India is such a vast country and most travelers to India would be happy to admit they've not seen it all. Feeling the same way, you could spend your entire adult life exploring India and still miss a few things. And be none the wiser. Which is why many travelers find themselves compelled to blog about their adventures. This travel guide blog is about those best cities to visit for culture in Rajasthan.
Where is Rajasthan? Of the 28 states in India, Rajasthan holds its own:
Located in the northwest of India. Punjab to the north, Uttar Pradesh to the northeast and Gujarat to the south. You may imagine that 10% of a country, isn't significant, but Rajasthan is India's largest state by land mass. Having traveled through the state for a whole month we discovered it's a treasure trove. Ancient customs and history: differing beliefs and ideas all sewn together. It's incredible what you can learn of a human civilization, so old:
And each part of the state, or each city is so different from the last one you'll visit. Before COVID, it's thought as many as 8 million visitors may have traveled to this one state alone. That's incredible, isn't it? And a large percentage were domestic tourists. Remember, that's not for the whole of India, but only one state. Read on to find out what all the fuss is about, with Rajasthan.
Yes, most definitely. Rajasthan is one of the most visited states in the whole of India, of course it's worth visiting. There are many things to see and do in each one of the featured cities in this travel guide. Some of the most impressive and majestic forts in India. Found only in the state, six forts for sightseeing and for photography to interest you are:
One of the best reasons to visit any fort in Rajasthan is for the beautiful architecture. Strolling through a fort you get a sense, or an imagination that's sparked, of what life may have been like. History is fascinating. For a moment in time, you recreate what life could have been like, when the forts served their true purpose. That's what makes traveling so wonderful.
The choice is bewildering. The state has enormous wealth of interesting history, sights and local cuisine. Of the two dozen or so cities, there are 5 that stand out for obvious reasons. And each ideal for a 3-day, 2-night escape from any part of India, during your holiday. On deciding on a holiday to Rajasthan, pick a city and plan a course of action.
Is a 3-day itinerary enough for Rajasthan? No. If you can tour several cities of Rajasthan over a week, or 10 days, that's great. It's enough time to enjoy far more of this remarkable part of India. For a short break, to a specific city you've got in mind, yes 3 days is enough that being the case. Our travel guide shows you the best city destinations to choose from. Each city promises you the cultural fix you seek ― so keep reading.
It's not an easy choice to make: do you visit early in the year or later? Visiting Rajasthan from late September you catch the camel races in Pushkar. It's an event that's thrilling to watch. The camel festival more than made up for it, missing out on festivals. One deciding factor of course is the weather, so what can you expect having flown into Jaipur from New Delhi? When is the best time to visit Rajasthan, anyway:
There is very little chance of rain in February, March and April, nor by the end of September. Both months are the perfect option for touring Rajasthan's ancient forts.
Rajasthan's monsoon arrives by the middle of June. You'll experience the early rainfall by then. The peak monsoon period happens in July and towards the end of September, the season is all but gone. In other states, with their festivals of course the weather will differ. If you're coming from or going elsewhere on leaving Rajasthan, be sure what to pack. Don't only pack heavy waterproofs. Because elsewhere the temperatures may be soaring where you're headed to.
India is warm in many places throughout the year (and hot in a few places), and cool in others but seldom cold. Unless of course you're heading for a winter holiday break to Kashmir and the Himalayas. Ignoring the monsoon rain, pack loose fitting light clothing with a sun hat to shade your face and eyes.
Continue reading to discover the top visiting places in Jaipur City.
The city is world famous for the landmark pink architectural buildings. They tower over you, the Hawa Mahal and Jaigarh Fortare fine examples. A case in point to plan ahead. Knowing where you want to visit can ensure you see as much as possible during your short stay in the city. Many of the historic buildings are now plush, rich embodied hotels. This is India remember, and you can stay in an amazing hotel without busting your savings. Decide on what accommodation you desire the most: a hotel that is a modern building, or one that has history. You may feel it doesn't matter, but in Jaipur City, it does.
Those historic buildings transformed into hotels, still continue to hold centuries old character. What makes Jaipur a top world class city to visit, still remains. We were best pleased with the Sarang Palace Hotel for our two-day, one night stay. And can't recommend it enough.
You'll want to visit as many of the following attractions as possible. The longer you're staying in Jaipur, the better. That's not always possible of course (there are other great cities in Rajasthan state):
As always, even if you are backpacking, is to book a guided tour to one of the forts. A guided walking tour of the city is a must, without any doubt and should be the very first thing you do. Because there after you are aware of what you may, or may not like the most, to want to visit. In the very heart of the old city is the City Pink Palace and it is gorgeous to look at. The architecture is stunning, even to this day. Gaining entrance is only a few US dollars per person and a top attraction you can't miss out on.
Having visited the palace, you can't go without visiting Hawa Mahal. For the same reasons: the pink architecture inside and out. Make sure you have a tour booked before arriving to the city.
This city makes you feel good, bordering on the smaller side. An urbanized city it wouldn't take you long to explore the bulk of its attraction. Whilst exploration is on the cards for other cities in Rajasthan, here you want to lay low and relax. As stated, the city makes you feel good. The locals are super friendly. Their saris and turbans worn; jingling bracelets all display appeal of Indian culture. You do feel content and at ease as you stroll here and there, without purpose.
The lake is the highlight of the city in our opinion, it's where everyone heads to. But, because Pushkar is a holy city you must be respectful to the locals. You must remove your shoes when walking in and around the ghats and temples. Dress wearing long sleeves, covering shoulders and below the knees to be respectful. A foreign tourist, you are prohibited from entering the lake so don't ― the lakes holy water is for those of faith only.
You are free to sit on the ghats and look on, in bare feet of course.
You find this beautiful city in the heart of Royal Rajasthan. Often referred to as the blue city, many buildings are of that color but it's a beautiful city for other reasons too. The nearby Thar Desert, there is so much wealth for you to discover and absorb as you go on a sightseeing mission:
You may be curious about the colored buildings? It's thought the color blue cools the living quarters and also acts as a mosquito deterrent. Not sure if either works but the locals swear blind it does, so who are we to argue otherwise. In any case it's a nice touch. For many traveling to India, the "Golden Triangle" is very appealing. Three gorgeous attractions that draw in millions of tourists each year:
Those cities each has a desirable monument, or landmark to visit. It's quite workable for you to make your way to Jodhpur City, were Jaipur City the last leg of your tour. At under 350km distance between the two cities, it's possible. Traveling by train is a journey less than 6 hours. Sightsee the same day, staying in Jodhpur one night to return to Delhi by flight later the next day.
You enjoy the Golden Triangle sensation you wanted and sneak in Jodhpur City too. Most tours begin in Delhi and move to Agra next for the Taj Mahal, moving on to Jaipur City for Amber and Jaigarh Forts. It's very convenient to then connect Jodhpur City from Jaipur City by train. Tour operators use an express train service anyway, between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
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The top attraction that resonated with us was the tour of the amazing Mehrangarh Fort. The fort overlooks the blue city, so find a quiet spot away from the fort to enjoy the city at night.
The fort served a purpose for centuries as a strategic defensive position. Fast forward to modern times, its purpose serves as a reminder of the past. Off the cuff, it is a museum but on closer inspection the fort feels as if it never ceased being a fort. Ancient courtyards and battlements are prevalent. You feel a sense of self-imposed importance with this fort, refusing to die. Centuries have come and gone and yet you don't believe so.
The centuries Royalty ruled may be behind us, but their legacy remains. The fort museum has no less than 5 galleries, or more. It's worth spending a morning (or afternoon) going through the museum with a fine-tooth comb. The best experience is to conclude with lunch or an evening meal in the luxurious restaurant. Thousands of artefacts restored and preserved, Daulat Khana Gallery is where to start.
It's this gallery where you experience the antiquities of the Mughal emperor Akbar. Celebrating all the various tribes that have comprised (and still to this day) Rajasthan, the importance of the turban takes pride of place too. All the different styles and fashion has been put on show in the Turban Gallery. The city of Jodhpur is a large chunk of Rajasthan's history, so don't be in any rush to move on.
Take note of the Khichan Bird Sanctuary. And Dhawa Doli Wildlife Sanctuary, this sanctuary is only 40km to the southwest. Both are a welcome day release from the city.
How many of you have dreamt about going on a wild camel caravan into a silent desert? Not a desert in India, but on the back of a camel, nonetheless. Now is your chance to fulfil your dream when touring Jaisalmer City. It's a lovely experience ― and so different to what's expected ― to want if you a huge fan of camping back home.
There are tour packages to book in advance. Once you unpack there are local guides who are more than happy to take you camping. Head out into the desert and return back a few days later all the wiser of what a nomadic life feels like. What is so strange about wild camping with a camel caravan is there's so much sand ― and silence. You only hear the sound of your own voices and the blowing sands, and very little else.
As with any camping, going off into a wilderness there is little light pollution. Alone, you get the best views of heaven above you. Use this peaceful time for reflection and contemplation. No matter how often you wild camp, the whole experience is priceless.
The city is rich in history and culture, as is Rajasthan actually. For any opportunity of enjoying most of the city you must plan for a stay of several days at least. That may be difficult if you are out in the desert camping also. In which case you'll want to plan your travel for as long as 5 days in Jaisalmer City. What fascinated us were:
The beauty of the city is transformational by the lakes. Gadsisar Sagar Lake was the only one we visited because even a few days feels enough time, that isn't the case. Isn't that true of every holiday though? Of course, and leaving you feeling a little sad when it's time to leave.
The lake is a beautiful timepiece of local history. Not only are the surroundings of the lake beautiful, but it is also quiet and peaceful. An oasis. Do yourself a favor and rent a boat to enjoy time on the lake's water. There is no entry fee and renting a boat is dirt cheap:
Open seven days a week, the lake is in use from early morning until the evening, closing at 19:00 hours. The city located in the Thar Desert; the lake is a saving grace for the people who live here. One feature of the lake that adds so much to your experience is the architecture of the buildings. Rulers who followed in the footsteps of Maharaja Gadsi Singh contributed greater worth. Building on the lake continued with ghats and temples and cenotaphs. You see a great landmark that has risen up, out of the desert.
Get to the lake from Jaisalmer City by taxi or auto-rickshaw. Your hotel is more than happy to bring a taxi to the front for you, you've only to ask. A few minutes later, the driver is ready to drop you off at the entrance. Or you could book a city tour which no doubt includes a visit to the lake.
The summers, as you would expect for a desert, can be awful. We can't recommend you visit the city no earlier than the middle of October. That's the best time to visit for it is a lot cooler, but very comfortable too. Temperatures are a more acceptable 88° Fahrenheit, and no sign of rain. Be wary of traveling in July, August and September. Those three months bring the monsoon season and extensive flooding.
A 2D1N is advisable to you. That's how long we stayed, and we were happy with the experience of the city, before moving on. You want to stay longer? That's an option but our time in Rajasthan was nearing an end, when we finally got to visiting. Jodhpur City is a city known for its blue colored buildings, Udaipur City much so, for its lakes.
Actually, as you learn about India when traveling there are few places where there is no lake. Rulers of long ago built lakes aplenty. These lakes often were the only source of clean safe drinking water, and the British built many more. As a tourist to India, you feel grateful of these facts because the lakes bring so much joy. Wonder why there are so many ghats (steps) on a lake or body of water? It was so people could come to bathe and wash their clothes, in olden times.
Their sins too, washed away. Temples built near to water for prayer and celebrations, places to meet and greet. We had one night in the city. Our hotel was as we hoped it would be with architecture, style and decor part of history. We didn't want a modern building. In Delhi, it would be fine but not here in Udaipur. Modern feels out of place in Rajasthan. Bear that in your thoughts when booking a nice hotel, anywhere in the state.
This lake must be the top best attraction of the city. We love India for its many lakes, and this is but one more that sits up there with Dal Lake. Like Dal Lake, Pichola Lake is magnificent in unmistakable beauty. But what Dal Lake doesn't have is the Royal Palace, and other centuries old Regal buildings. Many have since transformed into luxurious hotels, cafes, restaurants and beauty salons.
Staying in Udaipur had been a dream for us for so many years. It comes as no surprise then, our hotel had to be perfect ― and it was. The best time off the lake is in the evening, enjoying a meal by the lakeside. Arrange for your hotel to make an appointment for a table in one of the restaurants, at the time your arrival. It should be possible, and a restaurant on the Island would be by chance, pure luck for you at short notice.
As plush (we felt, with pride) as our hotel was, the envy of most visitors to the lake is Taj Lake Palace. Now a hotel that's as regal as Buckingham Palace in London. And as difficult to secure a room for even one night, that's impossible for most of us. It's true, this palace is for Royalty floating in the middle of the lake, out of reach.
Other than the exquisite Taj Lake Palace, there are other attractions to seek out:
A boat trip is one of the best things to do on the lake. The cool day time breeze washing off the lake hydrates you, because even under cover the heat can reach you. So, it's best to go for a boat cruise in the evening, for the sunset moments. The sunset cruises cost more though. Book your boat trips in advance (before flying out, or as soon as you land in India ― don't delay). Nothing beats the sensation of watching palace lights twinkle like sapphires and diamonds.
A cruise is critical to your holiday enjoyment. You must be on the lake before the sun begins to set, and your cruise affords you plenty of time to enjoy your evening. The next best experience of course, is to be inside and how real would that feel?
We met in with other couples on their last night (our first and only night) talking in leaps and bounds about the stunning sunset from Monsoon Palace. We missed out on this attraction unfortunately, but if you're ever in Udaipur City make a note to visit. The palace is on the outskirts of the city and is no more than a dollar or two (in local currency) for entry.
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It's very easy and convenient to get yourself and your family to any of the major cities of Rajasthan. In fact, India is famous for ease of domestic travel. Flights are very frequent, often cheap (all things considered) and hassle free. You can arrive to Jaipur City (for example) from Delhi, Goa, Mumbai or Bangalore:
But be aware that Pushkar City is more troublesome, the nearest airport is an hour's drive from the city. Don't plan on arriving in Pushkar City as your first port of call. If you are only planning on visiting the one city, that's great: you can arrive, enjoy your short break and leave. But if you are moving onto another city within the Rajasthan state, then do so by bus or train.
Not only is either option cheap, but it's also actually more convenient (and practical) to hiring a taxi. If you prefer hiring a taxi to get you from A to B within a city and its limits, that's okay. Costs do add up ― some taxi drivers try to overcharge ― so, decide on using the tuk-tuk's more often than not? If you have concerns, then ask the reception at your hotel to book a taxi for you. They may use a more reputable driver for their guests, one you can trust.
When is the best time to visit any city in Rajasthan? We arrived in Delhi for the beginning of October and found our way to Rajasthan a week later. Delhi was hot for us and getting to Rajasthan was a relief, because leaving behind a whole 10° saved our sanity. The best time (for US and European travelers) for traveling in this gorgeous state in autumn. Reasons are twofold:
Throughout the state, all attractions remain open (generally) until the following March. Is June okay for travel? Temperatures in Rajasthan for this month are above 100°F and in fact, April, May and June are some of the hottest months. If you like really hot weather, then travel by all means ― you could even get a bargain on accommodation, so try your luck.
It's common knowledge India has cheap accommodation in every major city and town. Yet you may feel disappointed. Luxurious hotels for anything less than US$180 per person, per night may be a struggle. Your accommodation choices are also limited when demand outstrips supply. So, what's the solution when you are in a tight spot? Look at:
Lower your expectation and consider one of the city's hostels or guesthouses?
Dreams of luxury nights in Rajasthan aren't always possible. We got lucky with Udaipur City but not so with Jodhpur City. If you are backpacking, you may accept a hostel will suffice. Not so if you are a couple traveling or there are kids in tow, so a guesthouse is the best choice for you. Staying in a guesthouse is more personal, take note. Friendlier and your hosts super helpful and knowledgeable.
And, staying in a guesthouse you are served top notch food that's 100% authentic Rajasthan. Few guests can say no to wholesome home cooking.
There's an incredible piece of history in every fort found in Rajasthan. Tales of heroic bravery, of romance and love and so much more. Discover each fort yourself, because the halls, courtyards and fort towers hold secrets. Buildings of royal nobility preserved so future generations can be a part of India's past. One of the most enjoyable things to do in Rajasthan is to stroll on a sightseeing tour. It's key to your holiday enjoyment, to include yourself in everything Rajasthan.
What you take home with you is far more than what you have purchased in one of the street markets. Lifelong memories of things you saw, igniting your imagination and raced your heart. Those emotions live forever more. Traveled to Cambodia before? Siem Reap's Angkor Wat Complex, you'll understand what we mean.
Like for like, both journeys leave a profound impact upon you. For the same reasons ― a greater understanding. So, when you come across any UNESCO World Heritage site, you know it's the best of the best: better than all the rest.
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