Rajasthan's unique cultural heritage gives it a strong leverage in the world's largest international industry – tourism. The State is endowed with majestic forts and palaces, the picturesque Thar desert, wild-life sanctuaries, rich art and culture and colourful fairs and festivals. One third of the international tourists visiting India, include Rajasthan in their itinerary. In 2006, over 1.2 million foreign tourists visited Rajasthan. A preferred destination for the domestic tourist too, the State was visited by around 23 million domestic tourists in 2006.

The State Government is constantly innovating to enhance the tourism experience. Some of the initiatives taken are:

• State Monuments are being turned into 'living monuments'. Amber Fort is being developed as a destination with cultural programs, restaurants, shopping, and a sound-and-light show.
  
• New tourist circuits and new attractions like 'Heritage on Wheels', ‘Palace on Wheels II’, 'Rajasthan Day Celebrations', Balloon Safari, River Cruises, Sound and Light shows have been developed.
  
• Medical tourism is on the upswing as is wellness tourism.
  
• The Hotel Policy 2006 has been announced, aimed at promoting investment and developing infrastructural facilities in the tourism sector. A land bank for hotels has been setup in the State. New Plots are continuously being added to the list.
  
• The Government has developed a compilation of details of privately-owned heritage properties that are available for private investment in a joint venture or management contract.