A state of magnificence and opulence, Rajasthan, also known as the Land of Kings, still has traces of age-old grandeur at the core of its being. The state was known as Rajputana before Independence in 1947. It consisted of 18 princely states, the flavour of which is still integral to its land. Its exotic battle blemished forts, beautiful palaces, enchanting art and culture is what creates pride and admiration towards the state. Lakes and rivers in the midst of the desert and dry sand are the paradoxical beauty of this princely state. Rajasthan consists of several temples and religious sites whose existence dates back to the 5th century.The majestic camels and elephants addmajesty to the dry land. The unforgettable history of Rajasthan contributes to enhancing the essence of incredible India.
There are a few states in India where tourism flourishes persistently and one such domineering address is Rajasthan. Travellers around the world come to Rajasthan all-round the calendar for getting a taste of its exquisiteness and splendour. It’s the first and the must-stop destination for not just Indian but people from all corners and nooks of the world.
The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur, is widely popular as the ‘Pink City’ of India. Pink is the colour of hospitality and the city totally justifies it. Jaipur is one of the first planned cities of India and it is well known for its ancient manor as well as its modern classy elegance. The city is filled with attractive palaces, forts, bustling bazaars, gorgeous temples, magnanimous museums and much more. Jaipur is renowned for its delicate gemstones and gold work, soft fabrics and mozaries. Among many attractions of Jaipur, one of the most beautiful is Jal Mahal, also known as Water Palace. The charm of the palace lies in the fact that out of five floors, the first four floors are immersed under the water. Another must-go spot of Jaipur is its astronomical genius—–Jantar Mantar. A striking combination and creation of architecture and astronomy, the place is used to calculate the time of the day even in today’s digitally encompassed era. Hawa Mahal is a striking creation known for its elite arrangement of 152 windows in a manner that it is also called the ‘Palace of Winds’. One of the most visited place in Jaipur is Chokidhani; it is the emblem of Rajasthani culture. It’s a beautiful village resort which provides the tourist with a glimpse of the Rajasthani culture with its various puppet shows, ghoomar dance, Rajasthani delicacies, magic show and unbelievable finger-licking delicacies. It provides tourists with a concise feel of Rajasthan.
Also Read : The Unravelled Wonders Of Morena
The next stop to Rajasthan is a treat to the eyes, also known as ‘Blue City’, Jodhpur. The city is a testimony to Rajputs glory owing to the magnanimous forts, palaces and its vibrancy.
Mehrangarh Fort is one of the most outstanding monuments in India. It stands tall at 100ft on the cliffs of Jodhpur. The structure speaks of greatness and glory and is one of the most loved spots of the city. The view of the blue city is at its best from this marvellous fort. Another glorifying place to visit in Udaipur is the Umaid Bhawan Palace. It’s still well-known for its royal patronage. The palace has been turned into a beautiful hotel and a private museum which serves as a residence to both royalty and people from around world. It’s a well-known wedding destination hub owing to its flamboyance.
The tour to Rajasthan is incomplete without dropping down to Jaisalmar, the ‘Golden City’. Along with the exotic desert safari ride and magnificent peacocks flocking all around, it’s also famous for its Havelis like Patwonki Haveli and Nath wal Jiki Haveli. These Havelis are intricately latticed with impressive porticos with lingering themes from Hindu religion. A trip to Jaisalmar is incomplete without visiting its golden-hued, Sam Sand Dunes. The scenic dunes ripple into a stunning mirage for people to capture lovely images. The camel rides on these beautiful mounds add up to the beauty of Jaisalmer.
Amidst the arid stretch of the dry desert lies a spectacular relief, Mount Abu. The charming mountaintop is widely popular for its sunset point. One of the main attractions is the Naki Lake. It is surrounded by rich Hindu mythology. It gained massive popularity after the immersion of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes leading to the construction of Gandhi Ghat. Several mythical stories are weaved around this lake and its birth. Naki Lake is a lovely picnic spot for both family and friends alike. Mount Abu is situated in the highest peak of Aravalli hills. It is gifted with a mystic collection of flora and fauna amid the dry land.
Udaipur, the ‘City of Lakes’ is one of the hot favourites of tourists. The excellent architecture of Saheliyonki Bariis breath-taking. The orchards are embellished with abundant fountains and marble elephants. It is one of the most photogenic places manicured with blossoming flowers. Located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola is India’s second-largest palace, The City Palace of Udaipur. It is a majestic palace jewelled with grandeur.The monument stands tall like a magnificentedifice from the era of Mewar dynasty, making it a must-visit place in every tourist’s itinerary. The kings of Rajasthan possessed luxurious cars which are today showcased in The Vintage car Museum in Udaipur.
Apart from these pulsating and vibrant cities, Rajasthan is greatly known for its religious places. Salasar Balaji Temple is like an oasis in the middle of the desert. It consists of a rich history of Hindu Deity. It attracts tourists from all over India, especially the worshippers of Lord Hanuman. Few kilometres away is the Holy Shrine of Lord Shyam in Khatushyamji. The small town consists of various free lodging for tired visitors and pilgrims. This place attracts tourists from the eastern region who are ardent worshippers of Lord Shyama. Khatushyam has a fine-looking market consisting of vibrant handlooms and artefacts. Rani Sati temple is one of the largest temples of Rajasthan situated in the districts of Jhunjhunu. The unique quality of this shrine is that it doesn’t hold any painting or statues of either male or female God. Instead, the temple has atrishul constructed which denotes vigour and strength. Another very exceptional temple in the land of Rajasthan is Karni Maa temple located in Deshnoke, 30 km from Bikaner, in Rajasthan. The temple is famous for rats. The temple is eminent for approximately 20,000 black rats that live, and are esteemed and honoured in the temple. These holy rats are named kabbas, and many people travel great distances to pay their respects. A superstition that encompasses this temple is that, if any visitor spots a white rat among the black kabbas, great blessings and luck will be bestowed upon them. Such a place attracts numerous visitors owing to its curious nature.
Also Read : Travellers In Classrooms Enable Cultural Dialogue
Rajasthan apart from its attractive places is also famous for its sumptuous delicacies. Dal-Baati-Churma, Gatte-ki-Sabzi, Kachori and Mirchi Bada are of the mouth-watering meals.
The meals usually consist of lentils, vegetables and a fanciful assortment of spices. Lentil curries, yoghurt soups with deep-fried breads and chilli fritters make the much-loved spread. Okra, dried mango and Sangri (beans) go together with most of the meals.Some of the drool-worthy non-vegetarian dishes found in ample amount are Laalmaas, murgkokhaato, acharimurg and kachermaas. Favourite pastime snacks of Rajasthan are Samosas, pyazkikachori and mirchibada. Among the wide variety of sweets available in Rajasthan, the most devoured are feeni, ghevar, mawa, gajak, meethithul and jalebi.
To promote the tourism of Rajasthan, Palace on Wheels was launched by Indian Railways in association with Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation in 2009 after being revamped with new ornamentation, cuisine and itinerary. The train is so attractive that it is well known as ‘Paradise on wheels’ amongst Indians.The train provides a detour to the royal cities of Rajasthan that comprises visits to the heritage and cultural experiences. The expedition is one-of-its-kind as one can see and admire multitude diversities within a few days. The train is even famous for its restaurants, namely, ‘The Maharani’ and ‘The Maharaja’ that specializes in royal Rajasthani cuisines. An in-built lounge boosts the amenities that are being provided in the train.
The beautiful and grandeur state of Rajasthan has lots to give to its visitors who in return are regularly drawn back to experience the site with nostalgic memories.
