Rajasthan is India's royal epic - sunlit forts on rugged Aravalli ridges, mirrored palaces over blue lakes, and golden sands that glow at sundown. From Jaipur's pink facades and Udaipur's romance to Jodhpur's blue lanes, Jaisalmer's desert citadel and Ranthambore's wild heart, the state brings together history, craftsmanship, cuisine and color in grand style.
The History & Culture
Home of the valiant Rajput kingdoms, Rajasthan's chronicles echo in hill forts, stepwells and frescoed havelis. Courtly arts - miniature painting, marble inlay, blue pottery, tie-dye, and meenakari - continue to flourish in lively bazaars. Folk music and dances like Kalbeliya enliven moonlit courtyards, while desert caravans once threading the Silk & Spice routes have left a legacy of hospitality and rich, slow-cooked cuisine.
Facts Good to Know
- CapitalJaipur
- Official LanguageHindi (widely spoken: Rajasthani dialects)
- Population~8.0 crores
- Total Area342,239 km²
- CurrencyIndian Rupee (INR)
PLACES TO VISIT
Jaipur & Amber
The Pink City dazzles with Hawa Mahal, City Palace and Jantar Mantar; nearby Amber Fort crowns a hill with mirrored halls and sweeping valley views.
Udaipur
Romantic lake city of white palaces - sail on Lake Pichola, explore City Palace, and wander old-town lanes perfumed with incense and cardamom.
Jodhpur
The Blue City rests beneath mighty Mehrangarh Fort - its ramparts, museums and desert panoramas are among Rajasthan's most stirring sights.
Jaisalmer
A golden citadel rising from the Thar - carved havelis, Jain temples and Sam sand dunes craft a classic desert escapade.
Ranthambore National Park
Ruined fort walls, lakes and grasslands form the backdrop to thrilling tiger safaris and rich birdlife.
