Anda
Rajasthan is one of those destinations that grabs your imagination before you even arrive. From vibrant cities filled with color and history to the calm of golden sand dunes stretching out under the desert sun, this Indian state offers a travel experience that feels larger than life. Whether you are chasing culture, adventure, or just a different pace of life, Rajasthan delivers. Here are the top five things to do in Rajasthan that will give you a real taste of what this unforgettable region is all about.
Top Things to Do in Rajasthan
1. Forts and Palaces
Rajasthan’s landscape is dotted with magnificent forts and palaces that speak of centuries past, with stories of kings, queens, and epic battles etched into every wall. Start with the Amber Fort in Jaipur, a hilltop fortress combining grandeur with intricate detail. Its mirrored halls and elephant rides make it a favorite among travelers.
The Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur stands as one of the most impressive in all of India, offering panoramic views of the “Blue City” below. Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes,” is home to the serene City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture that sits right on the edge of Lake Pichola.
For anyone planning their itinerary, these historic sites are must-visit places in Rajasthan. They are not just tourist attractions; they are windows into the soul of the region.
2. Desert Safari in Jaisalmer
If you are craving a real adventure, head west to Jaisalmer, the Golden City. This remote outpost at the heart of the Thar Desert is known for its sandstone architecture and desert charm. The best way to take it all in is to hop on a camel and ride out into the dunes for an overnight desert safari.
You will watch the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and pink, listen to local folk music around a campfire, and sleep under a blanket of stars. If camels aren’t your thing, jeep safaris are also popular and cover more ground quickly. Either way, a one-of-a-kind experience brings you face-to-face with the raw beauty of Rajasthan’s desert.
3. Local Bazaars
One of the best ways to connect with the local culture is through its markets. Rajasthan’s bazaars are loud, colorful, and full of character. In Jaipur, Johari Bazaar is a go-to spot for jewelry lovers, especially for those looking to pick up traditional Rajasthani designs. Bapu Bazaar, on the other hand, is great for fabrics, mojari shoes, and souvenirs.
In Jodhpur, Sardar Market is a lively place to shop for spices, handicrafts, and antiques. If you are heading to Udaipur, Hathipole Bazaar offers miniature paintings, leather journals, and intricate textile work. Even if you are not a big shopper, just walking through these markets is an experience. The sights, sounds, and smells are unforgettable.
4. Cultural Festival
Rajasthan knows how to throw a festival like no other. Throughout the year, the region comes alive with music, dance, food, and colorful celebrations that showcase its rich traditions.
One of the most famous is the Pushkar Camel Fair, held every November. What started as a livestock trade event has now turned into a five-day cultural spectacle, with camel races, folk performances, and even mustache competitions.
If you’re in Jaisalmer in February, the Desert Festival is another highlight, offering everything from turban-tying contests to traditional puppet shows. For something more spiritual, the Jaipur Literature Festival brings together writers, thinkers, and artists from all over the world in a celebration of ideas and storytelling.
These festivals are more than just events, they’re immersive experiences that give you a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and the pride Rajasthani people take in it.
5. Rajasthani Cuisine
Food lovers, take note: Rajasthan’s cuisine is bold, flavorful, and deeply rooted in local traditions. Due to its desert climate, many dishes are designed to last without refrigeration, resulting in unique cooking techniques and spice combinations.
Must-try dishes include dal baati churma (a hearty lentil dish served with baked wheat balls and sweetened crushed wheat), gatte ki sabzi (gram flour dumplings in a spicy yogurt curry), and laal maas (a fiery red meat curry). Most local restaurants will also serve a traditional thali, a sampling platter that offers a little bit of everything.
Don’t forget to try local sweets like ghewar, mawa kachori, and mohanthal. Whether you’re eating in a palace hotel or a simple roadside dhaba, the food will be a highlight of your journey.
Conclusion on the Best Things to Do in Rajasthan
Rajasthan is not a place you just visit. It’s a place you feel with every sense. The colors, the music, the aromas, and the stories stay with you long after the trip ends. From its iconic forts to its desert adventures and vibrant festivals, Rajasthan invites you to step into a world where tradition and beauty come together in unforgettable ways.
If you are planning a trip to India, make time for Rajasthan. You’ll leave with more than just memories, you’ll take a piece of its spirit with you.