Road Trips to The World Heritage Sites in Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the land of traditions! This State has inherited a lot from the royal rulers and kings of yesteryears. And some of the most prominent things that they got gifted are the royal palaces, extraordinary forts, breathtakingly beautiful monuments and so much more. These palaces and forts add a sense of royalty and grandeur that itself make it a tempting location for the travellers. And do you know what attracts the tourists from all over the world? It’s the fact that Rajasthan proudly owns some of the important UNESCO verified heritage sites. Be it the Jaipur heritage sites or the other parts of Rajasthan, the prestigious presence of these monuments on this land has certainly benefitted its travel culture a lot. And if you are a foodie and arts and crafts aficionado, then the unique cuisine and myriad handicrafts of the region is sure to appeal to your finer senses and sensibilities.

Quick instructions about road trips to world heritage sites in Rajasthan:

• Best time to visit Rajasthan — October to March
• Important cities having famous heritage sites — Jaipur, Udaipur, Alwar, Jaisalmer.
• Total number of UNESCO heritage sites in Rajasthan — There are in all 8 UNESCO sites in the State.

The Most Famous UNESCO Sites in Rajasthan

1. Chittorgarh fort
2. Kumbalgarh
3. Gagron Fort
4. Amber or Amer Fort
5. Jaisalmer Fort
6. Ranthambore Fort
7. Keoladeo National Park
8. Jantar Mantar

The land of colours and art, Rajasthan hosts UNESCO sites in multitude, which narrate the revered history of the region – the mark of loyal warriors, the power of royalty, the indulgence in arts and architecture and also weave the story of the ways of life of people belonging to this region. The design and planning of the sites would leave even modern-day architects full of awe and reverence. You shall be amazed at the scientific thinking and application that went into buildings even in the ancient times. No wonder the rulers didn’t think twice before rewarding gold coins as gifts to the hardworking artists and craftsmen. But what we are gifted from them are now some of the most famous world heritage sites which are definitely worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. So, when you are planning an exciting trip to cover the Rajasthan UNESCO sites by road, don’t miss the impressive ones listed below:

1. Chittorgarh Fort

• Year of Induction: 2013 
• Located:Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

This phenomenal fort stands as a proud flagship of the Rajput culture. If you believe the mythology of Hindus, it’s supposed to be built in the 7^th century by Bhima, one of the brothers of Pandavas, within a night. This fort is even tagged as Water Fort because of an exceptionally large number of water bodies (about 100) found inside. This fort covers an area of 700 acres at a height of 180 metres

2. Kumbhalgarh Fort

• Year of Induction: 2013 
• Located: Kumbhalgarh, Mewar

One of the Hill forts of Rajasthan that’s been attracting millions of visitors since the 15^th century is the Kumbalgarh. This fort is considered to be the second largest wall in the world, second to the Great Wall of China, with a height of 1,914 metres over the sea level. This houses a number of temples, gardens and palaces inside the fort. The zigzag road leading to the ravines and forests, the wide seven gates for a grand entry, huge watch towers and sombre walls would vie for attention. The major highlight are the 360 temples inside the fort, each special in its own way.

3. Gagron Fort

• Year of Induction: 2013 
• Located: Gagron, District Jhalawar 

The Gagron Fort in Rajasthan is considered as a special fort as it reminisces the Sati sacrifice of many women who burnt themselves alive here in order to save their chastity. This fort is especially a UNESCO site because of its unique structure having three courtyards (normally other forts have two courtyards). It is surrounded by water on three sides, which makes a splendid view from the fort. And while you are here, don’t miss the Hiraman parrots, which are double the side of the normal parrots and repeat what humans say perfectly.

4. Amber or Amer Fort

• Year of Induction: 2013 
• Located: Amer, Jaipur

Built in the 16^th century, and named after Goddess Amba, this fort is exemplary for artistry and clever architectural planning. The serenity of the Lake Mahohta and the beauty of the mosaic and glasswork found all around would leave any visitor spellbound. Channels of water cleverly designed crisscrossing the premises kept it cool from the desert heart. The renowned Sheesh Mahal (palace made of mirrors) is believed to be unique – found nowhere else in the world.

5. Jaisalmer Fort

• Year of Induction: 2013 
• Located: Jaisalmer

Also known as the Golden Fort, the Jaisalmer Fort gets its name because of the colour of the sandstones that were used to build it. Standing tall amidst the Thar Desert, this fort exudes a golden glow during sunrise and sunset, leading to the coinage of the local name ‘Sonar Quila’. The Raj Mahal, Laxmi Temple and Jain Temple would take you through the meandering lanes of history, wars and martyrdom.

6. Ranthambore Fort

• Year of Induction: 2013 
• Located: Ranthambore

Nestled amidst the Ranthambore National Park near Sawai Madhopur this ancient fort is believed to have been built in the 8^th century and has been a witness to wars and dynasties since then. The flagship fort of the Chauhan dynasty is spread across 7kms and is a spectacular specimen of stone masonry. Although the ravages of time have taken toll upon the fort, the fort houses multiple pavilions, cenotaphs, mosques, temples, barracks, stepwells and much more, apart from the vast expanse of wilderness where wildlife sighting is common.

7. Keoladeo National Park

• Year of Induction: 1985
• Located: Bharatpur, Rajasthan

Also known as Bharatpur Bird sanctuary this is the most famous avifauna sanctuary in India where about 230 specimens of birds have their habitat. This manmade and managed wetland is also home to hundreds of rare flora, reptiles and amphibians. The best time for sighting birds is winter.

8. Jantar Mantar

• Year of Induction: 2010 
• Located: Jaipur

Built in the 18^th century, this stone-made observatory boasts of the astronomical, engineering and cosmological prowess of the ancient Indians.

Apart from these, in 2019 the City of Jaipur was declared to be a UNESCO Heritage site too. The 43^rd Session of the Committee declared the same after the strong recommendations of ICOMOS (International Committee on Monuments and Sites). The walled city of Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is an amalgamation of architectural ideas of the Mughals, ancient Hindus and contemporary West. This makes it exemplary in the genre of town-planning, apart from being the State capital and having very profound cultural, craftsmanship and culinary legacy. You can easily travel by road opting for a self drive throughout Rajasthan in a car rental exploring UNESCO sites starting from Jaipur and then move on to cover other cities of the State, and come back enriched and awed.