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 !

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 !

The royalty in the air and cultural richness oozing out of every structure are the alluring temptations of Jodhpur, the Sun city. When it comes to Rajasthan I never hold myself back and this time with two days in my hand I came to see Jodhpur with some of my friends. I had been to some of the other cities of Rajasthan but this is for the first time I was visiting Jodhpur. I was more than excited as we reached there one day before the Kite festival.

Jodhpur is a famous tourist destination of Rajasthan. It is the second largest city of this state which was once called Marwar. It is popularly known as the Sun City as it is blessed with sunny weather throughout the year. It is also called the ‘Blue City’ as most of its structures especially houses are painted in blue. It is the destination where tourists can see the perfect marriage between the Mughal and Hindu architecture, art and culture. From heritage structures to colorful fairs and festivals, everything reflects royalty in plenty in this city.

The Mehrangarh Fort is one of the most fascinating attractions of the city. Dominating the city, it is located atop the Bakharchiriya hill. This majestic structure was built by Rao Jodha ( the founder of the city) in 1459. While walking through the fort our guide Rampal Singh told us that at one point of time the fort had eight gates for defensive purposes. And for confusing the enemy the fort also had a maze (complex system of paths or tunnels in which it is easy to get lost). We saw several beautiful structures within the fort which were decorated with wonderful carvings and paintings. The ones I like the most were Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Daulat Khana and Sileh Khana. The fort sprawls over an area of 5 km.

In the museum inside the fort we saw a rich collection of miniature paintings, howdahs, Kilkila canon, palanquins, music instruments, ivory shields adorned with precious stones and royal cradles.

It was such a wonderful experience to explore the Mehrangarh fort. After that we gorged on Rajasthani food and left for shopping in the bustling markets of the princely city. I bought a beautiful miniature painting and tie and dye fabric. When I retired to bed at night I was thinking about the kite festival we would participate in the next day. I was excited!

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Shopping in Jodhpur

on a shopping spree in Jodhpur. Being a famous princely city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur has a variety of colorful handicrafts to offer. And no wonder shopping at such a destination is such a pleasurable and satisfying experience. For shopping the city offers several bazaars, pavement stalls and handloom houses. Explore them and pick up some wonderful handicrafts. The city is well known for its antiques, bandhini, footwear and red chillies.

Once one of my friends told me that whenever I visit Jodhpur, I must get Jodhpuri Suit. I scanned a few shops and could finally select a beautiful Jodhpuri Suit for myself. It is a purple colored suit designed with zardosi and cutdana beeds.

I wanted to buy some saris for my mother and friend. My guide Shankar suggested me to go to the Sojati Gate as it is famous for wonderful tie and dye saris. The shopkeeper showed me bandhini saris in cotton, chiffon and silk. The saris were available in many vibrant colors and it was really difficult for me to choose as I liked all. Finally I could choose four beautiful saris.

Next I made my way to the Station Road, which is famous for leather articles, embroidered footwear and utensils. I bought embroidered jutti for myself and a leather bag for my mom. I also bought two beautiful paintings and a carpet.

Now was the time to pamper my stomach with typical Rajasthani food. I sat at one of the good restaurants to dig into the famous dishes of Jodhpur. I ordered the famous mawa kachori of Jodhpur along with a big glass of lassi. It was simply delicious.

The next item on my shopping list was spices. Knowing that the Clock Tower is the best place to buy spices in Jodhpur, I headed for it. I bought a variety of spices and decided to go back to the hotel as I realized that if I stay at the market for some more time, I will surely end up with no money. Well I think its not my fault as the enchanting Jodhpur has so much to offer.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !

Popularly known as the “Blue City”, Jodhpur has amazing attractions to offer. On our way to the famous Mehrangarh fort, my guide Rakesh told me that Jodhpur is called a blue city because during the bygone era blue color was used to demarcate the houses of the Brahmin castes. And the other interesting reason he told was- blue color keeps the biting ants away. Interesting!

Dominating the landscape of the city, Mehrangarh fort is dramatically perched on a hill. As we were moving inside the fort, Ramesh told me interesting legends associated with the fort. The fort was built by the founder of the city, Rao Jodha, in the year 1459. Inside the fort I saw several mesmerizing structures with exquisite carvings and embellishments- Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana, and Daulat Khana and museum. It was great to visit the museum where I saw a collection of royal cradles, music instruments, miniature paintings, palanquins, howdas and the famous Kilkila cannon.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

My next halt was the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace (now a heritage hotel), one of the India’s fascinating palaces. Sprawling over 26 acres of land, this palace was once the largest residence in the world. I went to see its museum where I saw a variety of weapons, clocks stuffed leopards, and a huge banner presented by Queen Victoria.

In the evening I explored the colourful and bustling bazaars of Jodhpur. The bazaars were spilled with a variety of handicrafts such as tie and dye fabrics with silver and golden embroidery, paintings, leather crafts, wooden articles, furniture, silver jewelery and juttis. I bought two beautiful paintings. This marked the end of my short but sweet journey to Jodhpur. For the next two days I remained busy with the clients for offical purposes.

Bookmark In Your Favourite List !