Top 50 places to visit in Rajasthan

Exploring Rajasthan: A Journey Through India’s Colorful Heritage

Contents

Exploring Rajasthan: A Journey Through India’s Colorful Heritage Jaipur:1. City Palace:2. Amer Fort:3. Nahargarh Fort:4. Hawa Mahal:5. Jal Mahal:6. Jantar Mantar:7. Albert Hall Museum:8. Rajmandir Cinema: Ajmer: 9. Hazrat Khwaja Nawaz Dargah:10. Anna Sagar Lake:11. Nareli Jain Temple:12. Ajmer Fort: Pushkar:13. Brahma Temple:14. Pushkar Lake:15. Savitri Mata Temple:16. Pushkar Fair: Udaipur:17. Udaipur City Palace:18. Jag Mandir:19. Saheliyon ki Badi:20. Fateh Sagar Lake:21. Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace):22. Lake Pichola:23. Bagore ki Haveli:24. Shilpgram: Jodhpur:25. Umaid Bhawan Palace:26. Mehrangarh Museum and Trust:27. Jaswant Thada:28. Rao Jodha Park:29. Kaylana Lake:30. Toorji ka Jhalra:31. Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower): Jaisalmer:32. Jaisalmer Fort:33. Patwon ki Haveli:34. Sam Sand Dunes:35. Gadisar Lake: Bikaner:36. Junagarh Fort:37. Karni Mata Temple: Other places of Rajasthan: 38. Mehandipur Balaji Temple 39. Khatu Shyam Mandir 40. Ranthambore National Park 41. Kumbhalgarh Fort 42. Bala Fort 43. Bhangarh Fort 44. Neemrana Fort 45. Chittorgarh Fort 46. Mount Abu 47. Kota 48. Chand Baoli 49. Sariska National Park 50. Sambhar Lake

Overview of Rajasthan: A state in India renowned for its vibrant history and culture, attracting millions of tourists annually.
City Highlights:
- Jaipur: The capital city, famously known as the Pink City.
- Udaipur: Referred to as the City of Lakes.
- Jaisalmer: Known as the Desert City.
- Additional Cities: Explore other iconic cities that showcase Rajasthan’s rich heritage.
What to Expect:
- Detailed Coverage: Insights on how to reach each location, their unique features, visiting timings, ticket information, and more.
- Series Structure:
  - Jaipur
  - Ajmer
  - Pushkar
  - Udaipur
  - Jodhpur
  - Jaisalmer
  - Bikaner
- Additional Destinations: Coverage of other notable sites beyond the main cities.

Jaipur:

1. City Palace:

Built in 1727 by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Approximate visit time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Distance from Jaipur International Airport: ~12 km.
Features: Gardens, lounges, courtyard, Weaponry Museum.
Ticket: ₹300.

2. Amer Fort:

Built in 1592 by Maharaja Mann Singh.
Known for its labyrinth and architecture.
Elephant rides available from 6:00 am to 9:00 am.
Entry ticket: ₹50.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM.

3. Nahargarh Fort:

Located in the Aravalli Mountain ranges.
Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Entry: ₹20 (adults), ₹5 (children).
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

4. Hawa Mahal:

Built in 1799 with 953 windows.
Features a blend of Islamic, Mughal, and Rajputana architecture.
Temple floors: Sharda Mandir, Ratan Mandir (1st floor); Vichitra Mandir, Prakash Mandir, Hawa Mandir (2nd floor).
Entry ticket: ₹50.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

5. Jal Mahal:

Located on Mansagar Lake.
Features Mughal and Rajput architecture.
Only the top floor is visible; the remaining three floors are underwater.
No entry tickets; no boating or interior access.

6. Jantar Mantar:

Covers 18,700 square meters.
Built by Sawai Jaising II to observe time, stars, and planets.
Features 19 instruments made of stone and brass.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM.
Entry tickets: ₹50 (adults), ₹15 (children).

7. Albert Hall Museum:

Also known as Central Museum.
Houses one of six Egyptian mummies in India.
Exhibits: Handicrafts, paintings, artifacts of Royal families.
Timings: 10 AM – 4:30 PM.
Entry ticket: ₹20.

8. Rajmandir Cinema:

Known for its beautiful pink decor.
Timings: 12 PM, 3 PM, 6 PM, 9 PM.
Ticket prices: ₹150 – ₹400.
Must purchase tickets to enter.

Ajmer:

9. Hazrat Khwaja Nawaz Dargah:

Built by Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in honor of Khwaja Sahib.
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a major holy site for Muslims and Rajasthani people.
Features: Majestic Mughal architecture, silver doors, marble structure, gold-plated ceiling.
Open: 4 AM – 3 PM, 4 PM – 10 PM.
No entry fee.

10. Anna Sagar Lake:

Features an island accessible by boat; ferry charge: ₹60.
Created by ArnoRaj between 1135-1150.
Popular for sunset views.
Boating timings: 8 AM – 7 PM; boating charges: ₹150 – ₹160 per person.
Daulat Bagh is nearby.

11. Nareli Jain Temple:

Located 9 km from Ajmer in the Aravali Mountain Range.
Features 24 Jinalaya and 24 Tirthankar idols.
Constructed in 1994; made of marble.
Dedicated to Digambar Jains.
Open: 6:30 AM – 7 PM.
No entry fee.

12. Ajmer Fort:

Located near the new market in Ajmer.
Built in 1570; historically used by Akbar’s son, Salim.
Exhibits: Hindu idols from the 6th and 7th centuries, Rajput and Mughal artifacts.
Notable: Marble idol of Maha Kali.
Open: 10 AM – 5 PM.
Entry fee: ₹10.

Pushkar:

13. Brahma Temple:

The only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma worldwide.
Marble and stone structure with a red pillar.
Associated with the story of Brahma’s curse.
Open: 6 AM – 8 PM.
Free entry.

14. Pushkar Lake:

Believed to be made from water in which Lord Brahma sits.
Considered sacred for washing away sins and curing diseases.
Surrounded by 300 temples and 52 ghats.
Known as Tirath Raj (King of Tirths).
Free entry; open throughout the day.

15. Savitri Mata Temple:

Situated on Ratnagiri Mountains; dedicated to Goddess Savitri.
Connected to the story of Savitri Mata’s curse on Lord Brahma.
Requires a 1-hour climb or a ropeway to reach.
Offers a 360-degree view of Pushkar Town.
Open: 5 AM – 1:30 PM.
Free entry.

16. Pushkar Fair:

Annual camel fair festival held in October-November.
Duration: 5 days.
Features: Camel trading, livestock sales, cattle fairs, moustache competitions, pottery, bridal accessories.
Includes a friendly football match between locals and foreigners.
Famous internationally, attracting tourists from around the world.

Udaipur:

17. Udaipur City Palace:

Location: Center of the Aravali Mountain Range, East Udaipur.
Construction: Built in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh.
Features: Rajasthani, Mughal, and Medieval architecture; constructed with marble and granite.
Exploration Time: 60-90 minutes.
Open: 9:30 AM – 9 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹300 for adults, ₹100 for kids.

18. Jag Mandir:

Location: Small island on Lake Pichola.
Construction: Completed in the 17th century under Maharana Jagat Singh.
Features: Three-storey marble and yellow granite palace; Gul Mahal is a highlight.
Dining: Indian restaurant named Darikhana on-site.
Open: 10 AM – 6 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹325 for adults, ₹150 for kids.

19. Saheliyon ki Badi:

Location: Near Fateh Sagar Lake.
Features: Lush green lawns, canopied walking lanes, majestic fountains, marble statues.
Construction: Built for the princess and her friends.
Open: 9 AM – 7 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹10 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners.

20. Fateh Sagar Lake:

Location: 6 km from the Railway Station, 5 km from City Palace.
Construction: Started in 1678 by Maharana Jai Singh, renamed in 1888.
Features: Boating, gardens, observatory.
Dimensions: Length – 2.4 km, Width – 1.6 km, Depth – 11.5 m.
Open: 8 AM – 6 PM.
Entry Fees: None.

21. Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace):

Location: Outskirts of Udaipur.
Construction: Began in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh.
Features: Originally an astronomical observatory, domes, fountains, and Rajasthani architecture.
Open: 9 AM – 5 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹110 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners.

22. Lake Pichola:

Features: Scenic lake with City Palace on its banks.
Construction: Created in 1362 by Pichu Banjara.
Dimensions: Length – 3 miles, Width – 2 miles, Depth – 30 ft.
Open: Throughout the day.
Entry Fees: None.

23. Bagore ki Haveli:

Location: On the banks of Gangour Ghat, Lake Pichola.
Features: Over 100 rooms, unique mirror and glass work, evening dance shows.
Construction: 18th century.
Open: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 8 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹60 for adults, ₹30 for children.

24. Shilpgram:

Location: Near Havala Village.
Features: Art and craft complex promoting local arts, folk music, dance, wood, mud, and stone art.
Inaugurated: 1989 by Rajiv Gandhi.
Open: 11 AM – 7 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹30 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners.

Jodhpur:

25. Umaid Bhawan Palace:

Features: Built before 1947, has 347 rooms, exhibits royal family’s art pieces and artifacts.
Open: 9 AM – 5 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹30 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners.

26. Mehrangarh Museum and Trust:

Location: Hilltop fortress, 410 ft above ground.
Construction: Started in 1460 by Rao Jodha Ji.
Features: Vintage royal artifacts, weapons, Sheesh Mahal, royal gardens, panoramic views.
Open: 9 AM – 5 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹100 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners. Extra ₹100 for photography, ₹200 for videography.

27. Jaswant Thada:

Features: Built in 1899, known as Jodhpur’s Taj Mahal; a memorial for Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for beautiful views.
Open: 9 AM – 5 PM.
Entry Fees: ₹30 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners.

28. Rao Jodha Park:

Features: 200-acre park for jungle trekking, artificial rock park established in 2006.
Open: 7 AM – 6:30 PM (April to September), 8 AM – 5:30 PM (October to March).
Entry Fees: ₹100, guided walk costs ₹200. Free for school students.

29. Kaylana Lake:

Features: Known for bird-watching and water sports like boating, jet skiing, and zip-lining.
Created: 1872 by Pratap Singh.
Open: 8 AM – 6 PM.
Entry Fees: None, but activity charges apply.

30. Toorji ka Jhalra:

Features: 250-year-old stepwell built by Raja Abhay Singh’s wife.
Construction: Made of rose red stone, 200 ft deep.
Open: Throughout the day.
Entry Fees: None.

31. Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower):

Features: Landmark and city center of Jodhpur, offers aerial views of Sardar Market and Jodhpur.
Construction: Built during Sardar Singh’s rule (1880-1911).
Open: 10 AM – 6 PM.
Entry Fees: None.

Jaisalmer:

32. Jaisalmer Fort:

Built in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, it’s one of the largest forts in the world.
Unlike many other forts, it houses residences, shops, restaurants, and hotels.
The fort is 250 feet high, protected by 30-foot walls, and has 99 bastions.

33. Patwon ki Haveli:

Constructed in 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa, this mansion complex consists of five interconnected havelis.
Renowned for its intricate architecture, including glasswork, carvings, and paintings.

34. Sam Sand Dunes:

Experience traditional desert activities like camel riding, dune bashing, paragliding, and quad biking.
The area also offers opportunities for hot air balloon rides and desert camping.

35. Gadisar Lake:

A man-made lake built in the 12th-13th century, ideal for boating and relaxing.
Best visited at sunset, with a picturesque view and options for dining at a rooftop restaurant.

Bikaner:

36. Junagarh Fort:

Originally known as Chintamani Fort, construction began in 1478 and was completed in 1589.
Features a blend of architectural styles and includes gardens, balconies, and elaborate interiors.

37. Karni Mata Temple:

Famous for its population of around 25,000 rats, which are considered sacred.
Located about 30 km from Bikaner, it is dedicated to the goddess Karni Mata.

Other places of Rajasthan:

38. Mehandipur Balaji Temple

Location: Between two mountains, also known as Ghata Mehandipur Balaji Temple.
Deities: Lord Hanuman, Bhairav Baba, Pretraj Sarkar.
Highlights: Known for its healing powers against negative energy and ailments.
Timings: 6 AM – 11:30 AM, 12 PM – 8:30 PM.
Entry Fee: None.

39. Khatu Shyam Mandir

Location: Sikar district.
History: Built in 1027 AD by Roop Singh.
Highlights: Idol made from rare stones, gold-plated throne, white marble gates.
Timings: 12 AM – 12 PM.
Entry Fee: None.

40. Ranthambore National Park

Location: Junction of Aravali and Vindya Hill Ranges.
Size: 400 sq. km.
Wildlife: Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and more.
Best Time to Visit: April to June.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 10 AM, 2 PM – 6:30 PM.
Entry Fee: 100 INR for adults, 30 INR for kids.

41. Kumbhalgarh Fort

Location: In the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Features: Second-longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM.
Entry Fee: 10 INR for Indians, 100 INR for foreigners.

42. Bala Fort

Location: Alwar.
Features: 5 large and 51 small towers.
History: Built by Hassan Khan Mewati in 1550 AD.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM.
Entry Fee: 10 INR for Indians, 100 INR for foreigners.

43. Bhangarh Fort

Location: Alwar district.
Features: Known for its supposed curse and haunted reputation.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM.
Entry Fee: None.

44. Neemrana Fort

Location: Neemrana.
History: Built in 1464, converted into a heritage hotel in 1970.
Features: Surrounded by Aravali mountains.
Best Time to Visit: July to March.
Entry: Room booking required for access.

45. Chittorgarh Fort

Location: Chittorgarh.
Features: 700 acres, includes Vijay Stambh and Kirti Stambh.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM.
Entry Fee: 50 INR for adults, 25 INR for kids.

46. Mount Abu

Location: Sirohi district.
Features: Rajasthan’s only hill station, includes Guru Shikar and Sunset Point.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Entry Fee: None.

47. Kota

Location: Banks of the Chambal River.
Features: Known for coaching centers and local attractions.
Entry Fee: None.

48. Chand Baoli

Location: Rajasthan.
Features: Largest stepwell with around 3500 stairs.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM.
Entry Fee: None.

49. Sariska National Park

Location: Sariska National Park is situated in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, specifically on Subhash Chowk Road at Malakhera.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Sariska National Park is from October to June, which is considered the best season for wildlife sightings.
Wildlife Sanctuary: It is a national park and tiger reserve, making it a significant destination for wildlife lovers.

50. Sambhar Lake

Location: Sambhar Lake is the largest inland lake in India, situated 96 kilometers southwest of Jaipur.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Sambhar Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to March, offering the best conditions for sightseeing.
Tourist Attraction: Sambhar Lake is a highly acclaimed and popular destination for tourists, known for its scenic beauty and unique ecosystem.