Rajasthan, the land of kings, is a popular tourist destination in India known for its rich cultural heritage, magnificent forts and palaces, colorful markets, and beautiful landscapes. One of the best ways to explore the state is by taking a motorcycle tour on a Royal Enfield motorcycle.
In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan a memorable motorcycle tour of Rajasthan on a Royal Enfield. Choosing the Right Motorcycle: The Royal Enfield is the ideal motorcycle for touring Rajasthan due to its ruggedness and versatility. The most popular models for touring are the Himalayan 411cc, Classic 350 and the Bullet 500. These motorcycles are comfortable to ride and offer an upright seating position that is ideal for long distances. They also have a good ground clearance, which is essential for navigating the uneven terrain in Rajasthan.
Preparing for the Tour:
Before embarking on a motorcycle tour of Rajasthan, it is essential to prepare yourself and your motorcycle. Here are some things you should do before you start your journey:
1. Get Your Documents in Order: You will need a valid driving license, registration certificate, insurance, and pollution certificate for your motorcycle. Make sure you have all these documents in order before you start your journey.
2. Get Your Motorcycle Serviced: It is essential to get your motorcycle serviced before starting your journey. This will ensure that your motorcycle is in good condition and is ready for the long journey ahead.
3. Pack Smart: Pack only essential items like clothes, toiletries, and a first aid kit. Make sure you carry a good quality helmet, gloves, and riding jacket to protect yourself from the sun and dust.
4. Plan Your Route: Plan your route in advance and make a note of the places you want to visit. Rajasthan has several tourist destinations, and it is essential to plan your route to cover as many places as possible.
5. Carry Cash: Carry enough cash with you to cover your expenses on the road. Rajasthan is a cash-intensive state, and credit cards may not be accepted in all places.
Best time for Rajasthan Motorcycle Tour.
The best time to visit Rajasthan depends on your preferences and the specific activities you want to do during your trip.
If you want to experience the hot, dry weather of the desert, the best time to visit Rajasthan is during the winter months, from November to February. This is when temperatures are pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. The winters in Rajasthan are also the best time to visit the national parks, as the animals are more active and easier to spot.
If you prefer cooler temperatures and don’t mind the occasional rain, the monsoon season, which runs from July to September, can be a good time to visit Rajasthan. The monsoon season is also when the state experiences some of its most colorful festivals, such as the Teej Festival and the Pushkar Camel Fair.
The summer months, from April to June, can be very hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This may not be the most comfortable time to visit, especially if you are not used to the heat.
Overall, the best time to visit Rajasthan will depend on your personal preferences and the specific activities you want to do during your trip. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.
Places to visit in Rajasthan on Motorcycle:
The first stop on your motorcycle tour should be the Pink City of Jaipur. As the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a bustling city filled with history and culture. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Hawa Mahal, a stunning five-story palace known for its intricate lattice work and red sandstone walls.
Another must-see attraction in Jaipur is the City Palace, a grand complex that serves as the official residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The palace is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and features a variety of exhibits, including royal costumes and armory.
After exploring the sights and sounds of Jaipur, it’s time to hit the road and head to the next destination on your motorcycle tour: the stunning lakeside city of Udaipur.
Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes,” is home to several picturesque lakes and palaces. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the City Palace, a grand complex that sits atop a hill overlooking Lake Pichola. The palace is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles and features a variety of exhibits, including royal costumes and armory.
Another must-see attraction in Udaipur is the Jagdish Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its ornate carvings and intricate architecture.
After exploring the sights and sounds of Udaipur, it’s time to hit the road again and head to the next destination on your motorcycle tour: the ancient city of Jodhpur.
Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City,” is home to several stunning palaces and temples. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Mehrangarh Fort, a massive fort that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The fort is a testament to Rajasthani architecture and features a variety of exhibits, including royal costumes and armory.
Another must-see attraction in Jodhpur is the Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble memorial that was built in honor of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The memorial is known for its intricate carvings and peaceful setting.
After exploring the sights and sounds of Jodhpur, it’s time to hit the road again and head to the final destination on your motorcycle tour: the Thar Desert.
The Thar Desert is a vast expanse of sand dunes that stretches across Rajasthan and into Pakistan. It is a unique and beautiful landscape .
Rajasthan is a state in northwestern India known for its rich cultural heritage, colorful festivals, and breathtaking natural beauty. Some of the top places to visit in Rajasthan include:
1. Jaipur: The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is known for its ancient palaces and forts, such as the Hawa Mahal and the City Palace. The Jal Mahal and the Amber Fort are also popular tourist attractions.
2. Jodhpur: This city is known for its impressive Mehrangarh Fort, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The blue-painted houses in the old city are also a popular tourist attraction.
3. Udaipur: Located in the southern part of Rajasthan, Udaipur is known for its beautiful lakes, palaces, and temples. The City Palace, Lake Pichola, and Jag Mandir are some of the top attractions in Udaipur.
4. Pushkar: Located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, Pushkar is known for its annual camel fair and the Brahma Temple, which is one of the few temples dedicated to the Hindu god Brahma in the world.
5. Ranthambore National Park: This national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and deer. It is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
6. Bikaner: Located in the northwestern part of Rajasthan, Bikaner is known for its ancient forts and temples, such as the Junagarh Fort and the Laxmi Niwas Palace.
7. Chittorgarh: This city is home to the Chittorgarh Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort is known for its history and architecture, and it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Mount Abu: Located in the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu is a popular hill station in Rajasthan known for its cool climate and beautiful natural surroundings. The Dilwara Temples, a complex of Jain temples, are a popular tourist attraction in Mount Abu.
If you’re planning a trip to Rajasthan, India, and are looking for some offbeat destinations to explore, consider adding Ghanerao, Bundi, Sambhar salt lake, Khuri Desert, Ranakpur, and Jawai to your itinerary. These destinations offer a unique mix of cultural, natural, and historical attractions that are sure to leave you spellbound.
Ghanerao
Ghanerao is a small village located in the Pali district of Rajasthan. It is known for its magnificent havelis (traditional mansions) and ancient temples. One of the top attractions in Ghanerao is the Ghanerao Castle, a 17th-century fortress that has been converted into a heritage hotel. Visitors can also explore the nearby Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of animals and birds, including leopards, sloth bears, and Indian gazelles.
Bundi
Bundi is a historic town located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan. It is known for its ornate palaces, stepwells, and temples. One of the top attractions in Bundi is the Taragarh Fort, a massive fortress that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can also explore the town’s many baoris (stepwells), including the Raniji ki Baori, which is one of the largest and most ornate stepwells in India.
Sambhar Salt Lake
The Sambhar Salt Lake is the largest inland salt lake in India and is located in the state of Rajasthan. The lake is a popular destination for birdwatching, as it is home to a variety of migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Visitors can also explore the nearby Sambhar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of animals, including blackbucks, chitals, and wild boars.
Khuri Desert
The Khuri Desert is a small desert located near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. It is known for its sand dunes, camel safaris, and starry nights. Visitors can take a camel ride through the desert and enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner under the stars. The Khuri Desert is also home to several traditional villages, where visitors can interact with the local communities and learn about their way of life.
Ranakpur
Ranakpur is a small village located in the Pali district of Rajasthan. It is known for its magnificent Jain temples, which are considered to be some of the finest examples of Jain architecture in India. The main temple in Ranakpur, the Chaumukha Temple, is dedicated to Lord Adinath and is known for its intricate carvings and stunning domes.
Jawai
Jawai is a small village located in the Pali district of Rajasthan. It is known for its leopard population, which is one of the highest in India. Visitors can take a jeep safari through the Jawai Leopard Reserve and spot leopards, hyenas, and other wildlife. The village is also known for its stunning landscapes, which include granite hills, winding rivers, and vast grasslands.
In conclusion, Rajasthan offers a plethora of destinations to explore, ranging from bustling cities to serene villages and natural wonders. Ghanerao, Bundi, Sambhar salt lake, Khuri Desert, Ranakpur, and Jawai are just a few of the offbeat destinations that you can visit to experience the diverse culture and beauty of Rajasthan. So, hop on your motorcycle and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the “Land of Kings”.