Rajasthan
Why go?
Rajasthan, which means 'Land of the Kings', is awash with beautiful
palaces and majestic hilltop forts silhouetted against rich and
varied topography. As India's second largest state, with a
well-developed infrastructure, Rajasthan simply pulsates with life.
Everywhere people are walking, riding, running, sitting, talking,
buying, selling, haggling or just 'being', and Rajasthan’s
sheer wealth of culture, tradition, dazzling colour and ancient
sites have attracted and captivated generations of visitors.
The landscape is fantastically diverse: harsh, barren deserts
contrast with rolling green hills, hot days with cool nights, rural
farmland with large, bustling cities. Architecturally, wonders
range from the magnificence of abundant Islamic architecture to
massive forts, marbled palaces, and ornate temples of many faiths.
Wherever you roam in Rajasthan you'll be struck by the strong
colours, the friendly people and the extreme beauty of its
countryside.
Any Downsides?
There's a lot to see and do in Rajasthan, and the tourist trail can
sometimes feel relentless. Be prepared for early starts to beat the
crowds and heat. It's best to build in time to see places properly
and enjoy the experience! During the peak months of October to
March, most of the internal flights and smaller hotels are booked
up months in advance, and there's a danger of overbooking.
Conversely, it's extremely hot from May through to August, and
sightseeing is really only possible in the early mornings and
evenings, although there are few other tourists around.
The roads can be pot-holed and extremely busy, and one often spends
a great many hours travelling. Beware that when booking train
tickets, a complicated wait-listing process can be applied.
Shopping can be more of a trial than a pleasure, as it can seem as
if the entire state is hellbent on selling you something, so it's
essential you learn to say ‘no’ politely and firmly.
Even then, guides will find a wily way to take you to their
cousin’s aunt’s brother’s shop!
What's where?
- Bharatpur-Agra: Gaze at the ultimate ode to love, the Taj Mahal, visit the spellbinding red sandstone palaces of Fatehpur Sikri and seek out colourful wildlife Read More >>
- Jaipur: Rajasthan's vibrant capital, the 'Pink City', has palace courtyards, fantastic shopping and hilltop forts Read More >>
- Jaisalmer: Made wealthy from passing camel train routes, the fairytale fort and havelis of the 'Golden City' glow in the setting sun of the Thar desert Read More >>
- Jodhpur: This formidable walled city, whose old town is a maze of indigo streets, towers over the Thar desert, with the sandstone Meherangarh Fort nearby Read More >>
- Ranthambhore N.P.: Stunning scenery, virgin bush and a network of lakes and rivers - this is the best place in Asia to spot tigers in the wild Read More >>
- Udaipur: The romantic 'White City' sits in an oasis of 3 lakes with Rajasthan's largest palace complex and boat trips to a garden island Read More >>
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