Rajasthan beyond the Golden Triangle: where to go next

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

Many travellers see Jaipur as part of the Golden Triangle and stop there. But Rajasthan's most atmospheric places lie further west and south.

Jodhpur, the blue city

Jodhpur is dominated by Mehrangarh, one of India's most impressive forts, with a superb museum. Below it, the old city's blue houses, the clock tower market and the Art Deco Umaid Bhawan Palace make a fascinating two days.

Jaisalmer, the golden city

Rising from the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer's fort is still lived in. Carved havelis, sunset over the dunes and a night in a desert camp are highlights.

Bikaner

Bikaner is less visited, with the richly decorated Junagarh Fort, a camel research farm and famous snacks. Nearby Deshnoke has the Karni Mata Temple.

Pushkar

Pushkar is a small holy town around a sacred lake, with one of the few Brahma temples in India. In October or November, the camel fair transforms it.

Udaipur and its hinterland

Beyond the lakes, day trips go to Kumbhalgarh's long walls and the marble Jain temples of Ranakpur.

Mount Abu

Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station, is home to the intricately carved Dilwara Jain temples.

Shekhawati

The towns of Shekhawati are famous for painted havelis, an open-air gallery of frescoes between Jaipur and Bikaner.

Ranthambore

For wildlife, Ranthambore combines tiger safaris with a hilltop fort.

Planning

Distances are long; allow half a day for most drives. October to March is the season. See Rajasthan in 10 days: the royal circuit and our Cultural holidays page.