A REMINDER OF ROMANCE AND ROYALTY

The magical land set amidst the desolate desert beauty. The land synonymous with romance and chivalry, immensely rich in culture, history and natural beauty, that is Rajasthan. Always teeming with colour, joy and friendlyness that’s unique to this part of the country. Every thing about Rajasthan fascinates from miles of golden stretches of sand to the kaleidoscope of magnificent forts, opulant palaces and marvellous havelis, each a splendid architectural creation having a legend of its own. The land comes alive with exuberant folk dances and music, ballads and spectacular festivities that are an inseparable part of Rajasthan’s culture. Many beautiful temples dating back over centuries dot the entire state, making it a popular pilgrim spot for people from many faiths. Even for wildlife enthusiasts, the state is an excellent retreat with its arid zone of the Thar Desert and the dry deciduous forests that offer rich variety of flora and fauna. A wide range of accommodation is available all over the state to suit all budgets and you live like a Maharaja in the opulant palaces or Havelis–where once lived Maharajas and feudal Lords of yesteryears. So, if you are looking for an out-of-the-ordinary experience, start out to discover Rajasthan , It is an experience you will cherish for a lifetime.

COLOURFUL CITIES OF RAJASTHAN

JAIPUR –SHEER SYMPHONY IN PINK

The picturesque capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is colour washed pink–the colour associated with hospitality in Rajput culture. Built in 1727 A.D.by Mharaja Sawai Jai Singh 11, Jaipur displays a remarkable harmony and architectural splendour. The ancient heart of the pink city still beats in its fairy-tale palaces, rugged fortresses perched on barren hills and broad avenues that dot the entire city. There is a timeless appeal to Jaipur’s colourful Bazaars where one can shop for Rajasthani handlooms and trinkets. Beautiful laid out gardens and parks, attractive monuments and marvellous heritage hotels, once the residence of Maharajas, are worth admiration. Not to mention the ambling camels and cheerful people in multi-heud costumes that make your trip to pink city a memorable one.

UDAIPUR–VENICE OF THE EAST

The city of dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure water lakes, hemmed in by the lush hills of the Aravalis.Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of a heroic past, epitimising valour and chivalry. Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar–a Kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 years ,and founded by Maharana Udai singh in 1559 A.D. Exquisite lake palaces of Udaipur , shimmering like jewels on Lake Pichhola are overwhelming in splendour. Several places of interest around Udaipur, including the majestic Chittaurgarh, the mountain fortress of Kumbhalgarh, beautifull Jain temples of Ranakpur, Eklingji and Nathdwara and the cool retreat of Mt. Abu, make the visit to Udaipur a memorable one.

JAISALMER–THE GLORY OF THE GOLDEN FORT

Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a Golden Mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands with all its awesome splendour, dominating the amber-heud city. The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which , Lord Krishna -the head of Yadav clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 A.D. when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital-Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill. For years Jaisalmer remained untouched by the outside influences. The rise of shipping trade and the port of Mumbai saw the decline of Jaisalmer. But the desert fortress, that seems to be straight out of the ” Tales of the Arabian Nights” , still enchants. The setting sun turning Jaisalmer into a beautiful golden brown is a spectacular sight.

JODHPUR–TALES OF GRANDEUR AND GREAT HEROES

Set at the edge of the Thar desert, the Imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the dersert. Once the capital of the Marwar state ,it was founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha–chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendents of Rama–the epic hero of the Ramayana. The massive 15th century A.D. Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 mts. above the plains.The city is encompassed by a high wall–10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. A major trade centre of 16th century A.D. ,the fortress-city of Jodhpur is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. While the graceful palaces, forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur , exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, music and the brightly attired people lend a ramantic aura to the city. Countless festivities celeberate the rich past and culture of the princely state.

AJMER–THE LAND OF COMPOSITE CULTURES

Situated in the green oasis wrapped in the barren hills, Ajmer has been a witness to an interesting past. The city was founded by Raja Ajai pal Chauhan in the 7th Century A.D. and continued to be a major centre of the Chauhan power till 1193 A.D. when Prithviraj Chauhan lost it to Mohammed Ghauri. Since then Ajmer became home to many dynasties, which came and left-leaving behind indelible marks of their culture and traditions on the city’s history, converting it to an amalgam of various cultures and a blend of Hinduism and Islam. Today Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage centre for the Hindus as well as Muslims. Especially famous is the Durgah Sharif-tomb of the Sufi, saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, which is equally reverred by the Hindus and Muslims.

PUSHKAR–THE BLESSING OF BRAHMA

Just 11Km from Ajmer on the edge of the desert lies the tiny tranquil town of Pushkar along the bank of the Pushkar Lake–an important pilgrimage spot for the Hindus. Surrounded by hills from three sides, Pushkar abounds in temples. Of these the most famous is the Brahma temple–the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the country. Every year thousands of devotees throng the lake around the full moon day of Kartik Purnima in October/November to take a holy dip in the lake.A huge and colourful cattle fair– the Pushkar fair, is also held this time Although a serene town, Pushkar bustles with life during the joyous celebrations, held on Kartik Purnima.

BIKANER—CITADEL OF CULTURE AND CAMELS

The Royal fortified citry with a timeless appeal. Lying in the north of the desert state, the city is dotted with many sand dunes. More popularly called the Camel country , the city is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. The ship of the desert is an inseparable part of a life here. The wells of Bikaner– an important source of water are other attractions of the city. Bikaner’s history dates back to 1488 A.D.when a Rathore Prince, Rao Bikaji–a descendent of the founder of Jodhpur [1459 A.D.], Rao Jodhaji ,established his kingdom here. The magnificent forts and Palaces, created with delicacy in reddish-pink sandstone, bear testimony to its rich historical and architectural legacy. Undulating lanes, colourful bazaars and bright and cheerful folks make Bikaner an interesting experience.

SAWAI MADHOPUR—GATEWAY TO THE TIGERS’ DEN

Sawai Madhopur is the gateway to the world renowned Ranthambore National Park-the famous Tiger Reserve, just 12 Km away from here. Ranthambore has been a witness to the rise and fall of many rulers and a series of battle scenes. In the 13th century A.D., Govinda, the grand son of Prithviraj Chauhan took over the reign of the land. Later his successor Vagbhatta , beautified the city and built a noteworthy temple at Jhain. Mughal Emperor Shah Alam gifted it to Maharaja Sawai Madho singh 1 of Jaipur in 1754 and since then it was maintained as the hunting preserve of the Maharaja. Queen Elizabeth 11 and Duke of Edinburgh were part of the Royal hunting parties who stayed here.

SOME POPULAR FESTIVALS OF RAJASTHAN

CAMEL FESTIVAL– [BIKANER ]

A recently introduces, lively and colorful event in the desert city of Bikaner. The camel festival is organised by department of tourism, art & culture Rajasthan. This festival is organised in January each year and it flaunts the beauty of the beasts that catwalk their way into the hearts of millions. Folk music and dances of the desert, add on what is otherwise an exclusive camel affair. January is just the ideal month for a desert spree, and Bikaner just the right spot, to witness the ships-of-the-desert in action. The camel festival begins with a colorful processions of bedecked camels in te red sandstone backdrop of the Junagarh fort. The festivity advances to the open sand spreads of the polo grounds, followed by camel races, camel milking, fur cutting design, the best bread competition, camel acrobatics, camel bands and watching all are the gaping spectators. The camels display amazing footwork, dancing gracefully to the slightest direction of the drivers. Colorful, bridles, bejeweled necks, jingling anklets and long, lanky camel shadows on dusky sands, cast a medical, spell. The evenings close with a traditional rendezvous of renowned artists of Rajasthan and the local folk performers. An inspiring fire dance, and dazzling fire-works light up the fortified desert city of Bikaner.

DESERT FESTIVAL - [JAISALMER]

Relive the magic and brilliance of the Desert City -Jaisalmer , the city that parades its charms to the world every year during the Desert Festival. The Desert Festival–an extravaganza of colour ,music and festivity ,is held every year during the Hindu month of Magh [February]. It has on display the warmth and cheerfulness of the people of Rajasthan who welcome the tourists from the depths of their hearts. Capture on film the sight of a turbaned , handsome man with long moustaches and a flowing beard set in the backdrop of the romantic golden sands.Watch spirited villagers partcipate in the festival, attired in their colourful best ,astride their gaily caparisoned camels.Swing to the tune of high pitched musical instruments which echo in the vast expance of the tranquil Desert. The spectacular Gair dancers of Barmer and the fire dancers are great crowd pullers too. The exitement heightens as the Maru-Shri [ Mr Desert ] Competetion and the turban-tying contests get underway. In a turban tying competetion and tug of war, Indians compete with foreogners which adds to the fun of the Festival. An interesting event of the festival is the Moustache Competetion. In this contest the prize is given to the man with the longest moustache. There are also Camel races and Camel polo to add to the fun.The Dept. tourism puts up a Tourist village during the fair and lodging/boarding are provided in deluxe tents and huts.There are also a large number of luxury , moderate and budget hotels for a comfortable stay.

NAGAUR FAIR–[NAGAUR]

A delightful gathering of men and beasts , brisk trading and keen competetions , in a little town of lovable traditions. The quaint town of Nagaur, one of the most picturesque of Rajput townships stirs to life during the Nagaur Fair.This cattle fair is largest in Rajasthan and is held every year during the Hindu month of Magh [Jan-Feb.]. The fair is renownedfor the trading of cows, bullocks,oxen,camels and horses by their owners seen wearing colourful turbans and flaunting long moustaches. Wooden items, ironcraft and leather accessories are available in abundance during the fair.Various games like tug of war ,camel races and cock & bull fights provide thrilling entertainment to the tourists and locals after a hectic day of trading during ths four day festival. As the last rays of the setting sun bid adieu to the day, a joyous atmosphere is created by the folk musicians whose voice echo far & wide across the tranquil desert sands. During the festival plenty of accommodation is available in deluxe tents in a village set up by Dept. of tourism.

GANGAUR FESTIVAL–[JAIPUR]

This festival gets underway every year in March-April in Jaipur-a city of pomp and pageantry. Gangaur fair marks the end of winter and welcomes the coming of spring.Mists fade away and sun shines with trees frouting forth new leaves and buds.GAN is a synonym for Lord Shiva and GAURI for Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva and a symbol of conjugal bliss and marital happiness.During the four day festival, from Palaces of Princesses to the cottages of poor women, prayers are offered to the Goddess for a happy and peaceful married life. During the festival, the ladies decorate their palms and fingers with henna.The decorations comprise of different designs of flowers ,sun, moon etc.During the fair a traditional procession is headed by a colourful pageantry of elephants, camels,horses, musicians,old palanquins,chariots and bullock carts.Plenty of acommodation of various categories is available during the festival.

MARWAR FESTIVAL–[JODHPUR]

Fairs in Rajasthan are mythological in nature, relating to Gods and Goddesses. Yhey are even celebrated to commemmorate the brave deeds of medieval heroes. The Marwar Festival , held in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan, is one such example. The festival is celebrated in the Sept.-Oct. in Jodhpur ,the former capital of Marwar Province. The massive Mehrangarh fort and impressive Umaid Bhawan Palace which are symbols of ingenuity , might and valour of the Rajputs, make Jodhpur an ideal location for the festival.This two day festival is held during the full moon of Sharad Purnima. Besides horse riding and horse polo the Mrwar festival has on display the music and dance of the Marwar region.The folk artistes bring to life the myth and legends of the area and sing in memory of the brave heroes.Plenty of hotel acommodation is available during the festival.

CHANDRABHAGA FESTIVAL–[JHALAWAR]

The land of Jhalas, the Jhalawar is situated on the banks of holy river Chandrabhaga. Athree day fair is celebrated every year in the month of Oct.-Nov. and thousands gather on the full moon night of Kartik Purnima to take a dip in holy river.A big cattle fair here includes cows,buffaloes , camels,and bullocks. The fair provides ample opportunity to tourists to acquaint themselves with the people of this region, their culture and traditions. In winters the red poppy fields in Jhalawar add a special colour to the countryside while the orange-laden orchards are a delightful sight.