Rajasthan TourismVibrant Rajasthan – Travel to the Land of History, Legends, Valorous Warriors And Heritage Hotels….

Rajasthan is a place that calls me again and again. After visiting so many times to this royal land, I feel the same charm for Rajasthan. This time, we three friends were on Udaipur Trip. I with my two best buddies, Jacob and Daniel left from New Delhi. After an overnight train journey, we were finally in Rajasthan.

City Palace Complex

The excitement to see the most talked about palaces, lakes and other attractions just insisted us to go out after taking rest for 2 hours only.

Our tour started in the morning with the City Palace, which has a grand complex of palaces. Initiated by Rana Udai Singh, it was later added to by his children. Being the largest palatial construction in the state, the palace finds its mention. The City Palace welcomes you with a magnificent facade and a captivating garden before it.

No doubt, why this wonderful land boasts of its culture. Everywhere all you can see is, the rich glimpses of Rajasthani culture that has an appealing charm. We decided to go for a boat ride to refresh ourselves. Nehru Park was the venue, at a centre of the Fateh sagar Lake. Originally built by Maharana Jai Singh in 1678 A.D, this popular lake lies in the north of Lake Pichola. Based on our experience, I can say that it is a must visit place for evening outing.

Located on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake, Saheliyon-ki-Bari is a beautiful landscaped garden, we visited in Udaipur. The guide told us that this garden was especially built for the queen and her maids. The garden is beautifully decorated with marble elephants, fountains and pools.

Then we came back to the hotel and had delicious dinner. The aroma of Rajasthani food just makes you irresistible. Next morning, we visited the Jagdish temple, located at the centre of Old city. It is very near to City Palace. After visiting the temple, we went for watching the light and sound show. We bought tickets and enjoyed the really wonderful show. The day ended while sharing the memories of that day’s attractions.

Next morning, we relaxed at the hotel itself. After some time, we left for Jagmandir Palace. Located in the lake Pichola, it is known for its garden courtyard.

You have to buy tickets that include to and fro boat rides. The palace is on the islands in the lake Pichola. After that, we went to see the cultural show at Bagore Ki Haveli, which starts at 7 pm.

Fateh Sagar Lake

The light and sound show takes you to the world of royal era, where you get to know the history of Udaipur. If you are visiting Udaipur for the first time, the show is a must watch.

I am very fond of seeing the rare collections that a museum houses. So, while in Udaipur, how could I miss the opportunity to visit the famous Pratap Museum! This is a Govt. museum that houses old sculptures and inscriptions. As we moved ahead, we came across many antique paintings of Mewar. We could also see the turban of Prince Khurram or Shah Jahan that have been displayed here.

After spending that much time in Udaipur, I could realize why Udaipur is called as the ‘Venice of the East‘.

Touched by the culture and heritage of Udaipur, we landed back to New Delhi!

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Rajasthan has always been my dream destination. Far-stretched desert, the magnificent palaces, the marvellous forts, the vibrating culture and exciting camel safaris just enthrall me. I always thought to visit the land and fortunately, a trip to Osian came to my pocket, when my sister told me about her weekend plan of Travel to Jodhpur.

Sachiya Mata Temple

I left with Nikita, my younger sister for Osian, which is situated around 65 Km from Jodhpur in Rajasthan. From Delhi, we hired a private cab to reach Osian. Living in a metro city like Delhi, at times makes you feel bore with its hustle and bustle of everyday.

We stayed in a camp resort, which was loaded with modern amenities. The delicious food that we enjoyed there was one of its kind experience. We had traditional Rajasthani food including Dal Bati, Gatte ki Sabji and sweets.

My visit to Osian just took us back in time. The royalty of the time was just drawing our attention. The place is also known as a religious centre in Marwar. There we could see the beautiful cluster of ancient Jain temples.

Having heard a lot about the temples of Osian, I could not help myself from visiting there. With Nikita, I headed to the Jain Temples which boasts of famous Sun temple. Built in 10^th century, the temple is noteworthy for being the oldest one. Surya (Lord Sun) is worshipped by the Vaishnavites, who ruled there.

The temple holds great religious significance and attracts the tourists due to its historical and architectural value. As we moved ahead in the temple, we found a beautifully carved doorway which was simply awe-striking.

Kali temple is another attraction of Rajasthan, which we visited after the Sun Temple. The architectural beauty of the temple just left us mesmerized. Then, we moved towards Sachiya Mata Temple, which was built in the 8^thcentury.

Camel Safari Ride

Dedicated to Sachi Mata (Consort of Lord Indra(Rain God)), this temple complex had two other shrines, dedicated to Amba Mata and Chandi Devi. There was a series of beautifully sculptured arches, through which you can enter the temple.

How could we miss out the most exciting ride-Camel Safari! This interesting ride in Osian took us to another world. We could even spot several peacocks, which was a unique view.

Our Osian Tour was over and we were left us with a refreshing experience. Recollecting the memories of our Rajasthan tour, we came back to Delhi.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Having a great interest in Indian Mythology, I read the literature off and on. While doing the same, I came across the importance of elephants. The animal is among the most revered animals.

Jaipur Elephant Festival

It was believed to be emerged from the ocean after the churning of the ocean took place between the demons and gods to attain the immortality.

Reading this, my memories of the tour to Rajasthan got alive. I was there with my husband during the time of elephant festival. Among the most popular festivals of Jaipur, it offers you the opportunity to view the grandeour of the city.

All royal guests were being taken to the renowned Amber Fort on elephant back. Not only this, but some special elephant fights were also conducted to offer entertainment for the guests.

This spectacular elephant festival in Jaipur is organized in March every year. The grand procession just enthralled us. The elephants were bedecked on their heads and the tips of tails with heavy jewellery, flowers and other ornamentation you could imagine.

To our surprise, they were also wearing anklets that tinkle once they walk down in all their glory.

We enjoyed being witness to the various games like polo, races and Holi. Splashing each other with bright colours, they create a wonderful scene.

What could be more fascinating than the performance of folk dancers! It felt like we were in a grand celebration that would never end.

Besides elephants, other decorated animals like horses and camels can also be seen there. The highlight of the procession was, it could be seen with all the original grandeur of the old era.

Rajasthani Folk Dance

With the end of the procession, we were invited to mount the elephants. Many other tourists like us also grabbed this wonderful opportunity and enjoyed a lot. Some enthusiastic visitors also started playing with colours.

We also joined in the parade. The whole atmosphere soon became jovial.

The musical notes of the folk performers also added charm to the festival. With much enjoyment and recreating the age-old legacy, the grandeur of the festival ended.

The memories of the elephant festival are still fresh and takes me to the world of royalty.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Next day, we left for Udaipur, the city of lakes. As we reached there, the splendor of royal era grabbed our attention. The rolling hills, beautiful lakes and white marble palaces give Udaipur a special appeal.

We came across the spectacular monument-City Palace. Depicting the history of the city with honor, the palace boasts of its marvelous architecture.

Lies in the centre of Pichola Lake, Lake Palace is another beautiful monument of Udaipur. Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir are also lying nearby. We also came across some old monuments like Bagore ki Haveli and Maharana Pratap Memorial.These buildings still showcase the local culture and tradition. The exquisite glass and mirror work done on the interiors is amazing.

Pushkar Festival

On our afternoon trip, we explored the Monsoon Palace. It rewarded us with amazing views of the lakes and hills. In the evening, we witnessed the Rajasthani folk dance and music that made us drawn deep in its authenticity.

The day started with Pushkar visit. Though it is a small city yet is has its own charm and appeal. This city offers a more serene escapade to visitors as compared to any other tourist destination in Rajasthan. We got to know the famous Pushkar festival, when we visited the Pushkar Lake. It is said that huge livestock like cows, goats and sheep are sold in the fair.

Neha insisted us to visit Brahma Temple; we both agreed and moved ahead. Counted among the most significant Brahma temples, it has the shrine of presiding deity of Lord Brahma. Built in the 14^th century AD, this temple is dedicated to Lord Brahma.

Thinking of our next destination, we landed in the dream world.

Next day, we headed to Jaipur, the Pink City of India. It is the largest city of Rajasthan. It houses some magnificent forts and palaces which add to the place. Started from City Palace about which we had already heard a lot, we moved ahead inside the palace. Standing apart with its exemplary architecture, the palace complex covers a huge area. As we started walking ahead, we come across a series of gardens, buildings and courtyards.

Located near the boundary of the city palace, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is a worth visiting place. Khusboo was so excited to see this place that she could not help herself clicking some photographs. Named after Palace of Winds, this mahal boasts of its more than 950 huge windows. It was especially built in such a way to allow the royal women the views of the market areas.

Nahargarh Fort was another fort, which became a part of our exploration. Located on the aravali hills ridge, the fort was built by Jai Singh. This magnificent fort presents an enticing sight at night.

Chokhi Dhani

The most memorable thing of our Jaipur visit was Chokhi Dhani where we spend some time exploring the beauty of the place. Capturing the spirit of desert land, it ensures a perfect traditional Rajasthani experience. We enjoyed our food at this village resort. We relished authentic Rajasthani Food, which obviously had a lot of calories. Even I am very particular about my food though I could not help myself from enjoying the food with much ghee.

In the evening, there were some cultural programmes, which filled our heart with fun and enjoyment. The traditional performances and the puppet show just took away my heart.

With delightful memories, we left back for Delhi.

Lies in the centre of

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Rajasthan, the land of kings has always been my center of attraction. Its royalty, rich culture, glorious past, ancient monuments and warm hospitality have captivated my interest since my childhood. My most awaited dream came true when I embarked on this 14 days Rajasthan Tour with my two of my comrades-Khushboo and Neha.

We went to Rajasthan by car, and it took around five hours to reach there from Delhi. After reaching Mandawa, we took rest for sometime in our hotel. Then, we moved around the city to explore its fascinating havelis. The architectural splendor, the glorious past and the royal palaces just take you to a completely different world.

Our next halt was at Bikaner, which is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces. I was too eager to visit the Junagarh Fort for which I have heard a lot. We entered through the Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate, which is the main entrance of the fort. The fort includes 37 palaces and pavilions. It also houses a museum which has a rich collection of rare manuscripts, carpets, weapons, treaties, utensils and much more.

Lalgarh Palace Bikaner

While visiting the Lalgarh Palace of Bikaner, we were completely enthralled. Khushboo clicked some photographs at different locations. Some part of the palace has now been converted into a heritage hotel. The amazing filigree work and meticulous latticework speak volume about the fort. As I have already read a lot about the fort, so I was aware of the library that it houses. I could not believe when I saw the rare collection of original Sanskrit manuscripts. It reflects that how rich the city was in terms of education. People were really inclined towards education and got all the support from the kings in old era as well.

While relaxing at night, we all were sharing our knowledge about the forts and palaces we visited during the day. The magnetic charm of the attractions kept us delighted during the tour and soon we were in the next destination-Jaisalmer.

Popularly referred as the Golden City of India, it is situated in the heart of the Thar Desert. Neha had already been to Jaisalmer, so she decided for us the must visit places in the city. Trusting on her knowledge of Rajasthan Travel Guide, we followed her and reached Sonar Kila (Also known as Jaisalmer Fort or Golden Fort). We could see both the excellence of Indian artwork and the magnificence of military. Neha insisted us to go for a Camel Safari and her decision was good. Riding on a camel’s back is not only exciting but also it enables you to explore the glimpses of rippling sand dunes.

After taking rest in hotel, we moved forward to our next destination-Jodhpur. Mehrangarh Fort was the first attraction, we visited there. This huge fort is located just five km away form the town. It houses a museum that comprises an interesting collection of weapons, wood antique furniture, musical instruments, costumes, paintings and many more.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

When we reached Umaid Bhawan Palace, we felt as if we were in a royal era where all we could see the architectural splendor. Sprawled across 26 acres of land, the palace boasts of a marvelous architectural of ancient time. It has 347 rooms which reflect the marvel of the Indo-colonial and art deco style of the olden times.

A lie to the left of the fort complex is Jaswant Thada, a royal cenotaph. It is built of white marble. Some unique portraits of the earlier rulers of Jodhpur can also be seen here.

Enjoying each moment of the tour, we fell asleep and retired ourselves on the bed.

To be continued…

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

My strenuous work schedule made me so tired that I felt like taking a break. To regain my energy, I thought of visiting Jaipur in Rajasthan. As history always interests me, what could be the better option than that of Jaipur. Renowned as the ‘Pink City’, this royal city has always captured my attention.

Jaipur City

The day when I embarked on Jaipur tour with my sister Ekta and a friend, Deepti was like a new day for me. We all three managed to take 3 days leave from our offices and got ready for a change. We took a bus from Delhi and reached there within six hours. The moment I entered the glorious city of Jaipur, my joy knew no bounds. The city is renowned for its Rajput heritage and culture.

Jaipur has numerous palaces that are renowned across the world for their architectural grandeur. The architecture beauty of these palaces showcases the perfect amalgamation of Rajputana and Mughal style. We stayed in a good hotel, which was equipped with all the modern amenities.

To see the buildings painted in pink color is an amazing experience in itself. Our exploration of the city started with a visit to Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Built in the year 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, it is the most striking palace of the city. Its five-stories, hanging cornices, arched roofs, 953 tiny windows and pyramid-shaped structure make it a worth-visiting site.

Hawa Mahal

The City Palace is among the most predominant landmarks of Jaipur. I won’t be wrong if I call it as a perfect illustration of architecture. The palace also exhibits museum which has a rich collection of royal costumes and Rajput weapons. Though we felt tired walking in the huge palace, yet the charm to see the other parts of the palace did not allow us to stop and we moved on. We explored the beautiful Art Gallery, Mukut Mahal, Chhavi Niwas and Shri Govind Dev Temple of the palace.

The old Amer fort was our next destination. It was truly a delight to watch the fort. We got to see a big wall of ancient times and the stunning Sheesh Mahal (the hall of mirrors), Sukh Niwas and Ganesh Pole. Ekta insisted us to go for an elephant ride. Taking a ride while sitting on elephant’s back was just wonderful and a great experience.

Another fort which we visited was, Nahargarh Fort. Perched high on the Aravali hills, the fort overlooks the city. It offers charming views that can be best seen at the time of sunset.

Sheesh Mahal Suite Samode Haveli Jaipur

Being a shopping freak, I could not help myself from shopping in Jaipur. Based on our experience, I can say that one must visit the lively bazaars of Jaipur. You can find here popular shopping items like brass ware, textiles, kundan, quilts and much more. I bought some jewellery and textiles.

At last, we decided to visit Samode as we had some time in our hand. Located at a distance of 42 km from Jaipur, it is a great place to see. During this, the famous Samode Palace became the part of our exploration.

Our tour was over and I was ready to get back to my hectic work routine but this time there was a big smile on my face.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Hawa Mahal

Rajasthan has always been a place, where I wanted to visit and spend some time. Its forts and palaces, rich culture, unique festivals and desert safaris are something I wished to explore. After waiting so many years, I finally got an opportunity to visit the princely state. The opportunity came to me as official trip and the idea of going there with my colleagues was so exciting that I started counting the days.

Finally, the day approached when we were in this historical state which offers many attractions to its visitors. Some important cities which we could visit include Jaipur (the capital city), Ajmer, Udaipur, Mount Abu, Pushkar, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Bikaner.

While exploring these cities, I came across some of the fabulous forts and palaces and many other famous tourist attractions, which I of course, would like to share with readers.

Magnificent Monuments

Rajasthan is home to monuments including spectacular forts, palatial palaces, religious shrines, royal havelis and terrific temple. The architectural marvel of these monuments enthralls visitors from all over the world. All the cities are dotted with beautiful monuments. Some famous monuments of the royal state of Rajasthan are City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort and Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Lalgarh Palace and Junagarh Fort in Bikaner.We also loved to explore Golden Fort in Jaisalmer and Fort Mandwa Castle in Shekhawati during our Rajasthan tour.

Amber Fort

Fabulous Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks

Having heard a lot about the wildlife of Rajasthan, I was eager to see it. However, due to short time in our hand, we could visit only Ranthambore National Park, situated in Sawai Madhopur. It is just 150 km from Jaipur. This wildlife sanctuary is a home to huge variety of birds, animals and reptiles. The park is popular for its tiger’s especially diurnal tigers. Fortunately, on our jeep safari, we could spot a tiger. The thrill, excitement and joy are beyond words to describe. Other wildlife sanctuaries and national parks include names like Sariska Tiger Reserve, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Desert National Park and Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.

Colorful Fairs & Festivals

While we were on Rajasthan tour, we also got to know about some interesting festivals of the desert land. The state experiences the jubilation of some vibrant festivals. Some popular fairs and festivals of Rajasthan include Pushkar Camel Fair, Udaipur Elephant Festival, Jaisalmer Desert Festival, Jaipur Elephant Festival and Jodhpur Marwar Festival.Celebrated with great enthusiasm, these festivals reflect the rich culture and heritage of the state. The fairs and festivals are also major attraction of tourism, attracting many visitors to come during the festive season here.

Festivals of Rajasthan

Rippling Sand Dunes

Like other tourists, we were also enthralled by the Sand Dunes here, which are among most appealing attractions of Rajasthan Tourism. We opted camel safari to explore the sand dunes which was indeed a good choice. The adventure took us to explore some traditional villages of Rajasthan like Bikaner, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer.

Based on my tour experience, I would strongly recommend relishing the traditional Rajasthani Cuisines like Dal Bati Churma, Ghewar, Jodhpuri Mawa Kachori and Mirchi Vada.

Truly it’s an amazing experience for us, which we will cherish for lifetime.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

City Palace Jaipur

Having read about Rajasthan in several books and heard a lot about the grandeur of Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan, I too wanted to experience an oasis. My wish got fulfilled when I set forth to get a wonderful trip to the princely state of Rajasthan. This time, a group of my colleagues accompanied me on the trip.

The forts and palaces of Rajasthan have been living testimony of this heroic ground. The state is admired for wonderful destination cities like Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner and Chittorgarh. Embellished with rich architectural heritage, the forts and palaces of Rajasthan have made it achieve glory in the nation as renowned tourist spot. The forts of the place showcase distinct blend of Hindu as well as Mughal architectural styles. Expressive of the bygone era, these monuments are acknowledged for the great Rajasthan history.

A mark of rich traditions and culture, the monuments in the Rajasthan are one of the best ways to experience the royalty of this princely state.

Starting our journey from Delhi, we reached Mandawa in Rajasthan. After taking rest, we all were excited to experience the forts and palaces of Rajasthan, so we arrived at Bikaner.

Bikaner Fort
Bikaner fort is also referred to as the Junagarh Fort. Built by Raja Rai Singh. The fort comprises 37 bastions that are nicely complimented with different palaces, pavilions, towers and temples.

There is also an exquisitely carved Chandra Mahal. Adorned with mirrors and art works, it creates a beautiful scene. We also went to a museum inside this fort and came across a wide collection of ancient manuscripts, gems, carpets and royal weaponry.

Khimsar Fort
This 16^th century old grand fort is a unique example of traditional Rajasthani architecture. This yellow coloured fort is now transformed into a heritage hotel. It offers a world-class accommodation with modern amenities for a royal experience.

Jaisalmer Fort
Built in 1156 A.D., the Jaisalmer fort is renowned as the second oldest fort in Rajasthan after Chittaurgarh. The interior is decorated in typical Rajput style. The bastions, ramparts and the long-stretching walls of the fort dazzle amazingly during dawn and at dusk.

Mehrangarh Fort
As we entered in this wonderful fort in Jodhpur, we were stunned to see the marvels of architecture.

This majestic fort is among the finest forts of the royal land known for its imposing structure over 125 meters above rocky cliffs. It is sprawled over an area of 5 sq. km. For an easy access, there are seven gates.

City Palace
Situated in Udaipur, the City Palace is a heritage building. It showcases the finest elements of ancient Rajput culture and the arts. We entered through the ‘Elephant Gate’, which is popularly referred as the ‘Hathi Pol’. The architecture of this palace displays aesthetic beauty of the exquisite artwork.

Other Attractions of Udaipur, which we visited, include Jagmandir Palace, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari, Jagdish Temple and Folk Art Museum.

Chittorgarh Fort
On our Udaipur excursion, we reached Chittorgarh. We visited The Chittaurgarh Fort which is among the famous forts of Rajasthan. Located on a 180 meter high hill in the Chittor District, this fort boasts of the finest glimpses of architectural wonder. This fort has a majestic construction that just captivated our attention.

Amber Fort
Situated in Jaipur, Amber fort is a majestic and stately fort. Built by Raja Man and completed by Sawai Jai Singh, this fort is made in while marble and red sand stone. The fort houses a famous temple Jai Mandir which has Sheesh Mahal. When we entered in the mahal, we saw a beautiful hall of mirrors which are artistically set and illumine the hall amazingly.

Hawa Mahal
This architectural marvel is situated in Jaipur. Renowned for its five-storied pyramid-shaped facades, this palace has 953 small windows. These windows are referred as ‘Jharokha’ and adorned with tiny lattice work.

The tour experience of Rajasthan still fills my heart with delightful memories.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Wildlife of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a place where you can feel the magic of ancient times. Its big palaces, rich culture, colourful festivals make it a must-see place. Opulence of flora and fauna make it a perfect destination for wildlife tour. The land of Rajasthan houses a number of attractions like Ranthambore National Park, Desert National Park and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.

Some of my friends planned a and they asked me to come along. Since the plan was for weekend, I gave my consent to this tour. When we reached Rajasthan, we all were excited to see its wildlife as I have heard a lot about the same. Thinking of adventures, we took a jeep safari and left for Ranthambore National Park.

Located in the Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is the biggest park. Our guide was answering our queries and sharing his knowledge about this park. He told us that this park used to be the most popular hunting spot of the Maharajas of Jaipur. We also took some pictures of tigers as the memories of our wildlife tour. Tigers and other animals were dozing under the sun and watching them was really thrilling. We saw many wild enthusiasts there, who were engaged in the study, behavior of these animals.

Our eagerness to see the wildlife of Rajasthan made us to move towards Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary. The knowledgeable guide, who was accompanying us during this tour, told some interesting facts about this sanctuary. This sanctuary was considered as the hunting reserve of the royal family of the Alwar, Rajasthan. Animal viewing here is a great fun that gives you an enthralling experience. Being a home to many animals, you will find here various carnivores like Tiger, Wild Dog, Leopard, Jackal and Hyena. We were thrilled to see those animals, who were engaged in their daily activities. When we reached around Talvriksh, we saw numerous Rhesus Monkeys.

At last, we decided to visit Keoladeo Ghana National Park, which is also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. One of my friends already visited this place so he was briefing us about the same during our tour. A home to over 380 resident and even migrant species, Keoladeo offers you an opportunity to watch mammals like Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Fishing Cat, Striped Hyaena, Nilgai, Blackbuck and Sambar.

Certainly, this was the most memorable trip for us. The time we spent on watching tigers, lush green surroundings and a range of species of chirpy birds, was really a great fun and the memories of this tour still refreshes my mood.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Mount Abu Tourism

Last week on the Eve of New Year 2011, I visited Mount Abu with my two friends to celebrate new dawn of coming year and last dusk of a previous year. Mount Abu is a pleasant hill retreat amidst the lush forested hills. It is a green oasis in the barren desert state Rajasthan. This captivating hill retreat is the highest peak in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan state. It is located in Sirohi district South West Rajasthan, 185 Km from Udaipur.

We boarded ADI SJ Rajdhani from Delhi on 30th December 2010 and reached the nearest railhead Abu Road Station next morning. From here we hired taxi and reached Mount Abu around 10 am after 2 hours of road journey. After taking refreshment at RTDC Hotel Shikhar, we went outside to explore the charm of this beautiful hill station.

The bone chilling wind and freezing weather almost shivered us, but at the same time it also heightens our joy and enthusiasm. The town of Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, is located at an elevation of 1220 meters above sea level. It has been a popular retreat from the heat of Rajasthan and neighboring state Gujarat for centuries. The salubrious climate and array of attractions calls on scores of tourists to this place from several parts of the globe.

The hills of this place are known for rich flora covering. The entire hillside includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs, which heighten the serene and scenic charm of this pristine hill station. Because of its remote location and scenic charm, this place has been home to many sages and saints for many centuries. We also experienced the calmness and scenic beauty of this place during our Mount Abu Tourism.

It is situated down on the Abu Road side. We took 750 steps down to the valley to reach this place. Small stream flows from the mouth of a marble cow which designated this shrine its name. There is also a marble figure of the bull Nandi, Shiva’s vehicle. The tank here, Agni Kund, is said to be the site of the sacrificial fire made by sage Vashistha, from which four of the great Rajput clans were born. An image of Vashishtha is flanked by the figures of Rama and Krishna.

Next we visited Dilwara Jain Temples, which is another most popular attraction of Mount Abu renowned for its exquisite marble carvings. The older temple was built in 1031 by a Gujrati minister named Vimal and dedicated to the first tirthankar (Jain Teacher), Adinath. The central shrine contains an image of Adinath, while around the courtyard; there are 57 identical cells, each with a Budhdha like cross-legged image. The architectural intricacy and delicacy of the marble carving enthrall us most and kept us engaged for longtime.

Next we visited the Tejpal Temple dedicated to Neminath, the 22nd Jain tirthankar. For the first time in my life, I have seen such a piece of sculpture. The sculpture at some place was so fine that the marble becomes almost transparent. The lotus at the center of the dome is an incredible piece of work. It is difficult to believe that the huge lacelike filigree made up of solid block of marble.

After experiencing the interwoven charm of sculpture and spiritualism we headed towards our next attraction that is Sunset Point. It is the most popular attractions of this place where tourists come in a large number to experience the beauty of setting sun.

We also adieu the last sunset of 2010 with a hope that next sunrise will bring lots of fortune for us. After enjoying this place we rushed back to hotels to enjoy New Year’s party. At this electric party, we enjoyed a memorable night which was full of fun, thrill and excitement. After greeting everyone in the midnight, we went to our room and felt asleep.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !