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Rajasthan is often considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in India due to historic architectures and vibrant culture. It has several historical forts, palaces, and extensive art and culture. Tourists usually take interest in visiting Rajasthan as it allows them to explore the tradition and culture of India. Moreover, multiple things and places have contributed to Rajasthan's popularity over the years.
Are you curious to know what Rajasthan is famous for? Then, keep reading this article to get a comprehensive view.
Rajasthan is filled with multiple tourist destinations. Here is a list of the 13 most famous places in Rajasthan for you to visit in your next vacation.
It is the largest city in Rajasthan, besides being its capital. As it is filled with saffron or pink-coloured buildings, Jaipur is often known as the "Pink City of India". Further, Vedic Vastu Shastra, or Indian architecture, was used to plan this city. This is evident from its well-planned streets, detailed locations and artistic architecture.
In addition, you can enjoy popular sites like the Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort and Amber Palace in Jaipur.
It is another popular tourist destination called the "Venice of the East". You can expect mesmerising Rajputana Style architecture here, as it used to be the capital city of the Rajputs of Mewar. Located at the foothills of the Aravalli Mountains, Udaipur is known for its forts, palaces, marketplaces, and various temples.
In addition, you will find popular sites like City Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and lakes like Palace, Garden Palace and Pichola.
It is the second most populated city in Rajasthan after Jaipur and a popular tourist destination. Further, its popularity is evident from its appearances in multiple movies, tourism magazines and documentaries. Apart from its hill forts and palaces, it is also famous for its bright sunny weather.
Further, some of the most popular destinations in this city include Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Mandore Gardens and Kailana Lake.
Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is rightfully termed the "golden city". It is filled with the golden sands of the desert, and the city's architecture is built with golden sandstones. Moreover, Jaisalmer is a walled city with one of the largest forts worldwide.
When visiting Jaisalmer, you must check out the Jaisalmer Fort, Bada Bagh, Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Sam Sand Dunes, Thar Heritage Museum, etc. Additionally, you can enjoy delicious Italian, French and local cuisines across multiple eateries here.
While listing the things that Rajasthan is known for, Bikaner is one of the top picks. The city has historical significance as it witnessed multiple wars since its foundation in 1488. Moreover, Bikaner is also highly popular among tourists for its traditional sweets and snacks.
In addition, you will also find works of art here, such as beautifully carved window panes called jharokhas. Some popular sites include Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Karni Mata and Laxmi Nath Temple. It also hosts fairs, which attract tourists.
It is often considered the king of pilgrimage sites in India for being one of the oldest cities in India. Residents believe that Lord Shiva created Pushkar Lake. Temples and several ghats attract tourists during the annual bath and have multiple stories associated with Hindu mythology. Another attraction is the annual camel fair, a five-day festival. In addition, you can visit popular temples like Brahma, Savitri, Varaha, etc.
This city in Rajasthan is another addition to the places that contribute to tourist attractions. These include the Ranthambore Fort and the Ranthambore National park. These are both must-visit spots in Rajasthan. In addition, the Ranthambore used to be the hunting ground for the Kachwaha Rajputs, which represents its historical significance. You can also check out the Khandar Fort and the Chauth Mata Temple here.
If you are a fan of history, you must check out Chittorgarh or Chittor, which has its source in the Maurya Dynasty. It is the birthplace of prominent historical figures of India, like Maharana Pratap and Meera Bai. This area's palaces, temples and forts exhibit artistic mastery and a Rajput-styled architectural design. Chittorgarh Fort is the most popular tourist spot, covering 2.8 sq km, and has the highest elevation point of 1,075 metres above sea level.
Other popular spots include Rana Kumbha Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace and Meera Temple.
Rajasthan is a deserted state, and the only hilly region here is Mount Abu. It is located in the Sirohi District, a part of the Aravalli mountain range. It can be the perfect escape from this state's scorching heat and sandy deserts, with its lush green surroundings and cool, comfortable weather. Here, you can check out Trevor's Crocodile Park, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Nakki Lake and Dilwara Jain Temples. The ruins of Achalgarh Fort are also available for tourists.
Surrounded by the Aravalli ranges, this beautiful city has gained popularity for its historical and cultural significance. It is mainly popular among tourists for being a Hindu pilgrimage site and the home of the shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Some tourist sites include Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Taragarh Fort, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Abkari Fort and Museum and Anasagar Lake. Here, you can enjoy Mughal architecture with an aura of spirituality.
Another Princely state of Rajputana, Alwar, has gained tourist attraction recently. Its historical significance is evident from its military participation in various battles. Moreover, it was one of the first Rajput states to sign a treaty with the British East India Company. Therefore, it is heaven for tourists, as you will find many tourist spots here. These include the Karni Mata Temple, Haunted Bhangarh Fort, Pandupole, and Sariska Tiger Reserve.
Located near the Braj region of Rajasthan, Bharatpur is mainly famous for its parks and wildlife. Its Keoladeo National Park is home to 370 species of animals and birds. Moreover, it is the winter home for the Siberian Crane, an endangered bird species. Apart from that, it also celebrates religious occasions observing authentic Rajasthani traditions. Further, you can visit the Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur Palace and Museum and the Banke Bihari Temple.
If you are planning to witness and enjoy the Princely states of Rajputana and their cultures, Bundi can be a suitable tourist destination. It is the home to majestic forts, magnificent palaces, and baolis or water wells. You will also find temples and chhatris with carved pillars in this region. Moreover, this area helps you enjoy beautiful nature with rivers, lakes and enchanting waterfalls. Spots like Taragarh Fort, Moti Mahal, Sukh Mahal and Garh Palace are popular here.
If you are confused about what Rajasthan is known for, you must consider more than just the places. Some of the additional factors are listed below.
Rajasthan is mainly popular for its majestic architecture, which comes from Rajput origins. Here, you will commonly notice Maru-Gurjara architecture (Rajasthani architecture).
Moreover, a strong effect of Islamic influence is evident in these buildings. For example, several Rajput rulers have built their tombs, which look like open umbrellas. On the other hand, several hotels are built in Indo-Saracenic style. Some common features of the palaces include chhatris, jaalis, jharokhas and step walls.
Rajasthan is one of the largest centres offering hand-cut gems, such as Emeralds, Ruby, Agate, Garnets, Amethyst, Topaz, etc. As a result, you are likely to find jewellery pieces here with unique designs and colourful stones. Some of the most popular ornaments include necklaces, headgear, cuffs, and anklets. In addition, Johari bazaar in Jaipur is one of the biggest markets selling beautiful jewellery pieces with unique designs.
As Rajasthan is the historical hub for the Rajput rulers, it has emerged as a pioneer for miniature paintings in India. Rajasthani painters portrayed the royal and romantic life of Mughal rulers in these paintings. Other paintings include the lifestyle of Rajasthan connected with the incidents from Ramayana or Mahabharata.
Apart from that, you will also find Phad and Pichwai paintings here, crafted on rectangular pieces of cloth depicting the lives of popular folk heroes.
Rajasthani art is also evident in the form of carpets. The markets in Rajasthan are the prime carpet manufacturers of India. These offer high-quality carpets with mesmerising designs and patterns, such as mehrab, charkona, dushala, and shikar on woollen fibres. Further, Bikaner and Ajmer have some of the best markets and stores selling the finest quality carpets with stunning designs and colours.
Another work of art in Rajasthan comes from pottery. Introduced by the Mughals, the pots in Rajasthan did more than serve the requirements of containers. Moreover, the famous blue pottery of this area is constructed with quartz stones and not regular clay.
As a result, these pots are less prone to breakage and damage than regular ones. Apart from quartz, the potters use sodium sulphate, raw glaze, and Multani mitti to produce these pots, which help them stand out. In addition, you will find these mostly in Jaisalmer, Alwar, and Bikaner.
Rajasthan is also famous for its exuberant collection of dolls, toys and puppets. These serve a greater purpose than being playthings for children. The puppets, or "kathputli”, crafted with wood, clay, and stones, stand at the heart of Rajasthani handicraft. On the other hand, stuffed toys are made with glitter and jewels. These replicate authentic Rajasthani lifestyles and attires, which can serve the role of home décor. Further, Udaipur, Chittorgarh and Nagaur have the best dolls and puppets in the state.
Are you wondering which things make Rajasthan famous? The beautiful fabric is one of these. The markets here offer some of the most stunning and alluring designs, including block printing, bandhani, tie-dye work, colour-riot, embroidery, etc. In these fabric pieces, you will also find popular patterns like Mothda, Lahariya, Ekdali, and Shikari. In addition, fairs and festivals held in Ramdevji, Nakki Lake, Pushkar, Baneshwar, etc., offer garments and fabric pieces with alluring designs and colours.
Rajasthani art also has another source with the metal craft industry. The artisans use some of the finest enamelled silver to create figurines, pill boxes, table tops, etc. The markets and stores here offer an extensive range of designs and metals in traditional metal craft. These are perfect for home décor and are commonly available in Jaipur. Apart from that, styles like 'Maori', 'Chikan', and 'Bichi' are popular among tourists.
If you are looking for some of the most popular things to purchase in Rajasthan, you can consider exploring the markets to find the finest Indian spices. Here, you will find popular spices like Jeera (Cumin Seeds), Haldi (Turmeric), Dhaniya (Coriander Seeds), Kalonji (Black Caraway), Ajwain (Carom Seeds), Laung (Cloves), etc. Moreover, these markets are also famous for items like papads, pickles and chutneys.
Another popular thing to purchase in Rajasthan is traditional shoes. These are called the Jodhpuri Juttis or "Mojaris". You will find these in various shapes, such as gol-panja, Chota panja, and Salem shahi, with stunning and unique patterns, colours, and designs. These shoes help to add a tinge of royalty and Indian culture to any appearance. Moreover, their quality will be top-notch in the Rajasthani markets since the artisans are authentic and use pure leather for creating the shoes.
Rajasthani cuisine is world-famous, and tourists and food bloggers often visit here simply for the food. A few popular dishes include dal, bati and churma. Further, Bikaneri Bhujia and Mawakachori from Jodhpur are some popular snacks here. Apart from that, sweet dishes are heavenly, made of desi ghee and milk, and Ghewar is a common sweet dish which is widely popular among tourists. In addition, people also prefer Bikaneri rasgulla when they visit this state.
Rajasthan is one of the states responsible for hosting major fairs and festivals throughout the year. If you visit the state during festive seasons, you can witness multiple fiestas, such as turban-tying competitions, camel races, elephant polo, and others. Apart from that, you can also enjoy traditional dances during such festivals, including the Ghoomar from Udaipur and the Kalbeliya from Jaisalmer.
If you wish to enjoy a desert safari, Rajasthan is a suitable holiday choice. This is because it hosts the Jaisalmer desert festival, which incites the thrill of desert safari. Here, you get to enjoy camping under the open sky and feel the light night breeze in the desert. Moreover, you can choose customised packages for a desert safari to plan out your trip accordingly.
Rajasthan undoubtedly exhibits a rich culture of Indian history and heritage. Here, you will be able to observe brightly coloured costumes called “angarakha” and “ghaghara”, which were worn in the Rajput era in India. Moreover, the food and cuisine here include some of the oldest and most traditional items. Some of these are buttermilk, “dal baati churma”, “khud khargosh” (rabbit meat), “gatte ki sabzi”, etc.
Rajasthan can be one of the best places for shopping, besides being a great tourist spot. You will find all kinds of items here for shopping, including handlooms, handicrafts, food and artefacts. Johari Bazar and Bapu Bazar offer multiple antique items which will help you experience the beauty and traditions of ancient India.
Hopefully, now you know what Rajasthan is famous for. This article observed that this area has been popular among tourists for multiple reasons. If you are visiting Rajasthan, you can enjoy various tourist destinations, desert safari, shopping, and festivals. It is, therefore, the perfect destination to witness Indian history and culture.
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