A fabled realm of the Maharajas and their majestic forts and palaces, Rajasthan showcases itself as the royal land of the kings. India is loaded with splendid ruined bastions, but nowhere will you find the fortresses quite as magnificent as what are found here, rising up imperiously from the desert landscape like those fairy-tale mirages of the bygone era.
Rajasthan is a northern Indian state bordering Pakistan. A glittering jewel of India, Rajasthan has something for everyone so whether you are planning an adventurous holiday hoping for a rendezvous with tigers or a quiet sojourn gazing at the beauty of the golden sand dunes, or to experience the many nuances of royalty – then Rajasthan is the place for you.
Also the land of sand dunes and jungle, camel and wild tigers, glittering jewels and vibrant culture, Rajasthan swanks off the lively element of India There are many festivals celebrated here to fill a calendar (and an artist’s palette), and the shopping and cuisine are nothing short of spectacular A must-visit state brimming with startling, thought provoking and, some unforgettable tourist attractions, Rajasthan makes a perfect place into your travel itineraries.
Rajasthan is a beautiful amalgamation of the old and new, the ancient and the modern. The lavish palaces and magnificent forts are the reminders of a rich, romantic past that speaks of heroism, honour and chivalry of those who had ruled the kingdoms. Not only the past is glorious here, but the fast-expanding cities today like Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur are a great example of culture confluence with modernity; despite the fact that the state has observed a steady progress since Independence, the people have still held on to their roots as is evident by their simple living and warm hospitality.
PLACES TO EXPLORE:
Jaipur
Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, evokes an image of the royal family that once ruled the region what is now called the Old City or Pink City for its trademark building colour Located at a distance of 260 km from the capital of India, New Delhi, it forms a part of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit along with Agra (240 km). Jaipur is one of the popular tourist destinations in India and serves as a gateway to other tourist destinations in Rajasthan. It is known for its fascinating monuments, colourful markets, gorgeous handloom garments and wonderfully laid-out gardens; it is not difficult to fall in love with Jaipur the moment you land here.
Hawa Mahal
A stunning presentation of the rich architectural expertise of the past, Hawa Mahal is a not-to-miss tourist places in Jaipur. The Mahal was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. True to the name it earned as the ‘Palace of the Winds’, Hawa Mahal has 953 windows to provide ventilation. The five-storeyed building does not have steps to reach the upper floors. Slopes connect the storeys and it is said that the Mahal was constructed to enable the Royal women of Rajput family to view the happenings in the city.
Amber Fort
Located in Amer, Amber Fort is around 11 kilometres from Jaipur. It was constructed by Raja Man Singh in the year of 1592. It was later expanded by Raja Jai Singh I. The red sandstone and marble stone construction reflect a blend of Hindu-Muslim architecture. The main entrance faces east with three more entrances. There are four courtyards in Amber Palace One of the courtyards has the Public Audience Hall, called the Diwan-i-Aam. Though it is only a ten-minute walk to the fort, which is uphill, you will surely want to tour the fort on an elephant!
Jal Mahal
Possibly the most serene sight amidst the chaos of Jaipur is the beautiful Jal Mahal Jaipur, the Water Palace. This low-rise symmetrical palace, that once was a shooting lodge for the Maharaja, appears to float in the centre of Sagar Lake. The light sand coloured stone walls of the Jal Mahal Jaipur are at a stark contrast to the deep blue of the waters of the lake, while from the Innards of the palace lush foliage sprouts.
Neemrana Fort
Neemrana is an ancient historical town, situated at 122 km from Delhi and 150 km from Jaipur on the Delhi-Jaipur highway. While most heritage resorts near Delhi are born with the beauty and treasures of history, Neemrana offers a vibrant site for magical weekend getaways, feasts, celebrations, and conferences. This 15th century heritage hotel is among the most popular resorts near Delhi for weekend breaks and is Ideal to invent your own past at the dream site of history.
Jaisalmer
The city Jaisalmer is blessed with art, architecture, culture and traditions. Jaisalmer has a number of handicrafts and antique markets which are impossible to be ignored for the shopaholics. The fort of Jaisalmer has a breath-taking sight: a massive sandcastle rising from the sandy plains like a mirage from the bygone era. No place better evokes exotic camel-train trade routes and desert mystery. Jaisalmer is known for its Thar Desert and “Golden City”. It’s distinguished by its yellow sandstone architecture and attracts many visitors all around the year.
Udaipur
Udaipur is a small city in the western side of Rajasthan. With a romantic setting that is totally unmatched, Udaipur is inarguably one of the picturesque places in India. It IS the capital of the Rajput kingdom of Mewar. Founded by Udai Singh II in 1559, its set around a series of artificial lakes and known for its lavish palaces. City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is a monumental complex of 11 palaces famed for its intricate peacock mosaics. Fantastical palaces, temples, havelis and countless narrow, colourful streets add the human counterpoint to the city’s natural charms.
Vibrant festivals in Rajasthan
Adding the liveliness into your life, the fairs and festivals celebrated at Rajasthan give vibrant touch to the uniqueness of the state. Rejoiced throughout the year, the festivals at Rajasthan showcase the state’s wonderful inheritance, delicious cuisines, folklore glittered with colorful outfits and extreme cheerfulness within the people.
Summer Festival
Held every year during Buddha Poornima, the Summer Festival celebrates the warmth of the people of Mt Abu It IS when the scorched land of Rajasthan comes alive with this two-day festival bringing forth all the gaiety, pomp and liveliness around. Mesmeric folk dances like Gair & Ghoomar, folk singing featuring the best singers from across the India fun activities like boat races, skating, band shows and many more make this summer festival one of the most popular festivals (fairs) in the state.
Mewar Festival
The Mewar festival is known to welcome the arrival of spring with open arms. It is celebrated in Udaipur with all the cheerfulness and joy. There is no doubt why this festival is in on the highly-recommended list when you visit Rajasthan. Giving the city Udaipur a glittery look, the celebration of Mewar Festival includes the local people dressing as Gangaur and Isar, followed by a procession that moves through the various parts of the city. The event continues with the number of activities, including the folk dances and songs. During this festival, the whole city of Udaipur seems to be drenched in the festive spirit displaying the distinctive colors of Rajasthan.
Jaipur Literature Fest
The Jaipur Literature Festival marks that period in the month of January when readers congregate to fulfil their avid craving for profound thoughts. Described as the ‘greatest literary show on Earth’, this festival celebrates writers from all across the world, giving an opportunity to the readers to be an inch closer to their favourite writers.
Teej Festival
Also known as ‘the festival of swings’, Teej is observed particularly in the western and northern states of India. Its major significance lies with the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Owing to the fact that this festival is mainly for the women, Teej includes applying henna on hands and feet, dancing, singing, merriment, getting together with friends and narrating stories, wearing brightly coloured saris, sharing festive foods and playing under trees on swings. Women pray to the goddess seeking the good health and long life of their husbands. Husbands in return gift them with various items as token of love. The traditional sweet Ghewar is also closely associated with the festival.
What to Eat
Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas, is not only famous for its rich culture but also the distinctive and popular cuisine. Rajasthanis love their food and it is evident in the kind of preparations they make. Dal Bati Churma and Laal Maas are the most famous dishes from the state. Gatte ki Khichdi is undoubtedly the best rice preparation one can have in Rajasthan. It is also known for its snacks like Bikaneri Bhujia, Mirchi Bada and Pyaaj Kachori. Other famous dishes include Bajre ki roti (millet bread) and Lashun ki chutney (hot garlic paste), Mawa Kachori from Jodhpur, Alwar ka mawa, Malpauas from Pushkar and Rassgollas from Bikaner, “paniya” and “gheriya” from Mewar.
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