Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is one of those states that feels like a different world the moment you step in. Forts on hilltops, golden deserts, painted cities, and lakes that glow at sunset- this is what makes it one of the most loved travel destinations in India. If you are making a list of places to visit in Rajasthan, this guide will help you plan a trip that covers the best the state has to offer.

Every city in Rajasthan has its own colour, its own story, and its own must-see spots, which is what makes travelling across the state so exciting. From royal palaces to desert camps, no two destinations here feel the same.

At Voyagers Beat, we run group trips across Rajasthan that cover its most iconic cities. Here are 6 destinations you should not miss.

1. Jaipur - The Pink City

Jaipur is the first stop for most travellers, and it’s easy to see why. The pink-coloured buildings, grand forts, and busy bazaars give you a strong first taste of the royal history of Rajasthan. With old world charm and modern cafes and markets, you can easily spend a few days here and not run out of things to do.

The city was established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and its planned layout with wide streets is still visible today. Winters from October to March are the best time to explore Jaipur on foot due to the cool and pleasant days.

Places to visit in Jaipur:

• Amer Fort

• Hawa Mahal

• City Palace

• Jantar Mantar

• Nahargarh Fort

• Johari Bazaar for local shopping
  
  

Jaipur is the perfect start to a Rajasthan trip, mixing history, shopping, and food in one city.

2. Udaipur - The City of Lakes

Udaipur seems more peaceful and romantic than other parts of Rajasthan. The lakes, palaces, and narrow lanes lend it a charm that has made it a favourite with couples and honeymooners. Many of the palaces here have been turned into heritage hotels so you can indulge in a royal-style stay without having to step out of the city.

The city is known as the 'City of Lakes' because it is built around a number of artificial lakes. Evenings are best spent walking the lake promenades, watching the palaces light up as the sky turns orange.

Places to visit in Udaipur:

• Lake Pichola

• City Palace

• Jag Mandir

• Saheliyon Ki Bari

• Fateh Sagar Lake

• Bagore Ki Haveli
  
  

A sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola is something you should not skip while in Udaipur.

3. Jodhpur - The Blue City

Jodhpur takes its name from the blue-painted houses that fan out from under the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. Walking through the old city here feels like stepping into a different century, with narrow lanes, old havelis, and local shops selling handicrafts and spices.

The blue colour was originally used to keep houses cooler and also to denote the houses of Brahmin families, locals say, though today most of the old city follows the same shade. The fort itself is among the largest and best-preserved in India.

Places to visit in Jodhpur:

• Mehrangarh Fort

• Jaswant Thada

• Umaid Bhawan Palace

• Clock Tower Market

• Mandore Gardens

• The Blue City streets
  
  

The view of the blue city from the top of Mehrangarh Fort is one of the best you will find in Rajasthan.

4. Jaisalmer - The Golden City

Jaisalmer is at the border of the Thar Desert, and all here, from the fort to the houses, is built of golden sandstone. This is where you come to experience the desert side of Rajasthan with camel rides and nights camping under a sky full of stars.

Unlike many forts in India that are empty, Jaisalmer Fort is still inhabited by families, shops, and small guesthouses within its walls. The desert winter evenings can become surprisingly cold, so it is worth taking a warm layer for the night safari.

Places to visit in Jaisalmer:

• Jaisalmer Fort

• Sam Sand Dunes

• Patwon Ki Haveli

• Gadisar Lake

• Kuldhara Village

• Desert camel safari
  
  
  

A night under the stars at Sam Sand Dunes is an experience you will remember long after the trip ends.

5. Pushkar - The Holy Town

Pushkar is small, peaceful, and a very different experience than the bigger cities of Rajasthan. Pilgrims and backpackers looking for a slower rate of travel are drawn to its sacred lake and laid-back, spiritual vibe.

The town is also of religious importance to Hindu pilgrims, as it is home to one of the few Brahma temples in the world. Its cafes and rooftop restaurants, run by locals and long-staying travellers alike, give it a relaxed, easy-going feel unlike anywhere else in the state.

Places to visit in Pushkar:

• Pushkar Lake

• Brahma Temple

• Savitri Temple

• Pushkar Camel Fair grounds

• Sunset Point

• Local street markets
  
  

If your trip falls around the annual Camel Fair, Pushkar turns into one of the most colourful places in the state.

6. Mount Abu - The Hill Station

Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan and provides a cooler respite from the heat of the desert cities. The green hills and peaceful lake here feel like a whole other part of the state and are often tacked on to a Rajasthan trip at the end for a change of pace.

The Dilwara Temples here are renowned for their exquisite marble carvings, which are regarded as some of the finest examples of Jain architecture in the country. Actually, the best time to visit this hill station is in summer when the rest of Rajasthan gets very hot.

Places to visit in Mount Abu:

• Nakki Lake

• Dilwara Jain Temples

• Sunset Point

• Guru Shikhar Peak

• Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

• Honeymoon Point
  
  

Mount Abu makes a great last stop on a Rajasthan trip, giving you cooler weather before heading back home.

Conclusion

Rajasthan has a city for every kind of traveller whether you want royal forts, quiet lakes, golden deserts, or cool hills. From the busy streets of Jaipur to the tranquil lanes of Pushkar, each of these Rajasthan places to visit has something that you will not find anywhere else in India.

What makes this state unique is that each city feels so different from the others even though they are only a few hours apart by car. You could be walking through a golden desert fort in the morning and sitting beside a still lake with mountain air by evening. It is this duality that is so typical of Rajasthan and is part of the reason why it is on so many bucket lists.

If you want to explore this state without the hassle of planning it yourself, check out our Rajasthan group trips and our guide on romantic things to do in Udaipur for more ideas on what to add to your itinerary.

So pick your dates, pack light, and get ready to see why Rajasthan continues to be one of India's most magical states to visit.

FAQs

Q1. Which city to visit first in Rajasthan?
Most visitors start with Jaipur, which is well linked and gives a good introduction to the history and culture of the state.

Q2. How many days does it take to cover these 6 places?
Normally, a trip to all 6 destinations takes about 10 to 12 days, but you can cut down the trip by covering 3 to 4 cities.

Q3. What is the best time to visit Rajasthan?
The best time to visit Rajasthan is from October to March when the weather is cool enough to go sightseeing, visit forts, and go on desert safaris.