Top Things to Do in Rajasthan

Poetry breathing throughout the fairy architecture and culture of the land – that’s Rajasthan! It beckons you to experience the epitome of rich cultural heritage reflected in myriad ways and hues. It is a wonderland where grand forts and palaces tell stories of chivalry and astonishing opulence, and desert villages exude rustic beauty and humbleness in abundance. Delve deep into the royalty of raja-maharajas, travel back to history, experience the charm of bygone eras, gape in awe at the architectural marvels, explore wilderness amidst dense forests, enjoy a camel ride with sunset across endless sand dunes, gorge on lip-smacking Rajasthani cuisine, participate in unique and colourful fairs & festivals, travel in luxury trains, shop amazing handicrafts and much more. Rajasthan tour offers you a huge list of things to do in Rajasthan. We bring you some of the top things that must be a part of your Rajasthan Tour Itinerary.

Visit Rajasthan forts: The reminiscence of great valour and courage!

Amber Fort, Jaipur

Jaipur’s story started at the exquisite Amber Fort which served as the home for the powerful Kachchwaha clan for centuries before Jaipur was founded in 1727. It is one of India’s most magnificent forts, built in red sandstone and marble reflecting artistic Hindu-style elements. Built by Raja Man Singh-I in 1592, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its grand architecture, exquisite carvings, astonishing Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) and picturesque views of Maota Lake are a feast for the eyes. 

Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

This rock-top citadel perched atop the Trikuta hill at a height of 250 feet is one of the largest forts in the world built in 1156 by King Rawal Jaisal. This honeycombed fort with narrow winding lanes is the only living fort in India with around 3000 people inhabiting it. Reflecting a perfect fusion of Rajput & Islamic architecture, this fort is also called the ‘Golden Fort’ for its sandstone buildings and walls that glisten like gold in the sun. Its double fortification walls and circular bastions were important components of its defence. 

Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh

Sprawling across 280 hectares, Chittorgarh Fort is the biggest fort in Rajasthan and the largest living fort in India. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has 7 invincible gates, beautiful palaces, temples and 2 commemorative towers. This fort was truly reminiscent of Rajputana pride, courage and sacrifice. The famous Bollywood movie Padmavat was influenced by the Rajput queen Padmini who committed mass jauhar to safeguard their honour after the king was killed by the invader Allaudin Khilji. Rani Meera Bai, legendary poet-princess and the great devotee of Lord Krishna also here at one point in time. 

Meharangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Dominating the mesmerizing city of Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort is ideally located on a hilltop offering a bird’s eye view of the city. This huge and impregnable fort is aptly called Mehrangarh meaning majestic. Built by Rao Jodha in 1459, this fort’s major highlights are its seven Pols, each constructed by a different ruler in honour of their respective victories, palaces, museums, and temples.

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Udaipur

Once the second most important fort in Mewar after Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh Fort was built on a rocky peak of the Aravalli mountains, at 3,500 ft, in the 15th century. The ramparts stretch for 38 km across the wild and thickly wooded surrounding hillsides and are claimed to form the world’s second longest wall, after the Great Wall of China. 

Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

The pride of the city, Junagarh Fort is one of the most stunning forts of Rajasthan. It was built in red sandstone by Maharaja Rai Singh in 1594, and the famous historian Pt. Deenanath praised this fort by saying that ‘its walls speak’. Its construction is in Rajput style and ornamentation is in Mughal style.

Explore Rajasthan palaces & havelis: The abodes of extraordinary opulence and royalty!

City Palace, Jaipur

At the heart of the Pink City Jaipur lies its brightest gem, the City Palace built in 1729. It is a seven-storied palace reflecting the greatness of the amalgamation of Rajput, Islamic and European styles of architecture. It has 3 gateways, beautiful palaces, temples, and other monuments. Well, it also houses two huge silver pots named Gangajali and Gangoj Kalash (the world’s biggest silver pots) made by Raja Madho Singh-II to drink holy Ganges water from them. Also, visit the Baggi Khana where royal vehicles of Jaipur rulers are kept. The palace is also known for placing the world’s biggest Choga (black coat).

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds is a giant red-sandstone structure known for its artistic architecture. Looking like a beehive, this palace was specially built for the royal ladies to watch the street processions by remaining confined to purdah. Its five-storied façade is encrusted with 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Maharaja Umaid Singh had employed 3,000 citizens a day for 16 years to build this palace par excellence-Umaid Bhawan Palace. Built in 1929, it is the largest riyasati mahal (princely palace) in the world with 347 rooms. Its Indo-saracenic architecture with elements of Western Art Deco style makes it extraordinarily majestic. Some part of this stellar property is still occupied by the royal family, a portion of it has been transformed into a heritage hotel and the remaining as a museum. 

City Palace, Udaipur

Soaring high on the northeast corner of Lake Pichola is Udaipur’s astonishing City Palace. Once the abode of the Mewar rulers, it encompasses four major and several minor palaces together forming a single bewitching façade overlooking the lake. It is a fine blend of domes, arches, turrets, cupolas and crenellations. 

Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, Udaipur

Beautifully located on Bansdara hills on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake, the Monsoon Palace was built by Rana Sajjan Singh in 1881 in the monsoon season, hence its name. It has a beautiful rose garden with big-sized roses. This stunning white marble structure has mesmerizing motifs of flowers and leaves carved all over it. The fountains, domes and jharokhas all over the palace are attractive. 

Salim-Singh-Ki-Haveli, Jaisalmer

Located east down the central Bhatia Bazaar is Salim-Singh-Ki-Haveli which is easily recognizable because of its unusual cantilevered upper story, supported by carved peacock brackets. Built in the 18th century, this 5-storied haveli is intricately carved and looks like an open-air art gallery. It was not built using cement or mortars but stones were connected with strong iron rods. Its carvings, stone meshwork and precise stone engravings are super amazing.

Take a look at Rajasthan museums: The testimony to Rajasthan’s rich royal tapestry!

Albert Hall Museum, Jaipur

Established in 1876, Albert Hall Museum is the oldest one in Rajasthan bearing a resemblance to Victorian architecture and Albert Hall in London. It is home to a wide variety of artefacts collected from different parts of the world and showcased in around 16 galleries. From marble art to Egyptian mummy, carpets, antique coins and pottery, this museum has a lot to intrigue you. Its Indo-Saracenic style domes and exquisitely engraved arches will surely leave you spellbound.

Mehrangarh Fort Museum, Jodhpur

Located in the premises of the fort, this museum is a perfect place to peep into the glorious history of Rajasthan. It exhibits intricately crafted palanquins, weapons, royal cradles, armour, amazing textiles, miniature paintings, musical instruments, royal costumes and much more associated with Rajpur culture. 

Vintage Car Museum, Udaipur

The Rolls-Royce Phantom II which was used in the famous James Bond movie “Octopussy” filmed in Udaipur is showcased in the unique Vintage Car Museum. Offering glimpses into the royal past and automotive heritage of Rajasthan, this museum houses a variety of vintage cars ranging from remarkable Rolls-Royces to Bentleys, Mercedes and Cadillacs. 

City Palace Museum, Jaipur

An amazing blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, City Palace Museum is a famous attraction of Jaipur. It beautifully reflects to royal past of Jaipur through its variety of artefacts including antique weapons, ancient manuscripts, miniature paintings, royal costumes and the list seems endless. Pritam Niwas Chowk inside the museum attracts attention for its magnificent gateways representing the four seasons and are decorated with mesmerizing artwork. 

City Palace Museum, Udaipur

Udaipur tour is truly incomplete without visiting the City Palace Museum located on the banks of Lake Pichola. It is a majestic fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles with stellar galleries and exhibits. Its royal artefacts include antique weapons, miniature paintings, crystal work, royal costumes, etc. Enjoy insights into the royalty of the Mewar dynasty. 

The Government Museum, Ajmer

Located in the premises of the historic and impressive Akbari Fort, the Government Museum is a mirror to the rich cultural heritage of Ajmer. Its diverse range of artefacts reflects different periods of history, from medieval to Mughal periods. It exhibits archaeological finds, arms & armour, ancient manuscripts, miniature paintings and sculptures. It is a perfect place for history buffs. 

Anokhi Museum of Hand Print, Jaipur

If you wish to see the traditional art of hand printing in Rajasthan using natural dyes, then this is the museum you must visit. It is such a delight for the eyes and mind. Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is a unique and amazing museum celebrating the art of hand block printing. Ideally located within a mesmerizing haveli, the museum preserves and promotes the beautiful craft of Rajasthan. From vibrant and intricately designed saris to bed covers, tablecloths and other fabrics, the skilled artisans show their magic by creating a variety of textiles.

Let loose in Rajasthani music, dance and puppetry: The spectacular shows that bring legends & crafts together!

Music, dance and puppetry are deeply ingrained in the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan and it lives it thoroughly. For every occasion, there is a piece of folk music in Rajasthan. The hereditary performers staged these performances during local fairs, festivals, temple ceremonies, weddings and other ceremonies. Although there are various places where these are performed regularly for the entertainment of tourists who come here from across the globe. Ghoomar and Kalbelia are the most popular dance forms performed by women and kachchi ghodi is exclusively performed by men with bamboo horses. In Udaipur, the Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal stages folk dances and puppet shows every evening. In Jaipur, Chokhi Dhani (cultural village) is the perfect place to enjoy folk dances, music, puppetry, acrobatics, etc. 

The word ‘puppet’ means ‘kathputli’ and it is made of kath or wood, and the puppeteers are called Nats or Bhats, a wandering community of Rajasthan. They beautifully depict the stories from the lives of the local heroes through puppet performances. It’s a sheer pleasure to watch the show as Rajasthani puppeteers are artisans par excellence.

Take blessings at Rajasthan temples: Unwavering devotion to deities!

Karni Mata Temple, Bikaner

Located in the town of Deshnoke, 30 km south of Bikaner, it is a unique temple dedicated to Karni Mata who is the clan deity of the Rathore dynasty of Bikaner rulers. It is believed that she lived here in the 14th century and performed many miracles. The legend goes that many families of Deshnok claim to be descendants of Karni Mata and that they have been incarnated as Kabas (rats), making this temple a home to thousands of rats. The sight of a white rat is considered auspicious here. 

Brahma Temple, Pushkar

It is the oldest (built in the 14th century) and the only Brahma temple in the world. There is an interesting legend associated with this temple which says Lord Brahma came down upon earth and performed a yajna at this place. Many pilgrims come here during Kartik Poornima (full moon day of Kartik- October), the day when the famous Pushkar Fair begins. 

Dilwara Jain Temples, Mount Abu

These are extraordinarily beautiful white marble temples renowned for their architectural brilliance.  Dating back to the 11th and 16th centuries, these temples depict fascinating marble carvings on their walls, ceilings, pillars, panels, archways and doorways which are a feast for the eyes. It is believed that these temples have such intricate carvings that their craftsmen were paid according to the amount of marble dust they gathered by the end of the day.

Shri Eklingji Temple, Udaipur

It is a beautiful and huge temple with several other temples within its premises. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is an architectural marvel and hence serves as a major tourist attraction. Eklingji is another name for Lord Shiva and he is considered the overlord of Mewar. The sanctum-sanctorum of the temple houses a black stone idol of four-faced Eklingji and on Chaitra Amavasya, ‘Heero ka nag’ ‘Diamond snake’ is offered to the deity.

Enjoy shopping in Rajasthan: The shopper’s paradise!

Rajasthan is a hive of artisanal activity! Shopping for Rajasthan’s varied and uniquely colourful handicrafts is a joyful experience which you must not miss on your Rajasthan tour. Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur and Bikaner are the major centres of shopping in Rajasthan. Although you will find many shops in these cities, however, you can also visit the artisan villages where these crafts originate- the block printing villages of Sanganer and Bagru, near Jaipur, are a must-visit.

Famous Bazaars of Rajasthan: 

Jaipur: Bapu bazaar, Johari bazaar, Tripolia bazaar, Nehru bazaar and Kishanpole bazaar.

Udaipur: Hathi Pol Bazaar, Bada bazaar, Bapu bazaar, and Chetak circle.

Jaisalmer: Seema Gram, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar, Sonaron Ka Baas, Bhatia bazaar, and sadar bazaar.

Jodhpur: Clock Tower market, Sarafa bazaar, Tripolia bazaar, Mochi bazaar and Nai Sarak market.

Bikaner: Bada bazaar, Mahatama Gandhi road market, Khajanchi Market and Labhuji Ka Katla market.

Famous handicrafts of Rajasthan: Block-printed, tie-dyed and embroidered textiles, traditional meenakari work on textiles and jewellery, leather bags, puppets, shoes and bags made from camel hide, juttis, carpets, miniature paintings, lac bangles, gems and stones (but be careful as people can fool you as Jaipur is known for gems scams, so buy gems from reputable government outlets), life-sized marble statues of deities, blue pottery, handcrafted wooden furniture, marble wares, brassware, kundan jewellery, bandani and leheriya saris, nokha razaai

Gorge on Rajasthani cuisine: Celebration of flavours!

Rajasthani cuisine has been significantly influenced by its varied lifestyles, rulers and availability of ingredients in the arid region. Rajput’s love for hunting and inclination for meat gave rise to the popular dish laal maas (red meat). Well, the signature dish of Rajasthan that you must try is Dal Bati Churma- it is simply lip-smacking. Gatta ki sabzi and ker sangria is one of the classic Rajasthani recipes. The classic taste-bud teasers range includes mawa kachori, pyaaz ki kachori, mirchi vada. Barley, bajra (pearl millet) and maize are also the delicious part of the local diet. Malpua and Ghewar are the mouth-watering sweet dishes of Rajasthan. Feast on a Rajasthani thali that includes a variety of dishes. Rajasthani cuisine is in itself an attraction of the Rajasthan tour itinerary.

Participate in Rajasthani fairs and festivals: A riot of colours and celebrations!

Rajasthani cuisine has been significantly influenced by its varied lifestyles, rulers and availability of ingredients in the arid region. Rajput’s love for hunting and inclination for meat gave rise to the popular dish laal maas (red meat). Well, the signature dish of Rajasthan that you must try is Dal Bati Churma- it is simply lip-smacking. Gatta ki sabzi and ker sangria is one of the classic Rajasthani recipes. The classic taste-bud teasers range includes mawa kachori, pyaaz ki kachori, mirchi vada. Barley, bajra (pearl millet) and maize are also the delicious part of the local diet. Malpua and Ghewar are the mouth-watering sweet dishes of Rajasthan. Feast on a Rajasthani thali that includes a variety of dishes. Rajasthani cuisine is in itself an attraction of the Rajasthan tour itinerary.

Experience adventure in Rajasthan: Get ready for an adrenaline rush!

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Jaipur: It is a great opportunity to catch a bird’s eye view of the Pink City. As you fly high, breathtakingly beautiful views will unfold before you. Equally enticing is the ride in Pushkar over Pushkar Lake, especially during the Pushkar Fair. 

Camel Trekking in Jaisalmer: Rajasthan is undoubtedly the best place for Camel trekking. The experience of rolling slowly across the sweeping sands of the Thar Desert on a camel-back is truly a fairy-tale experience. 

Camping on Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer: It is like experiencing a fairy-tale with open eyes! Enjoy the beauty of sand and star-studded sky along with delicious traditional food and folk music and dance. 

Zip Lining, Jodhpur: Make your Rajasthan Tour thrilling with zip lining as you glide across the sky catching amazing views of the city. It will surely elevate your adrenaline level.

Visit Rajasthan Wildlife Destinations: Experience wilderness at its best!

Ranthambore National Park, Ranthambore: It is one of the largest national parks in Rajasthan known for its Royal Bengal Tigers. It also houses a wide variety of other animals and plant species. It is one of the most famous tiger reserves in India. You can also spot a variety of beautiful birds here. Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is another attraction of the Park.

Sariska Tiger Reserve, Sariska: Known to be the abode of the Royal Bengal Tiger, this Tiger Reserve is not just famous for its animal and plant species but also has several historical temples. The rare Indian eagle owl is also found here. 

Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary, Bharatpur: A paradise for bird-watchers, this is also known as Bharatpur National Park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can explore its wilderness on a bicycle or a rickshaw. Migratory birds from Siberia and other countries are its special attractions.

Desert National Park, Jaisalmer: This interesting Park also includes sand dunes within its boundaries. From desert plants to reptiles, animals and migratory birds, the Park has a lot to offer to wildlife enthusiasts. The endangered species of The Great Indian Bustard (bird) is found here. It also has remnants dating back to the era of Jurassic times. 

Mount Abu Sanctuary, Mount Abu: Surrounding the hill station Mount Abu, this Sanctuary is home to leopards, bears, deers, foxes, crocodiles, wild boar, etc. More than 250 bird species are found here. It boasts 17 species of rare medicinal plants and is the only region in Rajasthan where orchids bloom.

Stay in heritage hotels of Rajasthan: Live like a king!

When on your Rajasthan tour, plan a stay at its heritage hotel to experience its royalty. Nothing beats the charm of staying in a heritage hotel of Rajasthan, a land of forts, palaces and havelis rich in architectural beauty and opulence. Most of the royal abodes of the raja-maharajas have been transformed into heritage hotels offering the experience of a lifetime. You will feel as if you have travelled back in time to the bygone era.  Although there are uncountable heritage hotels in the state but Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, Rohetgarh, Jodhpur and Samode Palace, Jaipur deserve special mention.

Travel in Rajasthan Luxury Train: Breathe, eat and live royalty!

How about being treated like a kind or a queen? How about travelling in royal style and experiencing everything high on luxury with a khidmatgar at your service? Yes, it sounds royal! Experience all this and much more on your Rajasthan Luxury Train tour.

The history of Rajasthan is witness to the timeless royalty and imperial life of the mighty raja-maharajas of Rajasthan. And that royal era has been recreated through the luxury trains of Rajasthan which offer sheer opulence making one feel like a king/queen! These luxury trains not only offer an abundance of luxury but also take you to the famous tourist attractions of Rajasthan on wheels. Palace on Wheels, Maharajas’ Express, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels and The Indian Maharaja are the luxury trains of Rajasthan allowing you to explore this state most royally.