The desert state of Rajasthan in India has some of the most beautiful monuments in the world. The medieval grandeur, the magnificent palaces, exquisitely sculptured temples, and imposing monuments in Rajasthan bear testimony to some of the finest creations of Rajput civilization. The ancient monuments in Rajasthan rank prime among the various tourist attractions of the state, which draw hoards of tourists to Rajasthan from around the world.
Widely known for their architectural splendor, these monuments owe their execution to the imagination of great rulers of the past who dared to extend their ideas to the farthest limits of human thought. A Monument tour to Rajasthan brings out the true essence of Rajput pride, culture, and glory.
Rajasthan reverberates with the history of heroism and sacrifice, and they are living examples of the bygone royal era of the state. These heritage buildings truly depict the aesthetic sense of the medieval Rajput warriors. The monuments in Rajasthan, India, are exemplary embodiments of the glorious architectural heritage of the state.
Ruins of these Rajasthan monuments have continued to fascinate art lovers and travelers for centuries. Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Chittorgarh are the major cities where a large concentration of Monuments is located. These lesser-famous destinations need to be explored to gain an insight into the history and culture of Rajasthan. Each of the monuments in Rajasthan narrates a remarkable story from the folds of history.
Most of the monuments in Rajasthan are inlaid with intricate artwork. Exhibiting the sculpting excellence of the Rajputs, these monuments reflect the love of luxury and beauty in the hearts of the ancient Rajputs.
The architectural style reflected in many of these monuments is Rajputana, while some exhibit a fine blend with other styles, especially Mughal. The exquisite interior décor at Rajasthan monuments, complete paintings, mirror work, portraits, carvings, etc., add to the picture-perfect beauty of these sites.
Though most of the monuments in Rajasthan gave shape to the immense passion of the rulers of yesteryears towards art and architecture, they had some vital purposes for their construction like defensive, religious, and accommodation.
With its golden sands, awe-inspiring bastions, ancient havelis, camel safaris, and magnetic charm, Rajasthan invites you to come and seek historical secrets from within the precincts of its monuments. Visit the monuments in Rajasthan, and you will be captivated by their exquisite charm and heritage.
Here are the top 6 monuments of Rajasthan you must explore on your trip –
1. Amer Fort, Jaipur
One of the best Rajasthan monuments is the Amer Fort. Atop Cheel ka Teela or Hill of Eagles, this fort stands proudly, enticing thousands of tourists every day to bask in its royal splendor. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with 5 others in Rajasthan.
If you are an architecture fan, Amer Fort exhibits stunning Hindu elements. The palace features massive parapets and tastefully designed gateways that give it a stately vibe. Raja Man Singh built Amer Fort in 1592, and today, it has become a famous historical monument in Rajasthan that showcases the craftsmanship through its Rajputana-style architecture.
- Highlights: Amer Sound and Light Show, elephant ride, dining experience, puppet show
- Entry Fee: INR 50 Indians, INR 500 Foreigners, for elephant ride: INR 1100 (two persons)
- Timings: 6.30 am – 9.15 am, 10.00 am – 5.00 pm
2. Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur
Overlooking Jaipur city, Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur was built in the 18th century by Sawai Madho Singh. Similar to Amer Fort, this fort is located atop Cheel ka Teela. Nahargarh or ‘abode of tigers’ along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort, was a strong defense around Jaipur. Plus, Jaipur kings used to spend their summer here as there are many palaces, temples, and gardens within the fort. To your surprise, an extended wall at this fort connects it to Jaigarh Fort.
Within the fort lies the Nahargarh Biological Park & a zoo, perfect for planning a visit here with kids. Explore the wild animals like Asiatic lions and Bengal tigers. Also, visit the Sculpture Park at Madhavendra Palace. Do not miss the dining experience at the two restaurants that offer spectacular views of the city.
- Highlights: Nahargarh Biological Park, Sculpture Park, dining at Once Upon a Time & Padao Restaurant
- Entry Fee: INR 50 Indians, INR 50 Foreigners
- Timings:10.00 am – 6.00 pm 9, on all days
Planning to visit Rajasthan, check out our comprehensive Rajasthan Travel Guide page.
3. Lake Palace, Udaipur
A summer palace for the Mewar dynasty back in the day, this palace is located on Jag Niwas Island in Lake Pichola. Attracting millions of tourists every year, this is a stunning monument in Rajasthan. Also, this is among the renowned historical places in Rajasthan that is now converted into a hotel, the Taj Lake Palace.
Maharana Jagat Singh II constructed this beauty between 1734 and 1746 by the name of Jan Niwas. The architecture consists of white and black marble, and the walls are decorated with semi-precious stones. Also, you will see gardens, pillared terraces, beautiful courtyards, and fountains at the palace.
- Highlights: You can stay at this heritage hotel.
- Entry Fee: None. However, there are separate fees for boat rides and sunset boat rides.
- Timings: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm, on all days
4. City Palace Udaipur
Sawai Jai Singh II commissioned to build City Palace in Udaipur between 1729 and 1732. It is one of the most famous monuments of Rajasthan and displays gardens, temples, and pavilions. Also, it has 3 gigantic gateways – the Tripol, the Virendra Pol, and the Udai Pol.
The palace’s architecture consists of granite and marble and is a mix of medieval, European, and Chinese. Also, the complex has many palaces on the ridge of Lake Pichola. Just like exteriors, the interiors of the Udaipur’s City Palace are adorned with mirror work, marble work, wall paintings, murals, inlay work, and colored glass. The Mewar royal family is the owner of City Palace Udaipur, and the structures here are taken care of by various artists.
- Highlights: The Fateh Prakash Palace and The Shiva Niwas Palace are converted into heritage hotels.
- Entry Fee: INR 50 kids, INR 100 adults (Indians), INR 250 kids, INR 400 adults (Foreigners)
- Timings: 9.30 am – 5.00 pm, on all days
Discover the rich history and culture inside Rajasthan's most captivating museums.
5. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Among the top monuments of Rajasthan, Mehrangarh Fort fascinates every tourist. It is also one of the most visited historical places in Rajasthan due to its grandeur and architecture. It was built by Rao Jodha in 1459 and is located at an altitude of 125 meters from sea level. For history and architecture buffs, Mehrangarh Fort is a must-visit.
The fort has 7 massive gates built by different kings to mark their victory in Jodhpur over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. Mehrangarh Fort also features a fine collection of royal cradles, paintings, palanquins, musical instruments, furniture, arms, and attires.
- Highlights: Museums, palaces, temples, and interesting stories of the rich past.
- Entry Fee: INR 70 Indians, INR 600 Foreigners
- Timings: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm, on all days
Jantar Mantar Jaipur
One of the most popular attractions in Jaipur, Jantar Mantar is a collection of some of the best astronomical instruments in the world. Its founder Raja Jai Singh, was fond of astronomy, more than he was of town planning. It was his interest in this particular field that culminated in the construction of astronomical observatories at that time when astronomy was given a back seat by the superstitions in the region. This structure was constructed in the year 1734.
Renowned as a UNESCO world heritage site, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur consists of 14 major geometric devices for predicting eclipses, measuring time and tracking stars in our universe. Quite fascinating for everyone, these structures are not only visited by astronomy and architecture lovers, but also by leisure travelers.
Over the time, the renowned observatory has been renovated again and again. Some of the popular structures in the premises of Jantar Mantar in Jaipur are the Samrat Yantra, Jaiprakash Yantra and Hindu Chhatri.
If you want to explore the top monuments in Rajasthan, contact us today. Book customizable Rajasthan tour packages with Indian Holiday at affordable rates and explore the top historical forts, monuments, temples, and palaces in a private car, meals, and comfortable accommodation.
