‘Royalty and tradition meets a riot of colors in Rajasthan.’

India, a land of diversity, has something for every type of traveler. If you want to sit of the beach, soak up the sun and chill, you can go to Goa. If you want to catch a glimpse of tiger, you can visit Corbett in Uttarakhand. If you want to a cultural and royal experience, head to Rajasthan, India.
Rajasthan is a vibrant state, where tradition and royal glory meet in a riot of colors against the vast backdrop of sand and desert. Throughout the state, there are palaces and forts that are testaments of its glorious past and rich heritage. Some of these palaces have even been converted into hotels, to give visitors a truly royal experience. Given the sheer number of palaces and forts, here is a quick reference list to ensure, you don’t miss out on Rajasthan’s offering:

Hawa Mahal: Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, and designed by Lal Chand Usta, Hawa Mahal is a whimsical addition to Rajasthan’s rich architectural heritage. Its elaborate pink façade has become an icon for the city.

City Palace: Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign, City Palace stands apart among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur. The complex covers a huge area, which is divided into a series of gardens, courtyards and buildings.

Jal Mahal: Built in the 18th century, the Jal Mahal Palace is situated amidst the picturesque Mansagar Lake, with the beautiful Nahargarh hills at the backdrop of the palace.

Jaigarh Fort: The Jaigarh Fort also called the “Victory Fort” is one of the most spectacular forts in India. Jaigarh Fort was a center of artillery production for the Rajputs and it is home to the world's largest cannon on wheels, the Jaivana.

Chittorgarh Fort: Chittorgarh Fort sprawls across 692 acres, atop a steep 180-m high rocky hill. It has a colossal structure that is secured by its several strong gateways, well-designed palaces, magnificent cenotaphs and huge towers and is a true embodiment of chivalry and pride of the Rajputs.

Lalgarh Palace: Constructed between 1902 and 1926, Lalgarh Palace was designed by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob in a style that combines traditional Rajput and Renaissance European features with Art Nouveau décor. The palace has beautiful carvings of pillars and arches in reddish-pink local sandstone.

Junagarh Fort: Constructed between 1587 and 1593 by the third ruler of Bikaner, Rai Singh, Junagarh or "Old Fort" was originally called ‘Chintamani’. It is considered as one of India's most impressive fort complexes with palaces, courtyards, pavilions, and balconies.

Mehrangarh Fort: Founded by Rao Jodha in 1459, Mehrangarh Fort is situated 400 feet above the Jodhpur city, and is enclosed by imposing thick walls. Between the mid-17th and mid-19th centuries, later rulers added to this sandstone fort.

Umaid Bhawan Palace: Umaid Bhawan Palace was named after Maharaja Umaid Singh. It has 347 rooms and serves as the principal residence of the Jodhpur royal family. V Lanchester, the architect of the Central Hall of Westminster in London, created this creamy-pink sandstone and marble palace using a pleasing fusion of Rajput, Jain and European Art Deco styles for his royal patron.

Havelis of Jaisalmer: Nathmalji’s Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli are the three havelis of Jaisalmer were built between 1805 and 1855. They are stunning impressions of past glory and nobility of Rajasthan, India.

Jaisalmer Fort: Jaisalmer Fort, built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert. It is one of the largest desert forts in the world and is also known as the "Golden Fort".

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