Highlights of Rajasthan
My Rajasthani Favorites
Rajasthan, the “Land of the Kings,” is the largest state by area in India. Its capital, Jaipur, is one of the three points of India’s tourist-heavy Golden Triangle (which also includes New Delhi and Agra).
In case exploring Rajasthan wasn’t already on your India bucket list, allow me to entice you with some of the marvels Rajasthan has to offer.
Jaipur
Rajasthan’s capital, also nicknamed the pink city, has no shortage of sights to see. Jaipur has forts, palaces, temples, and cenotaphs galore. The iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) and Amber Fort are among the long list of must-see places.
Udaipur
Udaipur is known as the “City of Lakes,” due to the seven lakes that surround it. It’s also described by some as the most romantic city in India. The magnificent City Palace alone is reason enough to visit. It’s easily one of the top sights in Rajasthan.
Chittorgarh
Garh means fort in Hindi, so Chittorgarh refers both to the town and more specifically to Chittor Fort. The vast 7th-century hilltop complex is still frequently referred to as Chittorgarh Fort (a duplicate reference that occurs often in English). Scattered across approximately 700 wall-enclosed acres, you will find the remains of many temples, towers, and other monuments.
Bundi
About two hours south of Jaipur tucked in a valley is the unassuming town of Bundi. Of course it has a fort and a palace perched on a hill (described by Rudyard Kipling as “the work of goblins”). But Bundi also has a number of visit-worthy stepwells. And while certainly not undiscovered, the lack of tourist crowds makes it feel more relaxed and authentic.
Jodhpur
Six hours west of Jaipur, the pink city, is the blue city of Jodhpur, another of the top sights in Rajasthan. Many theories exist as to why, but many of the houses in the old city are painted blue. While Mehrangarh Fort towers above the city and demands a visit, wandering aimlessly through the streets of the old city can be equally rewarding.
Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is the “Golden City,” distinguishing itself from its pink and blue Rajasthani neighbors. The fort, multiple Jain temples, Gadisar Lake, the Bada Bargh cenotaphs, and the opportunity to go on a camel safari in the Thar desert are all reasons you should make the trip out to the far western region of Rajasthan.
Pushkar
Pushkar is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage town that wraps around a lake that is believed to have appeared when Brahma dropped a lotus flower. The edges of the lake are comprised of 52 bathing ghats. Pushkar also has one of the world’s few Brahma temples. Time your visit to Pushkar just right and you can experience the annual camel fair along with 200,000 fellow fairgoers.
Other Rajasthani Highlights
The places listed above are only a sampling of what Rajasthan has to offer. If you can’t get enough of this amazing state, here are some additional ideas for your Rajasthani itinerary:
Ranthambhore National Park: Open from October through June, it’s claimed to be the best place to spot wild tigers in Rajasthan. Ranthambhore Fort is located within the park. (https://www.ranthamborenationalpark.com/)
Kumbhalgarh: This giant fort has a 36-kilometer-long surrounding wall that encloses palaces, stepwells, gardens, and over 300 temples.
Ranakpur: One of India’s largest and most important Jain temple complexes.
Bikaner: The main sights include Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, the labyrinthine old city, and notable temples. Plus, it’s also known for its camel safaris.
Nawalgarh and the Shekhawati Region: This area is famous for its intricately decorated and frescoed havelis.
Gagron Fort: Located in the state’s southeast corner, this UNESCO World Heritage site is claimed to be the only hill and water fort in Rajasthan. The fort is surrounded on three sides by the Kali Sindh River.