Rajasthan State

A vibrant, exotic state of India

Rajasthan is where all the country's similies and metaphors appear to have come together. Sand dunes, wooded hills and amazing lakes, palaces and rugged forts , men and women in colourful turbans and skirts, bustling towns and quiet villages, camels, elephants and tigers, harsh sunlight and the cool evening breeze-are all there in abundance. But they form only part of an intricate tapestry. Beneath the surface, expect to find many contradictions. Wherever you travel, particularly when you escape from the popular tourist destinations, you will come across the unexpected, whether it is a local fair or a breathtaking view. The mood and the rhythm of the countryside changes from one region to another, and from season to season. It is a land of surprises ; it is a land of amazing natural beauty that can fascinate even the most seasoned traveler.

The cities of Rajasthan still retain the medieval flavour keeping alive the timeless traditions in their rich art and crafts, colourful bazars and vibrant people wearing multi-hued costumes and a bright smile.

No other region in the country assembles the many paradoxes of India as does the desert land of Rajasthan. Unexpected forest glens, lakes and temples appear like mirages in the deserts. On the crag are seen rugged forts, testimony to a turbulent history.

The land comes alive with exuberant folk dances and music, ballads and spectacular festivities that are an inseparable part of Rajasthan's culture. Especially enchanting are the evenings here, when melodious tunes echoing through the solitude of shimmering sands, fill the air.

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 a rich variety of flora and fauna. Some of the finest national park and sanctuaries are found here.

Major cities and places of tourist interest of Rajasthan are Jaipur, Ajmer , Bharatpur, Bikaner, Chittorgarh, Jaisalmer , Jodhpur, Kota, Bundi, Udaipur, Jhalawar, Alwar, Banswara, Mount Abu.

Rajasthan is also renowned for exquisite miniature paintings and frescoes, not forgetting the incredibly fabulous Rajasthani fabrics and jewelry alongwith a wide range of beautiful handicrafts.

The history of Rajasthan goes back 5000 years and boasts a heritage as rich as its landscape, from the grand palaces and rugged forts to its tranquil countryside. There is something for everyone in this vast state - those looking for an action packed holiday will find endless opportunities, from horse and camel safari to trekking. Those looking for a taste of royal lifestyle just need to check into one of the several palace hotels or heritage hotels that will make it possible for them to be treated like royal guests. A mouth-watering treat of Rajasthani cuisine ranging from desert specialities to royal delicacies, awaits you during your visit.

Rajasthan, a land of princes, palaces and preening peacocks is renowned for its monuments, art and culture that go back to several centuries. Admire a range of miniature paintings and frescoes of exquisite refinement, there is romance in Rajasthan's forts and palaces and arts of gallantry retold in ballads and legends, Then there are sanctuaries sheltering rich and varied species of flora and fauna. And the shimmering Thar Desert belt charms with a rare and amazing sight.

The panoramic outlook of the state is simply mesmerizing, with lofty hills of Aravali's - one of the oldest mountain ranges of the world and the golden sand dunes of the Great Indian Desert - the only desert of the sub-continent. No other region in the country is a conglomeration of so many paradoxes. It is a land of superlatives, everything over here is breathtakingly beautiful, impressive and fascinating!

Whether you are visiting Rajasthan's big cities with a fast-moving westernised lifestyle, or exploring historic towns or quaint villages, you will always find the people warm and friendly. And if you want to move away from the regular tourist beat, it is very easy to organise your own tour.

Accommodation could be a palace hotel, a smaller heritage hotel in the country, a guesthouse, a tent or a village hut-the choice is yours. But whatever you choose, your holiday in Rajasthan will be an unforgettable experience.