India’s largest state in territory, Rajasthan, is known for its vibrant crafts and textiles, stunning Rajput architecture, and sweeping desert landscapes. You’ll find plenty of things to do to hold your interest, ranging from Pushkar’s rowdy camel fair is one and the famed quartet of color-named cities: Jaipur, Rajasthan’s Pink City (and part of the Golden Triangle tourist route alongside Delhi and Agra); the Blue City of Jodhpur, known for its towering hilltop fortress; dreamy, lakeside Udaipur, known the White City; and the Golden City of Jaisalmer, with its sandstone buildings and fort.
The busiest tourist season in Rajasthan stretches roughly from November to early spring when the days are pleasantly warm. Most major events are held during this period, from the Pushkar Camel Fair (November) and Jaipur Literature Festival (January) to the Jaipur Elephant Festival in March, where you can see a procession of bejeweled and costumed pachyderms. May tends to be the hottest month, with temperatures reaching more than 110°F (45°C).
Many travelers reach Jaipur by car, taxi, or bus from Delhi. If coming from elsewhere in India, you can arrive by plane. Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Udaipur also have their own airports, and domestic flights in India tend to be reasonably priced—but remember that the state is vast (it’s about the size of France!), so you’ll likely have long distances to cover. Otherwise, road travel is easy, thanks to the flat terrain and good road conditions. More adventurous travelers can get around by train or motorbike.
Make sure to come to Rajasthan with an extra suitcase. This is a bonafide crafts hub, from Rajasthani miniature paintings—an artform that flourished during the Rajput period—and block-printed fabrics (be sure to visit the Anokhi flagship store in Jaipur, as well as the Anokhi Museum) to the state’s centuries-old tradition of hand-painted wooden string marionettes and Jaipur’s intricate blue pottery. Prefer to look and learn rather than just buy? Arrange a visit to an artisan’s studio.
Local Currency Indian Rupee (₹) | Time Zone IST (UTC +5) | Country Code +91 | Language(s) Gujarati | Attractions 49 | Tours 2,393 | Reviews 23,236 |
If you prefer more buzz and excitement or only have a few days to spare, Jaipur—home to attractions like Amber Fort, the Hawa Mahal, and Nahargarh Fort—is your best bet. If you’re more in the mood to chill out in a converted palace-cum-hotel overlooking Lake Pichola, go for Udaipur.
...MoreBe sure to try laal maans, a spicy mutton curry; the popular dal bati churma (made from baked wheat balls, lentils, and ground wheat cooked with ghee and sugar); and the sweet porridge known as doodhiya kheech that is believed to have originated in Udaipur. Top it all off with a a milky, rose-infused glass of thandai.
...MoreThat depends. If you’re coming to Jaipur as part of the Golden Triangle circuit, a few days is enough. But if you’d like to visit several cities and possibly more off-the-beaten-track locations, like across the Thar Desert, up Mount Abu, or into one of its wildlife reserves, plan on a week or even two.
...MoreRajasthan is located in the northern Hindi-speaking part of India, known as the Hindi Belt. Hindi is the state’s official language, but plenty of people speak Rajasthani and its various dialects. Luckily for many foreign travelers, English is also widely spoken—but it doesn’t hurt to learn a few words of the local language.
...MoreYes. Rajasthan is known for its welcoming communities; many women travel solo through the state. That said, you’ll always want to exercise basic precautions, especially if going out alone at night, e.g., arrange a taxi through your hotel. Solo female travelers should also be careful when taking overnight trains or buses.
...MoreRajasthan tends to be more traditional than Delhi or Mumbai, so it’s a good idea to dress conservatively—you’ll find plenty of loose cotton clothes to wear. As elsewhere in India, remove your footwear before entering a Hindu temple. And don’t assume the state is only desert; you’ll also find plenty of greenery and freshwater lakes.
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