A third of international tourists to India travel to Rajasthan. This can make you feel like you are just another tourist in a large crowd. Wild Frontiers believes it is important to visit these iconic sites, but we also want to give travellers a glimpse of India as it really is.
Our long-standing relationship with India is evident. We went to great lengths to find the most remote places to show you authentic places that can be combined into a best Rajasthan tour packages. Unspoilt villages, hidden temples, and lakes.
With this in mind, we have compiled a list of our top picks for Rajasthan. These include tourist spots and some of the most secretive places. We’ll get to the point.
1) Agra
The most photographed building in Asia is located in Agra, the magnificent TajMahal. This Mughal monument is the most well-known. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan to honour his third wife, MumtazMahal. She died during childbirth. This monument, which is the most lavishly designed love monument ever constructed, was built by 20,000 men over twenty-two years.
The TajMahal, widely known as the “jewel of Muslim art in India” and one of the most admired masterpieces of world heritage, is widely regarded. You’ll also find the Red Fort, Tomb of ItimadudDaulah and Moghul Gardens of Ram Bagh in Agra.
2) Amritsar
Amrit Sarovar is the holy water tank that surrounds the magnificent Golden Temple. Amritsar gets its name. The temple complex is located in the heart of the city. It is surrounded by narrow lanes or katras that lead to one of India’s busiest markets. However, the Golden Temple, a peaceful presence that radiates a calm that makes people bow in reverence, is a tranquil presence.
Gurudwara is the most sacred of Sikh shrines. Sikhs are not the only ones who visit the Golden Temple to pay their respects. Hindus and other religious people also make the pilgrimage to Harmandir Sahib to offer their prayers. The Indo-Pakistan border crossing at Wagah is another major attraction, located just a few minutes from Amritsar. It features an elaborate change of guards ceremony.
3) Bhuj
The oldest and most important city in Kutch dates back to the early 16th century. It is located within the walls of Bhuj. The city is known for its handicrafts, embroidery, and beautiful collection of brightly decorated Hindu temples. It also has intricately carved wooden pavilions which hark back to a simpler India. It is a great place to just wander around and explore, with its fascinating network of labyrinthine alleyways.
It is home to some of the most exquisite work by the town’s artisans, including intricate silk embroidery and beautiful batiks. The city is home to the AinaMahal Palace’s ornate splendour. It also hosts the RannUtsav festival each February/March.
4) Bharatpur
Bharatpur, which was established in 1733, plays an important role in Rajasthan’s history. It was once an impregnable capital. It is most well-known for its Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, which can be found within the city’s walls. This sanctuary houses many endangered migratory bird species, including the Siberian Crane.
This site, which is a world heritage site, was once used as a hunting ground by the maharajas from Bharatpur. It was also named after an ancient temple located in the park’s centre. You can also visit the surrounding area and the forts and palaces. One of the fascinating sites is the Lohagarh Fort. It was so strong that the British had to take six weeks to break through its defences.
5) Bijaipur
Bijaipur is a small village located at the foothills of Vindhyachal Hills. It’s home to many agricultural farms. Bijaipur has a rich history worth discovering, having been ruled over by many dynasties through the years. The 16th Century Castle is located in the heart of the village. It was converted into a heritage hotel by the government in 1991. You must visit the Bijaipur Castle.
Castle Bijaipur offers horse riding and a temple for sun worshippers from the 9th century. You can also take a jeep tour in a vintage jeep. Enjoy walks, cooking lessons, or just relax by the pool.
6) Bikaner
Bikaner is known for its sweets and wool production. It also has the largest number of camel farms in the country. Bikaner was founded as a small village in 1486. It has grown to be one of the most important cities in Rajasthan. The city is home to many fascinating sights, including a number of magnificently sculpted palaces, forts, and temples. You can admire some of the most beautiful Rajput creations made from yellow and red sandstone.
7) Bundi
When Sultan Mohammed Ghauri defeated Prithviraj Chauhan in 1193AD, some Chauhan nobles sought refuge in Mewar and became allies with the Rana, while others moved towards the Chambal valley and defeated the Meenas and Bhil tribes – thus establishing their kingdom of Hadoti.
Later, Hadas’ two branches created two states, Kota (on the one side of river Chambal) and Bundi (on the other). The Aravalli hills enclose Bundi on all three sides. It is also surrounded by a huge wall with four gateways. This is a true medieval city that has been preserved from the main tourist routes.
8) Chittorgarh
The ruins of Chittaur’s citadel of Chittaur are haunted by memories of Rajput romance, honour and valour. One can still see glimpses of the glory of an earlier era’s imperial glory in its formidable forts, elegant palaces and stunning ‘chhatris’. MaharanaPratap, who fought against all odds until his death, has been a part of the land’s history. His enemies also respected him.
Tourists from all over the globe visit Chittorgarh to marvel at the amazing Rajput architecture and Mughal influence.
9) Delhi
Delhi, the capital of India and home to the British Raj and Moghul empires, is a fascinating city that you can explore. It’s a place bursting with colourful history, old imperial splendour, and modern mayhem. From the narrow, chaotic streets of the old city to the tranquillity of the new, there are forts, mosques, and imperial palaces at every turn. This will excite and delight visitors.
Even the most experienced traveller will be amazed at how you can wander down to Rashtrapati Bhawan without any restrictions. You can also take a stroll through Shahjehanabad’s old town, which is just as impressive and undoubtedly more fun. You will find an unspoiled world amongst the wedding bazaars, jewellery, and fabric.
10) Deogarh
We believe this hidden gem shows you another side to Rajasthan’s colourful state. This rural village is unspoiled and features beautiful family-run heritage hotels and remote trekking, wildlife safaris, and stunning temples. You can watch rare birds fly into the lake to rest. You can also stroll through the village and observe India’s traditional rural life.
11) Gondal
Gondal, a fortified city, is located on the banks of the River Gondali. It was once the capital of Jadeja kings. A testimony to the vision of Sir BhagwatsinhijiMaharaj, the town was meticulously planned to the aesthetic tastes of its former regent. Sir Bhagwatsinhiji, a man known for his support of the common man and planning parks, bazaars and libraries, was also instrumental in advocating compulsory education for all women and social reforms.
The town was known as “Paris of Saurashtra” during Raj’s time. It is home to many historic and vintage cars, including the Royal Garages.
12) Bijolia
The city of Bijolia, an ancient fortification, is located on the Bundi-Chittorgarh highway. The fort’s side has a high-paved courtyard with a temple of Lord Shiva at its centre. There is also a fine image depicting Lord Ganesha as a guardian at its entrance. The temple is reached via a carved archway. It was once known as Vindhyavali in ancient times.
It was a popular centre for architecture and art during the Chauhan period. The Chauhan rulers built several beautiful Shiva temples here. Most of these have disappeared or are now in ruins. Three beautiful temples can be found on the eastern side, near the city walls. HajaresvaraMahadeva is the most prominent.
13) Sorsan Wildlife Sanctuary
The Sorsan grassland lies approximately 45km east of Kota, in southern Rajasthan. The grassland, which is surrounded by the Chambal & Parvan rivers, is a treeless zone of jharbers that grows in patches on shallow soil. The grass and vegetative cover become a perfect habitat for insects during monsoons and are a haven for both resident and migratory birds.
Bird watchers will be most interested in the Godawan, an Indian bustard that is the main attraction at Sorsan. The Godawan, a tall and heavy bird that can be seen walking in the grassland with grace and confidence, is a sight to behold. Apart from the birds that are found in grassland, you can also find waterbirds in the canal and the River Parvan, as well as in the Manpur village’s lakes and Sorsan.
14) Marwar Junction
“It all started at Marwar Junction three long summers ago, a thousand years before. Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale, The Man That Would Be King, begins with two British rogues who set out on a journey to Kafiristan to become kings. The journey is a bit more tranquil, as we travel on the local train for the two-hour journey to the Aravalli plateau, across the Khamli Ghats, and up the plains.
The trip takes you through the khaki hills of jacaranda and neem, as well as through the khaki hills of acacia and neem. The Nawab of Deogarh will greet us at Deogarh Station with jeeps that will take us to his hilltop fort, which is now a magnificent heritage hotel.
15) Fatehpur Sikri
This royal city was built by Akbar, the Mughal Emperor, in 1573. It is considered to be one of the most important achievements of Mughal architecture. Akbar chose the site because it was where he had prophesied his heir’s birth.
The lack of adequate water supply forced the abandonment of the city only 15 years after it was completed. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
16) Kumbhalgarh
The Mewar fort, located in Rajasthan, was constructed in the 15th century and occupied up to the 19th. This fort is surrounded by 13 mountain peaks and was considered one of the most difficult to penetrate in the country.
Kumblegarh now houses a museum. Two times a day, sacred lamps are lit in front of vermilion-daubed images of Hanuman, Chamunda and Ekling as part of an age-old tradition. The beautiful BadalMahal Palace can be found on top of the fort. This contrasts beautifully with the rocklike appearance of the fortress.
17) Jaipur
The capital of Rajasthan, the Pink City, was founded by Maharaja Jai Singh I. It is an important attraction for first-time visitors. It is surrounded by fortified medieval walls and rugged hills. The streets are lined with rose-coloured houses with latticed windows.
When Edward VII visited Jaipur, Maharaja Man Singh II painted the entire city pink. Every home in the city must maintain its façade according to law today.
There are many crafts available in the city. Jaipur’s lacquer bracelets are well-known all over the globe. Jewellers still make beautiful enamel-on gold pendants. Jaipur is worth exploring.
18) Jodhpur
Rao Jodhaji was the chief RathoreRajput, who oversaw Marwar’s second city. Due to its location on the Delhi-Gujarat route and the fact it was protected with one of the most invulnerable forts, Jodhpur would become one of Rajputana’s richest cities.
It is today a sprawling, polluted metropolis. But within its old walls – where each building is painted in the same light blue hue that earned Jodhpur the title “Blue City” you’ll find a maze of narrow streets, bazaars and bustling markets where life seems much the way it has been for centuries. Mehrangarh Fort towers above, with its impenetrable walls rising from the rocky outcrop upon which it was built. It is a striking backdrop to this diverse city.
19) Jhalawar
Our good friend Ex-Maharaja ChandrajeetShakawat is our home in Jhalawar, a city located in south-eastern Rajasthan. It was the capital of the former princely State of Jhalawar. JhalaZalim Sing founded the city in 1791 to serve as a military garrison. It was surrounded by dense forests, wildlife, and other natural resources. The town, also known as Jhaldapattan, was the hub of local trade in opium and oil-seeds and cotton.
A large ruin is located near the town. It is believed to be the site of Chandrawati’s ancient city. SitaleswarMahadeva’s sun temple is the most notable feature. All Wild Frontiers clients are welcome to Chandrjeet’s family’s hunting lodge.
20) Jaisalmer
This medieval fortified town is located on the Great Thar Desert’s edge, and it is one of India’s most treasured treasures. The Golden City is named after the golden colour that the setting sun gives its sandstone ramparts. It is magical to watch it rise from the desert-like an enormous sandcastle.
It is a place only imagined; it is like a city from the Arabian Nights. Jaisalmer was a key point on the Old Silk Road caravan routes, just like Mandawar. Jaisalmer made a lot of money from trade with many merchants, building magnificent mansions and Havelis out of wood and the mellow yellow sandstone.
21) Kishangarh
Kishangarh can be found in Ajmer, about 100 kilometres west of Jaipur. It is home to the Kishangarh style, which is famous for its beautiful portrayal of BaniThani, a courtesan. Kishangarh is now known as India’s marble city. It is believed to be the only location globally with a temple dedicated to nine planets.
22) Karauli
Karauli, an ancient princely state, has a fort and many palaces with attractive frescoes. It is a small, remote town that offers travellers an idyllic rural setting and warm royal hospitality.
The Yaduvanshi Rajput Raja Arjun Pa officially established Karauli in 1348 AD. Legend has it that Raja Bijal Pal Jadon established the princely state Karauli in 995 AD. The Karauli ruling family is considered to be the descendants of Lord Krishna, The Yadav Rajput. It is also the home of Shri MadanMohanji (the deity of Lord Krishna), worshipped by millions from all over India.
23) Mandawa
Although this sleepy village is now a tourist hot spot, it was once a major trading point on the Old Silk Road’s southern branch. It was once a hub for camel caravans transporting silver and gold from Delhi to Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and onwards to Kabul.
Merchants became so wealthy from trade in the middle of the 18th century that they built beautiful Havelis (or townhouses) with amazing murals that are still intact today. The Maharaja’s medieval fort, complete with battlements and turrets as well as towers, canons and towers, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
24) Mount Abu
Mount Abu’s history is as varied as the city itself. It was once part of the Chauhan kingdom in Rajasthan and served as a summer retreat for Rajput kings. It was then leased to the British government to be used as the headquarters for Rajputana.
It was the preferred summer destination of British colonists in India during British rule. They came to escape the hot, dusty heat of the Indian plains. Legend has it that the holy mountain was visited by all 330 million Hindu gods and goddesses. It is also where Vashishth, the great saint, lived and performed a Yagna (sacrificial worship) to create four Agnikula (clans o fire), to protect the earth against demons.
25) Nagaur
Nagaur is located between Jodhpur in Rajasthan and Bikaner in Bikaner. It also features a mention in folklore as being the birthplace of legendary characters Meera and Abul Fazal. The town is home to many historical sites, including Parasawanath Temple and Dargah Sufi Saint Tarkin. This makes Nagaur hotels a popular choice for history buffs and architecture lovers. Many true explorers travel to this lesser-known land, choosing a comfortable base from the wide range of Nagaur hotels.
26) Palitana
The Jain temples at Palitana are among the most sacred in their region. There are 863 marble temples scattered across the Shatrunjaya Hills in western Gujarat. This temple city was built to be a sanctuary for the gods. The temples date back to the 11th and 12-century, making them the largest Jain temple cluster on the planet. They are a huge pilgrimage site that is crowned by Lord Adinath, the main temple of 1st Teerthankara.
These majestic temples offer a stunning spectacle for visitors and devotees alike: their jewelled statues, carved idols, and stone stairway leading to the summit. From there, views over the Shatrunjaya River to the Gulf of Cambay are breathtaking against the backdrop of spires, marble, and other spires.
27) Pushkar
The quiet village of Pushkar lies on the shores of Lake Pushkar and is considered one of India’s oldest. According to mythology, the Lord Brahma is believed to have been involved in its creation. Every year, pilgrims flock to the city to take a dip in the holy waters. It also has a temple dedicated solely to Brahma.
Although most of the temples were destroyed by Muslim conquests, a few are still standing and worth a visit. The famous Pushkar Festival is held here. Festival time brings the city to life with music, sports, and auctions.
28) Ramathra
Ramathra is a village that should be visited by any traveller who visits the Golden Triangle region in Rajasthan. The countryside is nestled between Ranthambore National Parks and Keoladeo National Parks. It offers a glimpse into rural Rajasthan. Agriculture is the main source of income for this land. There are fields stretching in all directions, and there are a few lakes and hamlets. The 350-year-old Ramathra Fort towers above the village and is now a magnificent Heritage Hotel.
29) Ranthambore
Ranthambore National Park, one of the most famous and largest national parks in Northern India, is Ranthambore National Park. It is situated in south-eastern Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur District, approximately 130 km from Jaipur.
Ranthambore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas from Jaipur. Today it is a popular wildlife tourist attraction. It covers 1,334 km. The park is mainly known for its Bengal Tigers population. This is the best place in India to view these magnificent predators in their natural habitat. There are many other species of fauna and flora to see, including sloth bears and jackals, leopards, and a variety of birds.
30) Rann of Kutch
The Rann of Kutch, which separates Gujurat and the Sind region in Pakistan, is an area of marshland with a unique layout. It covers approximately 30,000 kilometres of scrub, grasslands, salt pans and lies amongst the sprawling landscapes of the Thar Desert.
The area can be divided into Little Rann and Greater Rann and is home to an amazing mix of cultural and natural attractions. These include India’s last wild ass herds of Asiatic wild ass and endangered Indian Wolf. There are also 18 tribal communities whose languages and customs offer a unique blend of ethnic traditions. The area becomes an inland sea during the dry season and is a refuge for migratory birds. This area is also the only one in India and Pakistan where they can breed flamingos.
31) Rohet
The rural village of Rohet is located less than an hour from Jodhpur. This area is traditional and centred around agriculture. You can relax here or explore the area. You can visit the Bishnoi tribe while you are staying at Rohat, which is the first conservationist in the world.
32) Udaipur
Wild Frontiers staff, many of whom have spent considerable time in India, would most likely answer Udaipur.
It is as romantic as any other city on earth – with its hill forts and city palaces, tranquil lakesides and alleyways – so it is no surprise it has been called the Venice of the East. Maharana Udai Singh founded Udaipur in 1568. With its Rajput love for the whimsical and exquisitely crafted elegance, it rivals any Moghul creation. Although the Lake Palace is the most famous example of this cultural explosion, Udaipur has many palaces, temples, and Havelis that range from the modestly extravagant to the grand that you can review.
33) JawaiBandh
JawaiBandh, a village near the Jawai Dam and along the Jawai River, is JawaiBandh. The name of the village has no connection to the dam, and the name is only a coincidence. It is the largest dam in western Rajasthan, and it is quite impressive. JawaiBandh can be reached easily by the New Delhi-Ahmedabad train.