Rajasthan, the largest state in India, is renowned for its royal heritage, vibrant cities, rich culture, and historical grandeur. Its majestic forts and palaces captivate visitors from around the world. The state is also famous for its exquisite crafts and fine arts. The vivid hues of Rajasthan are unforgettable, with emerald green, canary yellow, and fire-engine red turbans and saris creating a striking visual spectacle. Lucky visitors might even catch a glimpse of a tiger in the orange hues of Ranthambore National Park. The state is alive with celebrations, from the elaborately decorated camels and elephants at the Pushkar and Jaipur festivals to the colourful explosions of Diwali and Holi. Every day in Rajasthan feels like a festival.
A Comprehensive Roadmap to Jaipur, Ranthambore and Pushkar
Arrival and Exploration of the Pink City
Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the year November 1727. The main attraction of the capital city of Rajasthan is the archetypal architectural grandeur. Jaipur is renowned for its rich culture and the warm, friendly nature of its people. The locals are fond of wearing vibrant attire paired with beautifully crafted jewellery. The city is also famous for its folk music and dance, with major attractions like Ghoomar, where women dance in colourful flowing ghagras, and Chari, where dancers perform with pots and lit diyas on their heads. These performances are a visual delight for audiences, showcasing the city’s vibrant cultural heritage. Spend a couple of days in Jaipur to cover all the significant tourist spots.
Major attractions of Jaipur –
- Hawa Mahal
- City Palace
- Jantar Mantar
- Jal Mahal
- Amer Fort
- Nahargarh Fort
- Jaigarh Fort
- Albert Hall Museum
Reaching Ranthambore National Park from Jaipur
Ranthambore National Park is 175 km from Jaipur. Either you can cover the distance by road or take a train to Sawai Madhopur from Jaipur. Going by train is a cost-effective option if you are on a budget. Ranthambore National Park is merely 24 km from Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, and if you take an early morning train you can easily reach Ranthambore by 10:00 am. Once reaching the pre-booked resort near Ranthambore National Park, check into your room to freshen up and get ready for your afternoon safari at Ranthambore National Park which spans from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Ranthambore Jungle Safari is the star attraction of the national park. If you are visiting during the peak season, you need to conduct advance booking for the wildlife safari. Ranthambore offers both jeep and canter safari in morning and evening slots and their time varies according to season. You can opt for two rounds of safari at Ranthambore National Park. One in the afternoon on the day of arrival and the other in the morning, the next day. Returning from the morning safari at Ranthambore, have breakfast and check out from the resort to proceed towards Pushkar.
Arriving at Pushkar from Ranthambore National Park
Puskar is 306 km from Ranthambore National Park and will take about 5 & 1⁄2 hours to reach by road. Again, you can reserve your seats on the train from Sawai Madhopur to Ajmer, where you can complete the journey in 4&½ hours. Pushkar is just 14 km from Ajmer Railway Station. Reach Pushkar by evening and check into a hotel. Pushkar, located on the edge of the Thar Desert, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and religious significance. The city is particularly famous for the Pushkar Camel Fair, one of the largest and most celebrated camel fairs globally.
Major attractions of Pushkar –
- Pushkar Lake
- Brahma Temple
- Savitri Temple
- Man Mahal