Nowhere else have we seen more searing colours, inhaled more potent aromas, and heard such an intoxicating mix of sounds as we have in Rajasthan, the land of princes, the land of kings. This state has everything - holy temples, trains of haughty loping camels, barefoot Jain nuns, bejewelled women in billowing skirts, proud virile men in colourful turbans… this monochromatic landscape is indeed alive with colour. From its marvelous architecture to its captivating landscape, the destination beckons the traveler.
Overlooked by the Aravallis, bordered by the craggy beauty of forts, studded at practically every street corner with reminders of a gorgeous and dramatic history, the state reverberates of mysticism – from the haunting images of camels making their ways through dunes, plaintive folk songs that emanate from the still desert sands, the setting sun casting her shadow on the ramparts of a fort, the magnificent havelis, the private hunting grounds of Kings and nobles (now renowned National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries), the friendliness of the people and their fascinating crafts…the mystical and magical element of Rajasthan weaves its silken threads on you.
With the Thar Desert serving as its unending courtyard, Rajasthan is the very essence of India. From it’s chaotic capital, Jaipur, which is known as the ‘Pink City‘ for its reddish palaces to the desert city of ‘Golden City’ Jaisalmer which is blanketed in golden-brown sand, evocative of Arabian tales and legends.
Must Visit Season:
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The Indian winter months from November to March are traditionally considered to be the best months to visit Rajasthan with clear blue skies, a warm sun during the day and cold desert nights.
The Bikaner Camel Festival held in varying dates in January, is a homage to the humped ones. There are camel races, camel rides, camel tugs-of-war, a camel pageant, dancing camels, competitions for the best decorated camel and the best camel haircut, and even a camel beauty contest – they have the eyelashes for it, at least.
Desert Festival, in Jaisalmer, is a three-day affair, in February where the arid sands of the desert pulsates with a myriad of Rajasthani dances: Ghoomer, Gangaur, Gair Dhap, Moria, Chari and Tehratal
The Pushkar Fair
Located right on the edge of the desert, the town clings to the small but beautiful Pushkar Lake. Normally, Pushkar welcomes small but continuous number of tourists for its elegant temples and amazing. But once in a year in the month of November when there is the full moon in the sky, there are thousands of people visiting the shrine as pilgrimage. It is one of the most vibrant, colorful and old fair in the world.
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