Rajasthan, an incredible state located in northern India, is cocooned in cultural and ancient history. A symbolic land of heroism and royalty, Rajasthan captivates visitors and transports them to an era of great kings, mighty kingdoms, valiant warriors and fantasy-like palaces.
Established as a state in the Dominion of India in 1949, Rajasthan’s rich and storied history still courses through its modern cities, towns and villages. Rajasthan is the largest state by area and seventh largest by population in the Indian peninsula, and the state can rightfully claim to be the dazzling jewel of India.
Tourists from everywhere should visit this magical state to witness its vibrant mélange of historical hill forts and palaces, glittery sands, diverse cultures and much more. Although classified under tropical desert climate due to low rains, Rajasthan has a climate that varies throughout the state. Summers are hot and dry, while winters turn to be extremely cold.
The capital of the state is Jaipur, better known by its epithet Pink City. Many avenues of Jaipur are washed in the beautiful flush of pink giving it an attractive exquisite appearance. Woven with music, art, culture and delicious cuisine, the most famous and popular attractions of Jaipur include the Hawa Mahal, one of the most iconic buildings in Rajasthan, which stands right in the heart of the city’s Johari Bazaar. The architecture is mesmerizing with windows appearing like a lattice of honeycombs.
Another ethereal sight is the Jal Mahal, situated in the center of Man Sagar Lake. The pink sandstone against the blue backdrop of the lake is a dreamy sight. Other attractions are Kanak Vrindavan, a landscape garden, Govind Devji Temple, Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory and many more.
Udaipur, also known as the Venice of the East, is a magical location in Royal Rajasthan. With shiny glittering lakes, vibrant colored marketplaces, narrow aesthetic lanes, Udaipur is like no other. Nestled in between the marvelous Aravalli range, the city offers picturesque sights to see. With an array of lakes like Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola and Jaisamand Lake, the city claims the title of romance and serenity. Magical Havelis, fairytale palaces and museums are also notable attractions.
Home of Ajmer-e-Sharif, the city of Ajmer is a popular stop for pilgrims. Nurtured on the edge of the scenic expanse of Ana Sagar Lake, the dargah draws thousands of devotees all year round. Among Rajasthan’s other astonishing attractions are Bikaner, Chittorgarh, Jodhpur, Kumbhalgarh and Jaisalmer.
Rajasthani cuisine reflects its rich and royal heritage, local food of Rajasthan is spicy and wonderfully fragrant. A favorite snack around the state are Kachoris, delightfully delicious stuffed and fried flatbreads filled with tangy and sweet potatoes, onions and spices.
Some of the other popular dishes from the state include Ghevar, a sweet that comes from traditional Rajasthan, Gatte ki Sabji, a delicious curry with gram flour dumpling; Lal Maas, the fiery dish prepared with mutton and red chilies; Dal Bhatti, an iconic dish made with dal and spices; Makhaniya Lassi is every foodie’s dream, a cooling drink with saffron and white butter in it. The list of culinary wonders is endless when it comes to food in Rajasthan.
Rajasthani arts and craftwork are famous across the globe, the finely textured hand-made pottery and unique handloom designs are enchanting. The ultimate shopping list of souvenirs in Rajasthan must include the blue pottery, the quartz pieces are an unforgettable memento to take back home, leather craft as well as jewelry are extremely popular buys in the city. Kundan jewels are one of the most precious jewelry in Rajasthan, others also include Sanganer, tie-dye leheriya and much more to choose from.
The land of paradise, Rajasthan will embrace you in its allure, making it an unforgettable trip replete with royalty and rich culture.