Things to Do in Rajasthan: 7 Experiences Worth the Trip

Rajasthan packs in more forts, palaces, deserts and colour than almost anywhere in India. From tiger safaris to sunset camel rides, here are the best things to do in Rajasthan — the experiences worth building your trip around.

1. Climb the great forts

Rajasthan's hill forts are its signature. Don't miss Amber Fort (Jaipur), the cliff-top Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur), the golden living fort of Jaisalmer, and the vast Kumbhalgarh, whose wall is second only to the Great Wall of China. History buffs should add Chittorgarh, Rajasthan's largest fort.

2. Sleep in the desert near Jaisalmer

Ride a camel over the Sam sand dunes at sunset, then spend the night in a desert camp under the stars with folk music and Rajasthani food. It's the quintessential Thar Desert experience — see our Jaisalmer Desert Escape.

3. Go on a tiger safari at Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places in India to spot a wild Bengal tiger, set dramatically around a 10th-century fort and lakes. Book a morning or afternoon jeep safari — our Ranthambore Tiger Safari pairs it with Jaipur.

4. Take a boat on Lake Pichola, Udaipur

Udaipur is India's most romantic city. Glide across Lake Pichola at sunset past the Lake Palace, explore the enormous City Palace, and watch the light change from a rooftop café.

5. Wander the Pink and Blue Cities

Lose yourself in Jaipur's bazaars beneath the Hawa Mahal, then do the same in Jodhpur's tangle of indigo-blue lanes below Mehrangarh. These walks — and the shopping and street food along them — are half the joy of Rajasthan.

6. Time it with a festival

If you can, align your trip with the Pushkar Camel Fair (November) or the Jaisalmer Desert Festival (February) for camel races, folk performances and colour like nowhere else. See our best time to visit Rajasthan guide for the calendar.

7. Stay in a heritage palace-hotel

One of Rajasthan's unique pleasures is sleeping inside history — a converted fort, haveli or palace. Even one night is worth it; our Luxury Heritage tour is built around them.

Plan your Rajasthan trip

Ready to string these together? Our 7-day Rajasthan itinerary shows how, and the Rajasthan packages page has trips from quick city breaks to the full grand tour. Travelling as a couple? See our Rajasthan honeymoon guide.