Rajasthan

Rajasthan (Hindi and Rajasthani: राजस्थान Rājasthān) is a state in the northwest of India. It is mainly arid and its western border is adjacent to Pakistan. The main attractions for travellers are the vast Thar Desert, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world - the Aravallis - and the Rajput heritage which is apparent in the forts, temples and palaces established by Rajput kings such as Bappa Rawal, Rana Kumbha, Rana Sanga and Rana Pratap.

Here are nine of the most notable cities.

• 26.9124375.787271 Jaipur — the state capital, also known as the Pink City

• 26.449974.639922 Ajmer — tomb of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, famous pilgrimage for both Hindus and Muslims

• 27.2169877.489513 Bharatpur — location of a famous bird sanctuary

• 28.0173.34 Bikaner — famous for its sweets

• 24.8887474.626925 Chittorgarh — the site of multiple battles by Maharana Pratap against Mughal emperor Akbar

• 26.9157570.908346 Jaisalmer — the Golden City, famous for its Havelis and the Thar desert Safaris

• 26.2389573.024317 Jodhpur — the Blue City, site of the spectacular hilltop Mehrangarh Fort

• 25.2138275.864758 Kota — home to the Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, various temples and parks

• 24.5873.689 Udaipur — known as City of Lakes, including Pichola and Fateh Sagar lakes

• 27.5666676.616661 Alwar — former capital of the princely state of Alwar or Ulwar in British India

• 25.1772.962 Bamnera — small village located in the Pali District of Rjasthan with several Hindu temple sites

• 24.86899275.8416273 Darrah National Park — consists of 3 wildlife sanctuaries. The park contains a large tract of forest land and was once the hunting grounds for the Maharaja of Kota

• 24.2537473.980064 Jaisamand Lake (Dehbar Lake), Alwar — second largest man-made lake in Asia. The Dhebar Lake Marble Dam is considered a Heritage Monument of India

• 27.2001977.50025 Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary (Keoladeo National Park) — a globally important reserve also called Keoladeo Ghana National Park,

• 24.59272.71016 Mount Abu (Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary) — spreading out onto a plateau, this park is rich in varieties of plants and animals. A single unique variety of orchid can also be seen in this park

• 26.0173376.502577 Ranthambhore National Park — one of the best places in India to see tigers in the wild

• 27.3284976.433178 Sariska Reserve and National Park — one of the most famous national parks in India and designated as a tiger reserve

Rajasthan (Rajasthani and Hindi: RAH-juhss-t^hahn), literally meaning the "Land of Kings", is the state of mountains, forts, as well as the Thar Desert, a large dry desert that has a wide variety of plants, animals and birds. Once known as Rajputana (राजपूताना Rājpūtānā), the state is home to the Rajput clans, as well as the Marwari business families.

Rajasthan’s history is defined by its Rajput kingdoms—clans of warrior rulers who built hill forts, defended caravan routes and developed courtly traditions that still influence the region’s identity. Cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur grew around these strongholds, each with its own architectural style, royal lineage and cultural legacy. The Rajputs’ emphasis on honour, hospitality and martial skill shaped local customs, festivals and storytelling traditions.

Rajasthan also sat on major trade routes linking Central Asia, Gujarat and the Gangetic plains. Caravans carried spices, textiles and precious stones across the Thar Desert, and merchant communities developed their own traditions of craftsmanship and finance. This mix of royal courts and trading towns created a culture that values both artistry and enterprise. You see it in everything from jewellery workshops in Jaipur to the painted havelis of Shekhawati.

Folk culture is central to Rajasthan’s identity. Music and dance—like Kalbeliya, Ghoomar and traditional desert songs—are performed at festivals, in village courtyards and at local celebrations. Puppet theatre, storytelling and folk instruments such as the ravanhatta keep oral traditions alive. Colour is everywhere: turbans, saris, murals and festival decorations brighten even the driest landscapes.

Religion and community life add another layer. Rajasthan has important Hindu and Jain sites, including the temples of Ranakpur and Dilwara, and Sufi shrines that attract pilgrims from across India. Many towns have strong community identities—Rajput, Jain, Bishnoi, Meghwal—each with its own customs, crafts and social traditions. Hospitality is taken seriously, and visitors often find themselves welcomed with warmth and curiosity.

Rajasthan’s geography is dominated by the Thar Desert, a vast expanse of sand dunes, scrubland and dry plains stretching across the western half of the state. Cities like Jaisalmer and Bikaner rise from this landscape like golden islands, while camel‑grazing villages dot the countryside. Central Rajasthan is more varied, with rocky hills, lakes and fertile pockets around Udaipur and Ajmer. The Aravalli Range, one of the world’s oldest mountain systems, cuts diagonally across the state and creates greener valleys and wildlife habitats.

The climate is extreme but predictable. Summers are very hot, with temperatures often above 40°C, especially in desert areas. Winters are cool and pleasant, making November to February the most comfortable time for travel. Rainfall is low and concentrated in the monsoon months, though eastern districts receive more rain than the west. Desert nights can be surprisingly cold, and travellers often experience dramatic shifts between day and night temperatures.

Official websites:

• Government of Rajasthan
• Rajasthan Tourism

Most people speak Rajasthani dialects, as well as Hindi and English. In tourist places like Jaipur and Jodhpur, you will find trained English, German and French guides too. You may not be able to understand some people due to the dialect that they speak and at times, they may add words from these dialects while speaking Hindi. This does not mean that they are unable to understand you. In Rajasthan, Hindi is universally understood whereas English is spoken among the educated. Bear in mind that Rajasthani dialects are more likely to be spoken by older people rather than younger people.

Rajasthan is one of the larger Indian states and distances are long, making planes a fairly good option for getting in. Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur all have airports with direct links to many major cities, though if coming from a smaller city, one has to go via Delhi.

Overnight trains from Delhi and Mumbai reach most of Rajasthan's major cities. For points further out, like Jaisalmer, you'll be looking at a second day on the train as well. Vande Bharat, Shatabdi and Rajdhani Express trains are excellent ones and have premium service.

The National Highway 8 which runs through Rajasthan is excellent and connects Delhi to Mumbai. Though Mumbai may be too far away, this is the most popular way to travel to Jaipur from Delhi as the road is in excellent condition and the drive can easily be completed in under 4 hrs.

Otherwise from Delhi various private travel agencies organise trips to Rajasthan, but they are rather costly. But if you do not travel alone, it is better to hire a car with a driver (for example a car from Delhi International Airport to Neemrana Village costs ₹4000 for five persons).

Rajasthan Tourism and Rajasthan State Transport operate luxury air conditioned Volvo bus services between Delhi and Jaipur. The first bus departs at 5:25 and the last, at 01:00, with a frequency of approximately every half hour daily. This bus is equipped with personal LCD TV, charger and (in some trips) Wi-Fi. These buses are very comfortable and the most desired travel option between Delhi and Jaipur. Tickets can be booked online on the Rajasthan State Transport website or a visit to Scindia House in New Delhi (near India gate). Buses start and end at Scindia House in New Delhi and Sindhi Camp in Jaipur respectively. Private agents generally not allowed to book tickets for this route, so if anybody offers to book a ticket for you, be wary. Rajasthan Tourism and Rajasthan State Transport also operates luxury air conditioned Volvo bus services between Delhi and other cities in Rajasthan, with 2 or 3 trips per day. These buses may depart from any of several different areas of Delhi (Scindia House, Kashmiri Gate ISBT, and Sarai Kale Khan ISBT); a phone call to Rajasthan State Transport office will give you all the information.

Taxis (locally called "call-taxis" since they must be pre-arranged) are available by phone. They are most reliable, can be ordered air-conditioned, and have digital fare meters, although time-based hire is also possible with some companies. Most companies charge a minimum fare of ₹150, which is for 5 km (3 mi), and for every subsequent kilometer they charge ₹18. Alternatively, you can hire a car for a full day for around ₹1500/2400. These figures are for essential non-AC Ambassadors, add about 50% if you want a comfier aircon Tata Indica. Waiting charges are included in the meter cost but you are required to pay parking and toll fees in addition to the fare displayed on the meter. If your trip is time-sensitive, booking your taxi a few hours in advance is best, and calling shortly before your trip to confirm.

Most prepaid taxi operators have a choice of vehicles. Innova is the ubiquitous hatchback that can seat 6 passengers, but it is almost impossible to find one of these well-maintained. Opt for a Scorpio or Fortuner instead of the Innova when you book the taxi, these are newer models and likely to be in a better state of maintenance. If you prefer a sedan, the choices are Etios, Maruti Dzire, and Ford Fiesta. SUV models Innova or Xylo have more space and are suitable for small groups (up to 7). Innova has a well-deserved reputation with travelers for airport transfers due to its reliability, spacious seats, and capacity to carry more luggage.

Tourist cabs - These are the best choice if you want to tour the city all day or visit nearby places like Jaipur, and Udaipur. Costs about ₹9 per kilometer and ₹540 per hour as hire charges. Also generally there is a special price if you need to go to Jaipur Railway Station or Jaipur Airport.

All the cities have public transport in form of buses. Also available are terrain vehicles on hire, but beware of terrain vehicle drivers who overcharge tourists.

Railways can be the better travel mode as it is quick and the service on most trains is excellent. But in Rajasthan, roads may be more enjoyable for short distances as the sights of the desert with the hills are beautiful. A popular drive is from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, which is because the flight takes longer overall and the road is excellent.

A very popular option is Palace on Wheels which is a week long luxury train ride through interiors of Rajasthan.

Rajasthan is one of the most popular tourist destination to observe Indian heritage and royalty closely. Tourists will need at least 2 weeks in the state to see the below famous sights:

• UNESCO World Heritage sites Hill Forts of Rajasthan: includes six majestic forts in Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Jhalawar, Jaipur and Jaisalmer.
• Amber Fort in Jaipur
• Bundi Fort in Bundi
• Camel fair in Pushkar
• Chittorgarh Fort - A massive structure with numerous gateways, the fort is an outstanding example of Mauryan architecture.
• The Desert landscape in Jaisalmer
• Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu
• Jaisalmer Fort - Located in Jaisalmer. This sandstone fort is an important landmark in Jaisalmer.
• Jal Mahal in Jaipur
• Junagarh Fort in Bikaner
• Khejarla Fort in Jodhpur
• Mehrangarh Fort - Located in Jodhpur. Set on the hill top, Mehrangarh Fort is a humongous royal mansion.
• Pichola Lake in Udaipur
• Ranthambore in Sawai Madhopur
• The Pink City in Jaipur
• Umaid Bhawan in Jodhpur
• Wildlife Sanctuary in Ranthambhore National Park Ranthambore wildlife sanctuary was established in 1957. In 1974 this park came under the campaign of “Tiger Reserve”. Visitors can easily see many water bodies, everywhere inside the park, which is the perfect destination to relax during the summer for the wildlife animals.

The Sariska Tiger Reserve was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and received the status of national park in 1979. The park is famous for both its wildlife and historical monuments and temples.

• Go on an all-terrain vehicle safari, night safari or a nature hike in the Aravalli Mountains visiting some of the interesting wildlife sanctuaries there such as Sita-Mata, Kumbhalgarh or Jaisamand.
• Camel or horseback safaris. Choose your providers carefully, as many do not treat the animals well.
• Parasailing - popular adventure to experience in Jaisalmer. Catch the majestic bird-eye view of entire region. The activity costs around ₹800 for a 15-minute ride.
• Visit the bird sanctuary at Bharatpur and the wildlife park at Ranthambore. Make sure you take the tiger safari at Ranthambore.
• Travel in Palace on Wheels: Palace On Wheels is one of the most luxurious trains in the world, equipped with all sort of luxurious comfort. Riding on this train is the most memorable and pleasing way to explore the beauty of Rajasthan. This train has exact replicas of almost everything kings used to have in their palaces. The journey covers the destinations of Jaipur, also known as Pink City, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambhore National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Bharatpur and Agra before ending at New Delhi.
• Shop at the bazaars (local markets) located in most cities in narrow alleys and lanes. You can pick up traditional puppets, tie-and-dye clothes/apparel, kota textiles, accessories. Pick up excellent and beautifully done block print textiles from Pipar Village.
• Visit fairs arranged for traditional festivals, where you get to see the locals in traditional finery.
• Hiking and camping in the only hill station of Rajasthan in Mount Abu
• Watch camel races.
• Enjoy traditional folk music.

Ranthambore National Park was declared as an Indian Wildlife Sanctuary in 1957 and in 1974 it gained the protection of "Project Tiger". There are many water bodies located all over the park, which provide perfect relief during the extremely hot summer months for the forest inhabitants.

Desert safari is the best way to explore the world famous “Thar Desert”, located in Rajasthan. Tourists can explore the real beauty of Rajasthan villages, their culture, tradition and colours through this amazing ride. Multiple operators run services for Camel Safaris into the Thar desert, which is generally followed by a cultural folk music evening, accompanied by dinner featuring local Rajasthani cuisine. Traveling by Camel was once the norm in Rajasthan. Many older Rajasthanis remember a life without electricity, roads, and trains. If you wanted to travel from Jaisalmer to Jodphur, an 8-day camel ride was the quickest way to go only 60 years ago (now 8 hours by bus).

Nowadays, however, multi-day camel safaris are primarily for the tourists, and a massive industry has been built up around them. With this has come high-pressure tactics and shoddy operators. An amazing, authentic camel safari is possible, but tourists should spend time researching guides, companies, and/or routes. Your best bet is to talk to other tourists who have recently completed a camel safari, and ask their advice.

Camel safaris are often loved or hated. Some people stay an extra day or two in the desert after already being out for 4 days, others find the camel foul-smelling and excruciatingly painful to ride. For those considering a 4-5 day trek, a two-hour ride may answer many questions.

The highlights of a camel safari include amazing desert scenery, the experience (however jarring) of riding a camel, Dal and Chapati cooked over an open fire, incredible star-gazing (no ambient light and no pollution), and a flavor of a different world.

Most of the preparation is in picking the length of safari (ranges from 4 hours to 5 days), the tour operator, and the city to start from (some people feel that smaller cities offer less touristy experiences). Generally, the tour operator arranges transportation, and the Camel Driver chooses your itinerary. Be clear from the beginning, before you pay, if the trip involves stops in handicraft stores.

Because of the importance of tourism upon Rajasthan's economy, tourists are fairly safe on a camel safari in terms of physical safety. Sufficient bottled water, sunscreen, a hat, a flashlight, and warm clothes for the cold night air are important. Solo female travelers should exercise caution when selecting a camel driver/guide, but otherwise should be safe.

If you have problems, or feel you have been cheated, be firm with the tour operator, and if necessary threaten going to the police/tourist office, and be willing to actually go. Many tourist offices, such as Jaisalmer's, make efforts to keep tourists safe and happy.

Avoid shopping at outlets guided by the local auto/rickshaw drivers or even with the local tour guide you may have hired as these outlets all claim to have some association with the Rajasthan government or the actual artisans which are generally fabricated claims and you end up paying anywhere between 20-40% above the actual price (including a hefty commission parted by the shopkeeper to the guide/auto driver). The guide is more keen to show you all these shops rather than the places you have travelled to see.

Bargain is the key word. If you are buying jewellery, artefacts, handicrafts, etc. definitely bargain. Most tourist shops will bargain up to 30–50%, although some shops, mostly big ones such as National Handloom, India Rugs Exports, Jaipur Rugs, India Crafts, Government organizations, have fixed rates with little or no scope discount on bulk buying.

Dal‑baati‑churma is the state’s signature combination: crisp wheat baati, lentils and sweet churma. It’s filling, rustic and deeply tied to desert culture. You’ll also see gatte ki sabzi, ker‑sangri and papad ki sabzi on many menus—dishes created for a landscape where fresh vegetables were once scarce. In contrast, royal cities like Jaipur and Udaipur developed richer foods influenced by Mughal and Rajput tastes, including slow‑cooked meats, stuffed breads and fragrant gravies.

Street food is lively and varies by city. Jodhpur is known for mirchi bada and mawa kachori, while Jaipur’s markets serve pyaaz kachori, lassi and sweet ghevar during festivals. In desert towns like Jaisalmer and Bikaner, snacks are crisp, spicy and perfect for travellers exploring long, sunny streets.

Community traditions shape food too. Bishnoi villages emphasise simple, plant‑based meals; Jain communities often prepare dishes without root vegetables; and Rajput families maintain recipes passed down through generations. Wherever you go, meals are tied to identity, hospitality and local pride.

Rajasthan’s drink culture is built around refreshing, everyday beverages that suit its hot, dry climate. Across cities and villages you’ll find stalls serving lassi, buttermilk (chaas) and sweet or spiced milk drinks. Chaas is especially common—it’s light, salty and cooling, and people drink it throughout the day. In markets, fresh juices like sugarcane, sweet lime and pomegranate are easy to find, and in winter many towns serve warm saffron‑ or cardamom‑flavoured milk that feels almost festive.

Alcohol is available in Rajasthan. Rajasthan sets the drinking age at 18.

	WARNING: Indo-Pakistan border region: Many countries advise against all travel within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border. The India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan is unmarked in some areas.
	(Information last updated 17 Jul 2026)

Rajasthan is generally welcoming and easy to travel through, but its mix of busy cities, desert landscapes and extreme weather means a bit of awareness goes a long way. Crowded areas—especially markets in Jaipur or Jodhpur—can feel hectic, so keeping your phone and valuables secure is smart. People are friendly, but staying alert in tight spaces helps you move confidently.

Road travel varies from smooth highways to narrow old‑city lanes. If you’re using taxis or auto‑rickshaws, choose clearly marked vehicles and stick to well‑lit areas in the evening. Distances between cities can be long, and desert roads may feel isolated, so planning your route and avoiding late‑night travel on unfamiliar stretches is sensible. During festivals, traffic and crowds increase, so giving yourself extra time keeps things stress‑free.

Weather is one of the biggest factors. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the Thar Desert, so carrying water, taking breaks in shade and avoiding long walks during peak heat hours is important. Winters are pleasant but desert nights can get surprisingly cold, so having an extra layer helps. Monsoon rains are lighter than in many parts of India, but sudden showers can still affect travel plans.

Wildlife areas—like Ranthambore or Kumbhalgarh—are safe when you follow park rules. Staying inside designated zones, listening to guides and keeping a respectful distance from animals ensures a smooth experience. In rural villages, people are welcoming but more traditional, so calm behaviour and modest clothing help everyone feel comfortable.

During heightened tensions or border conflict between India and Pakistan, Rajasthan's border divisions are significantly affected. When there are air raid sirens, this may be either because of missile or drone threats from Pakistan, or this is a drill. Take shelter immediately, and do not go outside. A blackout may also be enforced during this time. Switch off all lights, draw the curtains, switch on your radio and listen to official advisories during this time. See war zone safety for any information if this occurs, particularly under airstrikes and explosions.

• Modest clothing is expected at temples, mosques and Jain sites, and removing your shoes before entering religious spaces is standard.
• Photography rules vary, so asking before taking pictures—especially near idols or prayer halls—shows good manners.
• Speaking respectfully, keeping noise low in rural areas and being patient during festivals or crowded events helps you fit in comfortably.
• Rajasthan also has a long business tradition shaped by merchant families and trading communities, so being punctual, clear and polite in shops or craft workshops is appreciated.
• Using a few simple Hindi or Rajasthani phrases often brings a smile, and showing interest in local crafts, food or stories usually leads to warm, friendly exchanges.