has made its place among the best tourist places in Rajasthan mainly for housing one of the country’s best tiger reserves, Ranthambore. You can explore the prosperous flora and fauna of the gorgeous town through a thrilling wildlife safari in the national park. Also, the town houses Ranthambore Fort which is named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Other must-see spots of this town include Padam Lake, Kacheeda Valley and Khandar Fort.
It is much easier to spot a tiger during November-February. Also, the weather is very pleasing during these months. The closest airport to the town is 160 km away in Jaipur. Railway station in Sawai Madhopur is well-linked to the major railway lines.
6. Bikaner
Situated amidst the Thar Desert, the city is counted among the most stunning and rich-cultured places to visit in Rajasthan. Its grand palaces and forts along with its delicious food and impressive art forms give the city an old-world charm. Camel festival held here adds to the city’s popularity. Architectural delights like Lalgarh Palace, Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple, Laxmi Nath Temple, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Gajner Palace and Lake and Lalgarh Palace and Museum make Bikaner even more appealing for the tourists.
January- February is the best time to explore Bikaner. To reach Bikaner, book a flight to Nal Airport which is just 13 km away from the city.
7. Pushkar
It is a major religious destination in India. The lively city houses the only existing Brahma temple and serves as a holy spot for thousands of Hindu devotees. The famous camel fair organized here annually makes it a must-visit tourist place in Rajasthan. Pushkar Lake, Meerabai Temple, Brahma Temple, Pushkar Bazaar, Varah temple, Apteshwar Temple and Man Mahal are some other tourist spots of the peaceful city.
Best time to travel to Pushkar is from October-November during the camel fair. The closest airport to Pushkar is 146 km away in Jaipur. Pushkar Terminus Railway Station is directly linked to Ajmer Railway Station.
8. Mount Abu
Being Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu serves as an incredible retreat from Rajasthan’s blazing summers. With its location amidst the lush green Aravalli Hills, its association with the Hindu mythology and its beautiful pieces of architecture like Dilwara Jain Temples, Mount Abu is listed among the most important places to visit in Rajasthan for every nature, history and architecture lover. You can enjoy boating in the sparkling Nakki Lake, trek along Guru Shikhar, camp at Aravalli, enjoy bird-watching at Trevors Tank, and explore wildlife at Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mount Abu has favourable weather all through the year. Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport is the nearest airport to the hill station, located 176 km away. Abu Road railway station is 28 km away from the city and is connected to all the major cities.
9. Ajmer
Ajmer can be considered as an ideal example of the country’s unity in diversity. The place is a well-known religious spot for Muslims, Hindus and Jains. The city is especially renowned for housing Dargah Sharif and other gems of Mughal architecture. Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Anasagar Lake, Soniji Ki Nasiyan, Lake Foy Sagar, Nareli Jain Temple, Naag Pathar ranges, Akbar’s palace and Clock Tower, are the several attractions of this city.
Ajmer has the most pleasant weather from October to February. It is best to avoid the summer months. Kishangarh Airport is just 30 km from the city while the Ajmer Junction railway station is well-linked to the prime cities of India.
10. Chittorgarh
From glorious history to rich heritage, majestic forts to intricate architecture and breathtaking views to mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisine, Chittorgarh has a lot to make its place among the most remarkable places to visit in Rajasthan. Being the birthplace of numerous historical personalities like Meera Bai and Maharana Pratap, many immortal stories are associated with this place. Fateh Prakash Palace, Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha’s palace, Rani Padmini’s palace, Kumbhaswamini temple, Vijay Stambha, Gaumukh Reservoir, Kirti Stambha, Kalika Mata temple and Bhainsrorgarh Fort are some of the prominent highlights of this royal city.
Winters and monsoons are considered the most favorable time to visit the place. Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur is the closest airport to the city, 105 km away while Chittaurgarh Junction railway station is well-linked to all the major cities.
11. Bundi
Brimming with striking palaces, magnificent forts, huge step wells, majestic havelis, stunning temples and intricate chhatris with carved pillars, the district of Bundi is situated at a distance of 36 km from the city of Kota. Orchards lined with guava, orange, mango and pomegranate trees, the Aravalli range, sparkling rivers and fields of cotton, wheat and barley provide Bundi with picturesque landscapes, which make it one of the best offbeat places to visit in Rajasthan. Sukh Mahal, Nawal Sagar, Dabhai Kund, Bundi Palace, Taragarh Fort, Moti Mahal, Badal Mahal, Garh Palace, Raniji ki Baori and 84 Pillared Cenotaph are some of the attractions that add to this place’s charm.
The best time to travel to Bundi is from October to March. Jaipur’s Sanganer Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 204 km and Bundi Railway Station is directly linked to Chittorgarh.
12. Alwar
It can easily be counted among the popular tourist attractions in Rajasthan with its association with the Hindu mythology, rich flora and fauna, majestic palaces and forts, vibrant culture, impressive heritage and unpolluted environment. The place has numerous incredible spots to visit like Sariska Tiger reserve, haunted Bhangarh Fort, Karni Mata temple, Pandupol, Bala Quila fort, Siliserh Lake Palace, Kesroli, Sariska Palace, Alwar City Palace, Purjan Vihar, Moosi Maharani Chhatri, Garbhaji Water Falls and Neelkanth.
October-March is the most favourable time to visit Alwar. The closest airport is Indira Gandhi International Aiport in Delhi at a distance of 141 km. The train Shatabdi Express, that connects Delhi and Jaipur, makes a stop at Alwar.
13. Bharatpur
Renowned for housing Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur is a beautiful place with a rich history and bright culture. Keoladeo National Park is a breathtaking bird sanctuary that is home to numerous species of birds and animals and has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bharatpur Museum and Palac, Ganga Mandir, Lohagarh Fort, Deeg, Banke Bihari Temple, Band Baretha and Dholpur Palace are some other attractions that make it one of the remarkable places to visit in Rajasthan.
The best time to travel to Bharatpur is from August-November. Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport in Agra is the nearest airport, about 56 km away. Bharatpur’s railway station is on the Delhi-Mumbai railway line and is well-linked to Kota, Sawai Madhopur and Agra.
14. Shekhawati
It is one of the less well-known wonders of Rajasthan dotted with splendid forts, havelis and palaces that depict the glorious tales of Rajputana culture. This place is a complete package with its impressive architecture and art, rich wildlife and vibrant culture. Attractions like Lachhmangarh Fort, Badalgarh Fort, Chirawa, Mandawa, Sethani Ka Johara, Harsh Nath Temple, Kanhaiyalal Bagla Haveli and Aath Kambh Chhatri are the highlights of the charming place.
Shekhawati has the most pleasant weather during the month of November-March. Jaipur’s Sanganer Airport is the closest one, being 113 km away. Numerous trains from Delhi and Jaipur directly link Shekhawati.
15. Pali
Pali shares its borders with eight different districts of Rajasthan. The vibrant culture, striking monuments and intricate temples make it a place worth visiting. In Pali, you can go for hiking and trekking, village safari tours, desert safaris and lake-side camping. You can also explore other tourist spots like Jawai Leopard Camp, Chhatra Sagar, Om Banna Temple, Jawai dam, Ranakpur Jain Temple and Ranakpur dam.
October-April is the best time to visit Pali. The nearest airport to Pali is at a distance of 77 km in Jodhpur. Regular trains from Jodhpur and Beawar reach Pali.
16. Hanumangarh
Renowned for its historical importance and splendid temples, Hanumangarh is believed to be a part of the ancient Indus Valley civilization. Kalibangan, the site where the artefacts belonging to the 5000-year old civilization were found, has become a popular tourist attraction. Bhatner Fort, Gogamedi Temple and Mata Bhadrakali Temple are the other spots worth visiting in Hanumangarh.
September-March is the most favourable time to visit the place. At a distance of 312 km, Chandigarh International Airport is the closest airport to Hanumangarh. Hanumangarh Railway Station is connected to many major cities like Delhi, Jalore and Guwahati.
17. Kota
Apart from being one of the biggest education hubs of Rajasthan, Kota is also famous for its picturesque location along the bank of Chambal River. It is renowned for its gold jewellery, silk sarees, Doria sarees and the well-known Kota stone as well. The city houses numerous tourist attractions like Garh Palace, Seven Wonders Park, Chambal Garden, Kishore Sagar Lake, Jagmandir Palace, Kota Barrage, Alnia Dam and Mukundara Tiger Reserve.
The most pleasant weather in Kota is in October-February. The nearest airport is Jaipur’s Sanganer Airport, 244 km away. Kota Junction is a major railway station on the Mumbai-Delhi- railway line.
18. Karauli
It is a small city that houses more than 300 temples. The place is also home to some splendid palaces and forts. The Mughal architecture and rich fauna and flora have added to the charm of this city. Jep safari in Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary and boating in the lake near the majestic Ramathra Fort are a few thrilling activities you can take part in. Karauli City Palace, Kaila Devi Temple, Shri Mahavirji Jain Temple, Gomti Dham, Nakkash ki Devi, Gufa Temple, Mehandipur Balaji Temple and Timangarh Fort are some other popular spots of the city.
The best time to explore Karauli is during the festival of Mahashivratri when the popular Karauli Cattle Fair takes place. At a distance of 170 km, Sanganer Airport in Jaipur is the closest to the city. Hindaun City and Gangapur railway station connect Karauli to the other major cities.
19. Barmer
Barmer is one of the most popular places to visit in Rajasthan among those who wish to experience the royal state’s true colours. The town includes a small area of the Thar Desert and shares a border with Pakistan. The place is renowned for its magnificent forts, vibrant festivals and notable crafts like wood carving, embroidery work, pottery and ajrak prints. Kiradu Temples, Barmer Fort, Shri Nakoda Jain Temple and Juna Fort are a few examples of the town’s intricate architecture.
October-March stands out to be the best time to explore the town. The closest airport is 220 km away in Jodhpur. Barmer railway station is conveniently linked to the major cities through Jodhpur railway station.
20. Rajsamand
Renowned for being the biggest marble-manufacturing district in India, the town has a rich history and several beautiful temples. It also houses Rajsamand Lake, world’s second largest artificial lake. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Kankroli, Golerao Jain Temple, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Haldi Ghati are the major tourist attractions in the town.
Rajsamand offers the most gratifying weather from October to March. The nearest airport is Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport, 75 km away. The nearest railway station is in Udaipur at a distance of 68 km. The town is linked to all the prime cities by roads.
21. Jhalawar
Filled with striking examples of Mughal and Rajputana architecture, Jhalawar is a place that narrates glorious historical tales. Expansive orchards of oranges and huge fields of poppies make the place colourful and beautiful. It houses many interesting sites like Bhawani Natyashala, Jhalawar Government Museum, Gagron Fort, Jhalawar Fort, Chandrabhaga Temple, Sun Temple, Dwarkadheesh Temple, Dalhanpur, Jhalara Patan and Bhimsagar Dam.
The winter months of October-February constitutes the most suitable time to visit Jhalawar. Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore is the closest at 240 km. Jhalawar railway station has been recently constructed.
22. Jalore
Renowned for its cannon foundry and the ancient 900-year old Sundha Mata Temple, Jalore is a stunning small city. With a colourful history, the city has a few other tourist attractions like Jalore Fort, Malik Shah”s Mosque, Sirey Mandir, and Chamunda Devi Temple.
October to February is the best time to travel to the city. Jodhpur Airport is the closest airport at a distance of 140 km. Jalore railway station is connected to the major cities through the railway station in Jodhpur.
23. Nagaur
The city is famous for housing the country’s biggest saltwater lake. It has also been mentioned in Mahabharata as Jangladesh. The notable attractions in Nagaur include Nagaur Fort, Ladnun, Khimsar Fort, Kuchaman City, Khatu, Kuchaman Fort and Jhorda.
November to February is the best time to travel to Nagaur. You can also attend the popular Nagaur festival that takes place during January-February. The closest airport is in Jodhpur at a distance of 137 km. Nagaur railway station is connected to the major cities like Mumbai, Indore, Surat and Bikaner.
24. Jhunjhunu
It is one of the most ancient and progressive districts of Rajasthan. The city has a rich history, scenic landscapes and magnificent architecture. The beautiful havelis are the most prominent tourist attraction of the district. The place is also famous for spots like Rani Sati Temple, Lohargal, Khetri Palace and Modi and Tiberwal Haveli.
Jhunjhunu has enjoyable weather during October-March. The closest airport is Jaipur’s Sanganer Airport 150 km away. Jhunjhunu railway station is well-linked to the prime cities.
25. Bhilwara
This small yet charming city in Rajasthan is famous for its textiles and is even called ‘the city of textiles and looms’. The place has many tourist spots like Badnore Fort, Kyara Ke Balaji, Mandal, Pur Udan Chatri, Dhanop Mataji, Menal Waterfall, Meja Dam and Bijolia.
The most favourable time to visit Bhilwara is from October to March. Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport is the closest airport, 148 km away. Bhilwara railway station is conveniently linked to the nearby prime cities.
26. Ranakpur
Located amidst the Aravali valleys, Ranakpur is a well-known sacred spot among the Hindu community. The lush green landscapes with sparkling streams give Ranakpur a tranquil atmosphere. The famous attractions in Rankapur include Sadri, Ranakpur Jain Temple, Surya Narayan Temple, Narlai and Muchchal Mahavir Temple.
Winters are considered to be the best time to explore Ranakpur. You should plan your visit in October when Ranakpur Festival, one of the major attractions of the place, takes place. The closest airport and the nearest railway station are in Udaipur at a distance of 60 km.
27. Sikar
Sikar has remarkable architectural wonders in the form of several forts, havelis and palaces. The place is perfect to relax, explore the craft of fresco, learn about a new culture and click amazing photos. Devgarh, Danta Ramgarh, Khatu shyamji, Ganeswar and Harshnath Temple are a few spots worth seeing in Sikar.
Like the other places to visit in Rajasthan, Sikar offers amusing weather from October-March. The nearest airport is 116 km away in Jaipur. Sikar Railway station is linked to various cities of India.
28. Dausa
Also known as ‘Deva Nagari’, Dausa is a small town that has much archaeological and historical significance. This place is worth visiting to experience the authentic rural culture of Rajasthan. Chand Baori is the chief attraction of this place. It is an ancient 1000-year old, 13-storey deep-step well with over 3500 stairs. Harshat Mata Temple, Bhandarej, Lotwara and Bandikui are some of the other worth-seeing attractions in Dausa.
October-March is the best time to visit Dausa. At 62 km, Jaipur has the airport nearest to Dausa. Dausa railway station is connected to the prime cities through Jaipur.
29. Nawalgarh
Nawalgarh is also called ‘the land of havelis’ due to its numerous majestic havelis. The credit for this place’s splendid architecture goes to the rich Marwari businessmen, who sent artists from faraway cities to build these beautiful havelis in Nawalgarh. Some of the best pieces of architecture in Nawalgarh include Morarka Haveli, Sheesh Mahal, Roop Niwas Palace and Poddar Haveli.
The most appropriate time to visit this place is between November and March. The closest airport to Nawalgarh is in Jaipur, at a distance of 126 km. Nawalgarh has a major railway station.
30. Mandawa
Just like the other places in Rajasthan, the charming little town of Mandawa is dotted with majestic forts, havelis and palaces. The place has been the location of many film shoots. The place is an excellent retreat for art-lovers. Castle Mandawa, havelis of Mandawa and Open Air Art gallery are a few tourist attractions of this place.
October-November is considered to be the best time to explore the place. The airport in Jaipur is the nearest to Mandawa, 151 km away. Jhunjhunu railway station is 30 km away from Mandawa.
These are some of the most incredible places in the royal state of Rajasthan. So, go ahead and explore the magnetic beauty of this magical land.
FAQs
Q. Which are the best places to go on a honeymoon in Rajasthan?
Jaipur, Mount Abu and Udaipur are the most popular honeymoon spots in Rajasthan. Also, Jodhpur, Bikaner and Jaisalmer are remarkable places to go on a honeymoon.
Q. Which are the best places in Rajasthan for a great shopping experience?
Johri Bazaar in Jaipur, Clock Tower market in Jodhpur, Bada Bazaar in Udaipur, Sadar Bazaar in Jaisalmer and Kote Gate in Bikaner are the best shopping destinations in Rajasthan.
Q. Where should I go in Rajasthan for the desert experience?
Osian, Bikaner, Barmer and Jaisalmer can offer the best desert experiences in Rajasthan.
Q. Which are the best places in Rajasthan for photography?
Rajasthan is a very scenic place and every place here will serve as a great background. Jodhpur, Jaipur, Pushkar and Jaisalmer are considered the top places for photography.
