The top five tourist cities in Rajasthan include Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur. The state has 41 districts and seven divisions, adding plenty more options to explore depending on how much time you’re willing to spend here.
Rajasthan is a North Indian state in India that has rich history and diverse landscapes. While most people recognize it due to the Pink City of Jaipur and desert area in Jaisalmer, there is so much more to it. The combination of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur make the Golden Triangle which are the most sought-after places to explore in North India. While most tourists tick off their bucket list by visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra, they are awestruck by the time they reach Jaipur.
Rajasthan, literally translates as “Land of Kings” as “raja” is king in Hindi and “sthan” is place. So, the first thing to expect when exploring this state is all this royal and kingly. From luxurious palace-turned-hotels to local artistry carried down across generations, this is India’s best culture fest.
While living like the royals feels like primary attraction coupled with stunning architectural monuments, what remains with tourists when they go back is gestures initiated by friendly locals. While India believes in Atithi Devo Bhava (guest is God), one place that truly follows this is Rajasthan.
Tourist cities in Rajasthan
Let me walk you through the best places to visit in Rajasthan breaking them down in terms of priority and significance:
1. Jaipur
Among all Rajasthan tourist places, Jaipur tops the list. It is the capital city that has the only international airport in the state and is filled with places to visit.
The Pink City of Jaipur is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage City as it is recognized as the “Walled City.” It is the first planned city of India built in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II that exhibits architectural significance due to exquisite development and town planning.
Blended with Hindu and Mughal architectural marvels, you will need at least three days to explore this city elaborately. Here is a list of all the iconic places to see in Jaipur:
- Hawa Mahal
- Jantar Mahal
- City Palace
- Amer Fort
- Nahargarh Fort
- Jaigarh Fort
After visiting all these places, you can explore the hidden gems in Jaipur if you still have time.
2. Jodhpur
Known as the Blue City of India, Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha. While much of the city is no longer blue, it still retains the historic charm as the Marwar capital. The city flourished due to trade owing to a strategic route that connected Jodhpur with Delhi in the north and Gujarat in the south (of Rajasthan).
Tourists are attracted to the city during the Marwar Festival that happens during Sharad Poornima. The two-day event showcases folk music and dance performances, camel riding, kite flying, tattoo show, and much more.
Here are the most prominent places to visit in Jodhpur:
- The blue lanes of Brahmpuri
- Mehrangarh Fort
- Umaid Bhawan Palace
- Jaswant Thada
- Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower)
Among all the tourist cities in Rajasthan, Jodhpur has the best food. Mawa Kachori, Mirchi Vada, Sahi Samosa, Ghevar, and Balushahi, are some of the snacks to try. Mathania chilies that help prepare Laal Maas are harvested in Jodhpur. So, if you eat mutton, you have to add this dish to your menu.
3. Bikaner
Known as Red City, Bikaner is famous for its Bhujiya all over the country. But when you’re stepping into the city, you’re welcomed by friendly locals who walk you through its rustic charm. Bikaner has exquisite havelis adorned with innate carvings and paintings. Here are the top places to visit in Bikaner:
- Junagarh Fort
- Rampuria Haveli
- Karni Mata Temple
- Seth Bhandashah
- Shri Laxminath Temple
- The Laxmivillas Palace
While most people visit Jaisalmer to experience the desert life, Bikaner is the heart of the Thar Desert. So, you can go camel riding or enjoy desert safari here as well.
4. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is one of the most demanded tourist cities in Rajasthan and there are multiple reasons for that. First of all, it is the Golden City that homes a “living fort.” Spending a winter night in the Thar Desert, while star-gazing is on the bucket list of most travelers visiting Rajasthan.
Here are the top places to visit in Jaisalmer:
- Jaisalmer Fort
- Patwon Ki Haveli
- Gadisar Lake
- Baga Bagh
- Thar Desert
Two days are enough to make the most of Jaisalmer. If you like real stories that are related to the otherworldly, you can visit the abandoned village of Kuldhara. Must try Ker Sangri and Gatte ki Sabji when dining at an authentic Rajasthani restaurant in Jaisalmer.
5. Udaipur
The City of Lakes painted in all white welcomes you to the most leisurely experience in Rajasthan. I recommend everyone to keep Udaipur as their last destination when visiting the state because this is where you unwind. It also has both railway and airport facilities that can help you connect with other Indian cities.
Here are the best places to visit in Udaipur:
- City Palace
- Jagdish Temple
- Monsoon Palace
- Jagmandir Island Palace
- Saheliyon Ki Bari
- Ambrai Ghat
- Lake Pichola
- Gangaur Ghat
- Bagore ki Haveli
- Fateh Sagar Lake
Udaipur is famous for Dungar Maas, a smoked mutton recipe consumed with either roti or rice. Try to book a stay close to Lake Pichola for a luxury experience. To blend into the cultural vibe, visit here during the Gangaur Festival, Mewar Festival, or Diwali.
If you have more than two days to explore Udaipur, it is recommended you add Haldighati, Kumbhalgarh, and Chittorgarh to your itinerary. These nearby destinations connect historical incidents associated with the rulers of Mewar and share the glorious past of Rajputana.
We’re done with the top five tourist cities in Rajasthan, but they aren’t all! The rest of the list will include other places of prominence chronologically added based on popularity.
6. Ajmer
Located two hours away from Jaipur, Ajmer homes the famous Sufi shrine of Mu’in al-Din Chishti. The holy place welcomes both men and women of all religions. But something with more historical significance would be the Taragarh Fort which records tales of how Mughals started gaining prominence.
Here are the best places to visit in Ajmer:
- Ajmer Dargah Sharif
- Taragarh Fort
- Anasagar Lake
- Government Museum
7. Pushkar
20 minutes away from Ajmer, on another side of a hill, lies a town that still feels connected to Satyayuga. Pushkar is famous for its Annual Camel Festival and Holi celebrations, but there is more to it than just that. As one of the coolest tourists cities in Rajasthan, Pushkar welcomes a lot of foreign tourists who love to unwind.
Here are the best places to visit in Pushkar:
- Savitri Mata Mandir
- Brahma Mandir
- Pushkar Sarovar
- Rangji Temple
- Varaha Temple
- Gurudwara Sahib
Pushkar serves food that’s purely veg or vegan. There are plenty of Italian cafes and shopping markets that sell boho outfits, silver jewelry, and more.
8. Alwar
Alwar is a weekend getaway for people living in Delhi and Jaipur, especially if a daring bunch of friends want to explore something spooky. Known to be home to one of the most haunted places in Rajasthan, the Bhangarh Fort, the area is restricted post-sunset. Nature lovers prefer changing their steering wheels towards Sariska Tiger Reserve for an adventure that can acquaint them with tigers and leopards.
Here is a list of the best places to visit in Alwar:
- Bhangarh Fort
- Sariska Tiger Reserve
- Alwar City Palace
- Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri
- Bala Quila
- Pandupol Hanuman Temple
Alwar Ka Mawa is a famous sweet that you must try. It is similar to milk cake but has a unique twist to it.
9. Sawai Madhopur
Sawai Madhopur is the ultimate paradise for adventure lovers not only because of Ranthambore National Park but also its unique geography – nestled right between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges. Its lush jungle trails home Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer, jackals, and more. At the heart of the park lies the Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 10th century. Here are all the places to explore when visiting Sawai Madhopur:
- Ranthambore National Park
- Ranthambore Fort
- Chauth Mata Mandir
- Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History
- Jogi Mahal
Must-try Daal K Pakore when in Sawai Madhopur. It is a delightful snack that is best accompanied by chai!
10. Bundi
One of the off-beat tourist cities in Rajasthan, Bundi is a dream that remains untouched. Located in the Hadoti region, this place is known for its forts and step-wells within a city that feels ancient.
As you take the route that leads you to the Garh Palace, the birds-eye view feels unreal. There lies a royal fortress perched on a hill that is intricately frescoed and has ornate jharokhas. Raniji ki Baori is the most exquisite multi-tiered stepwell that was used as a water source. Here are all the places worth visiting in Bundi:
- Garh Palace
- Nawal Sagar
- Raniji ki Baori
- Sukh Mahal
- Dhabhai Kund
- Bundi Fort Palace
11. Banswara
Banswara is the monsoon paradise of a state that is primarily known for its desert. Until you explore yourself, you wouldn’t believe that a city in Rajasthan blossoms in lush green during the monsoons.
Banswara is known for rolling green hills, sparkling waterfalls, and misty lakes. During the rainy season, Banswara offers stunning views overlooking the Mahi Bajaj Sugar Dam. The river flowing through the district creates countless small islands that beautify the surrounding.
Here are the places to visit in Banswara:
- Dialab Lake
- Mahi River
- Mahi Bajaj Sugar Dam
- Kagdi Pick Up
- Mandareshwar Temple
- Samai Mata Mandir
‘Bans’ is bamboo and Banswara is filled with bamboo forests. It is not just how the name has been derived but is also showcased through handicrafts created by craftsmen. If you buy some local products, you might do your bit to protect the vanishing art of bamboo weaving.
12. Sambhar
Sambhar is a small town in Rajasthan that welcomes migratory flamingos during winter. It is also the reason why people visit this place during that time, especially during the Sambhar Festival in January.
Sambhar Lake is the biggest inland Salt Lake in India that caters to salt processing. The saline waters of this lake and algal blooms create a habitat for flamingos during the winter months.
Located only 80 km from Jaipur, Sambhar is only a two-hour drive away. The only way to reach the lake is via your own vehicle, so you can book a car if you don’t have your own. Here are all the places to visit in Sambhar:
- Sambhar Lake
- Shakambhari Devi Temple
- Sambhar Cenotaph
- Devyani Temple and Sarovar
- Sambhar Salt Museum
- Sambhar Salt Complex
There is a tiny place to eat snacks and tea right before you enter the lake premises. The lake area is 20 minutes away from the main town where you can get food, lodging, and more.
13. Jalore
Jalore naturally produces granite, is famous for its pink granite, and is also known as the Granite City of India. The Jalore Fort stands tall atop a hill and dates back to the 8th – 10th century. It is one of the lesser-explored forts in Rajasthan and untouched by mass tourism.
The city was once a flourishing center for Sanskrit literature and is closely associated with great sages like Maharishi Jabali. The place attracts tourists during the Jalore Mahotsav to indulge in folk music, dance, poetry, and other literary events. It also hosts turban competitions, bodybuilding competitions, youth poetry, and more. Here are all the places to visit in Jalore:
- Jalore Fort
- Sundha Mata Temple
- Shri Sire Mandir
- Jahaj Mandir
14. Shekhawati region
Shekhawati is known as the “largest open-air art gallery” in the world as the region is filled with frescoed havelis. Interestingly, the architecture here is different from the Rajput and Mughal blends you find in Jaipur. These havelis were built by wealthy Marwari merchants between the 18th and 20th centuries. While a lot of it has degenerated due to lack of maintenance, the essence depicts stories from everyday life during the erstwhile era.
Tourists visit this place during the annual Shekhawati Festival that host cultural performances, heritage walks, and rural competitions while indulging in Rajasthani cuisine. Here are the best places to visit in this region:
- Laxmangarh Fort
- Mandawa
- Nawalgarh
- Dundlod
- Churu
- Sikar
Note that the Shekhawati region comprises Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Churu. That is why these are the nearby places to explore along with Mandawa.
15. Kota
Kota is known for students who make this place their home while preparing for medical and IIT entrance examinations. Perched on the banks of the Chambal River, this a place that takes history and modernity side by side.
Kota’s recent development of the Chambal Riverfront attracted tourists from all over Rajasthan. This attraction recreated mini-Rajasthan to add the essence of different cities and their iconic structures in one place. Here are all the places to explore in Kota:
- Chambal Riverfront
- Seven Wonder’s Park
- Godavari Dham Balaji Temple
- City Palace Garh
- Jag Mandir
Kota is famous for daal kachori, so this is a must-try. It is also famous for hosting the largest mela in Rajasthan during Diwali.
Where are you headed?
You’re all set to explore the best Rajasthan tourist cities with this list, keeping the top five as primary choices. Pushkar and Ajmer follow right after, but it is important to know how to navigate the rest. Having your own vehicle is the best way when explore the lesser-traveled places. If you’re depending on public transport, ask your hotel about the transport situation so you are prepared before making a booking.
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