Rajasthan, with its sumptuous landscapes and architectural treasures, is a must-see destination in North India. Between the ghostly countryside of Shekhawati, the silent Thar desert, the superb savannah of Ranthambore and the Aravalli mountains, this region offers a breathtaking diversity of panoramas. But Rajasthan is also the palace route, where you can visit and even stay in the magnificent and mythical homes of the maharajas. Towns with evocative names such as Jaipur, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, the "Blue City", feature in every guidebook and are must-sees for every traveller. They will leave a lasting impression on those lucky enough to discover them.
In this article, we present the 13 must-sees on your visit to Rajasthan.
1. Jaipur, the pink city: a must-see in Rajasthan
The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a vibrant metropolis of over 3.6 million inhabitants, named after its founder, Jai. Nicknamed the Pink City for the pink-painted facades of its old town, Jaipur is marked by its rich history and political importance. From the imposing Amber Fortress, home to the Rajput Kachhwaha dynasty, to the new city founded by Jai Singh II in the early 18th century, Jaipur has always played a central role in the region. The sumptuous palaces and havelis of the maharajas, who settled here during the British Rajputana era, dot the city and marvel at their opulence. Today, Jaipur perfectly embodies India's blend of tradition and modernity. Its bustling, traditional bazaars, frenetic traffic, trendy cafés and modern restaurants make it a place of constant effervescence.
What to book: Discover Jaipur's rich history, royal heritage and most important sites by booking your guided tour right here.
Read more: What to do, what to visit in Jaipur? The 10 must-sees
2. Amber Fort, Rajasthan's most famous fort
Amber Fort is undoubtedly the most famous fort in Rajasthan, not least because of its proximity to Jaipur. Once the residence of the Rajput maharajas, it was replaced by a more modern palace built by Jai Singh II in the 18th century, during the development of the city of Jaipur. Strategically located at the exit of the Amber pass, high in the Aravalli mountains, the fort is particularly impressive in the morning, when its façade is illuminated by the sun. A guide is highly recommended for the visit, as there are no signs inside the fort.
The mini tour: Explore Jaipur's rich culture on a private Tuk-Tuk tour that you can book here and see the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amber Fort and more...
Please note: En route from Jaipur, you'll catch a glimpse of Lake Man Sagar, at the center of which stands the Jal Mahal, an 18th-century summer palace, unfortunately closed to the public. This palace was once the venue for royal festivities.
3. Udaipur, the Venice of the East
Located in the state of Rajasthan, Udaipur is an ideal destination for a romantic vacation. Strolls through the lakeside city reveal architectural treasures, including Rajput-style palaces such as the magnificent City Palace. For a unique experience, we recommend a boat trip on Lake Pichola. History buffs will appreciate the Ahar Museum, home to an impressive collection of funerary monuments and memorials. Shilpgram, the artisans' village, is also a must for souvenir shopping or folk dancing.
To book: We recommend booking this private one-day tour of Udaipur. This tour is ideal for those wishing to see all the highlights of Udaipur: the City Palace, the views from the Monsoon Palace, the serenity of Lake Fatehsagar, the Jagdish Temple and Lake Pichola.
Petit Futé tip: Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurancehere and leave with peace of mind! Don't forget to apply for your visa right here to prepare for your trip.
4. Jodhpur, the "Blue City
Welcome to the "Blue City", a lively, traditional city at the gateway to the Thar Desert. Jodphur is well worth an in-depth visit, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in northern India. Its magnificent fortress, Meherangarh Fort, considered the most beautiful in Rajasthan, stands atop a plateau overlooking the region. Jodhpur is also famous for its blue houses, which give it a unique and charming atmosphere, and for its lively market, where you can discover local crafts and sample Rajasthani culinary specialties. Despite the presence of a few auto-rickshaws, you'll discover a very traditional India, with medieval accents.
To book : click here to book your guided tour of the Blue City and Mehrangarh Fort.
What you need to know if you'd like to opt for a customized tour itinerary in Rajasthan, we recommend you request your free quote right here. A tailor-made, responsible trip, direct with the best local agencies, awaits you!
5. Jaisalmer, the golden city of Rajasthan
Also known as the City of Gold, Jaisalmer lies at the gateway to the Thar Desert, on the ancient silk, spice and opium routes. This fortified city, with its 99 bastions and blond stone walls, possesses a unique charm. The golden fortress of Jaisalmer, overlooking the desert, is one of the city's most emblematic monuments. The fortress is an outstanding example of Rajput architecture and houses many sumptuous palaces and temples. Jaisalmer's lively alleyways, untouched by motorized traffic, are packed with architectural treasures such as palaces, havelis and Jain temples. The city is also renowned for its sand dunes, offering a unique camel-riding experience in the Thar Desert. It truly deserves its place in our selection of the most beautiful places to visit in India!
To book: we recommend that you book this camel safari in Jodhpur, including an overnight stay in the desert... An unforgettable experience guaranteed!
6. Pushkar, a 100% vegetarian city!
A major pilgrimage site in India, Pushkar is best known for its sacred lake, created by the god Brahma himself, which attracts thousands of Hindu pilgrims every year to bathe in its waters. Chanting throughout the day and night creates a unique spiritual atmosphere. A holy Hindu city, Pushkar is a 100% vegetarian. It's impossible to buy chicken or fish, and even eggs are rare. Pushkar is also famous for its annual camel fair, which attracts breeders and traders from all over the country. For several days, the city is transformed into a gigantic camel market, where animals are sold, traded and decorated.
To book: We recommend booking this guided walking tour of Pushkar.
7. Bikaner and Junagarh Fort
Junagarh Fort is one of Bikaner's most emblematic monuments. Built in the 16th century, the fort is a remarkable example of Rajput architecture and houses a number of sumptuous palaces and temples, reflectingan India in the footsteps of the maharajas. A visit to the fort provides an insight into the history and culture of the region, as well as the architectural treasures of ancient India. Here, you won't find souvenir stores, but quiet lanes that evoke an India unconcerned with the outside world. Bikaner is also famous for its havelis, magnificent historic residences adorned with frescoes and sculptures, testifying to the richness and diversity of Indian culture.
8. Ajmer, a city of unique architecture
The former seat of Mughal power, Ajmer is a city of unique architecture: its blend of Hindu and Muslim influences lends it a singular atmosphere. It is one of the main Muslim pilgrimage centers in India. It is here that Maïn ud-Din Chisti is buried, and his tomb is the site of a major annual gathering, the Urs, attracting thousands of pilgrims. The mosque of the 2 and a half daysbuilt with pillars from Hindu temples, and the the Nasiyan Jain templejain temple, with its rich woodwork and paintings, are remarkable sites. Don't miss the Muslim bazaar, nicknamed the "mini-Pakistan". A must-see on the way to Pushkar, the city is well worth an overnight stop, but you'll need a full day to visit all the sites.
Read also: What to do and see in South India: 17 places to visit
9. Safari in Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is one of five natural parks in the state of Rajasthan. Covering an area of around 400 km², it offers extraordinary landscapes with lakes, cliffs, swampy areas and forests. Ranthambore National Park was once a private hunting reserve for the maharajas of Jaipur, but today Ranthambore is India's most visited reserve, thanks in part to its proximity to Delhi. It welcomes explorers from all over the world to encounter one of the planet's most splendid animals: the tiger. There are also 40 species of mammal, nearly 320 species of bird and around 30 species of reptile.
To book: Embark on aday tripto Ranthambore National Park from Jaipur by booking your safari right here.
Read more: Top 10 safaris in the world
10. Ranakpur and its magnificent white marble Jain temples
Located in the heart of the Aravalli mountain range, Ranakpur lies some 80 kilometers north of Udaipur. The site is famous for its magnificent white marble Jain temples, notably that of Adinath. If you can only visit one Jain temple, this must be it, so majestic and delicate is it . The surrounding countryside is very pleasant, and many resorts have been established here, taking advantage of the pleasant climate and lush nature offered by the mountains. Recently, a new activity has developed: safari. Leopards are abundant in the region, and there's an excellent site less than an hour away where you have a 90% chance of seeing these felines. Your hotel can provide you with more information.
11. Bundi and its old houses with pastel facades
Bundi is a charming little town of around 100,000 inhabitants, still untouched by mass tourism. It is famous for its old houses with whitewashed facades in pastel shades, mainly blue and yellow, adorned with frescoes typical of the region. Bundi is also famous for its many stepped wells (baoris), of which the Rani Ki Baori is the most famous. And don't miss the sumptuous 84-pillared Cenotaph and Sukh Mahal. Founded in the 12th century, the city remained independent until it became part of the state of Rajasthan in 1947. The fort, palace and Nawal Sagar Lake form a magnificent ensemble.
12. Chittorgarh and its fortress
Chittorgarh is the quintessential Rajput city, steeped in romance and chivalry. The fort is its finest illustration. Built on a vast rocky plateau as early as the 8th century, it was sacked in 1303 by Allaudin Khiliji to capture the beautiful Rani Padmi, then in 1535 by the Sultan of Gujarat. Numerous vestiges remain inside the fortress, including part of the soldiers' quarters still inhabited, the old palace, numerous temples, the Vijaya Stambha tower, a more recent palace converted into a museum, and even a school! Chittorgarh is an essential stopover between Udaipur and Bundi, and can be visited during a day's transit by train or car.
13. Khumbhalgarh Fort, "the great wall of India
In the heart of the Aravalli range, at the bend of a small country road, stands the fort of Kumbhalgarh. Built in the 15th century by King Sisodya Rana Kumbha, the fortress only fell under Mughal control and Akbar's power for a brief ten-year period at the end of the 16th century. It served as a refuge for the rulers of Udaipur when the latter was threatened by attack. Its 20-kilometre wall, with its imposing bastions, is said to be the second longest in the world, after the Great Wall of China. Although access is a little tricky without a personal vehicle, the fortress is well worth a visit. Its imposing size, its two ancient palaces, its delicate temples and the limited number of tourists still present make it a most enjoyable getaway.
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