Rajasthan Tour Packages

History of Rajasthan: A Key Factor That Attracts Tourists

The history of Rajasthan is one of the main factors why the state attracts tourists from all over the world. Popularly known as the Land of Kings, the state features a rich history dating back to about 100,000 years ago. Once the region was the heart of several ancient kingdoms, including the Mauryan, Gupta, and Rajput empires.

Rajputs have become synonyms for their valour and gallantry because of their heroism and heroic acts in ancient times. They have played a pivotal role in shaping today’s Rajasthan, worldwide known for its rich culture, traditions, and history. Who can easily forget Rajput’s epic battles against invaders like the Mughals and the British? Salute to our legends and heroes!

The geographical diversity (deserts, hills, and forests) also has influenced Rajasthan’s history and culture. Let’s talk about the Thar Desert of the state. The harsh and inexorable environment around the Thar Desert has made inhabitants resilient and robust. The Aravalli Hills provided inhabitants with natural defences against invaders. And, the fertile plains of the Chambal Valley supported agriculture and trade.

There are many ways that can allow you to explore the historical heritage of Rajasthan, the land of brave Rajputs. The majestic forts of Jaipur, Chittorgarh, Jaisalmer, and Amber stand as testaments to the state’s past glory. The intricate carvings and colourful frescoes adorning the palaces of Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur and Havelis of Shekhawati region showcase the artistic brilliance of Rajasthan's rulers. The sacred temples of Pushkar, Bikaner, and Ranakpur offer glimpses into the state's deep religious traditions. Colourful bazaars, vibrant festivals, folk music & dance, and delicious cuisine are other factors that showcase the rich culture and history of the royal state of Rajasthan.

We at Shakti India Tours have many Rajasthan tour packages, especially designed for tourists who are willing to explore the rich culture and history of the Rajasthan.

Best Places and Destinations to Visit in Rajasthan

What makes Rajasthan tour packages popular among worldwide tourists? Obviously, Rajasthan’s popular tourist destinations—dotted with a plethora of attractions and bestowed with rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscape.

On your Rajasthan tour, you will have a wonderful opportunity to explore a treasure trove of incredible and grandiose destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Ajmer, and Bikaner. These destinations are not only prominent cities in the state but also home to internationally acclaimed tourist attractions like forts, palaces, temples, and havelis. Besides popular cities, the vibrant state of Rajasthan also has other destinations and attractions like Ranthambore, Sariska, Shekhawati, Kumbhalgarh, Chittorgarh, Bundi, Pushkar, Mount Abu, etc.

Let’s continue the virtual journey with us. And, know more about major tourist destinations and attractions that make Rajasthan tour packages high in demand among worldwide tourists.

Jaipur: The Pink City

Jaipur—the capital and largest city of Rajasthan—is definitely the state’s best and most visited tourist destination. It is also the main destination of every Rajasthan tour package, specially designed for first-timers. Lovingly known as the Pink City because of its stunning pink-hued buildings, Jaipur is internationally known for its magnificent forts, palaces, havelis, temples, and royal heritage. Here is the list of popular attractions that you can see in Jaipur as part of your Rajasthan tour in India.

• City Palace: A magnificent architectural marvel; a testament to the grandeur and opulence of the former Jaipur royal family. You can also see here museums, courtyards, and temples.
• Govind Dev Ji Temple: A beautiful temple situated in City Palace, dedicated to Govind Dev Ji (Lord Krishna) and his consort Radha.
• Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds), Jaipur: An iconic landmark and historical monument in Jaipur, built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, and designed by Lal Chand Ustad. The palace is known for its honeycomb-like structure with its 953 small windows called Jharokhas decorated with intricate latticework. The unique lattice design was deliberately made to allow royal ladies to see everyday life in the street below without being seen. 
• Jantar Mantar: A royal observatory and collection of a collection of 19 astronomical instruments, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Amer Fort: A majestic hilltop fortress overlooking Jaipur. It showcases the rich history and architectural brilliance of Rajasthan.
• Samode Palace, Jaipur: Located 40 kms north of Jaipur, Samode Palace is a heritage monument and a major tourist attraction. The palace has served as the setting for several Hindi feature films and TV serials. The beautiful palace was initially built in the 16th century as a Rajput Fort. In the early 19th century, it was converted into a palatial palace by Rawal Berisal. Samode Palace depicts the perfect amalgamation of Rajput and Muslim architectural styles.
• Rambagh Palace, Jaipur: The former residence of Maharaja of Jaipur, Rambagh Palace is an elegant palace depicting Indo-Saracenic architectural styles. The palace was primarily built by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II in the early 20th century.
• Jal Mahal, Jaipur: A stunning architectural marvel that has become a beloved symbol of Jaipur, located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake.
• Other attractions: Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Rambagh Palace, Birla Mandir, Albert Hall Museum, Galtaji, Kanak Vrindavan, Jawahar Kala Kendra, and Raj Mandir Cinema.

Jodhpur – The Blue City

Jodhpur is the second largest city in the state of Rajasthan after the state capital Jaipur. It is lovingly known as the “Blue City” because of its blue-painted houses. It is also called Sun City because of its sunny weather throughout the year. Jodhpur, as a tourist destination, is known for forts, palaces, temples, lakes, and bustling bazaars. Popular tourist attractions in the city include:

• Mehrangarh Fort: Towering over Jodhpur, one of the most iconic and well-preserved forts in Rajasthan. Seeing the wonderful view of blue-painted houses beneath the rampart of the Mehrangarh Fort will give you a cherishable experience.
• Umaid Bhawan Palace: A blend of Indian and European architecture, now a luxury hotel and museum showcasing royal artefacts.
• Jaswant Thada: A beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, known for its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.
• Ghanta Ghar: A historical clock tower built by Maharaja Sardar Singh.
• Mandor Garden: A beautiful garden with a charming collection of temples, memorials, and high rock terraces.

Udaipur – The White City

Udaipur (also called Venice of the East) is one of the most beautiful cities in the state of Rajasthan. Some call it the “City of Lakes” because of its lovely lakes, some call it the “City of Palaces” because of its palatial palaces, and some call it the “White City” due to its numerous white marble buildings and palaces. This is not all. Udaipur is also referred to as “one of the most romantic cities in the world” because of its alluring ambience and romantic landscapes. Udaipur deserves all its nicknames. Popular tourist attractions in this beautiful city and travel destination are as follows:

• City Palace Complex: A majestic white marble structure that exudes timeless elegance and charm; a brilliant example of Rajput architecture. Located on the eastern bank of Lake Pichola.
• Lake Palace: Located in the middle of Lake Pichola, a beautiful palace, curated out of white marble.
• Lake Pichola: The most famous lake in Udaipur. A boat ride on Lake Pichola is a great experience for tourists.
• Jag Mandir: An elegant palace built on an island in Lake Pichola, known for its peaceful ambience and impressive architecture.
• Lovely Lakes: Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Swaroop Sagar Lake, Rang Sagar Lake, and Doodh Talai Lake. Due to several lakes, Udaipur is also called the “City of Lakes”.
• Monsoon Palace: A hilltop palatial residence in the city overlooking beautiful Fateh Sagar Lake.
• Other attractions: Jagdish Temple located on the bank of Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Bagore-Ki-Haveli, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari, and Gulab Bagh Zoo.

Jaisalmer – The Golden City

Situated in the heart of the Great Indian Thar Desert, Jaisalmer—also called the Golden City—is best known for its golden sandstone architecture and desert experience. Your Rajasthan tour is incomplete if you do not visit Jaisalmer and its nearby areas. It is because Rajasthan is worldwide famous for its desert landscape and there is no better destination in the state to start exploration of the vast desertscape of the state. Prominent attractions in and around Jaisalmer are as follows:

• Jaisalmer Fort: A living fort where thousands of people reside within its walls; also called Sonar Kila (Golden Fortress) or Jaisalmer Durg. Houses several havelis, temples, and shops.
• Jain Heritage: Ornate Jain buildings, havelis, and temples. Chandra Prabhu Jain Temple inside the Jaisalmer Fort. Lodhruva Jain Temple.
• Patwon Ki Haveli: A cluster of five havelis; an architectural marvel known for its ornate carvings, murals, and intricate designs.
• Sam Sand Dunes: A vast expanse of golden sand stretching across the Thar Desert. Offers a breathtaking and adventurous experience to tourists. Camel safaris are organised to explore the sand dunes. You can even stay in this desert in Luxury tented Camps.
• Other attractions: Nathmal-Ki-Haveli, Bada Bagh (a garden complex located 6 kms north of Jaisalmer), Gadsisar Lake, Jaisalmer War Museum, and Desert National Park.      

Bikaner: The Red City

Did you know Bikaner is also called the Red City? Most of the architectures you will see in this city are constructed in trademark Dulmera red sandstone. Because of this, the entire city looks coloured red. This is why this city has been nicknamed as the Red City. Bikaner is also sometimes referred to as the Camel City of India or the Camel Country due to its historical and cultural connection with camels. As a tourist destination, Bikaner has a lot to offer its visitors. The major attractions include:

• Junagarh Fort: Built around 1594 CE by Raja Rai Singh, a magnificent fort studded with temples, grand palaces and huge pavilions and walls.
• Lalgarh Palace: A magnificent palace built between 1902 and 1926 in the Indo-Saracenic style; now a heritage hotel.
• Laxmi Niwas Palace: A part of Lalgarh Palace; now a luxury heritage hotel, owned by the royal family of Bikaner.
• Rao Bikaji’s Fort: Rao Bikaji's first fort, 'Bikaji Ki Tekri' built in 1478; now in ruins.
• Karni Mata Temple: Situated around 30 kms in Deshnoke from Bikaner. Dedicated to goddess Karni Mata, incarnation of goddess Durga. Also, called the Rat Temple of Rajasthan due to numerous rats.
• National Research Centre on Camels: A camel breeding farm and research centre located on the outskirts of Bikaner.

Pushkar – The Spiritual Hub

One of the oldest cities in India, Pushkar is a sacred Hindu Pilgrimage Site and is known for its sacred lakes and ancient temples. The city is one of the prime attractions of Rajasthan tour package designed for tourists who want to explore cultural sites and are looking for spiritual solace. Pushkar is also known for its annually held fair: the Pushkar Cattle Fair. The major tourist attractions are as follows:

• Brahma Temple: The only temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma; a major attraction in the city.
• Pushkar Lake: The prime attraction in the town; as sacred as the Mansarovar Lake in Tibet.
• Ghats around the Lake: Around 52 ghats. The most visited ghats are Gwalior ghat, Yag ghat, Varaha ghat, Gau ghat, Jaipur ghat, Karni ghat, Dadhich ghat, Saptarishi ghat, and Kota ghat.
• Pushkar Cattle Fair: Held annually lively fair; a mix of religious rituals, Cattle trading, and cultural performances, and a unique experience for travellers.

Ajmer: Dargah Sharif

Ajmer, sometimes also called the spiritual capital of Rajasthan along with nearby Pushkar, is a famous Muslim pilgrimage site and tourist destination. It is worldwide famous for its rich cultural heritage and religious sites. Dargah Sharif is the main attraction here that drives tourists and devotees from all around the world. Other attractions include beautiful lakes, colourful bazaars, and a nearby Hindu Pilgrimage site: Pushkar.

• Dargah Sharif: A Sufi Tomb or Dargah dedicated to Sufi Saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. A symbol of religious harmony. Attracts devotees of all religions from around the world.
• Ana Sagar Lake: A beautiful lake offering spectacular views and a serene atmosphere.
• Urs Festival: An annual festival that commemorates the anniversary of the death of Sufi Saint, Moinuddin Chishti.
• Mayo College: One of the oldest public boarding schools in India.  Founded in 1875 by the 6th Earl of Mayo (the Viceroy of India from 1869 to 1872).
• Soniji Ki Nasiyan: Built in the late 19th century, a Jain temple known for its stunning architecture.

Mount Abu – The Only Hill Station of Rajasthan

Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station and is known for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and beautiful temples.

• Dilwara Temples: These Jain temples are renowned for their stunning marble carvings, intricate architecture, and spiritual significance.
• Nakki Lake: A charming lake surrounded by hills, Nakki Lake is perfect for boat rides and leisurely walks along its promenade.
• Sunset Point: Offering panoramic views of the hills and valleys, Sunset Point is a favourite spot for visitors to witness a spectacular sunset.

Ranthambore National Park

Established as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary in 1955, Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan is one of the most sought-after destinations among wildlife lovers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts. It is a famous tiger reserve in the state near Sawai Madhopur and attracts wildlife lovers from all around the world. The national park is best known for its Bengal tiger population. Here you can easily spot tigers even during the daytime. You can also spot other creatures like leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, chitals (spotted deer), jackals, jungle cats, monkeys, hanuman langurs, black-headed monkeys, various species of birds, etc.

• Ranthambore Fort: A historic fortress of Rajasthan located within Ranthambore National Park; a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Jeep Safari: An exhilarating safari inside the jungle in a jeep registered under the Forest Department of Rajasthan. Ideal for tiger sighting, birdwatching and photography in the jungle.
• Bird Watching: Ranthambore is also a great place for bird watching. The park hosts more than 270 species of birds, including the Indian paradise flycatcher, crested serpent eagle, and painted francolin.
• Trinetra Ganesh Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha situated inside the Ranthambore Fort. The statue of Lord Ganesha is depicted with three eyes here.
• Padam Talao: A historical lake in Ranthambore associated with Princess Padmavati. Believed that this was the lake where the princess would bathe, and also the place where she committed sati (an old Hindu practice where a widow would self-immolate on her husband's funeral pyre as a mark of devotion, now banned in India.)

Hill Forts of Rajasthan: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Spread across Rajasthan, 6 historic forts have been clustered and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These historic forts of Rajasthan include:

• Chittor Fort, Chittorgarh: One of the largest living forts in India, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a part of Hill Forts of Rajasthan. 64 Historical Structures inside the fort including 4 palaces, 19 large temples, 20 large water bodies, 4 memorials and a few victory towers.
• Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajsamand District: Also known as the Great Wall of India, a formidable fortress on the western range of Aravalli Hills. Has one of the longest continuous walls in the world; spanning 38 kilometres. Also, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a part of Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
• Ranthambore Fort, Sawai Madhopur: A formidable fortress founded in 944 by the Rajputs, 700 feet above the surrounding plain. Also, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a part of Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
• Gagron Fort, Jhalawar: An excellent example of a hill and water fort, built by Bijaldev Singh Dod (a Rajput king) in the 12th century, also has been controlled by Sher Shah and Akbar. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 as a part of Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
• Amer Fort, Amer (Jaipur): A great example of Rajput architecture, some buildings also have the influence of the Mughal architecture. Constructed of red sandstone and marble. A part of Hill Forts of Rajasthan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer: Also called the Golden Fort or Sonar Kila, the second oldest fort in Rajasthan, and one of the very few living forts in the world. Built in yellow sandstone, the fort complex consists of 4 massive gateways, Raj Mahal Palace, 7 Jain Temples, and Laxminath Temple. The complex also houses merchant havelis and bazaars. A part of Hill Forts of Rajasthan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other Famous Forts in Rajasthan

• Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur: Built in 1459 by the Rathore dynasty of Jodhpur State.
• Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur: Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the king of Jaipur.
• Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur: Built in 1726 by Mirza Raja Jai Singh.
• Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur: Construction started in 1732 by Maharaja Suraj Mal.
• Taragarh Fort, Ajmer: Built in the 8th Century Ajayaraja Chauhan.
• Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan: A 16th-century fort located on the edge of Sariska Tiger Reserve.
• Alwar Fort or Bala Quila: Built in 928 CE by Parmar Rajput.
• Achalgarh Fort, Mount Abu: Built in 1452 by Maharana Kumbha.
• Jalore Fort, Rajasthan: Built during the 8th–10th centuries AD by Maharaja of Parmar Rajputs.

Palaces and Havelis of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas, is very famous for its elegant palaces and havelis. These palatial palaces and havelis of the erstwhile Rajput rulers have become the top attractions of most Rajasthan tour itineraries and tour packages. Some of the most popular palaces and havelis in the state are as follows:

• Amer Fort & Palace, Jaipur
• Rambagh Palace and Haveli, Jaipur
• Jal Mahal (Water Palace), Jaipur
• Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds), Jaipur
• City Palace, Jaipur
• City Palace, Udaipur
• Jag Mandir Palace, Udaipur
• Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur
• Laxmi Niwas Palace, Bikaner
• Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur
• Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, Udaipur
• Lake Palace, Udaipur
• Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur
• Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
• Balsamand Lake Palace, Jodhpur
• Lalgarh Palace, Bikaner
• Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Jaisalmer

Fairs and Festivals of Rajasthan

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and rich traditions of Rajasthan’s fairs and festivals. From the dazzling Pushkar Camel Fair to the lively Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, each celebration offers an unforgettable experience. Discover the heart of Rajasthan’s culture and create lasting memories in a land where tradition comes alive.

• Desert Festival, Jaisalmer: Held in January-February in Jaisalmer. Highlights the desert culture with colourful processions, camel races, and folk performances against the stunning backdrop of the golden city.
• Elephant Festival, Jaipur: Held in March in Jaipur. Showcases elaborately decorated elephants parading through the city. Highlights include elephant races and traditional performances, celebrating these majestic animals in a vibrant display of Rajasthani culture.
• Pushkar Cattle Fair: Held in Pushkar in November.  Known for vibrant market and cattle tradition. Offers a rich cultural experience with various programs. Showcases Rajasthan’s vibrant culture and rich traditions. Highlights include traditional music, dance, and the festive atmosphere surrounding the camel races and local games. Special attractions are Camel Safari and Hot Air Ballooning.
• Teej Festival, Rajasthan: Celebrated mainly in Jaipur. Involves traditional dances, music, and vibrant processions. Women dress in bright clothes and participate in rituals dedicated to the goddess Parvati.
• Gangaur Festival, Jaipur: Held in March or April, especially in Jaipur. Honours the goddess Gauri with processions of intricately decorated idols, traditional music, and dance.
• Camel Festival, Bikaner: Held each January in Bikaner. Celebrates desert culture with camel races, beauty contests, and traditional performances. A lively event showcasing the charm and grandeur of camels in the heart of Rajasthan.
• Mewar Festival, Udaipur: Held in Udaipur in March or April. Marks the arrival of spring with processions, folk dances, and traditional music. The city’s picturesque lakes and palaces enhance the festival’s charm.
• Bundi Utsav: Celebrated in Bundi in November. Features folk dances, music performances, and traditional sports. Offers a rich experience of Bundi’s cultural heritage.
• Jaisalmer Winter Festival, Jaisalmer: Held in December. Highlights include folk dances, music performances, and local handicraft exhibitions.
• Mount Abu Winter Festival, Mount Abu: Held in December; a lively celebration of culture and winter beauty. Features folk dances, music performances, and vibrant parades against the backdrop of scenic landscapes. Offers a unique and festive experience.
• Kite Festival (Makar Sankranti): Celebrated in January. Marks the end of winter and the beginning of a new harvest season. Jaipur and other cities come alive with colourful kites filling the sky, along with special sweets and lively gatherings.
• Nagaur Fair, Nagaur: Held in February. One of Rajasthan’s largest cattle fairs. Features livestock trading, traditional Rajasthani music and dance, and vibrant markets.
• Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF), Jodhpur: Held annually in October in Jodhpur. Brings together folk artists from across Rajasthan and beyond. Offers performances in traditional music, dance, and arts.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Rajasthan

The land of Rajasthan is known for its diverse culture and landscapes as well. Being a land of forts and palaces, the state is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. If you are a wildlife lover, bird lover, or want to enjoy some fun in the lap of nature and jungle—Rajasthan has many destinations to cater to your needs. Some popular destinations for wildlife tours in Rajasthan are as follows:

• Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur: Known for its tiger population, Ranthambore is one of India's most famous national parks.
• Sariska Tiger Reserve, Alwar: Home to tigers, leopards, and various other wildlife species.
• Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Keoladeo is famous for its birdlife, especially migratory birds.

• Kaila Devi Wildlife Sanctuary, Karauli: Known for its tigers, leopards, and various bird species.
• Jawai Bandh Sanctuary: Famous for its leopards, which are often spotted near the Jawai Dam.
• Tal Chappar Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to blackbucks, gazelles, and various bird species.
• Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its leopards, hyenas, and various bird species.

Different Types of Rajasthan Tour Packages

We at Shakti India Tours have designed a range of custom Rajasthan tour packages to cater to different interests of tourists. Some popular tour packages that we can provide you are as follows:

• Heritage Tour Packages: Our tour packages designed for heritage tours will allow you to explore the famous forts, palaces, and historical sites of Rajasthan.
• Wildlife Tour Packages: We have designed wildlife tour packages to cater to wildlife lovers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts. Our Rajasthan wildlife tour packages will allow you to enjoy safari and birdwatching in Ranthambore National, Sariska Tiger Reserve, and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
• Cultural and Festival Tours: As you know Rajasthan is internationally famous for its rich culture and tradition, we have also designed several cultural and festival tour packages. These packages will provide you with a golden opportunity to experience Rajasthan’s rich culture and festivals like Pushkar Fair, Desert Festival, Teej, Camel Festival, etc.
• Adventure Tour Packages: Our adventure tour packages will allow you to enjoy a range of adventure and fun activities including camel rides on sand dunes, desert camping, ziplining, hot air ballooning, wildlife safari, jungle trekking, etc.
• Honeymoon Tour Packages: We have designed honeymoon tour packages for newly-wed couples to give them the experience of a lifetime along with exploring some of the best attractions of Rajasthan. Our honeymoon tour itineraries cover destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur.

Best Time to Visit Rajasthan

The best time to visit Rajasthan is not fixed because it is a year-round destination. It depends on the types of tours you have opted for, the experience you want to have, and your weather tolerance level. Also, Rajasthan is the largest state of India and different regions within the state may have different favourable timing for exploration.

To help you with your Rajasthan tour and allow you to have the best-ever experience, we have calculated ideal times to explore the Rajput lands.

Winter (October to March) – The Peak Tourist Season

In general, the Winter Months (October to March) are considered to be the best time to visit Rajasthan. During this period, temperatures of the state range between 10°C to 27°C. Needless to say, tourists will have a comfortable travel experience because of favourable weather conditions.

Why Visit in Winter:

• The cool weather allows for a more enjoyable exploration of major cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.
• Desert activities like camel safaris and camping in Jaisalmer are best experienced in winter.

Winter is also the time for several cultural festivals such as the Pushkar Camel Fair, Jaipur Literature Festival, and the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, offering a rich cultural experience.

Ideal for: Heritage and cultural tours, desert safaris, and adventure tours.

Summer (April to June) – The Off-Season

Rajasthan’s hotness is not a secret. During summer months in this state, the temperatures soar like a flame going as high as 48°C-50°C, especially in Rajasthan’s desert triangle region—Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Jodhpur. This is why most tourists avoid visiting Rajasthan during the summer months. However, if you can tolerate the heat, summer in Rajasthan provides you with an excellent opportunity to explore some popular tourist destinations without crowds. And yes, you can also have significant discounts on your Rajasthan tour package.

Why Visit in Summer:

• Avoid the usual tourist crowds and enjoy more personalized experiences at monuments and landmarks.
• This is the best time to explore Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu, where the weather remains relatively cool and pleasant compared to the rest of the state.
• Enjoy budget-friendly deals on accommodations and travel packages.

Ideal for: Solitary travellers, budget travellers, and those looking for quiet retreats in places like Mount Abu.

Monsoon (July to September) – A Time for Rain and Festivals

If you want to witness the lush green landscapes and freshness of the royal Rajasthan, visiting the royal state in Monsoon is not a bad idea. It not only offers you relief from the summer heat but also offers you the opportunity to enjoy monsoons making Rajasthan’s cities beautiful, fresh, and bestowed with exceptional beauty.

Why Visit in Monsoon:

• Witness the beauty of Udaipur and Mount Abu as the rains enhance their lush landscapes, offering a more serene experience.
• Fewer tourists mean more relaxed sightseeing opportunities and discounted prices at hotels.
• The Teej Festival, celebrated with great fervour in Jaipur and other cities, showcases Rajasthan’s rich cultural traditions, including folk music, dance, and vibrant processions.

Ideal for: Monsoon lovers, photography enthusiasts, and cultural explorers.

Cuisines of Rajasthan: Experience Rich and Flavourful Dishes

The cuisine of Rajasthan is as opulent and colourful as its culture. It offers a sumptuous array of mouthwatering delicacies that reflect the region's royal heritage and arid landscape. Influenced by its warrior traditions and scarcity of water, Rajasthani food is bold in flavour, makes liberal use of spices, and employs preservation techniques.

Must-Try Rajasthani Dishes

• Dal Baati Churma: Iconic Rajasthani dish consists of baked wheat balls (baati) served with spicy lentils (dal) and sweet crushed wheat with ghee and sugar (churma). Perfect balance of savoury and sweet flavours.
• Laal Maas: A fiery meat curry made with red chillies and spices, traditionally cooked with mutton. Favourite for those who love spicy food.
• Gatte Ki Sabzi: Besan (gram flour) dumplings cooked in a tangy yoghurt-based curry, a staple in Rajasthani households.
• Ker Sangri: A unique combination of desert beans and dried berries cooked with spices, showcasing the region’s ability to make delicious food with scarce ingredients.
• Ghewar: A popular Rajasthani dessert, a disc-shaped sweet soaked in sugar syrup, typically enjoyed during festivals like Teej and Raksha Bandhan.
• Pyaz-Ki-Kachori: Crunchy, flaky deep-fried snack, stuffed with a spicy onion mixture and served with an assortment of mint, coriander, date and tamarind chutneys.

Best Restaurants to Enjoy Rajasthan’s Famous Dishes

Here is the list of top-notch restaurants in Rajasthan where you can enjoy the state’s best and iconic dishes at the same time enjoying extraordinary hospitality.

Top restaurants in Jaipur

• Samode Haveli
• Suvarna Mahal
• Peshawari ITC
• Steam
• Sky Fall
• Niros
• Handi

Top restaurants in Udaipur

• Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant
• Ambrai Restaurant Amet Haveli
• Upre Restaurant Lake Pichola
• Raj Bagh
• Khamaghani

Top restaurants in Jodhpur

• On the Rocks
• Khaas Bagh
• Indique Restaurant & Bar
• Winds Restaurant
• The Spice Route Restaurant

Top Restaurants in Jaisalmer

• The Trio Restaurant
• 1156 Ad Jaisalmer
• The Jaisal Treat
• Lalgarh Fort Palace 
• Cafe the Kaku

Shopping in Rajasthan: Shopper’s Paradise

Needless to say, Rajasthan is a shopper’s paradise. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer are renowned for their colourful markets and bustling bazaars. These bazaars offer you a great opportunity to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, jewelleries, and several artisan products. In short, you will have the best-ever shopping experience in the bazaars of Rajasthan.

Famous Markets and What to Buy

• Johari Bazaar, Jaipur: Known for selling gemstones, jewellery, handmade textiles, and blue pottery.
• Bapu Bazaar, Jaipur: Known for selling gemstones, jewellery, handmade textiles, and blue pottery.
• Clock Tower Market, Jodhpur: A true local shopping experience, known for selling bandhani fabrics, embroidered footwear (mojris), and antiques.
• Hathi Pol & Bada Bazaar: Known for selling intricate miniature paintings, traditional crafts, and beautiful artwork.
• Manak Chowk, Jaisalmer: Famous for selling handwoven carpets, embroidered textiles, and camel leather products.

Things to Do in Rajasthan

Rajasthan due to its diverse geography and landscapes offers you a diverse range of options to explore and enjoy on your tour. Whatever your interest, the state has something for you. Let’s have a look at popular things to do and explore in Rajasthan, the land of kings.

• Explore forts and palaces: If you are a history buff, cultural enthusiast or architecture lover, you will nowhere find such a perfect destination for you.
• Take a camel ride in the Thar Desert: This is one of the best ways to explore the charm of the rippling sand dunes of the Great Indian Thar Desert in Rajasthan. You can also enjoy a night under the stars at a desert camp. The sunset view over the dunes is a sight to behold.
• Fly across a zip line in Jodhpur: Experience the thrill of soaring above the majestic Mehrangarh Fort.
• Go trekking in Chittorgarh: Challenge yourself with a thrilling outdoor adventure.
• Enjoy a hot air balloon ride in Jaipur, Pushkar, and Ranthambore: Have a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscapes, from royal palaces to dense jungles.
• Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs: Block printed fabrics, mirror work textiles, handicrafts, silver jewellery, gemstones, and leather goods.
• Stay in a heritage hotel: To create unforgettable memories of your trip to Rajasthan.
• Savour Rajasthan cuisine and dishes: Dal Bati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Lal Maas, Ghewar, Ker Sangri, and Malpua.
• Attend traditional festivals: Teej, Desert Festival, Elephant Festival, Pushkar Camel Fair, etc.

How to Reach Rajasthan

Reaching Rajasthan is easy as it offers a variety of transportation options. From luxury cars and taxis to local tuk-tuks, you will have excellent options to commute within Rajasthan’s cities. The state is well-connected with domestic as well as international flights. Also, it has excellent rail connectivity with major parts of India.

Rajasthan offers a variety of transportation options for travellers, making it easy to explore its cities and desert landscapes. From modern airports to local tuk-tuks, navigating through the state is convenient and accessible.

Airports in Rajasthan

• Jaipur International Airport
• Jaisalmer Domestic Airport
• Jodhpur Civil Airport
• Bikaner Domestic Airport

Railway Stations in Rajasthan

Most cities of Rajasthan are well-connected with extensive railway networks. Major stations are:

• Jaipur Junction Railway Station
• Udaipur City Railway Station
• Rana Pratap Nagar Railway Station, Udaipur
• Jodhpur Cantt Railway Station
• Jodhpur Junction Railway Station
• Bikaner Railway Station
• Abu Road Railway Station, Mount Abu

Local Transportation in Rajasthan

• Private taxis and cabs by Ola and Uber, available in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur for intercity and intracity travel.
• Buses from RSRTC offer affordable transport between major cities and tourist destinations.
• Auto-Rickshaws and Tuk-Tuks for local commute.
• Car rentals: You can rent a car with or without a chauffeur to explore major cities, destinations, and attractions at your own pace and convenience.