Category: Rajasthan

Best Time to Visit Rajasthan

Winter is the best time to visit Rajasthan. The cool season ensures sunny days without the usual searing heat. The evenings are pleasant, but the nights can get really cold. The average daytime temperatures range between 10°C to 27°C, while the night time temperatures may drop below freezing. The period between the months of November and February are ideal for experiencing all that the desert state has to offer on a Rajasthan trip. A well-planned Rajasthan tour packages can ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the highlights of this state.

The summer months, between March to June, can be unbearably hot as temperatures hover between 24°C and 45°C. While evenings may be pleasant, the baking heat makes sightseeing almost impossible during the day. But this is the right time book to Rajasthan tour packages if you’re looking for deals on travel and accommodation.

Monsoon, between July to September, would also be a great time to travel to Rajasthan if you keep an open itinerary as the rains may play spoilsport with your plans. The temperatures range from bearable to hot, 21°C to 35°C. But the rains make it seem cooler than it actually is. The rains wash away the memories of a hot summer as temperatures cool down and Rajasthan emerges refreshed, making it a perfect time for a Rajasthan tour.

The state wears a different face in every season, and each one of it is as enjoyable as the next. It all comes down to which one you would prefer to see on your Rajasthan tour package. It all comes down to which one you would prefer to see on your Rajasthan tour package.

How to Reach Rajasthan

Rajasthan is well connected to the rest of the country by air, rail and road. It even enjoys a fair degree of international connectivity. Here are the easiest ways to reach Rajasthan.

• Reaching Rajasthan by Air
• Reaching Rajasthan by Rail
• Reaching Rajasthan by Road
• Travelling within Rajasthan

Reaching Rajasthan by Air

It is the fastest way to reach Rajasthan from around the country as well as the world. Get a head start on your Rajasthan tour by flying in. The Jaipur International Airport services a number of flights from international destinations such as Dubai, Sharjah, Muscat, Singapore, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. There are a number of other smaller airports at Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Kota and Bikaner that handle domestic flights. You can take a flight from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Pune, Ahmedabad, Goa, Indore, Guwahati and Jammu.

Reaching Rajasthan by Rail

The second most comfortable way to reach Rajasthan is by rail. It features a good rail network with direct superfast and express trains from Mumbai and Delhi. Jaipur is the headquarters of North-West railways and as such is well-connected with all major cities around the country. Even other cities like Jodhpur, Bikaner and Udaipur receive daily express trains from other parts of the country. If you’re not in a hurry, you can savour the journey before you reach the destination and start enjoying your vacation.

Reaching Rajasthan by Road

Taking a road trip is a great way to travel to your holiday destination. It gives you greater control over your journey when it is not bound to a restrictive timetable. Rajasthan has a well-maintained network of roads that comprises twenty national highways running through the state. The most well-connected among these is the NH8 which connects Jaipur and Udaipur to major cities like Delhi, Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Mumbai. You can also choose to take the inter-state bus services that will take you to your destination in relative comfort.

Travelling within Rajasthan

Intercity travel within the state can be done with state-run and private buses. You can also hire a cab to move between cities for a more comfortable ride. It is an expensive option though. City travel is also sorted as you will find local taxi cabs and auto-rickshaws to zip around. Cycle rickshaws are a slower option but let you take in the sights and sounds of the city at leisure. The tempos are like rickshaws but can accommodate more people. You will find the odd tonga outside monuments and other tourist attractions.

Honeymoon in Rajasthan – A Royal Honeymoon

Before we look at what the state has to offer to the rest of its visitors, let’s find out what a honeymoon in Rajasthan looks like. Rajasthan’s glamour as a honeymoon destination is unmistakable. It certainly has the right credentials as its history is steeped in the tales of legendary love stories. The hilly ambience of Mount Abu is full of cosy nooks and crannies that form a wonderful backdrop for your honeymoon.

Ajmer has a certain magnificence that adds a sense of occasion to your special moments. Jaisalmer has a dreamy aura that seems to have jumped out of the Arabian Nights. Jodhpur’s beauty, apparent in its rustic villages and ancient palaces, makes it a special destination for newlyweds to spend their honeymoon. But it is Udaipur that stands out as a stellar destination for your honeymoon. It offers everything from romantic boat rides to Shikara lunch dates to add pizzas to your special moments of love.

Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Rajasthan Tourism offers a rich fare of places to visit that showcase its Rajputana splendour in full glory. Here are some of our picks for itineraries during your Rajasthan tour.

• Jaipur
• Udaipur
• Jodhpur
• Jaisalmer
• Ranthambore National Park
• Mount Abu
• Pushkar
• Bikaner
• Ajmer
• Chittorgarh

Jaipur

The Pink City is also the capital of Rajasthan. It was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. With a plethora of places to explore and discover it is a traveller’s delight. The 18th century Jantar Mantar is a scientific marvel that shows the scientific prowess of the old kingdoms. The Hawa Mahal, with its 953 windows, is an icon of the city. The City Palace awes with its splendour. Other attractions include the Albert Hall Museum, Nahargarh Fort, Birla Mandir and Jal mahal. Shopping is one of the most highly recommended activities in the city.

Udaipur

The City of Lakes – Udaipur will mesmerise you with its profusion of lakes and palaces. Nestled in the magnificent Aravalli The range is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. Lose yourself in the royal splendour as you explore the City Palace, Kumbalgarh Fort and Monsoon Palace. The Lake Palace is especially exquisite as it shines like a diamond in the middle of Pichola Lake. While the palace is not accessible, a boat ride in the lake is a tranquil experience adorned with spectacular views from the lake.

Jodhpur

The Blue City of Rajasthan – Jodhpur has a royal bearing that easily matches its bigger cities. The erstwhile centre of power of the old Mewar state is home to several temples, palaces and forts. The Mehrangarh Fort towers magnificently above the city as it keeps watch even today. Be sure to visit the museum within the fort. It is a treasure trove of history that showcases its art, weapons and other artefacts. The Old City around the GhantaGharclocktower offers an eclectic shopping experience amidst a heady profusion of spicy fragrances. Other attractions worth checking out are the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada and Mandore Gardens.

Jaisalmer

An oasis in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is a treat for the eyes. The Golden City of Jaipur is known for its hardy forts, silky sand dunes and exuberant traditions. The Jaisalmer Fort is the biggest of them all and has an imposing presence. The city comes alive during the annual Desert Festival that celebrates life in the desert. Get the quintessential Rajasthan tour experience with camel rides to Sam sand dunes and pay your respects to India’s brave hearts at the Longewala border post.

Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is a magnificent retreat that houses one of the largest wild tiger populations in the world. Winter is the best season to catch a sighting of these elusive beasts. The PadamTalao is a thriving water hole that offers sightings of other wildlife as well. But the thrill of watching a tiger from up close can hardly be matched by any other experiences. The 10th century Ranthambore Palace inside the park stands steadfast in its dilapidated glory. It still has stories to tell. The palace is a UNESCO heritage site that holds tremendous cultural and historical value.

Mount Abu

Rajasthan’s only hill station is a traveller’s paradise. It is also an important pilgrimage spot that is home to the famous Dilwara Jain Temples. Perched atop the lush Aravalli Hills, Mount Abu enjoys pleasant weather all around the year. The intricately carved roof, pillars and walls of the Dilwara Temples will compete with the surrounding natural beauty for your attention. Hiking, camping and boating in Nakki Lake are some of the highly recommended activities to do here.

Pushkar

Famous the world over for its annual camel fair, Pushkar is also a buzzing pilgrimage site. It is one of the most ancient cities of India and is also known for its Brahma temple. The city has more than 50 ghats that resound with devotion every day during the evening aartis. You can enjoy activities such as hot-air balloon rides, horse riding and yoga to add to your Pushkar experience. But the highlight of Pushkar has to be the hundred-year-old Pushkar Mela. The city bursts into a riot of colours during the five-day event in November which sees people coming in from far and near. Thar Desert Tourism offers a multitude of activities for the visiting tourist. But the most unique and wonderful experience is camping under the starlit skies which is only achievable when you spend your night in Thar Desert Rajasthan.

Bikaner

Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Karni Mata Temple and the annual Camel Festival are Bikaner’s claims to fame. Also known for its rich culinary heritage, it is also a good place to shop for local handicrafts and arts. The city’s collection of forts and palaces are worth exploring for their designs that are brilliant examples of Usta and Chadwaartforms featuring geometric and floral patterns.

Ajmer

The Ajmer Dargah is a popular pilgrimages site visited by people of all faiths. It is a green oasis bordering the Thar desert. The NaagPathar ranges that protect the city from the worst of the heat are one of its main attractions. The Ana Sagar Lake and Nareli Jain Temple are other places of interest here.

Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh has Maurya ancestry and was around as early as 734 AD. Known for being the birthplace of MaharanaPratap and Meera Bai, it has a great historical significance. Its several heritage forts and monuments echo with history and folklore that became legends. The Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha Palace, Rani Padmini’s Palace and Kalika Mata Temple are some of the places that you should check out.

Foods to Eat in Rajasthan

Along with all its history, Rajasthan has a rich culinary heritage that has been shaped by its geography. A dearth of water and vegetables have played a big role in determining its cuisine that is dominated by dried lentils, beans and meats. Long-lasting ingredients, oil and red chillies help preserve the food, reducing the need for water. Here are our top three picks of Rajasthani delicacies.

• Dal Bati Churma
• Pyazki Kachori
• Ghevar

Dal Bati Churma

It is a signature dish of the region that has forged its own identity over years. The hard, crunchy bati made out of coarsely ground wheat and jaggery, and cooked in ghee, perfectly complements the creamy, savoury dal. It is the classic taste of Rajasthan.

Pyazki Kachori

This crunchy, flaky deep-fried snack is a treat for foodies. It is a flat kachori that is stuffed with a spicy onion mixture and served with an assortment of mint, coriander, date and tamarind chutneys. Dahi is optionally added to tone down the fiery notes of the spicy filling.

Ghevar

End your culinary adventure on a sweet note with ghevar, which is a Rajasthani classic. The crunchy wheat base soaks in the ghee and milk toppings and infuses every bite with sweet indulgence. As if it was not rich enough, you can also try mawaghevar and malaighevar which are richer varieties of ghevar that take the satisfaction to the next level.

Shopping in Rajasthan

Rajasthan has a rich artistic heritage that is displayed through its handlooms and handicrafts. The vibrant, over-the-top use of colours is meant to contrast the monotonous desert hues. Shopping in the desert state can be an experience in itself. Here are our recommendations for five things you should buy in Rajasthan.

• Jewellery
• Footwear
• Metal Crafts
• Pottery
• Carpets

Jewellery

Rajasthani Jewellery makes a bold statement. The large handmade pieces are made to stand out in a colourful traditional ensemble. The intricate Kundan work adds a delicate touch to the daring design. The traditional Meenakshijewellery, beautifully adorned with precious and semi-precious gemstones, proudly sport its heritage.

Footwear

The Rajasthanijutis sport a signature design that makes them instantly recognisable in a crowd. Made of fine leather, they’re decorated with vivid traditional designs that make a statement of their own.

Metal Crafts

The metal crafts of Rajasthan are in a league of their own. Bichi, Chikan and Maori are some of the famous metal crafts of the region which combine bright colours and intricate patterns with traditional metal works.

Pottery

Rajasthan’s blue pottery is a masterclass of design that can instantly liven up your dinner table. The lovingly crafted designs over a blue background are glazed and serve a practical purpose by protecting the pottery from cracking.

Carpets

Rajasthan is one of the best places in the country to buy ethnic carpets. Carpets here are woven out of wool, cotton yarn and camel hair. The intricate designs are mesmerising to look at and make a great addition to any home.

Things to Do in Rajasthan

Far from promising a docile holiday experience, Rajasthan encourages you to get out and explore its diverse offerings. Here are our recommendations of things to do.

• Adventure Activities
• Camel Safari
• Desert Camping 
• Temples

Adventure Activities

Adventure seekers will be pleasantly surprised by the abundance of adventure activities in offered by our wide range of Rajasthan tour packages. With hot-air balloon rides in Pushkar to paragliding in Jaipur, the adventures here take your excitement sky-high. Fly across a zip line in Jodhpur and go trekking in Chittorgarh. You won’t have to seek out adventure, you’ll find it everywhere in Rajasthan.

Camel Safari

A camel safari is a classic Rajasthani experience that will take you through some of the most stunning desert landscapes. The camels seem to glide over the desert floor effortlessly. Once you get used to the swaying motion of the ride, it makes for a soothing experience. There’s nothing better than watching a golden sunset over the sand dunes.

Desert Camping

A desert camp will offer you glimpses of a desert’s magnificence under a starlit sky. Spend a night in the desert under the stars to appreciate the vastness of the universe. Away from the light pollution of the cities, you will be treated to an awe-inspiring celestial light show. Other treats of desert camping include food, dance and music.

Temples

Apart from its forts and palaces, Rajasthan is home to a vast number of temples that are a part of its varied heritage. They offer you a peek into the state’s spiritual side. The Brahma Temple of Pushkar, Birla Mandir of Jaipur and Eklingji Temple of Udaipur are some of the most well-known temples in Rajasthan