Things to Do in Rajasthan

Choose from 32 Fun Things to Do in Rajasthan

Pushkar

Not far from Jaipur, Pushkar is one Rajasthan’s most popular towns. This lakefront holy town is among the most picturesque in an already photo-worthy state, with a peaceful lake surrounded by 52 ghats and beautiful hills and temples in the distance.

The Basics

Pushkar is best known for two things: Brahma Temple, one of the few temples on earth dedicated to the Hindu god of creation, and its annual Camel Fair. The fair attracts an interesting mix of devout Hindus and backpackers, though it’s ideal for anyone with an interest in Indian culture and religion or just those looking to take a day trip from Jaipur.

Private walking tours of Pushkar focus on its spiritual and cultural facets, while sightseeing excursions come with a guide and transportation.

Things to Know Before You Go

Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes; Pushkar is sunny most of the time and a good part of the town is pedestrian-only.
Most Pushkar temples are not open to foreigners or non-Hindus.
Pushkar’s dusty roads and many steps make it difficult to navigate with a wheelchair.
Beware of “special lassis” in restaurants; they may contain a legal cannabis-based mixture known as bhang, which has psychedelic effects.
Some priests wait by the lake here and try to get unsuspecting tourists to pay for rituals. If someone clad in white offers you a flower to throw into the lake, you may wish to decline.

How to Get There

Pushkar is a few hours’ drive from Jaipur. The easiest way to get there is by car or as part of an organized tour. Travelers can also take a train from Delhi or Jaipur to nearby Ajmer Junction and then switch to a taxi or bus directly to Pushkar.

When to Get There

Pushkar is a year-round destination. It’s at its busiest during the annual Camel Fair, which takes place over a week during the holy month of Kartik (usually in October or November). During this time, hotel rates spike and desert camps open up around the area to provide additional lodging. April to June can be unbearably hot, with temperatures hovering well over 100°F (38°C), while December–February offers relatively cooler temples and fewer tourists.

Pushkar Camel Fair

Pushkar’s biggest draw is its annual camel fair, the largest in the world. Camel traders come to the town from across Rajasthan to sell their camels (and horses) and camelid accessories. There are also plenty of festivities, from moustache-length competitions to camel beauty contests, along with live music, dance, and amusement park-style attractions.

Pushkar, Rajasthan, India

From $ 21

Temple of the Sun God (Monkey Temple)

Officially called Galtaji but usually referred to as Temple of the Sun God or simply the Monkey Temple, this temple complex of many names was built in the 18th century. Multiple storied water tanks, known as kunds, lead up to the main temple, with rounded roofs and pavilions typical to Rajasthan’s architectural traditions.

The Basics

This gorgeous temple complex, in a crevice sandwiched between two hills, features a series of water tanks—the Galta kunds—filled with natural spring water and used for ritual bathing by devotees. At the top of the complex, built by Diwan Rao Kriparam, is a pink stone temple dedicated to Surya, the sun god—hence it’s Temple of the Sun God moniker—not the Hindu monkey god Hanuman, as its alternative name suggests. Its Monkey Temple nickname is due to the large presence of monkeys that hang out here.

Things to Know Before You Go

Keep any food sealed and buried deep in your bag to avoid theft at the hands of monkeys.
If you’re frightened of monkeys, you can join a guided tour or hire a local to escort you up to the sun temple.
Before entering the temple, remember to cover your knees and shoulders and remove your footwear.

How to Get There

Galtaji is located east of Jaipur, about a 30-minute drive from the Hawa Mahal. Getting here involves a zig-zagging ride uphill, and while you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to take you here and back, it’s easiest to come as part of an organized tour.

When to Get There

The Money Temple is open throughout the year, though it can get oppressively hot during the hotter months of the year, particularly in late afternoon. The most auspicious time to visit is during the annual Makar Sankranti holiday, in mid-January, when pilgrims arrive en masse.

Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti, sometimes called Maghi, is an annual festival dedicated to Surya, the sun god. Celebrations vary in different parts of the country, but traditional activities associated with the event include flying kites, ritual bathing, exchanging gifts and sweets, and a variety of religious ceremonies.

Galta, India

From $ 14

Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort is a huge ancient fort located in Jodhpur in the state of Rajasthan. It's one of the largest forts in India and was built in the mid-15th century by Rao Jodha. The fort sits on a rocky hill presiding some 125 meters above the city, with the structure merging with the rock on which it stands. Still run by the Jodhpur royal family to this day, Mehrangarh Fort is filled with a strong sense of history and legend.

Enclosed by thick, imposing walls, the fort complex contains a museum, courthouses, gardens, and several magnificent palaces with vast courtyards and elaborate architecture. Among the royal residences are the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), which was used for dance performances and features beguiling stained-glass windows, and Jhanki Mahal (Queen’s Palace), where there’s a colorful display of the cradles of former rulers.

The approach to the fort is guarded by a series of seven giant gates, some more famous than others. The main entrance is Jai Pol (or Gate of Victory), which was built by Maharaja Man Singh at the beginning of the 19th century to celebrate his victory over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. Past the cafe and museum ticket office, the Dodh Kamgra Pol still bears the marks of cannonball attacks, before the route leads through Imritia Pol, and then Loha Pol, with its palm imprints made by the widows of Maharaja Man Singh when they left the palace to commit sati on his funeral pyre.

Practical Info

It’s about a 300-meter walk or a very winding auto-rickshaw journey from the old city to the entrance of Mehrangarh Fort.

Fateh Pol Road, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006, India

9am-5am daily

Fort entry: free / Museum entry: Rs. 400

From $ 21

Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum

Built between 1928 and 1943, the sprawling grandeur of Umaid Bhawan Palace can be seen for miles around. It’s the world's largest private residence. Part of the palace is a luxury hotel, part of it royal quarters, and some of it is dedicated to the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum.

The museum charts the history and heritage of Umaid Bhawan. It tells the story of how Maharaja Umaid Singh appointed a well-known Edwardian architect to design the palace in an art-deco style. It also displays an archive of pictures taken of the palace over the years, as well as a unique antique clock collection.

The museum also houses a whole range of historical artifacts that belonged to the royal family, including everything from trophies to weaponry, along with an impressive vintage car collection. There is a small gift shop located just outside for those looking to take souvenirs home.

Practical Info

The Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum is situated three kilometers southeast of Jodhpur’s old city.

Circuit House Road, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006, India

Daily 9am-5pm

Adults: Rs.100; Children: Rs.10

From $ 21

Nahargarh Fort

Situated in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Hills, not far from Amber Fort (Amer Fort), Nahargarh is the oldest of three forts built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh (Jai Singh II). Dating to 1734, this majestic fort—aka the Tiger Fort—is largely in a state of ruin, but is still worth a visit for its amazing view of Jaipur city below.

The Basics

Nahargarh Fort was originally built to help defend nearby Amber Fort, though it was later expanded under Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II. Highlights include a palace with nine apartments (one for each of Ram Singh’s nine wives), many of which contain original frescoes, and the spectacular views. The fort also features an underground system of rainwater harvesting tanks, which allegedly could hold enough water to keep the fort going for a couple of years.

Many tours of Jaipur and the Golden Triangle stop here. Composite tickets that allow access to a number of Jaipur sights are accepted here, but are sold only at Amber (Amer) Fort, Albert Hall, the Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.

Things to Know Before You Go

Nahargarh is great for those with an interest in military history.
The fort features a small café serving snacks and meals at reasonable prices.
Wear comfortable footwear, as the ground here can be uneven in spots.
If visiting in the middle of the day, be sure to wear sun protection.

How to Get There

Nahargarh is located just outside of Jaipur’s Pink City area, about a 20-minute drive from the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar. The fort is also directly connected to Jaigarh (also a 20-minute drive) via a back road. Getting to the fort is arduous for travelers coming on foot from the base of the hill—it’s easiest to hire a taxi or visit as part of an organized sightseeing tour. Delhi is a 5-hour drive away or between 4.5 and six hours by train.

When to Get There

Nahargarh is open from 10am daily throughout the year, though temperatures are at their most pleasant during the cooler (but still warm) winter months. Visit around sunset to truly appreciate the fort’s great views and light for photography.

The Ghost of Nahar Singh Bhomia

According to local legend, the fort stands on land that was once haunted by a prince named Nahar Singh Bhomia. The ghost kept causing problems during the construction of the fort, and he agreed to stop causing a ruckus only if the fort was named after him; a temple in his honor sits within the fort to this day.

Jaipur, India

Varies

From $ 5

Sahelion Ki Bari

Well-kept grounds, beautiful fountains, a small museum and towering marble elephants are just part of what makes Sahelion Ki Bari a destination for travelers visiting Udaipur. Its unique history adds to the wonder of this enchanted city escape, since these quiet lotus pools, open pavilions and lush landscapes were originally created as respite for a group of 48 women who traveled with a princess to the city as a part of her marriage dowry. Today, visitors can wander the grounds where queens once watched dancers perform and explore the famous fountains that shower natural lake water in a landscape that visitors describe as almost rainforest-like. Be sure to pack a camera. Despite some noted maintenance needs, Sahelion Ki Bari remains a picture-perfect destination.

Practical Info

Sahelion Ki Bari is located in the northern part of Udaipur.

Saheli Marg, Infront of Satnam Digital Colour Camera Corner, Saheli Nagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India 313001, India

From $ 18

Royal Gaitor

Set against the rugged backdrop of the Aravali Mountains, Royal Gaitor is a beautiful funerary complex that houses the intricately carved cenotaphs of many of Jaipur's former rulers, including Jai Singh II, who founded Jaipur. One of the quieter places in town, Royal Gaitor is a great spot to escape the noise of the Pink City.

The Basics

Royal Gaitor has been the traditional funerary grounds for Jaipur's royal family since the time of Jai Singh II, whose beautiful white-marble cenotaph occupies the older part of the complex. At the center sits the intricately carved cenotaph of Maharaja Madho Singh II, who had five wives and 18 mistresses, but never produced an heir. Though the attraction is a bit off the beaten tourist path, some day tours of Jaipur stop here.

Things to Know Before You Go

Royal Gaitor is a must visit for those with an interest in history or architecture.
Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat, as this attraction gets lots of direct sunlight.
Getting around the complex may prove challenging for wheelchair users or those with compromised mobility.

How to Get There

Royal Gaitor is located just north of the Pink City, about 10 minutes’ drive from the City Palace (without traffic) or 20 minutes from Amber Fort. It's easiest to reach by auto rickshaw or taxi, or as part of an organized tour, as it's a bit too far to walk from any of the other main attractions in the area.

When to Get There

Royal Gaitor is open daily 9am to 4:30pm, and access is free to the public. Because the attraction is largely outside, travelers are best off visiting first thing in the morning, when the sun is less powerful. Jaipur is best visited in the fall or winter months (this is the desert, after all), and outdoor activities are best avoided during the hot months of May and June.

Chhatris

One of the most common features in Indian architecture, chhatris are round canopy-style pavilions that are frequently used to adorn palaces and forts, particularly in Rajasthan. The word also refers to memorials built over cremation sites, which follow a similar architectural style. They are often decorated with carvings, as is the case with Jai SIngh II's chhatri.

Jaipur, India

From $ 16

Maota Lake

Situated in the town of Amber (Amer) in the outskirts of Jaipur in Rajasthan, Maota Lake was the main water source for the formidable Amber Fort (Amer Fort) back in its heyday. At the center of the lake is an island covered with lush gardens—including a saffron garden—planted by a 15th-century maharaja, Kesar Kyari Bagh.

The Basics

Maota Lake played an integral role in the development of Amber, acting as a primary source of water for Amber Fort and for the common people of the desert community, filling with rainwater from nearby hills during the monsoon. These days its role is more ornamental, though it is still used during the annual Ganesh Chaturthi processions, during which an idol of the elephant-headed deity Ganesh is submerged in the lake’s waters.

Most tours of Jaipur and the Golden Triangle visit Amber Fort, and many stop at the lake for photos before heading up to explore the fort.

Things to Know Before You Go

Swimming and bathing are not allowed in the lake.
Wear lots of sunscreen and a sun hat.
You can get great photos of the lake from the interior of Amber Fort just above it.

How to Get There

Maota Lake is located at the base of Amber Fort, west of Jaigarh Fort and approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Jaipur’s Pink City and the City Palace—about a 20-minute drive. Nearly all visitors come here as part of an excursion to Amber Fort or a larger Jaipur sightseeing tour.

When to Get There

You can visit the lake throughout the year, though Jaipur and Amber get very hot during the months of April through June. As such, the lake and its surrounding attractions are best visited early in the day, before it get too balmy, especially if you’re visiting in the warmer season.

Amber Attractions

Although Jaipur is now the capital of Rajasthan, the town of Amber was originally a stronghold of power and the ruling seat of Maharaja Man Singh. While the main attraction here is the Amber Fort, the area is home to a number of historic attractions, including the Jaigarh Fort, the Anokhi Museum, and, of course, Maota Lake.

Amer, India

From $ 43

National Chambal Sanctuary

Straddling three states, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, the National Chambal Sanctuary protects 245 square miles (635 square km) of natural habitat where the Chambal and Yamuna Rivers meet.

Established in 1979 to protect the endangered Gharial crocodiles, the park is now home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Ganges River dolphin, marsh crocodile, smooth-coated otter, Indian wold, Indian striped hyena and eight species of turtles. More than 300 species of resident and migratory birds have been spotted within the sanctuary.

Visitors hoping for a glimpse of river dolphins, crocodiles and other wildlife can do so on guided boat tours of the Chambal River. Nature trails wind along the river, offering further wildlife observation opportunities.

Practical Info

The National Chambal Sanctuary is located 43 miles (70 km) southeast of Agra. The best way to get there is by guided tour or private car.

Mau Road, Rajasthan, India

5am-7pm

From $ 38

Mubarak Mahal

The Mubarak Mahal, or Welcome Palace, was originally constructed in the late 19th century as a reception hall for foreign dignitaries. Today, this part of Jaipur’s City Palace houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, which showcases royal family artifacts including weaponry and regal garments.

The Basics

This impressive structure sits on a raised platform and features an elegant blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural influences. Inside, on the ground floor, is a museum full of beautiful old textiles and costumes, including a number of brocaded and embroidered garments worn by kings and queens of days past.

The Mubarak Mahal is one of the most popular sections of the City Palace, and nearly all tours of Jaipur (including half-day and full-day tours, plus Golden Triangle tours that visit Jaipur and Agra) and of the City Palace itself give visitors time to explore it. Going with a guide can be useful for those wanting a deeper understanding of the palace.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Mubarak Mahal—and the entire City Palace complex—is a must for all first-time visitors to Jaipur.
Photography is not allowed inside the Mubarak Mahal.
Much of the City Palace is outdoors and can get sunny, so bring sun protection.
The City Palace has many facilities, including multiple gift shops and eateries.
Most of the City Palace is accessible to wheelchair users. For details, contact the site in advance or inquire at the ticket office upon arrival.

How to Get There

The Mubarak Mahal is inside the City Palace, one of the top sights in Jaipur’s Pink City and easy to access on foot; it’s situated right next to the Jantar Mantar observatory and a short walk from the iconic Hawa Mahal. Driving, it’s 30 minutes from Amber Fort (Amer Fort) and five hours from Delhi. Trains from Delhi take 4.5 to 6 hours to reach Jaipur.

When to Get There

Jaipur’s City Palace is open daily except for on the second day of Holi. In the hottest months of the year (April through October), come early in the day to avoid oppressive heat. Note that although Rajasthan stays relatively dry during India’s monsoon rainy season (late June through August), it’s still quite balmy.

Textiles of Rajasthan

The Mubarak Mahal features a lovely selection of old textiles, and a visit here may inspire you to go pick up some Rajasthani textiles of your own. You will find a huge assortment of local fabrics in the markets and shops around the City Palace. For something authentic and unusual, look for leheriya or bandhani items, both of which use tie-dye techniques to achieve a mix of white and colorful patterns.

Jaipur, India

Varies

From $ 100

Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)

Sajjangarh Palace (known as the Monsoon Palace) is set on a hilltop with fantastic city views. It was originally built as a getaway during the monsoon season and as an astrological center, but the latter project was never finished. The palace has also been used as a royal hunting lodge, and even appeared in the James Bond film Octopussy.

The Basics

High on a hilltop, about 1,100 feet (335 meters) above Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Palace offers some of the best views in Udaipur. This nine-story palace is made from white marble, carved with intricate floral designs. Most visits take place during the day, as part of a tour of Udaipur, but the palace is a sight to behold when viewed from a distance at night, when it's illuminated with dozens of floodlights.

Things to Know Before You Go
Sajjangarh Palace is a must-visit for architecture lovers and history buffs.
Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
This sight is not suitable for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The Monsoon Palace is located up a steep, winding road, just outside of Udaipur's main city, and it's only accessible by motor vehicle (auto rickshaws are not allowed). Getting there from city center locations such as the City Palace or railway station takes about a half-hour by car.

When to Get There

Udaipur’s weather is most pleasant between November and February, when the sun is not as bright or strong. The hottest months are May and June, and the monsoon from late June through August can make the city feel gloomy (though heavy rainfall usually isn’t an issue here). The palace is open daily 9am to 6pm.

Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary

The palace is surrounded by the beautifully preserved Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which wraps around the palace and is hemmed in by the Kishan Pol wall. Ironically, the area was previously a shooting reserve, though today the many creatures here, including jackals, wild boars, reptiles, and even tigers and panthers, are protected.

Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, India

Varies

From $ 14

Udaipur City Palace

The largest palace in all of Rajasthan, the Udaipur City Palace built by Udaipur founder Maharana Udai Singh II, sits perched on hill overlooking the city and Lake Pichola. Construction began on the intricately worked stone structure in 1559 and continued for over 450 years as successive Maharanas added on to the original. Today, the entire complex comprises 11 total palaces connected by maze-like passageways, all maintaining a surprising uniformity given the huge time span during which they were constructed.

The main part of the palace complex now serves as the City Palace Museum, housing a collection of miniatures, ceramics, paintings, inlay glass, antiques and enamel works. The windows throughout the palace offer spectacular views of Lake Pichola, particularly when the water level is normal.

Plan on arriving at the Udaipur City Palace when it opens in the morning if you want to avoid getting herded through the grounds between busloads of tourists. At sunset, take a boat tour of Lake Pichola for the best views of the palace's facade from afar.

Banks of Lake Pichola, India

From $ 14