Sunday 23 February 2014

Rajasthan; the Royal Land of Golden Sand

Rajasthan is the mystic and regal land of golden sand, Kings and Rajputs, rhyming folk songs and dances, multi-colored clothing, lip-smacking cuisines and unparalleled handicrafts. The state has always something unique to offer to its visitors.

Famous Lands:

Jaipur

Jaipur, famously known as “Pink City” is the capital of Rajasthan.  Must-visit places are, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, Jal Mahal, Birla Temple, Sisodia Rani Garden, forts including Jaigarh, Nahagarh and Amber forts. While the splendid style of Hawa Mahal will intrigue you, the whopping canon at Jaigarh Fort will fascinate you. Located amidst the water the Jal Mahal has its own enthralling history.

Image Courtesy: www.photoburst.net
Jodhpur

Jodhpur was founded as the capital of Marwar state by Rao Jodha-chief in the year 1459. Located at the edge of the Thar Desert, it reverberates with stories of antiquity in the hollowness of the desert. The main attraction is gigantic Mehrangarh Fort, sited on the hilltop. Heading towards to Clock Tower you will spot the 30 years old Omelet Shops near the inner arch, serving over 20-30 varieties. However, beware of the duplicators.

Image Courtesy:www.livemint.com

Udaipur

In the year 1568 Maharana Udai Singh, founded the lake city of Udaipur. It is often referred to as the 'Venice of the East'. Interspersed with extravagant forts and palaces, splendid temples, hilltop fortresses, and romantic gardens this 'City of Dreams' is a favourite with both Indian and foreign tourists. A fantasy island palace shimmering on mirror-calm Lake Pichola, the lake Palace is one of the most romantic hotels in the world.

Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer known as “The Yellow or Golden City” “is located in the heart of the desert. Towering majestically above the city, Jaisalmer Fort made in sand stone is also known as the living museum as it contains numerous havelis which belonged to merchants in the 19th century.

Image Courtesy:www.trekearth.com
Pushkar
Pushkar, the only shrine of Lord Brahma, is sited close to Ajmer. Pushkar’s placid lake is considered a very sacred spot for Hindus. Camel Fair which takes place for 10 days every November, is another attraction.

Image Courtesy: www.cultureaangan.com
Mount Abu

Mount Abu is oasis in the heart of harsh Thar Desert which covers an area of 1219 meters. Located at the southern angle of the Aravali range, the hill ecstasy owes a pleasant climate.



Activities

•    Adventurous desert safari to Jaisalmer or Jodhpur through titillating sand dunes on a jeep or the back of a camel is a life time experience.

•    Must try the upward royal ride towards higher altitude to witness the beauty of Amber Fort on a bejeweled elephant.

•    What could be more fascinating than spending a night under the open sky in the mighty Thar? Enjoy the comfortable camping organized by local tour operators.  As the sun goes down, the rhythmic shines of folk music and dances performed by the locals brighten up with the evening.

•    Enjoy a voyage on hot-air balloon through a sand terrestrial observing the historic forts and palaces.
•    Adventure freaks should not miss Jodhpur Flying Fox, an exclusive chance enjoy a Zip line tour with Mehrangarh Fort as the backdrop. The circuit has 6 zip lines that need approx. 1.5 hours to complete. Prior-booking is recommended.

•    Ranthambore Jungle Safari the vast National Park as well as a Tiger Reserve has some of the rare variety of animals and bird. Ride one of those Canters or open top vehicles, if lucky enough might you spot a tiger.

Image Courtesy:rajasthantourismbuzz.wordpress.com -
 What to bag, back home?

•    Famous miniature paintings on clothes and furniture, parochially known as Phad and Pichhwai from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Nathdwara and Kishangarh.

•    Regional specialty Kundan style jewelry on Meenakari from Jaipur’s Johori bazaar

•    Bandhni, in various patterns like Lahariya, Mothda and Ekdali from all major markets at Jaipur, Nai sarak Market, Jodhpur, Bada Bazaar, Udaipur, and Gumanpura, Kota.

•    Batik and Embroidery work from Jaisalmer.

•    Kagzi Potter from Alwar

•    Painted Pottery and Terracotta products from Bikaner

•    Traditional carving in little wooden boxes from Jaisalmer.

•    Traditional woolen rugs or “Namdas” from Tonk

Head to Rajasthan. The place where history, myth, chivalry and romance make an exciting fusion with the rugged natural beauty!

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