Referred to often as the Land of Kings, Rajasthan continues to be one of the most prominent presences in India’s rich cultural legacy. This state – the largest of the nation by area – has succeeded in the safekeeping of the remnants of its historical bequest. As an act of recognising its socio-cultural importance, The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation or UNESCO bestowed nine places of the state with the title of world heritage sites in Rajasthan.
- Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort has continued to mesmerise enthusiasts of history and art alike – even recurring in some of the greatest literary works from the country. This celebrated piece of architecture – colloquially referred to as the Golden Temple due to its colour – was built under the state’s founder himself, Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. Location: Fort Road, Dhibba Para, Manak Chowk, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer.
Best Time to Visit: As Jaisalmer is a desert city, it is best to travel to the fort during the comparatively chillier months. So, the span of October to March is considered to be ideal in this regard.
Hours of Operation: The fort remains open to the general public from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day of the week. Entry Fee: For Indian visitors ₹50 For foreign visitors ₹250
[NOTE: However, please note that if you want to do photography and videography inside the fort, a minimal additional charge must also be paid.] - Jantar Mantar
Much like its namesake from New Delhi, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur has been an astonishing example of ancient India’s progressive scientific mentality. This world heritage site in Rajasthan is an observatory consisting of 19 different astronomical equipment like Vrihat Smarat Yantra, Digamsa, Nadivalaya, and Karnti Vritya. Moreover, tourists have routinely gathered at this fort to witness its sundial – which is the biggest of its kind in the entire world.
Location: Gangori Bazar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur
Best Time to Visit: October to February is considered the ideal period to visit Jantar Mantar. This way, you can sidestep facing the adverse effect of excessive heat. On the other hand, avoiding monsoon weather enables you to experience the functions of the stone sundial better.
Hours of Operation: For the general public, this observatory remains open from 9:00 in the morning to 4:30 in the evening. However, you may consider visiting Jantar Mantar at noon. This way, the vertically above position of the sun will allow you to interpret the operations of the instruments present with comparative ease.
Entry Fee: For Indian visitors ₹50 For foreign visitors ₹200 [NOTE: Notably, now you can avail of the tickets via both online and offline ] - Chittorgarh Fort
A former capital of Mewar, the Chittorgarh Fort was central to the political narratives of the Khalji, Rajput, and Mughal dynasties. With its limestone bridge, bricked walls, and adjacent lake, the fort continues to appeal to art enthusiasts. Vijaya Stambha, a triumph tower within the fort, is known as the Symbol of Chittorgarh.
Location: Chittor Fort Road, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: Winter (December – February) and monsoon (June – September) offer comfortable weather for exploration.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Note: The adjacent museum is closed on Mondays.
Entry Fee: For Indian visitors ₹50 For children ₹25 For foreign visitors ₹200 - Amber Fort
Also known as Amer Fort, this is the largest fort in Jaipur and represents a fusion of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The fort’s Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) is a prime example of this blend.
Location: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: November to January is ideal for visiting Amber Fort.
Hours of Operation: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Night tourism is available from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Entry Fee: For Indian visitors ₹50 For foreign visitors ₹550 - Ranthambore Fort
Located within Ranthambore National Park, this fort has witnessed the political history of Rajasthan. It houses several Hindu and Jain temples and was once ruled by the Kachwaha Maharajas of Jaipur.
Location: Ranthambore Road, Vigyan Nagar, Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: November to February is ideal for comfortable weather. For wildlife watching, visit between April and June.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry Fee:Free - Kumbhalgarh Fort
With its 36-kilometer long wall, Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the largest forts in the world. It is over seven centuries old and was the birthplace of Maharana Pratap.
Location: Rajsamand district, Aravalli Hills, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: September to March is recommended.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee: For Indian visitors ₹15 For South Asian and Bay of Bengal Initiative visitors ₹15 For foreign visitors ₹200 - Gagron Fort
Known as Jaladurga or Water Fort, Gagron Fort is surrounded by water bodies, making it an impenetrable stronghold for the Khinchi kingdom. It has been controlled by Rajput, Sur, and Mughal rulers.
Location: Jhalawar, Hadoti region, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: August to March is ideal.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee: Free - Keoladeo National Park
Originally a hunting ground, Keoladeo National Park is now a protected sanctuary home to a diverse range of wildlife. It is a popular spot for bird watching and observing other fauna.
Location: Bharatpur, Rajasthan
Best Time to Visit: October to February for comfortable climate conditions.
Hours of Operation: March to October: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM; November to January: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee: For Indian visitors ₹75 For foreign visitors ₹200 - The City of Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site on July 6, 2019. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is recognized for its unique architecture and historical significance.
Location: North-western Rajasthan, India
Best Time to Visit: October to March is the ideal time for visiting Jaipur.
