This is Travel Guide is a sequel to Travel Guide: Basics to India, so be sure to also read that for more helpful information on their culture and getting around the country!

Rajasthan, India 

Rajasthan is a north western Indian state that borders with Pakistan and is filled with many unique cities. This state is a must go to in India for its’ copious amounts of palaces and forts; each reflecting beautifully to its’ respective kingdom. Rajasthan is also known for its’ desert-like climate, so check the time of year you plan on going and make sure it’s not too unbearably hot!

Rajasthan Cities:

Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known as the ‘Pink City’. Filled with historical must see sites, you won’t be left twirling your thumbs in your hotel room. Jaipur is part of the Golden Triangle, which is a very popular route to travel in India, especially those who are working with a short time frame!

Amer Fort:

This Fort is HUGE. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to peruse all of its’ beautiful nooks and crannies – there is some stunning architectural details to be seen!

*NOTE: The fort does provide Elephant rides from the base of the hill into the entrance of the Amer Fort, but please keep in mind, these Elephants do not receive proper care and are treated very poorly. By riding these Elephants, you’re contributing to this sad cycle that really should be put to an end. Tuk Tuks can be hired for an affordable price around the city and into the fort.

• What to Wear: No specific dress code required.
• Cost: 500 Rupees

Hawa Mahal:

This building is one of the beautiful pink buildings that gives Jaipur its’ name. It’s located in the Johari Bazaar and if you decide to enter, you can see great views of the Jantar Mantar and City Palace. This palace was created so women of the royal household were able to watch street festivals without being seen from the outside.

• What to Wear: No specific dress code required.
• Cost: 50 Rupees (Cost for entry to the building, but viewing from the street is free)

City Palace:

The City Palace is located in the center of the Old City in Jaipur and is made up of a courtyards, gardens and other buildings.

• What to Wear: No specific dress code required.

• Cost: 400 Rupees

Jodhpur

Jodhpur is known for its beautiful blue buildings, hence why it’s called the “Blue City”. This city is an overnight train away from the bustling streets of Delhi and is great for a day or two stop over. Make sure you get to the top of the infamous fort located in this city to see the true beauty of all the blue!

Mehrangarh Fort

The Mehrangarh Fort was by far my favorite fort in India. It was informational, beautiful, and had such great history. This museum does a great job at telling you the historical story of which this fort embodies. It also provides some of the most stunning views of the city!

• What to Wear: No specific dress code required.
• Cost: 600 Rupees (Must get the informational headphones, absolutely worth it!)

Clock Tower

The Clock Tower in the center of Jodhpur’s Old City is a great place to use as a stopping point. It’s surrounded by a market filled with great food, drinks, and shopping! Make sure you go to the Omelette Shop! The man who has been running it has been around for years and it definitely shows, he’s eggcellent!

Flying Fox Biplane

This zip line adventure tour gives you a really amazing view and experience of the city from up above! The tour includes 6 zips that won’t leave you disappointed. You can book ahead of time here at their website – http://flyingfox.asia/destinations/index/  Jodhpur

• Location: This zip lining tour begins at the Mehrangarh Fort
• Cost: 1,600 Rupees

Jaisalmer

This amazing city located far West in the state of Rajasthan is located in the heart of the Thar Desert. Also known as the “Golden City”, it is made up of architecture that was built up from sandstone, thus giving it its’ yellow glow and signature name. Check what time of year you go to see what sort of festivals they’re putting on. They’re mostly known for their annual Desert Festival which is something definitely worth going to this city to experience! The festival was filled with beard grooming competitions, camel dressings, tug of war, and some very entertaining camel polo!

Golden Fort

The Golden Fort is in the city center and is filled with shops, restaurants, residential homes, guesthouses and hostels. It really provides everything you need in one shot! If you’re staying on the outskirts of the fort you can still easily walk to the entrance and let yourself get lost in the windy yet magnificent alleys of this fort. Make sure to grab something to eat at one of the roof top restaurants to get a good view of the city!

• Cost: Free

Camel Safaris

If you’re going to Jaisalmer, camping under the stars after riding on a camel all day in the Thar Desert should definitely be on your agenda. They have many different companies that provide services, just shop around and see which best suites you! All provide food, camping gear, beer (make sure you mention how much you want ahead of time) and of course, a camel!

• Cost: Varies based on your duration – you can choose from one to multiple nights camping in the desert

Udaipur, Pushkar, Amiritza

These three cities are also located in Rajasthan and are meant to be absolutely stunning. I unfortunately did not have the time to make it to these locations, but from what I’ve been told from fellow travelers, they are some of the top cities to see in India. When I go back to this incredible country, I will definitely be heading to these places!

Helpful Tips

• Visa – The Indian tourist visa is very easy to get using the e-tourist visa website. You’ll be able to easily follow along using this website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/  visa/index.html . Visa costs $63 for 6 month multiple entry. Americans are eligible for a 10 year visa, but in order to get this visa you will need to go into the embassy and apply in person.
• Currency: Rupee
• Women should be mindful of what they wear – this will only make you feel more comfortable. In most places aside from Goa, you should wear something that goes down to your knees and covers your shoulders.
• For solo female travelers: Be mindful and use your common sense. If you feel uncomfortable, walk towards a group of people and act like you’re with them. Always walk with confidence as if you know where you’re going, even if you’re completely lost.
• Download the offline map of the city you’re in on the app Maps.Me – best maps for tourism!!
• Make sure you mark where you’re staying, and always carry around a business card from them.