Rajasthan:
About RajasthanRajasthan (land of kings) is the largest state, area wise, in India. It borders Pakistan to the west, Gujarat to the southwest, Madhya Pradesh to the southeast, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to the northeast and Punjab to the north. Rajasthan covers an area of 342,239 km² (132,139 mi²;).
The state capital is Jaipur. Geographical features include the Thar Desert in western Rajasthan and the termination of the Ghaggar River. One of the world's oldest mountain ranges, the Aravalli Range, cradles the only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu, and its world famous Dilwara Temples. Eastern Rajasthan has two national tiger reserves, Ranthambore and Sariska, as well as Keoladeo National Park near Bharatpur, famous for its bird life.
GeographyThe main geographic feature of Rajasthan is the Aravalli Range, which runs through the state from southwest to northeast, almost from one end to another end. Mount Abu is at the southwestern end of the range, although a series of broken ridges continues into Haryana in the direction of Delhi. About three-fifths of Rajasthan lies northwest of the Aravallis, leaving two-fifths on the east and south.
The northwestern portion of Rajasthan is generally sandy and dry, and most of the region is covered by the Thar Desert, which extends into adjoining portions of Pakistan. The Aravalli Ranges intercept the moisture-giving southwest monsoon winds off the Arabian Sea, leaving the northwestern region in a rain shadow. The Thar Desert is thinly populated, and the town of Bikaner is the largest city in the desert. The Northwestern thorn scrub forests lie in a band around the Thar Desert, between the desert and the Aravallis. This region receives less than 750 mm of rain in an average year, and summer temperatures can exceed 45ยบ C in the summer months, and drop below freezing in the winter. The Godwar, Marwar, and Shekhawati regions lie in the thorn scrub forest zone, along with the city of Jodhpur. The Luni River and its tributaries are the major river system of Godwar and Marwar Regions, draining the western slopes of the Aravallis and emptying southwest into the great Rann of Kutch wetland in neighboring Gujarat. The Ghaggar River, which originates in Haryana, is an intermittent stream that disappears into the sands of the Thar Desert in the northern corner of the state.
The Aravalli Range and the lands to the east and southeast of the range are generally more fertile and better watered. This region is home to the Kathiarbar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion, with tropical dry broadleaf forests that include teak, Acacia, and other trees. The hilly Vagad region lies in southernmost Rajasthan, on the border with Gujarat. With the exception of Mount Abu, Vagad is the wettest region in Rajasthan, and the most heavily forested. North of Vagad lies the Mewar region, home to the cities of Udaipur and Chittaurgarh. The Hadoti region lies to the southeast, on the border with Madhya Pradesh. North of Hadoti and Mewar is the Dhundhar region, home to the state capital of Jaipur. Mewat, the easternmost region of Rajasthan, borders Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Eastern and southeastern Rajasthan is drained by the Banas and Chambal rivers, tributaries of the Ganges.
History:
Rajasthan was earlier called Rajputana (state of Rajputs) after the ruling class of Rajputs. Rajput which literally means 'son of rulers'. Rajput clans rose to prominence in the 6th century, establishing kingdoms in Rajasthan and across northern India. The Rajputs resisted Muslim incursions into India, although a number of Rajput states became tributaries to the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire during those empires' peak of expansion. As these empires weakened, the Rajputs reasserted their independence. With the decline of the Mughal Empire in the 18th century, Rajputana came under attack from the Marathas and Pindaris, and the Maratha general Sindhia captured Ajmer. The Rajput kings concluded treaties with the British in the early 19th century, accepting British sovereignty in return for local autonomy and protection from the Marathas. Ajmer became a province of British India, while the autonomous Rajput states and a few non-Rajput states (Tonk, Bharatpur, and Dholpur) were organized into the Rajputana Agency.
The Rajputs' tradition of independence preserved Rajasthan's culture and society, but many argue that it also kept the state illiterate, backward and old fashioned, leaving it less advanced in industrialisation, education, female rights, and equality.
Rajasthan's independent kingdoms created a rich architectural and cultural heritage, seen today in its numerous forts, palaces and havelis, which are complemented by exceptional examples of Muslim and Jain architecture.
DistrictsRajasthan has 32 districts: Ajmer, Alwar, Banswara, Baran, Barmer, Bhilwara, Bikaner, Bharatpur, Bundi, Chittorgarh, Churu, Dausa, Dholpur, Dungarpur, Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jalore, Jhalawar, Jhunjhunu, Jodhpur, Karauli, Kota, Nagaur, Pali, Rajsamand, Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, Sirohi, Tonk, and Udaipur.
CHOOSE YOUR DESTINATION:
AGRA:
Agra is the quintessential Mughal City, where the world marvels at the epitome of love, beauty and sacrifice, The Taj-Mahal one of the wonders of the world...
AJMER:
Situated in the green oasis, wrapped in the barren hills, Ajmer has been a witness to an interesting past. Today, Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage center, for the Hindus, as well as Muslims...
BHARATPUR:
Bharatpur is renowned for its World Heritage listed bird sanctuary. Once the hunting estate of the Maharajas, with daily shoots, recorded upto 4,000 birds, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, is one of the finest bird sanctuaries, with over 360 species, which even non-ornithologists visit...
BIKANERA:
citadel of culture and camels, this royal fortified city has a timeless appeal. Dotted with many sand dunes, Bikaner is an oasis. The rocky outcrop in a barren landscape provides a dramatic setting for the Junagarh Fort...
BUNDI:
The Undiscovered Splendour 36-km from Kota is a tiny picturesque town, Bundi, which is one of the unexplored cities, with a rich historical wealth. Once a part of Kota, it was ruled by the Hada Chauhans - an off shoot of the famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer.
CHITTORGARH:
The pride and glory of Rajasthan, Chittor echoes with the tales of romance and valour, unique to the Rajput tradition. Chittorgarh fort stands on a 152 km high rocky hill, abruptly above the surrounding plains.
DUNGARPUR:
Situated about 110 km south of Udaipur, Dungarpur, or the City of Hills, was founded in the 13ht century. You can visit the Juna Mahal which is adorned with beautiful frescoes, paintings, mirror work and glass inlays...
EKLINGJI:
Incised out of sandstone and marble, Eklingji is a little village dotted with temples. Enclosed by high walls, it is a complex of 108 ancient temples. The exquisitely carved Eklingji was built to propagate the blessings of Lord Shiva..
JAIPUR:
The picturesque capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is also known as the Pink city. The color pink is associated with culture. There is a timeless appeal in the colorful bazaars of Jaipur, where one can shop for Rajasthani handlooms and trinkets.
JAISALMER:
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert, like a golden mirage, is the magical city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone, stands with its entire awesome splendor, dominating the amber - hued city...
JODHPUR:
The Blue City of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is the second biggest city and is on the edge of Thar Desert. It was established by Rao Jodha, in the 15th century and has become the largest and the most progressive of the Rajput states.
KARAULI:
As per the legend, the ruling family of Karauli, recognised as the head of the Yadhuvanshi Rajputs, is the descendant of Lord Krishna. Situated 23 kms from Kaila Devi, Karauli was an erstwhile princely state in eastern Rajasthan.
KOTA:
Along the eastern bank of the Shamble River lies Kota - an amazing juxtaposition of the majestic medieval age, and modern industrialization. While its untouched wealth of impressive forts, opulent palaces and splendid temples...
KUMBALGARH:
The formidable medieval citadel, Kumbhalgarh stands a wary sentinel to the past glory. Rising from a prominent ridge, 1914 meters high from the sea level, this mountain fortress in the wilderness is the principal fortification after Chittaurgarh...
MOUNT ABU:
The only hill resort of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is a pleasant retreat, set amidst the lush forested hills. A green oasis in the barren desert scrape, the hill retreat, owes its cool climate to its rich flora..
PUSHKAR:
On the edge of the desert lies the tiny tranquil town of Pushkar, along the bank of the picturesque Pushkar Lake, in a narrow dry valley, overshadowed by impressive rocky hills, which offer spectacular views of the desert at sunset.
RANAKPUR:
Ranakpur is amongst the five most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. It is home to an exceptionally beautiful temple complex in the Aravali ranges and a must visit for the tourists coming to this region...
RANTHAMBHORE:
The Park is one of the finest tiger reserves in the country, under the Project Tiger. Ranthambhore sanctuary has a large numbers of sambar, chittal, nilgai, chinkara, langurs, wild boar and peafowl..
SARISKA:
Sariska, in Rajasthan, the erstwhile royal preserve of the rulers of Alwar, became a sanctuary in the year 1958. The sanctuary came under the Project Tiger in 1979 and became a national park in 1982.
UDAIPUR:
The city of Dawn, Udaipur is an enchanting city. Also known as The Venice of the East, it is a vision in white, drenched in romance and beauty. From the azure water lakes in the midst of sandy terrain...DelhiThis is the capital city of India, and can be called as a major gateway to India. Delhi is one of the most important metropolitan in India, as it is the city of power. It has a very good combination of both modern, as well as ancient culture...
MumbaiOnce a cluster of seven islands, Mumbai was presented to King Charles II in 1661 as part of the dowry when he married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal. Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets,...
VaranasiVaranasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Many names have been given to Varanasi, though its recently revived official appellation is mentioned in the Mahabharata and in the Jataka tales of Buddhism...
KhajurahoThe Khajuraho temples were built in the short span of a hundred years, from 950-1050AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity. Of the 85 original temples, 22 have survived till today to constitute one of the world's great artistic wonders...
Ajmer Rajasthan India
BRIEF:
Situated in the green oasis, wrapped in the barren hills, Ajmer has been a witness to an interesting past. Today, Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage center, for the Hindus, as well as Muslims. Especially famous is the Dargah Sharif - tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, which is equally revered by the Hindus and Muslims. It is essentially a perfect base to visit nearby Pushkar. Ajmer also has a legacy of excellent educational institutions, started by the British.
HISTORY:
The city was founded by Raja Ajai Pal Chauhan, in the 7th Century A.D. and continued to be a major center of the Chauhan power, till Prithviraj Chauhan, lost it to Mohammed Ghauri. Born in Afghanistan, Moinuddin Chisti visited Ajmer and breathed his last here. The houses of Mewar, Malwa and Jodhpur, each ruled for a time, until Akbar annexed it and made the tomb a place of pilgrimage. Since then, Ajmer became home to many dynasties, which came and left, leaving behind indelible marks of their culture and traditions on the history of the city, converting it to an amalgam of various cultures and a blend of Hinduism and Islam. After the Mughals, Ajmer returned to the House of Jodhpur and later the Marathas, till the British annexed it and brought it under their direct rule.
CULTURE:
Ajmer was home to many dynasties, which came and left leaving behind indelible marks of their culture and traditions on the history of the city, converting it, to an amalgam of various cultures and a blend of Hinduism and Islam. It is a popular pilgrimage center for the Hindus as well as Muslims. It is also the base for visiting Pushkar, the adobe of Lord Brahma. A sacred spot for Hindus, during the month of Kartik (Oct/Nov), devotees throng in large numbers here, to take a dip in the sacred Pushkar Lake.
FOOD:
The city serves varied cuisines (Rajasthani, Mughlai, Indian, Continental, Italian, Chinese and Kosher). However, while the efforts are certainly praiseworthy, the flavours don't come near the authentic ones. So, if you are a food connoisseur, then you would most probably go hungry in Ajmer. Ethnic food-freaks could get a decent dal-batti-choorma at some of the local eateries. Can't vouch on the purity of ghee though! The only hotel offering decent food is the Mansingh Hotel and even that just passes muster.
Being a Muslim-dominated city one would expect some dishy kebabs. However, no such luck. Some small shack-type places do offer tandoori stuff but the authentic khana eludes the palate. Those who like to snack are in for a treat as the shops lining the lane to the Ajmer Sharief Dargah serve a mean snack washed down with a jumbo tumbler of fresh juice. Just a tip: Don’t look while the juice is being made, it makes it easier to drink. Mithai is great in Ajmer, especially the ghevar (khoya delight) and you should definitely carry a box back with you.
SHOPPING:
Not exactly a shoppers' paradise yet you get silver jewellery, jootis, trinkets, beads and tie 'n' dye in this mosque-city. Try the area around the Dargah for knick-knacks and the main markets around the railway station or in the city centre for the signature Rajasthani bandhni designs.
Jaisamer Rajasthan India
BRIEF:
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert, like a golden mirage, is the magical city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone, stands with its entire awesome splendor, dominating the amber - hued city.
With the crenellated golden sandstone town walls and narrow, streets, lined with exquisitely carved buildings, through which camel carts trundle leisurely, it has an extraordinarily medieval feel and an incredible atmosphere.The fort inside, perched on its hilltop, contains some gems of Jain temple building, while beautifully decorated merchants havelis, are scattered through the town. Jaisalmer gives convenient access to the surrounding desert wilderness, sand dunes and oasis villages, ideal for camel rides and safaris.
HISTORY:
An interesting legend associates this city. Lord Krishna foretold Arjuna, that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan, would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy came true in 1156 AD, 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.
These Rajputs lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious silk and spices, which crossed the territory enroots to Delhi or Sind, earning the town great wealth. As a major staging post on the trade route, the merchants prospered and invested in building beautiful houses and temple. But maritime trade between India and the West came to a decline and ceased altogether in 1947.
CULTURE:
The life within the citadel, conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes, strewn with magnificent palaces, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels. Folk dances, exciting competitions, turban-tying contest, Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivities during the Desert festival.
Colorful craft bazaars and a sound and light spectacle, is organized with folk artistes performing against the splendid backdrop of the famous Sam sand dunes on the full moon night.
FOODJaisalmer is a centre for typically fiery Rajasthani cuisine. The use of red chilli and ginger is liberal and each preparation has its own uniquely piquant flavour. Hot favourites are the famed gatta curry, macchi/maas sulas, lal/safed maas and the ever present ker-sangri. The dal-bati-choorma is available though not very distinctive.
An integral part of the cuisine is the soul-stirring local music, accompanied by graceful dancing. For people with an incurable sweet tooth, on offer are a variety of gramflour and milk sweetmeats which are guaranteed to tempt even the most jaded palate.
SHOPPING:
Jaisalmer is famous for its tie and dye fabric, embroidery, mirror-work, old stonework, blankets, leather goods etc. Some of the famous shopping areas are — Khadi Gramudyog Bhavan at Dibba Para; Rajasthani Handicraft Emporium at Amar Sagar Gate & Gandhi Chowk; Light of the East at Jain Temple Lane.
contact to:
About RajasthanRajasthan (land of kings) is the largest state, area wise, in India. It borders Pakistan to the west, Gujarat to the southwest, Madhya Pradesh to the southeast, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to the northeast and Punjab to the north. Rajasthan covers an area of 342,239 km² (132,139 mi²;).
The state capital is Jaipur. Geographical features include the Thar Desert in western Rajasthan and the termination of the Ghaggar River. One of the world's oldest mountain ranges, the Aravalli Range, cradles the only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu, and its world famous Dilwara Temples. Eastern Rajasthan has two national tiger reserves, Ranthambore and Sariska, as well as Keoladeo National Park near Bharatpur, famous for its bird life.
GeographyThe main geographic feature of Rajasthan is the Aravalli Range, which runs through the state from southwest to northeast, almost from one end to another end. Mount Abu is at the southwestern end of the range, although a series of broken ridges continues into Haryana in the direction of Delhi. About three-fifths of Rajasthan lies northwest of the Aravallis, leaving two-fifths on the east and south.
The northwestern portion of Rajasthan is generally sandy and dry, and most of the region is covered by the Thar Desert, which extends into adjoining portions of Pakistan. The Aravalli Ranges intercept the moisture-giving southwest monsoon winds off the Arabian Sea, leaving the northwestern region in a rain shadow. The Thar Desert is thinly populated, and the town of Bikaner is the largest city in the desert. The Northwestern thorn scrub forests lie in a band around the Thar Desert, between the desert and the Aravallis. This region receives less than 750 mm of rain in an average year, and summer temperatures can exceed 45ยบ C in the summer months, and drop below freezing in the winter. The Godwar, Marwar, and Shekhawati regions lie in the thorn scrub forest zone, along with the city of Jodhpur. The Luni River and its tributaries are the major river system of Godwar and Marwar Regions, draining the western slopes of the Aravallis and emptying southwest into the great Rann of Kutch wetland in neighboring Gujarat. The Ghaggar River, which originates in Haryana, is an intermittent stream that disappears into the sands of the Thar Desert in the northern corner of the state.
The Aravalli Range and the lands to the east and southeast of the range are generally more fertile and better watered. This region is home to the Kathiarbar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion, with tropical dry broadleaf forests that include teak, Acacia, and other trees. The hilly Vagad region lies in southernmost Rajasthan, on the border with Gujarat. With the exception of Mount Abu, Vagad is the wettest region in Rajasthan, and the most heavily forested. North of Vagad lies the Mewar region, home to the cities of Udaipur and Chittaurgarh. The Hadoti region lies to the southeast, on the border with Madhya Pradesh. North of Hadoti and Mewar is the Dhundhar region, home to the state capital of Jaipur. Mewat, the easternmost region of Rajasthan, borders Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Eastern and southeastern Rajasthan is drained by the Banas and Chambal rivers, tributaries of the Ganges.
History:
Rajasthan was earlier called Rajputana (state of Rajputs) after the ruling class of Rajputs. Rajput which literally means 'son of rulers'. Rajput clans rose to prominence in the 6th century, establishing kingdoms in Rajasthan and across northern India. The Rajputs resisted Muslim incursions into India, although a number of Rajput states became tributaries to the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire during those empires' peak of expansion. As these empires weakened, the Rajputs reasserted their independence. With the decline of the Mughal Empire in the 18th century, Rajputana came under attack from the Marathas and Pindaris, and the Maratha general Sindhia captured Ajmer. The Rajput kings concluded treaties with the British in the early 19th century, accepting British sovereignty in return for local autonomy and protection from the Marathas. Ajmer became a province of British India, while the autonomous Rajput states and a few non-Rajput states (Tonk, Bharatpur, and Dholpur) were organized into the Rajputana Agency.
The Rajputs' tradition of independence preserved Rajasthan's culture and society, but many argue that it also kept the state illiterate, backward and old fashioned, leaving it less advanced in industrialisation, education, female rights, and equality.
Rajasthan's independent kingdoms created a rich architectural and cultural heritage, seen today in its numerous forts, palaces and havelis, which are complemented by exceptional examples of Muslim and Jain architecture.
DistrictsRajasthan has 32 districts: Ajmer, Alwar, Banswara, Baran, Barmer, Bhilwara, Bikaner, Bharatpur, Bundi, Chittorgarh, Churu, Dausa, Dholpur, Dungarpur, Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jalore, Jhalawar, Jhunjhunu, Jodhpur, Karauli, Kota, Nagaur, Pali, Rajsamand, Sawai Madhopur, Sikar, Sirohi, Tonk, and Udaipur.
CHOOSE YOUR DESTINATION:
AGRA:
Agra is the quintessential Mughal City, where the world marvels at the epitome of love, beauty and sacrifice, The Taj-Mahal one of the wonders of the world...
AJMER:
Situated in the green oasis, wrapped in the barren hills, Ajmer has been a witness to an interesting past. Today, Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage center, for the Hindus, as well as Muslims...
BHARATPUR:
Bharatpur is renowned for its World Heritage listed bird sanctuary. Once the hunting estate of the Maharajas, with daily shoots, recorded upto 4,000 birds, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, is one of the finest bird sanctuaries, with over 360 species, which even non-ornithologists visit...
BIKANERA:
citadel of culture and camels, this royal fortified city has a timeless appeal. Dotted with many sand dunes, Bikaner is an oasis. The rocky outcrop in a barren landscape provides a dramatic setting for the Junagarh Fort...
BUNDI:
The Undiscovered Splendour 36-km from Kota is a tiny picturesque town, Bundi, which is one of the unexplored cities, with a rich historical wealth. Once a part of Kota, it was ruled by the Hada Chauhans - an off shoot of the famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer.
CHITTORGARH:
The pride and glory of Rajasthan, Chittor echoes with the tales of romance and valour, unique to the Rajput tradition. Chittorgarh fort stands on a 152 km high rocky hill, abruptly above the surrounding plains.
DUNGARPUR:
Situated about 110 km south of Udaipur, Dungarpur, or the City of Hills, was founded in the 13ht century. You can visit the Juna Mahal which is adorned with beautiful frescoes, paintings, mirror work and glass inlays...
EKLINGJI:
Incised out of sandstone and marble, Eklingji is a little village dotted with temples. Enclosed by high walls, it is a complex of 108 ancient temples. The exquisitely carved Eklingji was built to propagate the blessings of Lord Shiva..
JAIPUR:
The picturesque capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is also known as the Pink city. The color pink is associated with culture. There is a timeless appeal in the colorful bazaars of Jaipur, where one can shop for Rajasthani handlooms and trinkets.
JAISALMER:
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert, like a golden mirage, is the magical city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone, stands with its entire awesome splendor, dominating the amber - hued city...
JODHPUR:
The Blue City of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is the second biggest city and is on the edge of Thar Desert. It was established by Rao Jodha, in the 15th century and has become the largest and the most progressive of the Rajput states.
KARAULI:
As per the legend, the ruling family of Karauli, recognised as the head of the Yadhuvanshi Rajputs, is the descendant of Lord Krishna. Situated 23 kms from Kaila Devi, Karauli was an erstwhile princely state in eastern Rajasthan.
KOTA:
Along the eastern bank of the Shamble River lies Kota - an amazing juxtaposition of the majestic medieval age, and modern industrialization. While its untouched wealth of impressive forts, opulent palaces and splendid temples...
KUMBALGARH:
The formidable medieval citadel, Kumbhalgarh stands a wary sentinel to the past glory. Rising from a prominent ridge, 1914 meters high from the sea level, this mountain fortress in the wilderness is the principal fortification after Chittaurgarh...
MOUNT ABU:
The only hill resort of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is a pleasant retreat, set amidst the lush forested hills. A green oasis in the barren desert scrape, the hill retreat, owes its cool climate to its rich flora..
PUSHKAR:
On the edge of the desert lies the tiny tranquil town of Pushkar, along the bank of the picturesque Pushkar Lake, in a narrow dry valley, overshadowed by impressive rocky hills, which offer spectacular views of the desert at sunset.
RANAKPUR:
Ranakpur is amongst the five most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. It is home to an exceptionally beautiful temple complex in the Aravali ranges and a must visit for the tourists coming to this region...
RANTHAMBHORE:
The Park is one of the finest tiger reserves in the country, under the Project Tiger. Ranthambhore sanctuary has a large numbers of sambar, chittal, nilgai, chinkara, langurs, wild boar and peafowl..
SARISKA:
Sariska, in Rajasthan, the erstwhile royal preserve of the rulers of Alwar, became a sanctuary in the year 1958. The sanctuary came under the Project Tiger in 1979 and became a national park in 1982.
UDAIPUR:
The city of Dawn, Udaipur is an enchanting city. Also known as The Venice of the East, it is a vision in white, drenched in romance and beauty. From the azure water lakes in the midst of sandy terrain...DelhiThis is the capital city of India, and can be called as a major gateway to India. Delhi is one of the most important metropolitan in India, as it is the city of power. It has a very good combination of both modern, as well as ancient culture...
MumbaiOnce a cluster of seven islands, Mumbai was presented to King Charles II in 1661 as part of the dowry when he married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal. Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets,...
VaranasiVaranasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Many names have been given to Varanasi, though its recently revived official appellation is mentioned in the Mahabharata and in the Jataka tales of Buddhism...
KhajurahoThe Khajuraho temples were built in the short span of a hundred years, from 950-1050AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity. Of the 85 original temples, 22 have survived till today to constitute one of the world's great artistic wonders...
Ajmer Rajasthan India
BRIEF:
Situated in the green oasis, wrapped in the barren hills, Ajmer has been a witness to an interesting past. Today, Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage center, for the Hindus, as well as Muslims. Especially famous is the Dargah Sharif - tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, which is equally revered by the Hindus and Muslims. It is essentially a perfect base to visit nearby Pushkar. Ajmer also has a legacy of excellent educational institutions, started by the British.
HISTORY:
The city was founded by Raja Ajai Pal Chauhan, in the 7th Century A.D. and continued to be a major center of the Chauhan power, till Prithviraj Chauhan, lost it to Mohammed Ghauri. Born in Afghanistan, Moinuddin Chisti visited Ajmer and breathed his last here. The houses of Mewar, Malwa and Jodhpur, each ruled for a time, until Akbar annexed it and made the tomb a place of pilgrimage. Since then, Ajmer became home to many dynasties, which came and left, leaving behind indelible marks of their culture and traditions on the history of the city, converting it to an amalgam of various cultures and a blend of Hinduism and Islam. After the Mughals, Ajmer returned to the House of Jodhpur and later the Marathas, till the British annexed it and brought it under their direct rule.
CULTURE:
Ajmer was home to many dynasties, which came and left leaving behind indelible marks of their culture and traditions on the history of the city, converting it, to an amalgam of various cultures and a blend of Hinduism and Islam. It is a popular pilgrimage center for the Hindus as well as Muslims. It is also the base for visiting Pushkar, the adobe of Lord Brahma. A sacred spot for Hindus, during the month of Kartik (Oct/Nov), devotees throng in large numbers here, to take a dip in the sacred Pushkar Lake.
FOOD:
The city serves varied cuisines (Rajasthani, Mughlai, Indian, Continental, Italian, Chinese and Kosher). However, while the efforts are certainly praiseworthy, the flavours don't come near the authentic ones. So, if you are a food connoisseur, then you would most probably go hungry in Ajmer. Ethnic food-freaks could get a decent dal-batti-choorma at some of the local eateries. Can't vouch on the purity of ghee though! The only hotel offering decent food is the Mansingh Hotel and even that just passes muster.
Being a Muslim-dominated city one would expect some dishy kebabs. However, no such luck. Some small shack-type places do offer tandoori stuff but the authentic khana eludes the palate. Those who like to snack are in for a treat as the shops lining the lane to the Ajmer Sharief Dargah serve a mean snack washed down with a jumbo tumbler of fresh juice. Just a tip: Don’t look while the juice is being made, it makes it easier to drink. Mithai is great in Ajmer, especially the ghevar (khoya delight) and you should definitely carry a box back with you.
SHOPPING:
Not exactly a shoppers' paradise yet you get silver jewellery, jootis, trinkets, beads and tie 'n' dye in this mosque-city. Try the area around the Dargah for knick-knacks and the main markets around the railway station or in the city centre for the signature Rajasthani bandhni designs.
Jaisamer Rajasthan India
BRIEF:
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert, like a golden mirage, is the magical city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone, stands with its entire awesome splendor, dominating the amber - hued city.
With the crenellated golden sandstone town walls and narrow, streets, lined with exquisitely carved buildings, through which camel carts trundle leisurely, it has an extraordinarily medieval feel and an incredible atmosphere.The fort inside, perched on its hilltop, contains some gems of Jain temple building, while beautifully decorated merchants havelis, are scattered through the town. Jaisalmer gives convenient access to the surrounding desert wilderness, sand dunes and oasis villages, ideal for camel rides and safaris.
HISTORY:
An interesting legend associates this city. Lord Krishna foretold Arjuna, that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan, would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy came true in 1156 AD, 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.
These Rajputs lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious silk and spices, which crossed the territory enroots to Delhi or Sind, earning the town great wealth. As a major staging post on the trade route, the merchants prospered and invested in building beautiful houses and temple. But maritime trade between India and the West came to a decline and ceased altogether in 1947.
CULTURE:
The life within the citadel, conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes, strewn with magnificent palaces, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels. Folk dances, exciting competitions, turban-tying contest, Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivities during the Desert festival.
Colorful craft bazaars and a sound and light spectacle, is organized with folk artistes performing against the splendid backdrop of the famous Sam sand dunes on the full moon night.
FOODJaisalmer is a centre for typically fiery Rajasthani cuisine. The use of red chilli and ginger is liberal and each preparation has its own uniquely piquant flavour. Hot favourites are the famed gatta curry, macchi/maas sulas, lal/safed maas and the ever present ker-sangri. The dal-bati-choorma is available though not very distinctive.
An integral part of the cuisine is the soul-stirring local music, accompanied by graceful dancing. For people with an incurable sweet tooth, on offer are a variety of gramflour and milk sweetmeats which are guaranteed to tempt even the most jaded palate.
SHOPPING:
Jaisalmer is famous for its tie and dye fabric, embroidery, mirror-work, old stonework, blankets, leather goods etc. Some of the famous shopping areas are — Khadi Gramudyog Bhavan at Dibba Para; Rajasthani Handicraft Emporium at Amar Sagar Gate & Gandhi Chowk; Light of the East at Jain Temple Lane.
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