Places to visit in Rajasthan

Rajasthan – Splendid, grand, majestic and opulent are just a few words that perfectly define this land of palaces and rajas. The colorfully dressed people seem to be straight of a history book and anyone visiting it is sure to get you completely encapsulated in its magical splendor. Dotted with well-preserved palaces and forts dating back to ages ago there is no dearth of unique places to visit in Rajasthan that will make you feel like you have stepped into a time machine. Apart from its obvious royal vibe, Rajasthan is also popular for its thriving collection of flora and fauna. Although not a large state it is probably one of the most richly steeped with history and stories from the past. Every structure here dictates royalty, opulence, and elegance where every monument is covered in fine engravings which only adds on to its beauty. Not only as a honeymoon destination you should plan a trip to Rajasthan with your family as well.

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List of Places to Visit in Rajasthan in all Seasons

Riding on top of camels, experiencing its interesting culture, walking through the serene deserts and going fort hopping should definitely be on your list of places to explore in Rajasthan, some of which are-

1. Jaisalmer Fort

Popularly referred to as the ‘sonar qila’ or the ‘golden fort’ due to its yellow sandstone structure, this fort is a part of the hill forts of Rajasthan. This fort is one of the very few still habitable forts which is occupied up to date by the 1.4^th of the old city’s population. Built-in 1156 AD by Rajput Rawal Jaisal the fort has earned its name for being the 2^nd largest fort of Rajasthan. A UNESCO world heritage site this place offers some of the most panoramic and stunning views of the city below and lights up to life at night creating an imposing stature making it one of the most attractive places to visit in Rajasthan.

2. Mehrangarh Fort

Located in Jodhpur on an elevation of 410 feet above the main city and built during 1459 by Rao Jodha who is also credited with establishing the city of Jodhpur (previously known as Marwar). With winding roads and thick imposing walls, the fort is popular for being the most well – stocked museums inside a fort. The fort can be entered via 7 different gates where one of the gates still bears the palm prints of Maharaja Ajit Singhji on their win from the Mughals. Although the fort is extremely large but the view of the city from the top makes all the efforts worth it.

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3. Lalgarh Palace

Situated in Bikaner and dating back to 1902 – 1926, just like every other mark of royalty in Rajasthan this palace represents the incredible Rajasthani grandeur. Construction of the palace was commissioned by British controlled regency for Maharaja Ganga Singh since they had felt that the palace that was given to him in Junagarh palace was not a suitable place for a monarch to reside. The palace structure is topped off with small cupolas carved out finely and eloquently. Along with a heritage site, the palace is presently being functioned as an exquisite hotel with extravagant rooms. This makes it one of the most attractive destination and one of the most attractive places to visit in Rajasthan.

4. Ranthambore national park

Famous for its large tiger population and panning over a region of 392 sq. km. this national park was initially established as he Sawai Madhopur game sanctuary in 1955 and later on it was declared as a project tiger reserve in 1973. A jeep ride within the deciduous forest covering here will make you come face to face some beautiful Bengal tiger species, wild boar, Indian leopard, chital etc. Ranthambore fort which is situated within the park premises offers one of the most stunning views of the surrounding lush green forest and lakes. All the thrills make it one of the most attractive places to visit in Rajasthan.

5. Pushkar lake

Situated in the district of Ajmer this quiet and calming lake is one of the most sacred Hindu lakes in India. It has found its mention in various holy Hindu scriptures where it is referred to as ‘tirth raj’ or the king of pilgrimage sites. Surrounded by 52 teeming bathing ghats the lake is holding importance since a very holy temple of Lord Brahma is situated close to it which is also the only temple dedicated to Brahmaji in the world. This blue lake is surrounded by gently sloping green hills that offer a stunning view of the lake and due to pilgrimage site, it is one of the most sacred spots and places to visit in Rajasthan.

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6. Bundi

Perched on an elevation of 268 meters above sea level and surrounded by undulating hills covered in various gradients of green, this ancient town is situated in the Hadoti region. This town is popular for its ornate palaces, forts, reservoirs and a peaceful environment which is experienced by visitors and travelers from worldwide. Due to the presence of innumerable small temples and shrines here it has earned the name of ‘ChhotiKashi’ or little Varanasi amongst its locals. The authentic ethnic culture here is ever present and inescapable and to tourists it seems like stepping into a wonderland.

7. Sariskanational park / tiger reserve

Located within the district of Alwar and stretched over a thriving green area of 866 sq. km. and comprises of rocky hills, dry deciduous forest cover and even patches of arid regions. Declared a national park in 1990 this place has been successful in relocating tigers from various parts of the world. The national park also strategically houses a number of water bodies and lakes that work as water holes for the wildlife there. A former royal hunting lodge known as Sariska palace, is also situated within the premises of this national park which is till presently a huge tourist attraction.

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8. Bharatpur bird sanctuary

Deemed for being one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world this place also goes by the name of Keoladeo Ghana national park. Not only does this place offer a safe abode to the birds but it successfully protects the various exotic and unique fauna species as well. The place has an interesting history when before the construction of the dam the entire region used to remain flooded and was finally declared a world heritage site in 1985. With over 230 different species of birds, this place is a major tourist attraction especially for avid bird watchers and nature lovers.

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