Rajasthan Tourism And Travel Guide

When you think of Rajasthan, you think of colours; from the fabric of the clothes they wear to the colours of the houses and the sand of the deserts, Rajasthan is always vibrantly alive. Immersed in a rich history, all these colours have a story to tell. Home to one of the first civilizations in history, Rajasthan is the land of legends, rulers, rich culture and sagas of bravery and wars so tourism in Rajasthan is bound to be a trip down time. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set off, because this travel guide to Rajasthan is bound to navigate you!

Being the largest state in the country, Rajasthan shares borders with 5 neighbouring Indian states and two in Pakistan. The state is extremely well connected with a mesh of well maintained highways and roads enabling easy access to every city and the villages in between. Besides there are 5 domestic and one International airport in the state. Having such a wide range of options means endless adventures and a truly memorable experience.

By Air:

Rajasthan has three major airports in Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur. There are also airports in Kota and Bikaner. Daily flights connect the state thoroughly to the rest of the country. 

By Rail:

Rajasthan has established a very busy railway network with important stations such as Jaipur, Ajmer Jn, Bikaner, Udaipur City and Jodhpur Jn. The Railway has frequent services to major cities in India and plays an important role in tourism. An exciting way to travel around Rajasthan is by the luxury coach, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels; you can visit most parts of Rajasthan while enjoying the luxury of these trains.

By Road:

Rajasthan has a brilliant establishment of road routes with over 20 national highways leading to the state. A set of state highways connect every other city within Rajasthan. You will find a number of bus and taxi services that you can make use of to get around.

Though a lot of Rajasthan is home to the mighty Thar dessert, the entire state does not experience an arid climate. That being said, many find the months between mid-September and mid-March to be very pleasant. If you do find yourself travelling to Rajasthan during summer, then Mount Abu is the best place to visit. During monsoons, visit Udaipur and watch the lakes fill up and come to life.

With a rich history like Rajasthan, you will need at least two weeks’ time to soak in the rich heritage of the state.

Forts and Palaces:

Rajasthan’s mighty forts boast of the many attacks it withstood under the leadership of the fierce dynasties that ruled in the past. Among them, the most visited are Jaisalmer Fort, Jaipur City Palace, Jal Mahal, Amer Fort and the Jantar Mantar.

Spiritual Centres: 

Dargah Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti - the final resting place of the Sufi saint, Moinuddin Chishti - at Ajmer is one of the coveted spiritual sites in Rajasthan. There's also the famed Karni Mata mandir near Bikaner (the temple of a million rats). The ancient Galtaji temple is home to multitudes of monkeys living within different cells within the complex. Quite naturally it is known as the Monkey temple. And then there is the Shrinathji temple in Nathdwara near Udaipur, a 200 year old temple adjacent to the palace Moti Mahal, built in reverence of the idol of the 7-year old Lord Krishna who lifted the Govardhan hill.

Activities: 

Enjoy camel riding, paragliding, desert biking and a variety of other activities in Rajasthan. Do go for the desert safari, stay in camps or sleep on a charpai under the desert sky next to a crackling bonfire. 

Festivals and Fairs:

World Sufi Festival plays out inside the Mehrangarh fort each year. It's nothing short of magic. The festival sees qawaalis and dancing and is a grand affair. Also don't miss out on the annual kite festival which happens during Makar Sankranti. Besides, the iconic Pushkar Camel Fair is a five day event set during the pleasant winter months and consists of a number of interesting competitions. There are all sorts of stalls that will give you a great insight into the local culture.

Rajasthan is known for its unique flavours when it comes to food. Try the different kachoris, the panchkuta, bajra ki roti, and the spicy chutneys that come with it and of course the multitudes of sweets that were born in the dessert. Don't miss out on dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi and laal maas. End with Churma laddoo or badam halwa. 

Pottery: The best souvenir you can take back from Rajasthan is its renowned pottery. Get your hands on the paper thin Kagzi pots if you get a chance.

The Bazaars: Hit the bazaars of Rajasthan and pick up some exquisite jewellery, some fantastic bandni fabric and leather bags and jootis.