Amidst Thar desert, magnificent monuments and beautiful hills lie a charming terra firma called Raja
The land of Maharajas, lakes, grace, emotions, adventure, and vibrancy, Rajasthan with its royal essence welcomes you with all its heart. "Khamma Ghani", it says, and has the beauty that never betrays. Rajasthan is a magical land full of cheerfulness and quintessential charm. In the era where development has taken over, the state remains truthful to its roots and customs. In every street you will find a new ritual, in every face, you'll see an acquaintance. It is a land that showers you with love and a melting pot of multiple religions that is meant to be visited once a lifetime.
The tourist places in Rajasthan are not limited to beauty only as here one can enjoy a plethora of adventures. The Sand dunes of Thar are perfect for safaris and the ranges of Aravallis are a proper spot to enjoy trekking and hiking. Almost all the places to see in Rajasthan are loaded with grandeur and let you enjoy scenic yet fun filled vacation. The essence of royal Rajasthan can be felt in corners of almost every famous spot of this state.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Rajasthan is during winter, between October – March, with the busiest months being December, January and (sometimes) February. During this time the weather in Rajasthan is pleasant.
TOURIST PLACES IN RAJASTHAN
Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Pushkar, Ajmer, Mount Abu, Bikaner, Bharatpur, Chittorgarh, Kota, Bundi, Pali and many more.
Tourists from all over the world find the royal state of Rajasthan a prime tourist destination in India. Owing to a number of vibrant cities Jodhpur and Jaipur, traditional puppet show, its folk dance & music, palaces and forts, golden Desert, delectable food, colorful festivals, Shopping etc., Rajasthan cast a spell.
CUISIN
Delectable Food Rajasthani cuisines are surely a treat to your taste buds and make this Rajawadi land of Rajputs a paradise for foodies.
PLACES TO VISIT IN RAJASTHAN
UDAIPUR
THE CITY OF LAKES AND PALACES
Udaipur, the beautiful capital of Mewar, Rajasthan, is a royal tourist destination for travellers who love history, culture and architecture. It is quite a renowned destination owing to its massive palaces, ancient forts, beautiful lakes, lush green gardens, age-old temples, romantic backdrops and so much more. Udaipur has acted as the backdrop for many Bollywood movies as well.
Often referred to as the 'Venice of the East', the city of lakes Udaipur is located around azure water lakes and is hemmed in by lush green hills of Aravallis. The famous Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful sights of Udaipur. It is also home to Jaisamand Lake, claimed to be the second largest man-made sweet water lake in Asia. The beautiful City Palace and Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) add to the architectural beauty and grandeur of the city. The city is also known for its profusion of zinc and marble.
Udaipur was founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the new capital of Mewar Kingdom. It is located in the fertile, circular Girwa Valley to the southwest of Nagda, which was the first capital of Mewar.
UDAIPUR CITY PALACE
LAKE PALACE
JAG MANDIR
MONSOON PALACE
AHAR MUSEUM
JAGDISH TEMPLE
FATEH SAGAR LAKE
LAKE PICHOLA
SAHELIYON KI BARI
SUKHADIA CIRCLE
BHARATIYA LOK KALA MANDAL
BAGORE KI HAVELI
SHILPGRAM
UDAI SAGAR LAKE
HALDIGHATI
DOODH TALAI LAKE
JAISAMAND LAKE
NAVALAKHA MAHAL (GULAB BAGH)
UDAIPUR BIOLOGICAL PARK
UDAIPUR FISH AQUARIUM
THE CRYSTAL GALLERY
VINTAGE CAR COLLECTION
NAGDA
BADI LAKE
MENAR
SAHASTRA BAHU TEMPLE
JODHPUR
BLEND OF THE MODERN AND THE TRADITIONAL
Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befitting as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, havelis and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. The strapping forts that tower this magnificent city sum up to a spectacle you would not want to miss. The mammoth, imposing fortress of Mehrangarh has a landscape dominating a rocky ridge with the eight gates leading out of the fortress. The new city is located outside the structure. Jodhpur is also known for the rare breed of horses known as Marwari or Malani, which are only found here.
MEHRANGARH FORT
KHEJARLA FORT
UMAID BHAWAN PALACE
MOTI MAHAL
SHEESH MAHAL
PHOOL MAHAL
RANISAR PADAMSAR
RANISAR PADAMSAR
JASWANT THADA
GHANTA GHAR
MAHAMANDIR TEMPLE
MANDALESHWAR MAHADEV
SARDAR SAMAND LAKE AND PALACE
MASURIA HILLS
SHASTRI CIRCLE
MANDORE
KAILANA LAKE
MACHIYA SAFARI PARK
SOMNATH TEMPLE
BALSAMAND LAKE
GUDA VILLAGE
MEHRANGARH FORT AND MUSEUM
CHOKHELAO BAGH AND INTERPRETATION CENTER
BHARATPUR
WORLD’S MOST FASCINATING BIRD RESERVE
Bharatpur is also home to one of the world's best-known bird watching destinations. Bharatpur is a small city in Rajasthan, It is popular for the world famous Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), which was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1985. A wide variety of birds and reptiles like fish, snakes, lizards and turtles can be spotted in this park.
It is also home to the migratory birds like Siberian cranes, pintails, common teals, ruddy shelducks, widgeons, common shelducks, shovelers, red-crested pochards, etc. Other tourist attractions of the city are Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur Palace and Museum, Ganga Mandir, Deeg, Laxman Mandir, Ganga Temple, Laxman Temple, Bankebihari Temple, Government Museum, etc. The best time to visit this city is during the months between October and March.
BHARATPUR PALACE AND MUSEUM
GANGA MANDIR
LAXMAN MANDIR
KEOLADEO GHANA NATIONAL PARK
LOHAGARH FORT
DEEG
BAND BARETHA
KAMAN
DHOLPUR PALACE
CHITTORGARH
VISIT THE LAND OF INDIA’S FINEST FORT
Chittorgarh resonates with stories of Rajputana bravery, pride and passion. The bards of Rajasthan sing tales of courage and sacrifice recounting stories that are known to every child and adult in the city. Chittorgarh is named after its most imposing structure, the Chittorgarh Fort which stands atop a 180 metre high hill and is spread across 700 acres.
The Chittorgarh is famous for chittorgarh fort was built by the Mauryans in 7th century AD. Standing atop a 180 m high hill, the fort has 22 water bodies, palaces, towers and temples and is is spread over 700 acres. The fort is one of the strongest forts in India and its main attractions are the two commemoration towers, Kirti Stambh and Vijay Stambh. The former was built to honor the first Jain Tirthankar and the latter was built to commemorate the victory over Mohammed Khilji. ALSO SEE Padmaavat’s Chittorgarh; Photos of Chittorgarh Fort Immortalized in an Epic Tale.
Chittorgarh is also a great place for shopaholics. Visitors can buy metal works, fabrics, handmade toys, leather shoes and jewelry.
Another attraction of the city is the biggest Rajput festival called Jauhar Mela held to honor the sacrifice and bravery of the ancestors and all three jauhars which happened in Chittorgarh fort.
CHITTORGARH FORT
RANI PADMINI'S PALACE
VIJAY STAMBH
KIRTI STAMBH
FATEH PRAKASH PALACE
KALIKA MATA TEMPLE
TULJA BHAVANI TEMPLE
GAUMUKH RESERVOIR
RATAN SINGH PALACE
RANA KUMBHA PALACE
MEERABAI TEMPLE
KUMBHA SHYAM TEMPLE
MENAL WATERFALL
NAGARI
BHAINSRORGARH FORT
TEMPLES OF BAROLI – RAWATBHATA
JAIMAL AND PATTA’S PALACE
BHAMASHAH KI HAVELI
JAISALMER
WHERE THE FORTS ARE STILL ALIVE
Jaisalmer Tourism is also quite famous for royal forts, havelis, palaces, museums and temples. The Pride of Jaisalmer, the Jaisalmer Fort or Sonar Quila is the most famous tourist attraction of Jaisalmer and is a World Heritage Site. Nathmalji ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli, Manak Chowk, Jaisalmer Folklore Museum, Tazia Tower, Gadisagar Lake, Bada Bagh, Khuri Sand Dunes, Sam Sand Dunes, and Kuldhara are some of the popular tourist places to visit in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer attracts a lot of tourists for its desert camel safari. A bumpy ride on a camel in the Thar Desert is one of the exciting things to do in Jaisalmer. Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri Sand Dunes are the popular dunes in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer Desert Festival, a music festival typically held in the 2nd week of February is also hosted near Sam Sand Dunes. Jaisalmer is also known for various crafts such as silver jewellery, embroidery, stone, work, leather products, and printing work.
JAISALMER FORT
JAISALMER GOVERNMENT MUSEUM
NATHMAL JI KI HAVELI
PATWON KI HAVELI
SALIM SINGH KI HAVELI
MANDIR PALACE
JAIN TEMPLES OF JAISALMER
GADISAR LAKE
BADA BAGH
DESERT NATIONAL PARK
KULDHARA
TANOT MATA TEMPLE
RAMDEVRA TEMPLE
JAISALMER WAR MUSEUM
LAUNGEWALA WAR MEMORIAL
AMAR SAGAR LAKE
AKAL WOOD FOSSIL PARK
VYAS CHHATRI
MOUNT ABU
PREFERRED LEISURE DESTINATION OF MANY
Mount Abu is a hill station in western India’s Rajasthan state, near the Gujarat border. Set on a high rocky plateau in the Aravalli Range and surrounded by forest, it offers a relatively cool climate and views over the arid plains below. In the center of town, Nakki Lake is a popular spot for boating. Close by are the centuries-old Dilwara Temples, ornately carved from white marble and of great spiritual importance. ― Google
Studded with a colourful mix of rustic abodes of tribal communities and posh houses inclusive of British style bungalows and royal holiday lodges, Mount Abu appears to be no less than a wonder in this dessert state. Covered in vast stretches of green forests, serene lakes, and effusive waterfalls, this region allows you to revel amidst panoramic vistas, all year round.
Other than its scenic beauty, Mount Abu is also popular as a seat of religious importance for Jains. The structural architectural wonders in Mount Abu, among other places to visit, have been drawing history buffs and architecture enthusiasts from different corners of the world.
NAKKI LAKE
GURU SHIKHAR
TOAD ROCK VIEW POINT
DILWARA JAIN TEMPLE
MOUNT ABU SANCTUARY
PEACE PARK MOUNT ABU
LAL MANDIR MOUNT ABU
TREVORS TANK MOUNT ABU
ACHLESHWAR, MOUNT ABU
ACHALGARH FORT
DAUSA
BEAUTIFUL LIKE HEAVEN
Dausa is a small ancient town named after a Sanskrit word Dhau-sa meaning Beautiful like Heaven. Also referred as Deva Nagri, located around 55 km from Jaipur, on National Highway 11. The city was the first headquarter of the former Kachhawaha Dynasty and has much history and archaeological importance linked to it. Situated away from the bustling cities, the town of Dausa offers an authentic rural experience in Rajasthan.
CHAND BAORI(STEPWELL)- ABHANERI
HARSHAT MATA TEMPLE – ABHANERI
JHAJHIRAMPURA
BHANDAREJ
LOTWARA
BANDIKUI
MEHENDIPUR BALAJI
RAJSAMAND
THE MARBLE LAND OF RAJASTHAN
Rajsamand is located around 67 km from Udaipur. Apart from being quite well known for marble production and being the largest marble producing district in the country, Rajsamand is also a town that houses beautiful lakes, awe-inspiring palaces, great historical significance and also a national park. For any visitor, Rajsamandlives up to every travel expectation you might have, and at times, even surpass them.Among the most famous spots in the district are the Kumbhalgarh Fort, the place where Maharana Pratap was born; Haldighati, the famous battlefield; Dwarikadheesh; Charbhuja; and a number of Shiv temples.Rajsamandmakes for a fascinating visit,offeringyouthe opportunity to glance and bask in its rich history, religion, culture, and mining industry.
GOLERAO JAIN TEMPLE
NEELKANTHMAHADEV TEMPLE
KUMBHALGARH WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
RAJSAMAND (RAJSAMUDRA) LAKE
THE LAND OF THE RED STONE
DHOLPUR
Situated in the eastern part of Rajasthan, Dholpur became a separate district in 1982 comprising four tehsils of Bharatpur – namely Dholpur, Rajakhera, Bari and Baseri. Carved out of Bharatpur district, Dholpur is surrounded by Agra on the north, Morena district of Madhya Pradesh on the south and Karauli on the west.
Ever since its existence, Dholpur remains one of the most fascinating regions in the state that has witnessed the oldest civilizations, and is extremely rich in cultural heritage. It used to be the seat of the Dholpur princely state before Independence, and today is a city of diverse culture and historical grandeur.
The red sandstone from Dholpur is famous throughout the country and was famously used in the construction of the Red Fort in Delhi.
CITY PALACE
ROYAL STEPWELL
NIHAL TOWER
SHIV TEMPLE AKA CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE
SHERGARH FORT
MACHKUND
SHER SHIKHAR GURUDWARA
MUGHAL GARDEN, JHOR
DAMOH
TALAB-E-SHAHI
VAN VIHAR SANCTUARY
TONK
RENOWNED FOR OLD HAVELIS AND MOSQUES
A small town near the city of Jaipur, Tonk is one of the most interesting places in Rajasthan and is renowned for its old havelis and mosques. This elegant town of Jaipur was once ruled by the Pathans of Afghanistan. The ancient town takes pride in its beautiful architectural wonders, established during the Mughal era. The Nawab of Tonk was very fond of literature and built a large library of Persian and Arabic manuscripts. Founded in the 17th century, the town of Tonk serves as a host to several mansions, mosques and British colonial buildings. This cross-cultural town is a mixture of Rajput buildings and Muslim architecture, which sets this town apart from others. Rich in cultural heritage and magnificent structures, Tonk attracts tourists from all over the world.
SUNEHRI KOTHI
THE ARABIC AND PERSIAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE
HAATHI BHATA
BISALDEO TEMPLE
HADI RANI BAORI
DIGGI KALYANJI TEMPLE
JAMA MASJID
BISALPUR DAM
JALDEVI TEMPLE
CLOCK TOWER
AJMER
THE DELIGHTFUL DARGAH DESTINATION
Ajmer is bustling city, located 130 km southwest of Jaipur and just 14 km from the pilgrimage town of Pushkar. The city of Ajmer gets its name from “Ajay Meru”, which can be roughly translated as “invincible hill”. Home to a number of tourist places, Ajmer can be a perfect representation of the diversity of the Indian culture and ethics, and displays a perfect blend of religion, community, culture, etc., coexisting and flourishing in harmony.
Ajmer remains a popular tourist attraction, in addition to being a pilgrimage centre for both Hindus and Muslims. The final resting place of the Sufi Saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chisti, is visited by Muslims from all over the world; in fact, the Dargah is revered equally by both Hindus and Muslims. The city is surrounded by the expansive lake of Ana Sagar and the rugged hills of Aravalli. Although Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the shrine of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, remains as the most famous tourist places to visit in Ajmer, the city is also significantly known for the Jain religion and is home to an amazing golden Jain Temple. Ajmer is also a well-known learning centre. The Mayo College was one of India’s first schools that acted as the stepping stone for the British style of education and is now one of the popular places to visit in Ajmer.
THE AJMER SHARIF DARGAH
ADHAI DIN KA JHONPDA
SONIJI KI NASIYAN
ANASAGAR LAKE
MAYO COLLEGE
LAKE FOY SAGAR
AJMER GOVERNMENT MUSEUM
SAI BABA TEMPLE
NARELI JAIN TEMPLE
GATEWAY OF TARAGARH FORT
KISHANGARH FORT
PRAGYA SHIKHAR TODGARH
VICTORIA CLOCK TOWER
PRITHVI RAJ SMARAK
SHAHID SMARAK, AJMER
BIKANER
WELCOME TO CAMEL COUNTRY
Known for producing the best riding camels in the world, Bikaner, in the desert state of Rajasthan, is also known as the ‘Camel Country’. The Ship of the Desert is an indivisible part of life here. Be it pulling heavy carts to transport grains and goods or working on wells, camels are the prime helpers. From catering and fashion to travelling and entertainment, the camel is a day-to-day necessity.
The wells of Bikaner, an important resource of water for the locals, are another attraction of the city. ALSO SEE Photos of Bikaner: Beautiful Images of Rajasthan’s Marvellous City Surrounded by The Thar Desert
Bikaner is home to one of the only two models of the biplane used by the British during World War I. They were presented by the British to Maharaja Ganga Singh, then ruler of the city. Another unique aspect about Bikaner are the sand dunes that are scattered throughout the district, especially from the north-east down to the southern area. Bikaner is situated in the northern region of Rajasthan. One of the earlier established cities, Bikaner still displays its ancient opulence through palaces and forts, built of red sandstone, that have withstood the passage of time. The city boasts of some of the world’s best riding camels and is aptly nicknamed ‘camel country’. It is also home to one of the world’s largest camel research and breeding farms; as well as being known for having its own unique temple dedicated to Karni Mata at Deshnok, called the Rats Temple.
JUNAGARH FORT
NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE ON CAMEL
LALGARH PALACE AND MUSEUM
RAMPURIA HAVELI
DESHNOK KARNI MATA TEMPLE
PRACHINA MUSEUM
LAXMI NIWAS PALACE
JAIN TEMPLE BHANDASAR
GANGA GOVERNMENT MUSEUM
GAJNER WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
DEVI KUND
GAJNER PALACE AND LAKE
SHRI LAXMINATH TEMPLE
KODAMDESAR TEMPLE
KOLAYAT
RAJASTHAN STATE ARCHIVES
JORBEED
RAISAR DUNES
DARBARI LAKE
HORSE ECOTOURISM
KARAULI
THE LAND OF RED SANDSTONE
The small city of Karauli that has recently caught the attention of tourists is an exquisite home to well decorated havelis, peaceful shrines, picturesque views and imprinted chhatris that dot the entire city. This beauty of a place in Rajasthan shares its borders with the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh and is surrounded by Dausa, Dholpur and sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. This city resonates with Mughal architectural panache and is world renowned for its pale red sandstone that surrounds the entire city with strong and sturdy wall. Apart from its royal history, Karauli offers its visitors a rural and tranquil ambience with warm and hospitable behaviour, echoing the true old Rajasthani culture
KAILA DEVI TEMPLE
MADAN MOHAN JI TEMPLE
MEHANDIPURBALAJI TEMPLE
SHRI MAHAVIR JI TEMPLE
GOMTIDHAM
BHANWAR VILAS PALACE
KAILA DEVI SANCTUARY
CHHATRI OF RAJA GOPAL SINGH
TIMANGARH FORT
DEV GIRI FORT & UTGIR
MANDRAYAL
GADHMORA
GUFA TEMPLE
HANUMANGARH
HISTORY COMES ALIVE
Located around 4-00 km from Delhi, Hanumangarh is a city best known for its temples and its historical significance given that it was once part of the Indus Valley Civilization. Recent excavations in the area have revealed some stunning artefacts belonging to an era of great significance to human history.
The city is also known to be an agricultural marketplace where cotton and wool are woven on handlooms and sold. The primary tourist attraction of Hanumangarh is the Bhatner fort, a beautiful structure whose history dates back thousands of years.
Formerly the kingdom of Bhati kings, Hanumangarh was originally called Bhatner. However, when Raja Suraj Singh of Bikaner captured the city he rechristened it ‘Hanumangarh’. The reason being that the city was won on a Tuesday, a day considered auspicious to the Hindu god Hanuman. The Hanumangarh area is steeped in history and is believed to have once been part of the Indus Valley Civilization. This region was also important due to its location on Delhi-Multan highway as traders from Central Asia, Sindh and Kabul used to travel to Delhi and Agra via Bhatner. Several artefacts, coins and even entire buildings belonging to the era have been found upon excavation in the area.
BHATNER FORT
TEMPLE OF SHRI GOGAJI
GOGAMEDI PANORAMA
KALIBANGAN
MASITAVALI HEAD
ALWAR
GATEWAY CITY OF RAJASTHAN
Alwar is a where the journey of the Fairy Queen ends! The oldest working engine in the world and one of India’s national treasure, Fairy Queen leads a train from Delhi encampment to Alwar in Rajasthan. The engine was built in 1855 and acquired by the Eastern Indian Railways from a British firm. The train that harnesses this engine is now used for tourism.
The journey of the city of Alwar and its origins can be traced back to 1500 BC. Nestled in the lap of the green hills of the Aravalli range, it is home to beautiful palaces and forts from an era long gone. The deep valleys and thick forest cover of the hills are a haven for many species of birds such as grey partridge and white-throated kingfisher and animals, most notably, the Bengal tiger and golden jackal. It is this splendour and exquisite architecture, along with the calm lakes, royal hunting chalets, dense jungles and a socio-cultural environment unlike any other that makes Alwar a traveller’s delight.
Alwar is one of the oldest cities in Rajasthan. Paradoxically, the city is also the most recent of the Rajput kingdoms. Its traditions can be traced back to the realms of Viratnagar that flourished here around 1500 BC. Also known as Matasya Desh, this is where the Pandavas, the mighty heroes of the Mahabharata, spent the last years of their 13-year exile.
BHILWARA
THE LAND OF TEXTILES
Famous as the ‘city of textiles and looms’, Bhilwara is home to the world renowned Ramdwara of Ramsnehi Sampraday. The founder Guru of the Sampraday, Swami Ramcharanji Maharaj, preached to his followers here and later decided to move to Shahpura. The present day headquarters of the Ram Snehi Sampraday, known as Ram Niwas Dham are located in Shahpura.
History, mythology, art, culture and poetry blend seamlessly to create a city of great depth and prosperity in Bhilwara, Rajasthan. Ancient forts with crumbling walls, narrating tales of centuries gone by, stand proudly next to the burgeoning progress of a textile and manufacturing hub in this city. Poets have found inspiration here and artists, their muses. Age-old temples, lush green gardens and intricately carved rock formations only add to the understated beauty that is Bhilwara.
Some people say that Bhilwara got its name from the Bhils (tribal people) who lived there during the days of yore. As per a story, the city of Bhilwara had a mint that minted coins known as ‘bhiladi’. This is supposedly the origin of the district’s name. Bhilwara's cultural history can also be traced back to the Nagar Brahmins mentioned in the Skanda Purana.
BADNORE FORT
PUR UDAN CHATRI
KYARA KE BALAJI
KYARA KE BALAJI
THE MADHAV GOU VIGYAN ANUSANDHAN KENDRA
MANDAL
HARNI MAHADEV
GAYATRI SHAKTI PEETH
DHANOP MATAJI
SHRI BEED KE BALAJI
SHRI CHARBHUJANATH TEMPLE
BAGORE SAHIB
CHAMUNDA MATA MANDIR
TRIVENI
GANESHA TEMPLE
MEJA DAM
BIJOLIA
JAHAZPUR
SHAHPURA
TILASVAN MAHADEV
ASIND
MANDALGARH
SHEKHAWATI
CHURU, JHUNJHUNU & SIKAR
orth West Rajasthan, Jaipur is 185 Km and Bikaner 230 Km from Shekhavati region, Jaipur is the nearest airport.Must VisitHavelis, DundlodTemperatureMax 41°C, Min 29°C (summer); Max 30°C, Min 10.5°C (winter)LanguagesHindi, Rajasthani and MarwariIdeal TimeOctober to March is the ideal time to visit Shekhavati RegionClothingLight tropical (cotton) for summer and woolen for winter.
Shekhawati, meaning the garden of Shekha, derives its name from Rao Shekha, its former ruler. Situated in the Delhi-Bikaner-Jaipur triangle, Shekhawati is a semi desert region in north Rajasthan. Known as the "Open art gallery of Rajasthan", this region is mainly famous for its amazing havelis richly painted and decorated. These havelis of Shekhawati in Rajasthan, India were built by the wealthy merchants of the past. They served as a measure of the prosperity and success of the merchants. The grander the haveli, the more prosperous the merchant was believed to be.
This Shekhawati city guide will help you in further exploring this area.
There are numerous havelis in Shekhawati, some of them dating back to the 18th century. They are in rich artistic tradition and the latest one were built in the early 20th century. From painted murals to carvings to mirror work, these havelis have their walls and ceilings adorned with numerous forms of fine art. The frescos of the some havelis even depict mythological themes as well as images of huge animals. With the passage of time the themes changed. Some havelis have frescos showing the arrival of the British and some others highlight steam locomotives and train.
Apart from the havelis, other highpoints of Shekhawati travel and tourism include forts, minor castles, mosques, step wells (baoris) and royal cenotaphs (chattris), etc. There are also a number of excursion places near Shekhawati that add to the tourist appeal of the region. A visit to Shekhawati will take you back to the bygone era of the city. The massive havelis, beautiful paintings and other amazing monuments will make your trip worthwhile.The realm of lovely havelis, harking back to the yester years, epitomizes the beauty of Shekhawati – a region that comprises of Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu. It is a major landmark tourist destination of colourful Rajasthan. Once the bastion of Rao Shekha, this magnificent land, located on the North of Rajasthan, derives its nomenclature from the former.
Shekhawati is a tourist's paradise. The land is laced with innumerable beautiful havelis or grand mansions that are guaranteed to capture one's imagination. It is a haven for a true connoisseur of art and architecture. A riot of colours encapsulates the spirit of this vibrant landscape. Exquisitely embellished havelis mushroomed during the eighteenth century and former half of the twentieth. Mythology and fauna lies at the very core of this wonderful art. Tales narrating the valour of Lord Rama and the miracles of Lord Krishna unfold on a journey of these marvellous mansions. The region also houses towering forts, baoris, and shrines, besides the ubiquitous havelis.
SETHANI KA JOHARA
KANHAIYALAL BAGLA HAVELI
AATH KAMBH CHHATRI
RATANGARH FORT
DIGAMBAR JAIN TEMPLE
LAXMINARAYAN TEMPLE
LAXMANGARH FORT
TAL CHHAPAR SANCTUARY
MANSA DEVI TEMPLE
FATEHPUR
RAGHUNATHJI MANDIR
KHETRI MAHAL
SUNSET POINT MODA PAHAR
RAMGARH
MANDAWA
BANDE KA BALAJI TEMPLE
PANCHDEV MANDIR
RANI SATI MANDIR
BISSAU
ALSISAR
DUNDLOD
NAWALGARH
PALI
THE TRADE CENTRE OF THE ROYAL STATE
Pali, which is also known as ‘the industrial city’, is located in the state of Rajasthan. It is the administrative headquarters of the Pali District. This famous tourist hotspot lies on the banks of the river Bandi. Earlier, this place was known as Pallika and Palli. The place got its name from the Paliwal Brahmins who used to reside in the place during the ancient times.
This place is famous for having a large number of textile industries and has been a trading centre since the historic times.
An Array Of Temples To Visit - Tourist Places In And Around Pali
This place is renowned for various Jain temples, forts, gardens and museums. The Navalakha Temple is one of the important shrines of Pali. It is also known as Naulakha Jain Temple and is famous for its beautiful architecture. This Jain temple is dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara. Other important shrines of Pali are the Parshuram Mahadev Temple, Chamunda Mata Temple, Somnath Temple and Hatundi Rata Mahabir Swami Temple.Eponymously known as the Industrial City, Pali has been an important part of Rajasthan from centuries and a hub for merchant activities. Carved out of erstwhile state of Jodhpur, Pali flaunts its rich heritage and culture in the form of beautiful Jain temples and other elaborate monuments. Resembling an irregular triangle, this district shares a common border with eight districts in Rajasthan namely, Nagaur and Jodhpur in the north, Barmer in the west, Rajmasand and Udaipur to the south-east, Ajmer to the north-east and Sirohi and Jalore in the south and south-west respectively.
RANAKPUR JAIN TEMPLES
JAWAI DAM
PARSHURAM MAHADEV TEMPLE
NIMBO KA NATH TEMPLE
SUN TEMPLE
RANAKPUR DAM
OM BANNA DHAM
SAMAND LAKE
JALORE
THE CITY OF GRANITE AND GRANDEUR.
Famed for its numerous quarries, Jalore has risen to prominence for producing some of the finest granite in the world. Originally a small town, industrial growth has helped Jalore grow by leaps and bounds in recent times.
The ‘tope khana’ or cannon foundry at Jalore Fort is the foremost tourist attraction of Jalore and it provides stunning views of the city. The city is also famed for the Sundha Mata Temple which was built around 900 years ago and is sacred to the devotees of goddess Chamunda Devi.
Believed to be founded in the 8th century AD, Jalore was originally called Jabalipur in honour of the saint Maharishi Jabali. The town was also known as Swarngiri, after the hill at the foot of which it is situated. Over the centuries a number of clans ruled over Jalore including the Gurjara Pratiharas, the Parmars and the Chauhans until the city was captured and destroyed by the Sultan of Delhi, Ala-Ud-Din-Khilji. After 4 centuries the city was finally restored back to the rulers of Marwar in 1704.
JALORE FORT
TOPEKHANA
SIREY MANDIR
MALIK SHAH'S MOSQUE
SUNDHA MATA TEMPLE
BARMER
INDIA'S FIFTH LARGEST DISTRICT
Just 20 odd kilometres away from the Indo-Pak border lies the desert town of Barmer. The city lies in the Thar Desert region of the state of Rajasthan in the western part of India and thus Barmer is known to have extreme climatic conditions. The city of Barmer is a historic city like most of the cities in Rajasthan, it has a very proud lineage of Indian rulers who still have impressions in the city. Barmer is often neglected when touring Rajasthan but here we have compiled top 5 Places to visit in Barmer, Rajasthan that will throw light on Barmer in a different way altogether and make you want to go there right now.
Occupying an area of 28,387 sq. km, Barmer is among the larger districts in Rajasthan. Being in the western part of the state, it includes a part of the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is to the north of this district while Jalore is in its south. Pali and Jodhpur form its eastern border and it shares a border with Pakistan in the west. Partially being a desert, this district has a large variation in temperature. The temperature in summer can rise up to 51 °C and falls to 0 °C in winter. Luni is the longest river in Barmer district. After travelling a length of almost 500 km, it passes through Jalore and merges in the marshy land of Runn of Kutch.
In 12th century this region was known as Mallani. It’s present name was give by its founder Bahada Rao, popularly known as Bar Rao, Parmar Ruler (Juna Barmer). He build a small town which is presently known as “Juna” which is 25 kms from present city of Barmer. After Parmer’s, Rawat Luka -Grand Son of Rawal Mallinath, establish their kingdom in Juna Barmer with help of his brother Rawal Mandalak. They defeated Parmers of Juna & made it their capital. Thereafter, his descendant, Rawat Bhima, who was a great warrior, established the present city of Barmer in 1552 AD and shifted his capital to Barmer from Juna. He build a small fort on top of the city which is also known as Barmer Garh. Hill of Barmer fort is 1383 feet but Rawat Bhima build fort at height of 676 feet which is safer place than top of hill. The estate of Barmer was hereditary bhumia Jagir (independent principality), being an alloidal vassal state of Marwar (Jodhpur) in Rajputana Agency and as against the other Nobles, Jagirdars and Chiefs of Jodhpur State who hold land on condition of regular services being rendered, the Rawat owes nominal allegiance and offers service only during emergencies.
Once a camel trade route, This area is rich in craft that include wood carving, pottery, embroidery work and ajrak prints. Several festivals are held in Barmer, Most important being the Mallinath Cattle festival which is held at Tilwara village in remembrance of Rawal Mallinath who was founder of Mallani Pargana.
KIRADU TEMPLES
BARMER FORT & GARH TEMPLE
JUNA FORT & TEMPLE
RANI BHATIYANI TEMPLE
VISHNU TEMPLE
DEVKA-SUN TEMPLE
SHRI NAKODA JAIN TEMPLE
SAFED AKHARA
MAHABAR SAND DUNES - BARMER
CHINTAMANI PARASNATH JAIN TEMPLE
NAGAUR
HOME TO INDIA'S LARGEST SALT WATER LAKE
Nagaur is located in the north western Marwar region of Rajasthan. It is an area with a forest belt of thorn scrubs that circles the Thar Desert. It’s surrounded by Churu District in the north, Bikaner District from the northwest andSikar District in the northeast. Pali lies in the south and Jodhpur District to the southwest and west. Jaipur is located on its east, while Ajmer is in the southeast. In the south eastern stretch of this district lies the magnificent Aravalli Range while India’s largest salt lake, ‘Sambhar Lake’ lies at the southwestern corner of the district.
This city was known as Jangladesh in Mahabharata era. Its fort stands testament to the great battles and rulers who fought them. This town was granted to Raja Amar Singh Rathore by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Nagas, Chauhans, Rathores, Mughals and even the British laid claim on this city. The dargah of Sufi saint Hamiduddin Chisti Faruqui Nagauri, one of the chief disciples of Khwaja Moinuddin, is also located here. Nagaur is also the birthplace of Saint Poetess Meera Bai and Abul Fazal.
NAGAUR FORT
LADNUN
KHIMSAR FORT
KUCHAMAN CITY
KHATU
AHHICHATRAGARH, NAGAUR FORT AND MUSEUM
KUCHAMAN FORT
PASHUPATI NATH TEMPLE
JHORDA
BADE PEER SAHEB DARGAH
SAWAI MADHOPUR
GATEWAY TO RANTHAMBORE
Cuddled up in the eastern zone of Rajasthan, Sawai Madhopur is one of the prominent conurbations of Rajasthan. Popularly known as the 'Gateway to Ranthambore', the town has seen many historic episodes and reigns. Sawai Madhopur has partly plain and partly undulating hilly terrain. The South and south east part of the district has hills and broken ground which form a part of a vast track of rugged region enclosing the narrow valley of the Chambal river. Surrounded by Vindhyas & Aravalis, this place is a treat for adventure enthusiasts as well as the ones with a fascination for history, with the Ranthambore National park- the most renowned national park in northern India and the Ranthambore Fort which was recently included in the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites, being the main attractions.
Passed on from the Chauhan Rajput king, Govinda to Vagabhatta, from RanaKumbha to Akbar and Aurangzeb, the city has been patronized by almost all the rulers. Beautification and renovation of the city has been regularly undertaken in almost all the regimes. Under the rule of Rao Hammir, the last Chauhan ruler the Ranthambore region prospered magnificently. In ancient India the region was more popularly known as Ranthambore. It was much later that it received the name, Sawai Madhopurfrom Maharaja SawaiMadhoSinghji I who is believed to have given the city its current plan in 1765 AD. During the British Rule Sawai Man Singh built a railway line between Jaipur and Sawai Madhopur. As a result it became accessible from a central spot in the state of Rajasthan. Today it has grown as one of the popular tourist destination in India.
RANTHAMBORE FORT
TONK
GHUSHMESHWAR TEMPLE
SUNHERI KOTHI
JAMA MASJID
HATHI BHATA
RANTHAMBORE
SHRI MAHAVIRJI TEMPLE
KAILADEVI
KHANDHAR FORT
AMRESHWAR MAHADEV
KOTA
THE LAND OF THE CHAMBAL
Kota is the third largest city in the state of Rajasthan and is one of the popular tourist destinations. Situated on the banks of the Chambal River, the city of Kota is famous for its distinctive style of paintings, palaces, museums, and places of worship. The city is known for gold jewellery, Doria sarees, silk sarees and the famous Kota stone.
The history of Kota dates back to the 12th century when Rao Deva conquered the territory and founded Hadoti. The independent Rajput state of Kota was carved out of Bundi in 1631. The kingdom of Kota had a turbulent history as it was raided by various Mughal rulers, Maharajas of Jaipur and even the Maratha warlords. The city of Kota is well known all over the world for its architectural splendour comprising beautiful palaces, temples and museums which exhibit the grandeur of the foregone era.
GARH PALACE
ABHEDA MAHAL
MAHARAO MADHO SINGH MUSEUM
JAGMANDIR PALACE
CHARAN CHAUKI
DAD DEVI TEMPLE
KOTA BARRAGE
CHAMBAL GARDEN
SEVEN WONDER PARK
KARNESHWAR TEMPLE
ALNIA DAM
GARADIA MAHADEV TEMPLE
MUKUNDARA TIGER RESERVE
KANSUA TEMPLE
GODAWARI DHAM