Top Places to Visit in Rajasthan with Maharaja Express
Traveling via the Maharajas’ Express India promises an immersive, offbeat experience for all those interested in exploring Rajasthan’s most famous tourist destinations. Keeping aside its embellished interiors, palatial cabins, and remarkable hospitality, the Maharaja Express thoughtfully curated its itineraries, which take you through Rajasthan’s opulent forts, shimmering lakes, ancient temples, vibrant bazaars, and cultural heritage centers. Our directory of the best places to visit city-wise in Rajasthan includes:
Jaipur
The reason behind Jaipur being in the limelight of every Maharajas’ Express itinerary, be it ‘The Indian Splendour’ or ‘The Heritage of India’, is its phenomenal tourist attractions:
- Amber Fort
Situated at Kalikho hilltop, the Amer Fort embodies the splendour of Rajputana architecture with its shimmering mirror work and diverse panoramic vistas in each direction.
- City Palace
This Kingsley Castle showcases a distinctive blend of Mughal and Rajput aesthetics, encompassing several courtyards, museums, pavilions, gardens and temples, along with the world’s largest silver urns.
- Jantar Mantar
A UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory, Jantar Mantar is home to the world’s largest stone sundial.
- Hawa Mahal
Jaipur’s most iconic five-storey building, better known as the “Palace of Winds”, comprises 953 intricately carved windows from which royal ladies used to watch festival celebrations below.
- Albert Hall Museum
The oldest museum in Rajasthan, the Albert Hall, is a living example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Inside the museum, you will find rare artifacts like ancient coins, paintings, metal and stone sculptures, pottery, weapons, textiles, carpets, and more.
- Birla Mandir
Built entirely using white marble, Birla Mandir is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The temple glows beautifully during twilight, with intricate carvings narrating mythological tales of the bygone era.
- Chokhi Dhani
An ethnic Rajasthani cultural village resort where you get to enjoy Rajasthani folk dance, Kathputli shows (puppetry), local cuisine, camel rides, and get to discover more about the vibrant native culture.
- Local Bazaars
The most famous local markets in Jaipur are Johari-Bazar, Tripoli-Bazar, and Bapu-Bazar, visited by most people for gemstones, lac bangles, blue pottery, and colourful textiles.
Jodhpur
As the Maharaja Express rolls into Jodhpur, you will surely be enchanted by a sea of blue houses against a rugged desert backdrop. Top places to visit in Jodhpur are:
- Mehrangarh Fort
One of the largest Indian forts, Mehrangarh is perched at approximately 410 feet on a rocky hill better known as the Bhaurcheeria, or the “Mountain of Birds”. It is popularly known for its intricate carving, embellished courtyards, and the rare museum collection.
- Umaid Bhawan Palace
This 20th-century marvel exhibits a majestic blend of Indo-European architecture. Today, this palace is among the world’s largest heritage hotels, with expansive gardens, multiple courtyards, banquet halls, long-forgotten museums, and more.
- Jaswant Thada
Often referred to as Jodhpur’s Taj Mahal, the monument is constructed from Makrana marble, which emits a warm, translucent glow when sunlight touches its surface.
- Mandore Gardens
A historic park featuring cenotaphs, ancient temples, and lush green gardens, providing a captivating glimpse into Rajasthan’s regal past.
- Old Clock Tower Market
Those visiting Udaipur for the first time, you must walk through the streets of this market, best known for its spices, handicrafts, and local snacks like mirchi vada.
Udaipur
Udaipur, the city of lakes, is a tourist destination that leaves you in awe for sure. From glittering lakes to age-old landmarks, the best places to visit in Udaipur include:
- Lake Pichola
- Crystal Gallery
- Jal Mandir Palace
- Bagore ki Haveli
- Monsoon Palace, better known as Sajjangarh
- City Palace
- Shilpgram
Bikaner
Bikaner is widely recognised for its royal forts, camel rides, and richness of culinary traditions. Unmissable Attractions in Bikaner:
- Jugangarh Fort
- National Research Centre on Camels
- Lalgarh Palace
- Karni Mata Temple
- Local Delicacies
Pushkar
Pushkar can be regarded as the heart of Rajasthan, deeply rooted in ancient culture and traditions. Travellers visiting this sacred town must explore Pushkar Lake, local cafes, and rooftops for panoramic views of ghats and hills, the Brahma Temple, and the Pushkar Camel Festival for enjoying cultural performances, handicrafts, camel races, and other desert festivities.
Ranthambore
Some Maharaja Express India itineraries include Ranthambore, where tourists must visit:
- Ranthambore National Park
This iconic wildlife reserve in India is most famed for its Royal Bengal Tigers, historic forts, and natural landscapes.
- Ranthambore Fort
A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient temples and breathtaking natural views.
Other places to explore in Rajasthan include Jaisalmer, Chittorgarh, Bharatpur, and Kumbalgarh. You can request private excursions to your choice of scenic spots beforehand, for which you might be charged extra.
Rounding it All Up
Traversing the rugged terrains of Rajasthan via the Maharaja Express India is pure bliss! From Jaipur’s pink hues to Udaipur’s serene lakes and Jodhpur’s towering forts to the captivating cultural vibrancy of Pushkar, each tourist destination is in itself a chapter of India’s historical legacy. This luxury train is your royal chariot to unforgettable memories steeped in grandeur, indulgence, and comfort.
