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.

PLACES TO VISIT:

Udaipur: Udaipur is often said to be the most romantic city in India, as it's filled with expansive lakes and palaces. The landmark City Palace Complex, which stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, dominates the city and the royal family still lives in part of it. Many personal royal heirlooms, family photos, and other memorabilia are displayed in the City Palace Museum, giving Udaipur a very regal feel.

Jodhpur: Affectionately called the "Blue City" because of its blue painted buildings, Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. The walled old part of the city is presided over by Mehrangarh Fort, which provides the best outlook across Jodhpur's blue buildings. It's one of the largest and best maintained forts in India. Inside are a number of ornate palaces, a museum, and restaurant. There many inexpensive yet characterful places to stay in Jodhpur with views of the fort. It's refreshing to do nothing but relax on their rooftops and soak up the atmosphere.

Jaipur: The "Pink City" of Jaipur forms part of India's renowned Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit and was recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not surprisingly, the city is one of Rajasthan's most popular tourist destinations. It has many famous forts and palaces, with most of them boasting evocative views and elaborate architecture. Jaipur is an outstanding place to go shopping too.

Pushkar: For most of the year, Pushkar is a sleepy little holy town that attracts a lot of backpackers and hippie types. However, it really comes alive for a couple of weeks in October or November, when the Pushkar Camel Fair hits town. Pushkar is worth visiting at any time of year if you want to chill out. Sadly, the town isn't like it used to be though. These days, Pushkar is much more westernized and tourist-focused

Bikaner: The remote and quaint desert town of Bikaner receives less tourists than many other prominent destinations in Rajasthan because of its out-of-the-way location over five hours north of Jodhpur. The main attractions are the atmospheric walled Old City and fort. Bikaner is renowned for the rather startling Karni Mata rat temple nearby as well. A Camel Fair also happens in Bikaner every January.

Jaisalmer: A remarkable sandstone city that rises magically from the sand dunes of the Thar desert, Jaisalmer looks like it's straight out of an Arabian Nights fable. Its mesmerizing ancient fort, built in 1156, is perched high on a pedestal overlooking the city. Inside the fort is alive and spellbinding. It boasts palaces, several temples, and some elegant havelis (mansions), as well as shops and other residences.

Shekhawati region: If you're an art lover, or even someone who's into architecture and history, the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is well worth including on your itinerary. This unique region is often referred to as the world's largest open air art gallery, with old havelis (mansions) having walls adorned with intricate painted frescoes. Staying in one is a highlight! Shekhawati is located in the Delhi-Jaipur-Bikaner triangle, and is refreshingly free of tourists!

Nagaur: Nagaur lies about half-way between Jodhpur and Bikaner, making the town a convenient destination to break your journey. Its massive 12th century fort, Ahhichatragarh, has been restored to its former glory by the Mehrangarh Museum Trust and won the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Culture Heritage Conservation in 2002. The fort hosts the World Sacred Spirit Festival in February each year.

Bundi: Although increasingly popular with travelers, Bundi also often gets overlooked as a tourist destination in Rajasthan due to its off-the-beaten path location between Jaipur and Udaipur. It's a captivating place to visit, with its lakes, temples, markets, miniature paintings, and blue houses similar to Jodhpur. This relatively laid-back town is dominated by the extraordinary and imposing Bundi Palace, which protrudes out of the hillside. The ancient, winding lanes of the Old City are fascinating to wander through. Bundi also has around 50 step wells and a ramshackle fort above the palace.

Pali region: Rural tourism is growing in Rajasthan and the Pali district, between Jodhpur and Udaipur, is perfect for visitors who want to explore Rajasthan beyond its cities. Bera is one of the top destinations there due to the prevalence of wild leopards, which roam the rugged terrain and can be spotted on safari. At Jojawar, the 300 year-old Rajput fort has been converted into a heritage hotel and draws visitors. KesarBagh is a luxury option there. ChanoudGarh is another 300-year-old fort-palace turned exquisite heritage hotel in the Pali district.

Ranthambore National Park: It is one of the best places in India to spot a tiger in the wild. In contrast to many national parks in India, Ranthambore is also really accessible and easy to get to. This makes it very popular (and, unfortunately, it's been facing a lot of tourist pressure). As well as nature, the park is home to the formidable 10th century Ranthambore Fort. It's a huge structure that contains ruined pavilions, monuments, and three Hindu temples. The park is packed with history, having witnessed many battles played out on its land, and the rise and fall of many rulers.

Kota and Chambal: Less than an hour southeast of Bundi, Rajasthan's third largest city -- Kota -- sits alongside the Chambal River. Once you've seen its palaces, temples and museums head out to explore the National Chambal Sanctuary and take a boat ride along the river. It's home to rare wildlife such as the gharial (a long-snouted, fish-eating crocodile) and Gangetic river dolphin. Bhainsrorgarh Fort boutique heritage hotel was once a royal abode and has an enviable position atop the cliff. The view is breathtaking! Plus, the 9th century Badoli Temples are nearby