A trip to Rajasthan is indeed a treat as you get to enjoy the colorful and vibrant culture of the land, revel in the grandeur of its palaces and forts, taste the sumptuous/rich local cuisine, explore the sprawling expanses of the Thar, and of course savor the thrill of close trysts with wildlife.
The different tourist locales of this region have their own unique attractions that figure prominently in the itinerary of the popular Rajasthan Tours offered by different travel agents. While it may not be possible to cover all major attractions in one visit, you can explore places and activities that interest you by signing up for a suitable travel package.
Check out what’s special about Rajasthan!
Imperial Palaces
The vast, elaborately decorated palaces across Rajasthan stand testimony to the opulent life and times of erstwhile kings who ruled the land.
The Umaid Bhawan Palace, City Palace Complex, Rambagh Palace, Monsoon Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, Devigarh Palace and several others are a delight for history and architecture buffs as well as avid photographers.
Some of these palaces are now heritage hotels that offer a truly imperial holiday experience for their guests. Take time to visit a few of these palaces, if possible stay at one of these heritage structures and get pampered royally!
Majestic Forts
Standing impressively tall and still very much intact, these strongholds from yesteryears are examples of the architectural and design prowess of the local rulers and neat handiwork of the labourers.
Strategically located and well protected, the forts make interesting landmarks for travelers, who can catch up with history and also enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings from these ancient structures. The forts at Mehrangarh, Kumbhalgarh, Amer, Nahargarh, Jaisalmer, Chittorgarh, Bundi and Neemrana are equally impressive and appealing in their own way.
Stunning Step Wells
Baoris or step wells served as a source of water in harsh desert terrain of Rajasthan.
Some of the multilevel step wells constructed with geometric precision also have beautiful sculptures adorning the inner walls of the balconies overlooking them.
The Chand Baori at Abhaneri village dating back to the 9th century is simply stunning. With 3500 steps leading to the waters 20 meters below the ground level, the structure is indeed a delight to observe and even traverse a few levels down the well.
Royal Safaris
While you can always opt for jeep safari through the terrain, you must experience the excitement and thrill of an elephant safari in Rajasthan. You can check out the Elephant ride at Amer Fort or spend time with the animals at the Elephant Camp, Dera Amer.
A Camel safari through the desert to the nearest village too proves equally enjoyable offering impeccable visuals of the vast barren landscape interspersed with few arid bushes, the odd trees as well as the thriving Oasis.
In addition to Camel and Elephant rides, horse riding too is quite popular here.
Colorful Cultural Performances
Local festivities and cultural programs are colorful and vibrant events that are eye-catching.
Clad in brightly colored traditional outfits and chunky jewelry the Kalbeliya tribal women dancing to folk music will leave you tapping your feet as well. Folk and cultural performances are organized at upscale resorts, heritage hotels and restored Havelis.
Rich Cuisine
The rich and spicy predominantly vegetarian cuisine is bound to be addictive. Try the traditional Rajasthan Thali or full meal to get a sample of the staple diet of the locals.
Pamper your sweet tooth with an array of sweet dishes made mostly out of Besan. Be it the Choki Dhani or any other restaurant, traditional cuisine tastes simply delicious.
Adventure Activities
Rajasthan has an exciting array of activities for the adventurous.
The different lakes here such as lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar are ideal for boating trips, while the Aravalli hills are great for guided treks through the hilly terrain. Trekking trails to Kumbhalgarh, Jain Temples at Ranakpur and other destinations are active.
You may even choose to cycle through the landscape. Desert safaris often also include camping out under the skies, making the trip even more memorable. Do remember to catch a ride on hot air balloons that ply in Jaipur city.
A slow and steady ride over the desert terrain offers a bird’s eye view of the entire landscape making you feel literally on top of the world!
Not challenging enough? Then you must try zip-lining at the Neemrana Fort where you get to whizz through the scenic landscape on suspended wires than run from one hillock to another!
Driving into the vast unknown through the desert sands scattered with undulated dunes is a different kind of pleasure. Don’t get lost though!
If you love flying kites or even enjoy watching colorful designs afloat in the air, time your visit for the annual Pushkar Kite festival for an impressive spectacle!
A visit to the haunted city of Bhangarh, now in ruins, is of course only recommended those who dare to face the consequences. Entry is prohibited after dark as it is believed that people entering the place after sun down do not return!
Nature Reserves
Opt for a safari through the Sariska Tiger Reserve or Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary for a lucky glimpse of the majestic tiger in its natural habitat.
The Bird Sanctuary at Bharatpur is the delight for avid bird watchers and photographers alike, or even for the casual traveler. Native animals are best spotted at the Desert National Park, spread over arid sandy terrain offering visitors a chance to experience the desert ecosystem.
A visit to Mount Abu offers respite from the scorching heat, treating you very pleasant surroundings replete with Colonial structures from the British times. A multitude of Hindu and Jain temples of architectural and religious significance draw a large number of pilgrims and tourists as well.
The Dargah Sharif at Ajmer is a sacred pilgrimage destination for those seeking the blessings of Khwaja Moinuddin Chissthi. Rajasthan Tours typically cover one or more of these interesting experiences in their itinerary.
If you have any specific preferences, get your tour customized to make the most of your visit to the land of the royals!
