Rajasthan

Rajasthan literally means 'Land of Kings' or 'Land of Kingdoms'. It is India's largest state by area and is located on the western side of country. The southern part of the state is about 225 kms from the Gulf of Kutch and about 400 km from the Arabian Sea. The present state of Rajasthan was formed in 1956. There are two natural divisions of Rajasthan. The north-western tract is generally arid and unproductive, although its character shifts gradually from desert in the far west and north-west to comparatively fertile and habitable land toward the east. The area includes the Thar (The Great Indian) Desert. It is an incredible destination for tourist who can – take a safari in the backdrop of the Aravalis - India's oldest mountain range. Feast one’s eyes on spectacular sand-dunes, take the tiger trail or just watch the birds in the wetlands. Tourists can ride caparisoned elephants, stay in palace hotels and explore imposing forts. Both Thar Desert and the Aravalli Ranges contribute to the landscape. No state in India other than Rajasthan is as rich in magnificient palaces and forts, colourful festivals and bazaars. Rajasthan’s historical forts, palaces, art and culture attract millions of national and international tourists every year.

Cities to visit in Rajasthan

Jaipur

Jaipur is the capital Rajasthan state in Northern India. The city is named after Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber and was founded on 18 November 1727. Jaipur city is enclosed within hills with fascinating bazaars, well known museums, opulent palaces and historical sights. This city of Rajputs is well known for its fairs and fests. The festivals inc...

Udaipur

The royal house of Mewar is now known as Udaipur. The city has a profusion of palaces, lakes, elaborate gardens, serene temples and festivals. The fairy tale city with its palaces and lakes surrounded by hills, was founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559 and became the capital of Mewar after fall of Chittorgarh in 1567.  Udaipur is also known as the "Most Romantic City of India" and the "Kashm...

Bikaner

Bikaner is a city in the northwest of Rajasthan and located 330 kilometres from the state capital, Jaipur. It is also a great desert kingdom of Rajasthan. It was founded in 1486 by Rao Bika, the disgruntled younger son of Rao Jodha, the ruler of Jodhpur. Bikaner with its old walled town where camels saunter past colourful stalls, the imposing palaces, beautiful and richly sculptured...

Jaisalmer

Today a remote outpost in the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer was founded in the 12th century by Maharawal Jaisal of Bhatti Rajput clan. The town stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a fort which contains the palace and several ornate Jain temples. Many of the houses and temples are finely sculptured. It is by far the oldest Rajput capital, dating from 1156 A. D. 'Jaisalmer' ...

Jodhpur

Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. The Rathors of Kannauj in Uttar Pradesh moved to Marusthal, the blazing desert land in the heart of Rajasthan. Their land came to be called as Marwar. In 1459 Roa Jodha founded Jodhpur. Strategically located on the overland trade route, it soon became a flourishing trade centre. Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, feat...

Mandawa

Mandawa is a town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan and it is part of Shekhawati region. Mandawa is situated 190 km from Jaipur in the north and lies in the heart of Shekhawati region of Rajasthan which is well known for its forts and havelis.  The compact and busy little market town of Mandawa was settled and fortified in 18th century by the dominant merch...