Popular Palaces and Forts in Rajasthan: Dont Miss To See

Popular Palaces and Forts in Rajasthan

The word Rajasthan means the land of kings and hence, there are many palaces and forts for the tourists to visit when they come to this city. Half the beauty of Rajasthan, the largest state of India, is derived from the amazing architectural design that one can see in these majestic palaces and forts.

People say it is difficult to explore the whole of Rajasthan in one trip. However, if you do not visit the following places while in Rajasthan, the trip would remain truly incomplete.

1. Amber Fort

Perched at the top of the hill, Amber fort is one of the most magnificent buildings of India. It is known for its maze-like passages and architectural brilliance.  Clad in pink and yellow sandstone, this majestic palace exists just 11 km away from Jaipur. This fort might take a first-time visitor around 2-3 hours to explore in minute detail. To ease up the process, there is an audio guide installed inside the fort itself to guide people through the beautiful architecture of the building. The audio guide in different parts of the building talks about the history of that particular part.  There is provision for light shows in the evening as well. The visit times are between 9 am and 6 pm. An Indian national needs INR25 as an entry fee, while a foreign tourist needs to pay INR200 as an entry fee. For Indian students, the entry fee is INR10. If you want to have a luxurious experience, there is provision for elephant rides for the tourists inside the palace as well.

2. City Palace, Jaipur

One of the most popular attractions in Rajasthan, the City Palace of Jaipur, is situated in the older part of the city. Built-in the 18th century, this palace is vast in size. There are a series of gardens, buildings, and courtyards inside different mahals of the palace. The palace opens at 9:30 am for visitors and closes at 5 pm. The entire palace, because of its vastness, takes around 2-3 hours to explore in detail. The entry fee here is a bit high- for an Indian national, the ticket price is INR100, while for a foreign tourist the entry fee is INR400. For an Indian child, the entry fee is INR50 and for a foreign child, the entry fee is INR250.

3. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Umaid Bhawan Palace has been voted as one of the best hotels in the world and hence, it is one of the top tourist attractions on a Rajasthan trip. The memories of Raja Gaj Singh and the glorious time of historical Chittar can be revisited through a walk around the museum of the palace. The amazing dining experience that the palace offers is appreciated by all tourists. In fact, this place is also popular as a famous destination wedding venue for celebrities. The palace and the museum together take a lot of time to explore- for first-time visitors, it should take nearly 3-4 hours. The palace opens up for the tourists to explore it at 9 am in the morning and allows tours till 5 pm in the evening. The entry fee for a tour only is INR30 for Indians, INR10 for Indian children, and INR100 for foreign nationals.

4. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Taj Lake Palace, one of the most charming and romantic hotels in the world is situated in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Floating on Lake Pichola, this mesmerizing palace has an iconic appeal with ivory white and black marbles to complement the indigo water of the lake. The famous Mewar ruler Maharana Jagat Singh created this gorgeous palace in the 18th century. Now, this summer palace has been converted into a magnificent commercial hotel for Indian and international tourists alike. The palace is open 24 hours. The tourists can visit any time without paying any entry fee. However, the boat ride inside is quite costly. A general boat ride charges an adult INR400 and a child INR200. But the sunset special boat ride charges an adult INR700 and a kid INR400. It takes 1-2 hours to explore the entire palace.

5. Nahargarh fort, Jaipur

Situated at the outskirts of Jaipur, Nahargarh fort is quite famous for its breathtaking view and intricate embellishments. The beautiful stonework and carvings that one can see here are truly marvelous. This was used as a retreat for Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Built-in the 18th century, this palace offers visitors a panoramic view of the entire city of Jaipur. The fort opens for visitors at 10 am in the morning and remains open till 5:30 pm. The entry fee for Indians is INR20 and Indian students need to pay INR5, while the foreign tourists need to pay INR50 while for foreign students, the ticket costs INR25. The total time needed to explore the fort is around 2-3 hours.

6. Mandawa Fort, Shekhawati

If you are looking to explore the proper Rajasthani architecture, then Mandawa fort is the best place for you to visit. The fort was built by Nawal Singh in the 18th century. The architecture, the paintings, the amazing mirror works, and the typical archways are striking examples of the architecture of that time. The fort is situated in Shekhawati, 170 kilometers away from Jaipur. It takes around 1-2 hours to explore the fort in its entirety.

7. Junagarh fort, Bikaner

One of the most famous buildings in Rajasthan for its unparallel architecture is Junagarh fort in Bikaner. The city of Bikaner thrives surrounding this fort itself. This magnificent structure was built in the 15th century by Rao Bika. The fort opens for tourist visits at 10:00 am in the morning and closes at 4:30 pm in the evening. It is a 2-3 hours tour that Indian nationals can enjoy at INR50 while foreign tourists pay INR300 as an entry fee.

8. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

A fifteenth-century architecture built by Rao Jodha, Meherangarh fort is one of the top tourist attractions in Jodhpur. It is a 2-3 hours tour for someone who wants to explore the entire building in detail. The fort opens at 9 am and closes at 5 pm. Indian nationals pay INR70 for the tour while international tourists pay INR600 for the tour.

9. Chittaur fort, Chittaurgarh

Built in the 7th century by the local Maurya rulers, Chittor fort is an incredible example of the Rajput architectural brilliance. The fort is over 590 feet tall and is spread across 692 acres. The fort remains open for tourist visits between 9:45 am and 5:45 pm. The entry fee here for Indian nationals is INR15, for SAARC and BIMSTEC, INR30, and for other international guests, INR 200.

10. Kumbalgarh fort, Kumbalgarh

This is a hill fort in Rajasthan, situated 82 kilometers away from Udaipur. Spending 1-2 hours here in the fort will give any visitor an amazing experience, that too in exchange for a very reasonable entry fee. The fort remains open for a visit between 9 am and 6 pm.

Rajasthan is famous as a beautiful state and it owes to these magnificent buildings for all their fame and glory. A trip to these forts and palaces is nothing but a great reminiscence of the glorious past of ancient India, in which Rajasthan and Rajput culture played a very integral role.

Popular Other 10 Palaces and Forts in Rajasthan (Beyond the Famous Ones Above)

People often think of great forts like Amber Fort, City Palace Jaipur, or Mehrangarh Fort when they think of Rajasthan. But Rajasthan has many less well-known palaces and forts that are just as beautiful, have more history, and aren't as crowded. These are great for tourists who want to see more than just the most popular spots.

These are some more beautiful forts and castles in Rajasthan that you should add to your travel plans.

1. Taragarh Fort, Bundi – The ‘Star Fort’ of Rajasthan

Location: Bundi, about 35 km from Kota
Best Known For: Panoramic views of Bundi and beautiful stepwells

Taragarh Fort, also called the ‘Star Fort’, was built in the 14th century and stands proudly on a steep hillside. The fort is famous for its massive battlements, intricate wall paintings, and three main gateways — Lakshmi Pol, Phuta Darwaza, and Gagudi Ki Phatak.

Inside, the Bundi Palace features fascinating murals depicting royal hunting scenes and legends. The fort also offers stunning views of the surrounding Aravalli hills and lakes.

Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for golden-hour photography and cooler weather.

2. Gagron Fort, Jhalawar – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Location: Jhalawar district, near the Kali Sindh and Ahu rivers
Best Known For: Only hill-water fort in Rajasthan

Gagron Fort is one of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan listed under UNESCO World Heritage. Unique for being surrounded by water on three sides and a forest on the fourth, it’s an example of Jal Durg (water fort).

The fort has witnessed many battles, and its history is tied to the valour of Rajput warriors and tales of jauhar (self-sacrifice). Its location makes it a photographer’s paradise.

Travel Tip: Combine your visit with the nearby Jhalawar City Palace for a full day of heritage sightseeing.

3. Badal Mahal, Kumbhalgarh (Not the Fort Itself)

Location: Inside Kumbhalgarh Fort complex, Rajsamand district
Best Known For: Cloud Palace with stunning views

While Kumbhalgarh Fort is already famous, Badal Mahal within it often goes unnoticed. Known as the ‘Palace of Clouds’, it has brightly coloured rooms, intricate wall paintings, and latticed windows that open to breathtaking valley views.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes — the climb to Badal Mahal can be steep but rewarding.

4. Jaisalmer Fort’s Patwon Ki Haveli

Location: Within Jaisalmer city walls
Best Known For: The first haveli built in Jaisalmer, known for fine stonework

Although Jaisalmer Fort gets all the attention, Patwon Ki Haveli is a hidden gem. This cluster of five havelis was built by a wealthy trader and showcases exquisite jharokhas, mirror work, and elaborate balconies.

The detailing on yellow sandstone under the desert sun gives the haveli a golden glow.

Travel Tip: Arrive early morning to avoid the rush and capture beautiful sunlit shots.

5. Jagmandir Palace, Udaipur

Location: On Lake Pichola, Udaipur
Best Known For: Romantic island palace

Often overshadowed by the Taj Lake Palace, Jagmandir Palace is another beautiful island retreat in Lake Pichola. Built by Maharana Karan Singh in the 17th century, it has marble elephants, a stunning courtyard, and offers peaceful boat rides from the city.

Travel Tip: Visit in the evening for magical lake views with palace lights reflecting on the water.

6. Alwar City Palace

Location: Alwar, 150 km from Jaipur
Best Known For: Blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture

The City Palace of Alwar is a hidden architectural masterpiece. Built in 1793, it combines Mughal-style arches with Rajput balconies. The palace also houses a museum with rare manuscripts, miniature paintings, and ancient weaponry.

Travel Tip: Plan during winter months (Nov–Feb) for pleasant weather while exploring.

7. Devgiri Fort, Ajmer

Location: Ajmer
Best Known For: Strategic military history

Though smaller in size compared to other forts, Devgiri Fort is historically significant. It offers insights into medieval Rajasthani military architecture and has less tourist traffic, making it a peaceful visit.

8. Taragarh Palace, Kishangarh

Location: Kishangarh, near Ajmer
Best Known For: Royal charm and Kishangarh miniature paintings

Different from Bundi’s Taragarh Fort, this palace in Kishangarh is known for its connection to the famous Kishangarh school of miniature paintings. The palace complex still retains old-world elegance with marble courtyards and arches.

9. Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Palace), Udaipur

Location: Udaipur
Best Known For: Sunset views over Lake Pichola

Built by Maharana Sajjan Singh, the Monsoon Palace was intended as an astronomical centre but became a scenic monsoon retreat. Perched high on a hill, it offers panoramic city views and is especially stunning during the rainy season.

Travel Tip: Best visited just before sunset for a magical panorama.

10. Garh Palace, Kota

Location: Kota, on the banks of Chambal River
Best Known For: Stunning wall frescoes

The Garh Palace in Kota is an impressive riverside structure known for its murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and royal life. Inside, you can visit smaller palaces like Mahal Khas and Bada Mahal.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the nearby Chambal Garden for a relaxed walk after the palace visit.

Final Travel Tips for Exploring Rajasthan’s Lesser-Known Forts & Palaces

• Go Off-Season: Visiting between July–September or February–March often means fewer crowds.

• Hire a Local Guide: They share legends and anecdotes you won’t find in guidebooks.

• Wear Comfortable Footwear: Many forts require steep climbs or uneven walks.

• Carry Water & Snacks: Some sites have limited facilities.

• Photography: Early mornings and late afternoons give the best lighting.