Udaipur
This city stands on the crossroads of the new and old world. While you notice the young crowd embracing a contemporary lifestyle, the traditional world lingers stoically in the background. In some pockets of Udaipur, families are time-warped in traditions while other pockets do away with the jaded regimes. Once in the city, you will find yourself being pulled towards its charming Lake Pichola, a walk around which reflects the true spirit of this royal city. You can also take a ropeway from here to the top of the Machla Hill in the Aravalli range. This ride offers a panoramic view of the lake and its surroundings. While many would prefer clear weather to explore this royal city, visiting it during the romantic rains also makes for a memorable experience.
Jodhpur
It’s the official blue city of India. Some believe that residents of Jodhpur painted their walls blue to save their houses from termites. No one can say for sure what the real reason is, but the colour is what sets this city apart from others of the state. Climb to the highest point of Jodhpur, on the Mehrangarh fort to get a bird’s view of this blue city. Another royal landmark of Udaipur is Umaid Bhavan, now converted into a luxury hotel that serves as a venue for many high-profile destination weddings.
Jaipur
The capital city of Rajasthan is dipped in a rosy hue of colonial buildings that make it the pink city of India. These buildings make the core of Jaipur. As you move away from the centre, make way into the tight lanes of Jaipur to understand the culture and pulse of the city. The city is also known for its handicrafts, so pick up souvenirs and gifts while roaming along its rustic streets. The handmade souvenirs – especially puppets – that you find here, won’t be found anywhere else in India.
Bhangarh
This haunted chapter of Rajasthan is located on the border of Sariska Tiger Reserve. While most places in India are only rumoured to be haunted, there is a resounding confirmation about ghosts that dwell in the ruins of this fort, which has nudged the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to officially forbid people from loitering in Bhangarh’s vicinity post dark. Why? According to reports, the place teems with negative energies and many tourists have experienced strange occurrences. Is it true? Well, you will have to explore this hauntingly beautiful corner of Rajasthan to find out.
Mount Abu
If the mention of Rajasthan promptly makes you think of an arid land getting baked in the scorching heat, then you ought to visit Mount Abu to be surprised. This pleasant destination is a cool respite from the hot and dry monotony of the state. It is perched at 1220 meters from sea level. The highest point of Mount Abu is Guru Shikhar at 1722 meters. Those who like to rough it out can choose to trek to this place. Mount Abu is also known for its Nakki Lake where tourists throng for a relaxing boat ride.
Ranthambore National park
The state of Rajasthan is a perfect blend of sorts. So, if you have the desert of Jaisalmer on one end, you also have the jungles of Ranthambore on the other. When in Rajasthan, pay a visit to this national park to spot some of their characteristic species – leopards, sambar deer, chital, Indian Wild Boar and Coomon Yellow Bats.
Pushkar
This one is a pot pourri of colours during festive seasons and is especially known for its camel fair that happens once in a year. If you love visiting cultural sites, you must experience this one. This year, the festival will take place between October 23rd and November 4th, concluding on Kartik Poornima. Pushkar is also famous for the most prominent Brahma temple in the country. The temple is believed to have been built 2000 years ago, out of marble and stone slabs.
Jaisalmer
This place gives a peek into the Thar Desert, the pride of Rajasthan. Sam Sand Dunes are what most tourists visit when in Jaisalmer. Tents are pitched in the desert and groups set up bonfires, around which is hosted cultural dancing and singing through the night during winters. All this, combined with perfect barbeques can leave a lasting memory of Jaisalmer. But there aren’t just sand dunes to be experienced, there is also the intricately carved Sonar Qila or the Golden Fort that can take your breath away. When here, peep into the badabagh or big garden which was built to conduct cremations of the royalty. This garden offers some picturesque views of sunsets.