14 Jan Rajasthan – Royalty and Rich Heritage
Welcome to Rajasthan
Rajasthan is a state in northern India known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. It is home to many historic forts and palaces that have stood for centuries, including the famous Amber Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and City Palace, encapturing stunning architecture and intricate designs. Rajasthan’s vibrant and colourful culture is also reflected in its music, dance, art, and cuisine. Folk dances like Ghoomar, Kalbeliya, and Chari are famous in Rajasthan. Be awe-inspired by Rajasthan’s stunning, diverse landscapes, including vast deserts, rolling hills, and beautiful lakes. The Thar Desert is a popular destination for tourists and is known for its dunes and camel safaris.
With Rajashthan’s rich heritage, immerse yourself in the state’s colourful and lively festivals, including the Pushkar Camel Fair, the Jaipur Literature Festival, and the Desert Festival. These festivals showcase the state’s rich culture and heritage. And if you have time to shop, you must explore local handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, and jewellery for which Rajasthan is famous. The state is known for its bandhani and block-printed textiles using traditional techniques.
Overall, Rajasthan is a state that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity makes it a special place to visit.
How To Get There
Buses: These are the standard mode of transport in India, and you can book your bus tickets through Red Bus. India’s largest company for bus ticket booking online, redBus, offers an easy-to-use online platform.
Train: India has an excellent train network, with connections all over the nation to Rajasthan. If you consider yourself a serious traveller, you should take the sleeper/non-AC class, which is the least expensive option. But take note- they can become crowded and a little unpleasant. So, if you want a more comfortable trip, take a 3rd- or 2nd-class air-conditioned coach.
Plane: Flying is the most practical and ideal way to travel to the location. Direct flights are available from major Indian cities, including New Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata, to the state’s three most important regions: Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. Look up flights on Skyscanner.
Getting Around
Ola/Uber: If you have a local sim card, you can use Uber or Ola to travel from place to place. Here, you benefit from guaranteed low pricing and no haggling required.
Rickshaw: You can also attempt bargaining with rickshaw drivers off the streets!
Train: Rajasthan is awarded a well-organized system of railway lines, be it intra or inter-state. The location is also home to the country’s 6th metro rail system after Delhi, NCR, Kolkata, Mumbai and Bangalore. Visitors have a plethora of options when it comes to urban trains.
Tuk Tuk: Another enjoyable way to get around the location is Tuk Tuk!
Places Of Interest
Jaipur is a historic city known as the “Pink City” due to the distinctive pink colour of its buildings. The town is famous for its stunning architecture, including the Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, and Amer Fort, popular tourist attractions. Jaipur is also known for its bustling bazaars and markets, which offer a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery. Other notable interests in Jaipur include the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and the Nahargarh Fort. Jaipur is a vibrant and colourful city rich in history, culture, and tradition. It is a popular destination for domestic and international tourists and offers visitors a unique and memorable experience. Click here for our detailed blog on Jaipur.
The City of Lakes, famous for its beautiful palaces, stunning architecture and serene lakes, including Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Udai Sagar Lake. The City Palace, Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir, some of Udaipur’s top attractions, offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. In addition to its beautiful lakes and palaces, Udaipur is also known for its vibrant markets, where visitors can find a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The city is also home to many delicious restaurants and street food stalls, where visitors can try a variety of local Rajasthani cuisine. Udaipur is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities, making it an excellent place for travellers of all ages and interests. Click here for our detailed blog on Udaipur.
Jaisalmer is commonly known as the “Golden City” due to the yellow sandstone used in its architecture that gives it a golden glow, its well-preserved medieval architecture and historical landmarks, such as the Jaisalmer Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Camel safaris in the Thar Desert are very popular here, with its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Desert Festival, held every year in February. This festival features camel races, folk dances, and other traditional activities. Visitors can experience the local’s unique culture and way of life, including music, dance, and food. Jaisalmer is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in India’s history, architecture, and cultural experiences.
The magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, commonly called the Golden Fort, gets its name from the yellow sandstone that makes it reflect golden hues. This fort was built by Raja Jaisal and is a remarkable example of Rajasthani architecture and one of the top attractions in Jaisalmer. The fortress is most impressive at night when lit up and blazing. Book tour here.
Guman Chand, one of the city’s famous traders, constructed the Patwon ki Haveli, renowned for its beautifully carved, spacious apartments. It is one of the ultimate locations to visit in Jaisalmer for art enthusiasts, students, and history buffs, because of the wonderfully decorated walls and the roomy corridors furnished with artwork from the ancient past.
Jodhpur, commonly known as the “Blue City” due to the blue-painted houses in the old part of the city, is home to many historical and cultural attractions, including the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, and the Clock Tower. Apart from the monuments, Jodhpur is also known for its vibrant markets and handicrafts. The Sardar Market near the Clock Tower is a popular shopping destination for textiles, handicrafts, and spices. Enjoy the famous Rajasthani cuisine, with dishes such as dal baati churma, makhaniya lassi, and mirchi vada. Jodhpur is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. Its rich cultural heritage, vibrant markets, and delicious food make it a popular tourist destination in the North of India. Book tickets here.
Mehrangarh Fort is one of India’s largest and most impressive forts, located on a rocky hill overlooking the city. The fort houses a museum with extensive art, artefacts, and weaponry collection. Book tickets here.
Umaid Bhawan Palace is the world’s largest private residence and is still home to the royal family of Jodhpur. The palace is a stunning example of Indo-colonial architecture and houses a museum, a luxury hotel, and beautiful gardens. Book tour here.
Pushkar is a small town known for its sacred Pushkar Lake and the famous Pushkar Camel Fair. It is one of India’s oldest cities with great religious significance amongst Hindus. Surrounded by hills, this town is home to several ancient temples and ghats, attracting pilgrims and visitors worldwide. The Pushkar Camel Fair, held annually, is a major attraction where traders from different parts of India come to buy and sell camels and is also a platform for cultural performances and competitions. Overall, Pushkar is a culturally rich and spiritually significant town that offers a unique experience to visitors. Book tour here.
The Brahma Temple is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the Hindu god of creation. The temple was built back in the 14th century and made of marble and stone. With its unique architecture and beautiful paintings, will leave you mesmerized. Book tickets here.
The Pushkar Bazaar is a colourful and vibrant market offering traditional Rajasthani clothes, jewellery, and handicrafts. The bazaar is also known for its delicious street food, such as chaat, kachori, and samosa.
A popular wildlife destination, Ranthambore National Park is home to the Bengal tigers, leopards, and other wildlife, including over 300 species of birds found here. The park is surrounded by rugged terrain, dotted with rocky outcrops and cliffs, and is surrounded by the Vindhya and Aravalli mountain ranges. It has a historic fort, which adds to its allure. Visitors can go on jeep and canter safaris to explore the park and spot wildlife. Several luxury resorts and lodges are located in and around the park, offering comfortable accommodations to visitors. Book tickets here.
Ranthambore National Park, famously known for its tigers and other wildlife, such as leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and various species of birds, is one of the largest and most significant national parks in Rajasthan covering an area of 392 sq km. The park offers a thrilling safari experience where you can see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Book tour here.
The Ranthambore Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Rajasthan’s oldest forts; built in the 10th century and is located atop a hill, providing stunning views of the surrounding forests and the park. The fort is also home to many temples, palaces, and ancient structures.
Surwal Lake is a small yet picturesque lake in the Ranthambore National Park. It is an excellent place for birdwatching, attracting various migratory birds during winter. You can spot birds like painted storks, cormorants, and pelicans here and other wildlife like deer and crocodiles. The lake also provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a picnic. Book tickets here.
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary of 392 sq km. It is home to the most famous inhabitant, the Bengal Tiger, a popular tourist destination. The park is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 300 species found here. Characterized by its rugged terrain and cliffs and surrounded by the Vindhya and Aravalli mountain ranges, this nature reserve will give you immense experiences of the natural habitat and jeep safaris tours or trekking. Luxury resorts and lodges are available for your stay. Book tickets here.
Where To Stay
Searching for the top places to stay in Rajasthan? We provide you with beautiful places to stay, including luxury, mid-range and budget hotels in Jaipur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer.
Jaipur – Luxury Hotels
Entering this historic hotel is like travelling back in time. This is an ideal location to savour Jaipur’s delicate design work and unwind in luxury or the stunning hotel pool. Avoid skipping afternoon tea.
Jaipur – Mid-Range Hotels
With a stay at this three-star property, this facility brings you close to attractions and excellent dining alternatives because of its convenient location in Jaipur’s Shastri Nagar neighbourhood.
Jaipur – Budget Hotels
This is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a guest house in Jaipur. The property benefits from a prime location and offers quick access to the city’s main transit hubs.
Udaipur – Luxury Hotels
The Leela Palace Udaipur is a luxurious hotel situated on the banks of Lake Pichola in Rajasthan, India. The property features opulent rooms and suites, fine dining options, a spa, and stunning views of the lake and city palace.
Udaipur – Mid-Range Hotels
A luxurious heritage hotel located in Udaipur. The hotel features elegant Rajasthani architecture, spacious rooms with modern amenities, and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
Udaipur – Budget Hotels
Zostel Udaipur is a backpacker hostel located in the heart of Udaipur, Rajasthan. It offers affordable and comfortable accommodation, social spaces, and organizes local experiences for travelers.
Jaisalmer – Luxury Hotels
This is one of the best Jaisalmer hotels that offer high-class luxury tented accommodations at the striking sand hills of Thar Desert.
Jaisalmer – Mid-Range Hotels
A well-maintained hotel with breathtaking views. The rooftop restaurant provides delicious meals and a captivating views of the Jaisalmer fort.
Jaisalmer – Budget Hotels
The hotel is 1640 feet from Jaisalmer Fort & 328 feet from Sunset Point and offers fantastic amenities. A great budget hotel for a comfortable stay.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Rajasthan, the Land of Maharajas, offers an exceptional and unforgettable travel experience. We were captivated by its deep-rooted history, vibrant culture, and magnificent architectural wonders, including the enchanting palaces, forts, and temples that narrate the tales of a bygone era.
While venturing off the beaten track, it allowed us to immerse ourselves in the richness of Rajasthani cuisine, with its tantalizing flavours and aromas. We were also fortunate to witness the splendour of the state’s vibrant festivals, where colours, music, and dance intertwine to create a mesmerizing spectacle. The warmth of Rajasthani hospitality was overwhelming as the locals embraced us with open arms, treated us like family, and indulged like royalty. Rajasthan is a destination that leaves an indelible mark on your heart, offering an experience unlike any other.
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