Rajasthan is the Land of Kings, with a rich heritage, diverse culture, gigantic forts, countless folklore, and whatnot. Since this largest Indian state is home to many ancient palaces, havelis, forts, and temples, it always stays at the top of history buffs’ travel lists. They want to know about places to visit in Rajasthan to uncover its royal history—traditions, crafts, architecture, and more. Every nook and cranny of Rajasthan makes travelers step back in time. So, if you want to explore history and culture, you can plan a trip to Rajasthan with your friends and family and experience something new every time.
Many historical attractions in Rajasthan are worth visiting, not only for history buffs but for travelers too. After all, these entail ancient lives and the rich culture of Rajasthan. So, if you want to lose yourself in regal old-world charm, read this guide before making your next trip. We have compiled the top 20 historical places below to help you plan quickly. Have a look at them and get ready for a memorable experience.
1. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds and Breeze, is in Jaipur. This palace has several screened walls that allow wind to come in and go out of the Mahal, giving it its name. The purpose was to allow women inside the Hawa Mahal to see what was going on the street. Hawa Mahal is a five-story building made of red and pink sandstone. The amazing part of this tallest building is that it has been built without a foundation. Land Chand Ustad built this masterpiece in 1799 AD. It is not a simple piece of architecture; it has many small windows and balconies, making it look like a honeycomb.
Best time to visit Hawa Mahal: The best time to visit Hawa Mahal is between September and March. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the breeze.
2. Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh Fort is a 180-meter-high hill spread over 700 acres. It is said that a local Maurya king, Chitrangada Mori, constructed this fort. This fort stands tall, carrying the legacy of Rajput’s bravery, magnificent architecture, and more. The two major attractions of this fort are the Kirti Stambh and the Vijay Stambh. Apart from that, there are 22 water bodies, so the fort is known as Water Fort. It is the leading tourist attraction in Rajasthan because of several historical palaces, templates, gates, and towers. Many compelling stories about this fort inspire Bollywood, too.
Best time to visit Chittorgarh Fort: You can visit this fort anytime. However, the ideal time to visit is between October and March. These are the months when the weather is pleasant.
3. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort is on the list of one of the largest forts in the world. The dunes of the Thar desert and haunting tales make the Golden City of Jaisalmer glow. On top of all, this fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and not just a simple fort. Built in 1156, the fort looks like a complex with many temples, houses, and shops. Rawal Jaisal, the Bhati Rajput clan ruler, built this fort. This fort is also known by the names Sonar Quila and Golden Fort. It’s exciting to see how its vivid yellow sandstone walls in the daylight turn to honey-gold at dusk. Jaisalmer, the golden city, has several merchant havelis. Raj Mahal is the primary feature of this fort.
Best time to visit Chittorgarh Fort: If you are planning to visit Jaisalmer Fort, the ideal time is between October and March. You will not have to worry about the climate these months.
4. Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
Jantar Mantar is one of the major attractions in Rajasthan. It is an observatory used to map the sky and the movement of stars, planets, and other objects. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built this observatory. There are around 20 fixed instruments in Jantar Mantar, such as the Samrat Yantra, Dhruva Darshak Pattika, and Chakra Yantra. These instruments measure time and predict eclipses, track the movement of stars, and collect technical data too. When you visit this place, you will be amazed at how advanced Indian science was back then too.
Best time to visit Jantar Mantar: October to March months are ideal to visit Jantar Mantar. Make a plan to visit it at midday.
5. City Palace, Udaipur
Udaipur, the city of lakes, is a leading destination in Rajasthan. Apart from being a romantic destination with lakes such as Pichola and Fateh Sagar, Udaipur also has a series of palaces. There are different palaces built in different years beginning from the 16th century. Udaipur is the largest palace complex, with eleven palaces built individually. City Palace stands beautifully as a white palace complex and an impressive centerpiece. What’s more about this attraction? Bollywood and even Hollywood have used it for movie shoots. When you visit the palace make sure to see the eight carved marble arches. It is said that rulers weighed those days against gold and silver, and the amount then was distributed among the poor.
Best time to visit City Palace: Months between October and March are perfect to visit the palace. Avoid the afternoon heat by visiting it early in the morning.
6. Lake Palace, Udaipur
Lake Palace, also known as Jal Mahal, is one of the top destinations in Rajasthan. It is situated on Lake Pichola in Udaipur. Back in the past, this palace served as a holiday house. The palace covers around 4 acres of land. Initially, this palace was known as Jan Niwas, but this palace has been renovated into the Taj Lake Palace. What makes the palace outstanding is the black and white marble, semi-precious stones, and motifs. Besides, Many lawns, foundations, and columned terraces add to this palace’s beauty. You can take the Golden Triangle tour and explore this summer palace.
Best time to visit City Palace: The best time you can choose to head to this monument is the winter months. Months from October to March are ideal.
7. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Umaid Bhawan Palace shines in golden sandstone and is high above the sky in gardens of around 26 acres. It is one of the largest private residential properties. This palace has approximately 347 rooms, and Taj Hotels manages a few of its parts. Umaid Singh built this architectural marvel between 1929 and 1943. It features the residence of the royal family, the luxury Taj Palace Hotel, and a museum. Umaid Bhawan Palace, a luxury property, provides a royal experience to guests with excellent decor, exceptional artwork, and modern facilities. In short, the palace combines architectural styles, giving travelers amazing insight.
Best time to visit Umaid Bhawan Palace: From January to December, you can head to this palace throughout the year. Furthermore, it is open throughout the day; you can visit it anytime.
8. Amer Fort, Jaipur
The fort is well-known for combining indigenous and Mughal styles of architecture. This fort has been constructed using pink and yellow sandstone, making the whole architecture picturesque. Raj Man Singh built this architecture in 1592, featuring numerous parapets and eye-catching entrances. All these make this fort a timeless beauty. So, if you are looking for the best places to visit in Rajasthan, put Amer Fort in Jaipur on your next trip to Rajasthan. The fort gives a glimpse of our rich past. Elephant tours and light and sound displays are the main things that attract visitors and make the fort worth visiting.
Best time to visit Amer Fort: It is best to visit Amer Fort during March and April. The weather in these months is usually pleasant, so you will get the chance to explore more.
9. Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ajmer
Another top place to visit is the Khwaja Garib Nawaz Dargah, popularly known as the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The best part of this shrine is that it is located just 2 km from the Central Ajmer Railway station. The Mughal emperor Shah Jehan constructed it. Muslims consider it among the holiest shrines in India. This dargah has many white marble structures around two patios and a huge gate gifted by the Akbari Mosque and the Nizam of Hyderabad. It is said that Akbar and his wife walk every year from Agra to here to fulfill his wish for a son.
Best time to visit Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Even though you can visit this Dargah in any month of the year, the best time in terms of weather is from October to March.
10. Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur
Are you a fort lover? Jaigarh Fort is something you will fall in love with. The fort is situated on the Cheel ka Teela of the Aravalli range. Raja Jai Singh II built this fort in 1726 AD to reinforce the Amer fort. When you visit this fort, you will have a view of Amer Fort, along with the beautiful rivers and hills that surround the fort. A few of the monuments you will find within this fort are Laxmi Vilas, Lalit Mandir, Aram Mandir, etc. What’s more? You will get a glimpse of the huge water tank, a beautiful green garden (Aram Bagh), the museum and foundry, stunning views, and a lot more.
Best time to visit Jaigarh Fort: You can plan to visit this fort between November and February. Choose to go either in the morning or evening for an amazing experience.
11. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Udaipur
If you are planning for Rajasthan tours, don’t forget to include Kumbhalgarh Fort on your list. This fort is built amazingly on a hilltop at a height of approximately 3600 feet above sea level. Travelers and tourists find it worth visiting because of its vast architecture. More than that, the fort gives a stunning view of Aravalli and attracts travelers with its structures, palaces, numerous temples, chhatris, etc. So, when you plan your vacation, don’t miss out on one of the amazing attractions in Rajasthan. This second-largest fort in the world is the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, and thus it holds significance among Rajputs.
Best time to visit Kumbhalgarh Fort: The best time you move to this fort is from October to March. Look at the fort’s opening and closing times and visit accordingly.
12. Albert Hall, Jaipur
Do you want to explore museums? Add Albert Hall to your next Rajasthan trip. This museum is in the Ram Niwas Garden and is one of the oldest museums in Rajasthan. It was turned into a museum in 1887. Here, you can explore several artifacts and unique collections. These include paintings, sculptures, and other historical items. What makes this museum one of the most prominent attractions? It’s the infrastructure and Indo-Saracenic architecture. Moreover, Albert Halle was renovated in 2008, and today it is one of the most advanced museums in India. So, get ready to visit Albert Halle and explore the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan state.
Best time to visit Kumbhalgarh Fort: Visit this museum when the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities, i.e. between October and March.
13. Neemrana Fort, Alwar
Exploring luxury heritage gives travelers a soul-pleasing experience. Neemrana Fort Palace is one of the luxury hotels surrounded by forests, providing visitors with a picturesque escape. Every visitor should visit it at least once in a lifetime. This fort has seven palace wings erected over 14 levels terraced into a hill of approximately 6 acres. Many other attractions, such as hanging gardens, an Ayurvedic spa, and outdoor pools, make this fort a wonderful place for a peaceful holiday. In addition, the fort also includes historic structures such as Jal Mahal, Suraj Kud, and Nikumha Mahap Palace. So, don’t think twice about visiting this fort that blends history and luxury.
Best time to visit Neemrana Fort: For a comfortable experience, try to visit this one of the leading tourist attractions in Rajasthan between September and March. It will give you an amazing sightseeing experience.
14. Abhaneri Stepwells, Abhaneri
This time, make your visit worthwhile by exploring Abhaneri Stepwells. It is close to the capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur. Abhneri Stepwells, also known as Chand Baori, is popular among tourists because of its vast infrastructure. What was the purpose behind its construction? To meet the water demands of the locals, step-wells were constructed around 20 meters deep, comprising 13 levels. Abhaneri Stepwells is among the deepest wells in India. What attracts more visitors is the story behind the construction of this amazing well.
Best time to visit Abhaneri Stepwells: The ideal time to visit this deepest stepwell is between November and February.
15. Kuldhara Village, Jaisalmer
Are you interested in mysterious history and learning traditional myths and legends? If yes, you should visit Kuldhara Village. People say that this village is abandoned, and it is thrilling to walk through it. Various abandoned structures make it look like a haunted place. Thrill seekers find this cursed and haunted place exciting to visit. Three centuries ago, this village was prosperous but today, it is among the most haunted places in India. The past of this village has made the government develop it as a tourist attraction and a unique place to visit in Rajasthan.
Best time to visit Kuldhara Village: To explore without being exhausted, the best time to visit this village is between October and March.
16. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
Explore thrilling high walls by including Junagarh Fort in your travel bucket list. Raja Jai Singh built this fort in 1587. Originally, the fort was known as Chintamani, but it was renamed Junagarh and Old Fort in the twentieth century. Thrilling high walls and deep ditches make this fort worth visiting in Rajasthan. Here, you will explore several attractions, such as Karan Mahal, Phool Mahal, Chandra Mahal, and a museum. Unlike other forts, this one is not situated on a hilltop. Get lost in the rich culture, beautiful gardens, and museum while exploring this fort in Bikaner.
Best time to visit Junagarh Fort: The most appropriate time you can visit the fort is during November and February. Make sure to visit the fort when it is open.
17. Taragarh Fort, Bundi
Art lovers will find Taragarh Fort worthwhile during their Rajasthan trip. Rajasthan is well-known for its paintings, and Taragarh Fort is something you can’t miss out on, especially if you are a great art fan. Rao Singh Bar built this massive fort in the thirteenth century. Bundi is known for plenty of unique architecture and Taragarh Fort with the best mesmerizing viewpoints. Here, you can stargaze when the night is clear. Apart from this, many palaces, murals, and views make the city worthwhile for travelers. Since it represents Rajput architecture, you will step back in time and learn about Rajasthan’s history.
Best time to visit Taragarh Fort: Visit this oldest fort from October to February. Pleasant weather will help you enjoy the views and learn about the architecture in detail.
18. Monsoon Palace, Udaipur
Visit the most architecturally significant monument in Rajasthan, Monsoon Palace, which flaunts high towers, architectural design, balconies, pillars, etc. This palace, most commonly known as Sajjangarh Palace, was built purposefully to watch the monsoon clouds. Monsoon Palace was constructed by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1884 and was named after him. It has facilities to harvest rainwater by using special scientific methods. Moreover, from there, you will get to enjoy breathtaking sunset views that will add an enhanced experience to your trip.
Best time to visit Monsoon Palace: To enjoy lakes and panoramic views, it is best to visit this palace during the cooler months, that is, from October to March.
19. Ranthambore Fort, Ranthambore
Ranthambore Fort is an unavoidable destination for all history buffs. Since it is on the list of world heritage sites, you should consider it for your next trip. Besides thick green forests and a salubrious climate, this popular spot witnesses different types of valleys, lakes, picnic spots, wildlife species, and more. The fort also entails a history of wares, captures, and many conquerors that happened from time to time. Visit this fort and explore its Rajput architecture of large stone walls, stone steps, large domes, and more, making it appear majestic.
Best time to visit Ranthambore Fort: Plan to head to this great tourist spot from November to April, as the weather is mild and you will explore it without discomfort.
20. Patwon Ki Haveli, Jaisalmer
Patwon ki Haveli is best known for its architecture and craftsmanship. The wealthy Patwal family built this combination of five beautifully designed havelis. With attractive gateways, wall paintings, and balconies, it is among the largest Havelis in Jaisalmer. The walls have mirror works and eye-catching paintings giving the whole haveli a magnificent look. Additionally, there is a museum and shop for furniture inside Patwon Ki Haveli. So, those who want to explore Jaisalmer architecture can make a trip to this Rajputana mansion.
Best time to visit Patwon Ki Haveli: Months between October and February are the best times to head to this mansion.
Wrapping Up
Rajasthan is known for its rich history, culture, captivating museums and forts. You can plan to visit this beautiful Indian city to explore numerous royal palaces, religious landmarks, and historic forts appreciating the cultural, historical, and environmental heritage of the region. To help you out, we have discussed the top places above. You can pick from them or visit all the places to make your vacation worthwhile.
So, what are you waiting for? Book Rajasthan tour packages at the best price. It will help you immerse yourself in an unforgettable trip.