Rajasthan Travel Guide: All You Need To Know

Rajasthan is a state in northern India known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes. It is a popular tourist destination and offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some key things to know about visiting Rajasthan:

• Places to Visit: Rajasthan is home to many popular tourist destinations, including Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Pushkar. These cities offer a range of attractions, including historic forts and palaces, vibrant bazaars, and beautiful lakes and temples.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Rajasthan is between October and March, when the weather is cool and dry. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C.
• Things to Do: Rajasthan offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including exploring historic forts and palaces, taking camel safaris in the desert, shopping in colorful bazaars, and attending cultural festivals and events.
• How to Get Around: Rajasthan has a good network of public transportation, including buses and trains. Taxis and private cars are also available for hire.
• Where to Eat: Rajasthan is famous for its traditional cuisine, which includes dishes like dal bati churma, laal maas, and gatte ki sabzi. Visitors can enjoy these dishes at local restaurants and street food stalls.
• Where to Stay: Rajasthan has a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels and palaces. Many of the historic forts and palaces have been converted into hotels, offering a unique and luxurious experience.
• Travel Tips: It is important to respect local customs and traditions in Rajasthan, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also recommended to carry a scarf or shawl to cover your head when entering temples. Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs or taking photographs of locals, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Overall, Rajasthan is a beautiful and vibrant state with a rich history and culture. By following these tips, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Rajasthan.

Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is home to many popular tourist destinations, from historic forts and palaces to stunning natural landscapes. Here are some of the top places to visit in Rajasthan:

• Jaipur: Known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and a major tourist destination. Visitors can explore historic forts and palaces, shop in colorful bazaars, and enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
• Udaipur: Known as the “City of Lakes,” Udaipur is a beautiful city surrounded by scenic lakes and hills. Visitors can explore the historic City Palace, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, and enjoy the local cuisine.
• Jodhpur: Known as the “Blue City,” Jodhpur is famous for its historic forts and palaces, including the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. Visitors can also explore the colorful bazaars and try the local cuisine.
• Jaisalmer: Known as the “Golden City,” Jaisalmer is a beautiful city located in the heart of the Thar Desert. Visitors can explore the historic Jaisalmer Fort, take a camel safari in the desert, and enjoy the local culture.
• Pushkar: Known for its beautiful lake and historic temples, Pushkar is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Visitors can take a dip in the holy waters of Pushkar Lake, explore the historic Brahma Temple, and shop for souvenirs in the local markets.
• Ranthambore National Park: Located in eastern Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is home to tigers, leopards, and a variety of other wildlife. Visitors can take a safari through the park and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
• Ajmer: Known for its historic shrines and temples, Ajmer is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists. Visitors can explore the historic Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the tomb of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti, and enjoy the local culture.

These are just a few of the many places to visit in Rajasthan. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Rajasthan has something for everyone.

Best Time To Visit Rajasthan

The best time to visit Rajasthan depends on what you want to do and see. Rajasthan is known for its hot and dry climate, and temperatures can soar during the summer months from April to June, with average highs reaching up to 40-45 degrees Celsius (104-113 degrees Fahrenheit). The winter months from October to February are the most popular time to visit Rajasthan, as the weather is cooler and more comfortable, with average highs ranging from 22-28 degrees Celsius (72-82 degrees Fahrenheit) and lows dipping down to 8-12 degrees Celsius (46-54 degrees Fahrenheit).

However, the monsoon season from July to September can also be a good time to visit Rajasthan, as the region’s landscapes become lush and green, and the weather becomes cooler and more pleasant. This is also the time when many of the region’s festivals take place, including Teej, Raksha Bandhan, and Janmashtami.

So, if you’re planning to visit Rajasthan for sightseeing, exploring the cities and monuments, and enjoying the natural beauty, the best time to visit is during the winter months from October to February. However, if you’re looking to experience the region’s festivals and don’t mind a bit of rain, the monsoon season from July to September can also be a good time to visit.

Things to Do in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a popular tourist destination with a rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as natural beauty. Here are some of the top things to do in Rajasthan:

• Visit historic forts and palaces: Rajasthan is known for its many historic forts and palaces, including the Amber Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and City Palace in Jaipur, the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, and the Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal in Jaipur.
• Take a camel safari in the Thar Desert: The Thar Desert is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rajasthan, and visitors can take camel safaris to explore the desert and experience the local culture.
• Enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine: Rajasthan is famous for its delicious food, including dal bati churma, laal maas, gatte ki sabzi, and more. Visitors can try the local cuisine at restaurants and street food stalls throughout the state.
• Explore local markets and bazaars: Rajasthan is known for its colorful markets and bazaars, where visitors can shop for handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and more. Some of the popular markets include Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar in Jaipur, and Sadar Bazaar in Jodhpur.
• Attend local festivals: Rajasthan is home to many colorful and vibrant festivals throughout the year, including the Pushkar Camel Fair, the Elephant Festival in Jaipur, and the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer.
• Visit wildlife reserves and national parks: Rajasthan is home to several wildlife reserves and national parks, including Ranthambore National Park, Sariska National Park, and Keoladeo National Park, where visitors can spot tigers, leopards, and a variety of other wildlife.
• Explore the beautiful lakes and gardens: Rajasthan is home to several beautiful lakes and gardens, including Lake Pichola and Saheliyon Ki Bari in Udaipur, and the Central Park in Jaipur.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Rajasthan. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or natural beauty, Rajasthan has something for everyone.

How to Get Around in Rajasthan

There are several ways to get around Rajasthan, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the most common transportation options:

• Hire a car or taxi: One of the most convenient ways to get around Rajasthan is to hire a car or taxi. You can hire a car with a driver for a day or for your entire trip. This will give you the flexibility to visit multiple sites at your own pace.
• Take a train: Rajasthan has a well-developed railway network, and many of the major cities are connected by train. Trains are affordable and can be a great way to see the countryside.
• Use local buses: Local buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around Rajasthan. However, they can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Rent a motorcycle or scooter: If you are looking for a more adventurous way to get around, you can rent a motorcycle or scooter. This will give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Take a tuk-tuk or auto-rickshaw: Tuk-tuks and auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transportation in Rajasthan, especially in the cities. They are affordable and can be a fun way to explore the city.
• Walk or cycle: Walking or cycling can be a great way to explore the cities and towns of Rajasthan, especially the historic centers. Many of the cities also have bike rental services.

Overall, there are plenty of options for getting around Rajasthan, so you can choose the one that works best for your budget and travel style.

Where to eat in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Here are some of the best places to eat in Rajasthan:

• Chokhi Dhani – This is a famous ethnic village resort where you can enjoy traditional Rajasthani food and entertainment.
• Rawat Mishtan Bhandar – A popular eatery in Jaipur known for its delicious Pyaaz Kachori and other sweet and savory snacks.
• LMB – Laxmi Misthan Bhandar is a famous sweet shop and restaurant in Jaipur known for its traditional Rajasthani thali.
• Santosh Bhojanalaya – This is a popular eatery in Jodhpur that serves delicious vegetarian food and Rajasthani thalis.
• Kesar Kanji – This is a popular food joint in Bikaner that serves delicious snacks like Bikaneri Bhujia, Dal Bati Churma, and sweets.
• Natraj Restaurant – This is a famous food joint in Udaipur that serves mouth-watering vegetarian food.
• 1135 AD – Located inside the Amer Fort, this restaurant serves a mix of Indian and Continental food in a royal ambiance.

These are just a few examples of the many great places to eat in Rajasthan. There are also plenty of street food vendors and local eateries that serve delicious and affordable food.

Famous street stalls in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is known for its street food, which is both delicious and affordable. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Rajasthan:

• Sahu Ki Chai – Located in Jaipur, this is a popular stall that serves Masala Chai (spiced tea) and Kachori (a deep-fried snack).
• Dal Baati Churma – This is a traditional Rajasthani dish that can be found at street stalls and restaurants across the state. It consists of lentil curry, baked wheat balls, and a sweet dessert made from crushed wheat.
• Gol Gappe – Also known as Pani Puri, this popular snack can be found at street stalls all over Rajasthan. It consists of crispy fried shells filled with spiced water, chutney, and chickpeas.
• Mirchi Bada – This is a deep-fried snack made from green chilies stuffed with spiced potato filling. It is a popular street food in Jodhpur.
• Kachori – Kachori is a deep-fried snack that can be found at street stalls all over Rajasthan. It is made from a crispy shell filled with spiced lentils, onions, or potatoes.
• Kulhad Lassi – This is a popular drink that is served in earthen cups. It is made from yogurt, sugar, and flavored with saffron or cardamom.
• Faluda Kulfi – This is a sweet and creamy dessert that can be found at street stalls in Jaipur. It is made from kulfi (Indian ice cream), vermicelli, rose syrup, and chopped nuts.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious street food options in Rajasthan. Make sure to try out some of these dishes during your visit!

Where to stay in Rajasthan

Luxury accommodation

Rajasthan is known for its opulent palaces and heritage hotels, which offer a taste of the state’s rich history and culture. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Rajasthan:

• Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur – This is a magnificent palace that has been converted into a luxury hotel. It offers a variety of rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor pool, spa, and fine dining options.
• Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur – Located on an island in Lake Pichola, this 18th-century palace has been converted into a luxury hotel. It offers elegant rooms and suites, as well as a rooftop restaurant, outdoor pool, and spa.
• Rambagh Palace, Jaipur – This is a former royal residence that has been converted into a luxury hotel. It offers a range of rooms and suites, as well as a pool, spa, and fine dining options.
• Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur – This luxury hotel is located on the banks of Lake Pichola and offers elegant rooms and suites, as well as a spa, outdoor pool, and fine dining options.
• Samode Palace, Jaipur – This is a stunning palace that has been converted into a luxury hotel. It offers a variety of rooms and suites, as well as a pool, spa, and fine dining options.

These are just a few examples of the many luxury accommodations available in Rajasthan. These properties offer a unique and unforgettable experience, with a blend of traditional and modern amenities.

Where to stay in Rajasthan

Budget accommodation

Rajasthan has a range of budget accommodations available for travelers, including guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Rajasthan:

• Zostel, Jaipur – This hostel offers dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms. It has a rooftop terrace, a communal kitchen, and organizes cultural events and tours.
• Moustache Hostel, Jaisalmer – This hostel offers a range of dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms. It has a rooftop terrace, a communal kitchen, and organizes tours and activities.
• Rawla Jojawar, Pali – This is a heritage property that has been converted into a budget hotel. It offers a range of rooms and suites, as well as a swimming pool and traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
• Madpackers Hostel, Udaipur – This hostel offers a range of dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms. It has a rooftop terrace, a communal kitchen, and organizes tours and activities.
• Backpacker Panda, Pushkar – This hostel offers a range of dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms. It has a communal kitchen and a rooftop terrace.

These are just a few examples of the many budget accommodations available in Rajasthan. They offer comfortable and affordable options for travelers who want to experience the state without breaking the bank.

Travel Tips Rajasthan

Here are some travel tips for visiting Rajasthan:

• Dress appropriately: Rajasthan is a conservative state, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It’s best to avoid shorts, tank tops, and other revealing clothing.
• Stay hydrated: Rajasthan can get very hot, especially during the summer months. Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.
• Bargain when shopping: Rajasthan is known for its colorful markets and bazaars, where you can find a range of handicrafts, textiles, and other souvenirs. It’s important to bargain when shopping, as prices are often inflated for tourists.
• Try the local cuisine: Rajasthan has a rich culinary heritage, with a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Make sure to try the local cuisine, including dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas.
• Respect the local culture: Rajasthan has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of traditions and customs. It’s important to respect the local culture and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites and attending cultural events.
• Plan your itinerary in advance: Rajasthan has a lot to offer, from historic forts and palaces to scenic desert landscapes. Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your trip.
• Be mindful of your safety: Rajasthan is generally a safe state, but it’s important to be mindful of your safety, especially when traveling alone or at night. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.