Admire the brilliant craftsmanship at Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur

Standing in all its splendour, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is a prominent tourist attraction in Rajasthan. It is one of the colossal forts of India that lies atop a steep hill. It is acknowledged as among the well-preserved forts in India. The fort houses many other period palaces, which are worth to explore.

Mehrangarh Fort is among the largest forts in Rajasthan. It serves as the most grandiose structure in Jodhpur. Located atop a 150 m high hill, the fort is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

You can reach the fort from seven gates. These gates have the marks of different battles fought in the bygone era. The second gate still stands testimony to cannonball hits by assaulting armies of Jaipur during wars. Jayapol, meaning victory is another gate. Constructed by Maharaja Man Singh to celebrate his victory over Bikaner and Jaipur armies. Fatehpol, meaning victory is another gate, built by Maharaja Ajit Singh to mark the as celebration for defeating the Mughals.

Mehrangarh Fort Museum serves as among the finest museums in the state. This is beautifully laid out and houses a palanquin section. You can find a huge variety of old royal palanquins. Other items on display includes costumes, arms, paintings and decorated period rooms. The museum offers an insight of the splendour of the royal families of the bygone era.

Other highlights of Mehrangarh Fort in Rajasthan encompass various palaces inside the fort. With their huge courtyard, the fort has the spectacular palaces like Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace. It houses the Sringar Chowk, the royal throne of Jodhpur. The fort also houses galleries and temples. The 'Chhatra' of a soldier, Kirat Singh Soda lies to the left of the Mehrangarh Fort.

Moti Mahal

This is the largest period room of the museum. Built by Raja Sur Singh, Moti Mahal was the place where the king used to sit on his throne and conducted meeting all his subjects. The Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace has the five alcoves that take you to hidden balconies. It is believed that the balconies were especially created for the five queens of the Maharaja to facilitate them to hear on court proceeding.

Sheesh Mahal

The Hall of Mirrors in Mehrangarh Fort is a typical example of a Rajput Sheesh Mahal. It showcases stunning mirror-work. It is overlapped by the exquisite mirror-work of dazzlingly painted religious figures made in plaster, which make it counted among popular Rajasthan attractions.

Phool Mahal

Known as the “Palace of Flowers”, it is among the grandest Mehrangarh Fort period. It is believed that the Phool Mahal was a private chamber of pleasure of the Maharajas. Dancing girls are believed to perform here.

Takhat Vilas

This popular Jodhpur Fort also houses Takhat Vilas, which used to be the chamber of Maharaja Takhat Singh. The place served as the venue of his residence during the time of his rule. Takhat Vilas showcase an impressive blend of styles, both traditional and modern. The lovely paintings on the walls, depicting scenes from the religious Krishna Leela still retain their charm.

Unfold the charm of Rajasthan Travel Destinations

Rajasthan, the royal state is known over the world for its heritage charm. Enriched with majestic palaces and hilltop forts of stunning artistry, the state exhibits its architectural heritage. Every city of Rajasthan serves as among prominent travel destinations with its plethora of attractions.

Rajasthan is among the most visited states in the country. The desert land showcases all the vibrant colours of tourism. Think of palaces, forts, desert, elephants, camel, wildlife or safari, you can experience it with Rajasthan Tourism India. These classic tourist places of Rajasthan are must to explore.

Udaipur

Standing on the banks of Pichola Lake, Udaipur is the most romantic city of Rajasthan. It has many white marble palaces that reflect in the lake's tranquil waters. With its abundance of water, the city boasts of many gardens in and out of the town. A number of reservoirs, enveloping the town enhances the appeal of the city. Lake Palace, Chittaurgarh, Ranakpur Jain Temples and Kumbhalgarh are the other popular attractions that make your Udaipur tour more enjoyable.

Jaisalmer

Founded by Rao Jaisal, the splendid city was founded in 1155. Known as the “Golden City”, Jaisalmer lies in the heart of the desert. This desert fortress is among the most exotic towns of Rajasthan. Due to its strategic location, the city served as an important ancient trading centre. Exquisitely carved Jain temples are the main attraction of the city. Camp fire, folk dances and Mashaals further add the charm to the environment. Travel to Rajasthan India to have fun of Camel Safari in Jaisalmer, which is a big hit with tourists.

Jaipur

The beautiful Pink City of Rajasthan, Jaipur is famous for its plethora of tourist attractions. Jaipur is lined with amazing forts and magnificent palaces that create a mesmerising picture. The capital city also serves as a home to various tourist attractions of Rajasthan. It houses numerous architectural wonders like Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Palace of Winds and the Observatory. The City Palace is another stunning structure with a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Lying amidst the Ram Niwas Bagh, Albert Hall Museum offers an interesting collection of rare articles like carpets, textiles, metal, paintings, pottery and weapons.

Jodhpur

On the corner of the Indian Desert, Jodhpur is among popular Rajasthan destinations where the past comes alive in the impregnable Mehrangarh Fort. Adorably called as the “Blue City”, Jodhpur boasts of being the second largest city in the state. It houses the rising Mehrangarh Fort, which serves as among the largest forts in India. The structure also houses numerous palace and museum. The fort also offers an excellent site to behold Jodhpur's blue buildings.

Pushkar

Rajasthan travel takes you to Pushkar, which remains a sleepy sacred town for most of the year. It attracts many tourists from all around the world. The town becomes alive for a couple of weeks in the months of October or November. It is a fascinating site that offers wonderful opportunity to see an old traditional Indian festival. Pushkar Camel Fair beckons many tourists from all around the world.

Article Source : http://www.squidoo.com/rajasthan-travel-destinations

Onset of Phenomenal Experience with Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore national park is a favourite wildlife destination for wildlife lovers from around the world. Tourists can see tigers, which is the pride of the park. The sanctuary also boasts of a rich variety of flora and fauna that enchants tourists.

Sprawled over a huge area, Ranthambore National Park lies in the Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan. It is flanked by two sanctuaries, the Mansingh Sanctuary and Kaila Devi Sanctuary. The park is a heritage site, which serves as home to various species of plants, birds and reptiles. This is the place where you can sight the largest Banyan trees in the country. The park also houses few lakes inside its premises. Wildlife lovers and photographers flock to the place from far and wide.

History

Ranthambore once served as a private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. Founded as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary, it was declared as one of the Project Tiger Reserves in India in the year 1973 and got the status of a National Park in 1980. The park got its name after the ancient Ranthambore fortress. Hunting lodges, chhatris and old fortifications overlook the park.

Flora and Fauna

Serving as among the largest national parks in India, it is well-known for its tiger population. Besides tigers, tourists can also spot the other animals like leopards, deer, jungle cat, crocodiles, hyenas, jackals, mongooses and gazelles on their Ranthambore wildlife tour.

Other commonly spotted wildlife in Ranthambore encompasses sambar, deer, wild boars, nilgai and black buck. Visitors can spot many wandering birds in the park as well. Few of them include the great Indian horned owl, eagles, peacocks and the national birds of India. Watching wild animals in their natural habitats is a different experience in itself.

The park also houses various species of plants. Dhok is the most noticeable one. Tourists can also enjoy the wildlife safaris and jeep safaris during their Ranthambore wildlife tour.

Jeep safaris are held during the early morning hours till evening. The safari takes you through the vast grasslands, forested areas and ruins of wilderness.

Some other interesting places to see in Ranthambore National Park include:

Padam Talao

This is the largest lake of the park. The banks of the Padam Talao have the hunting lodge. Animals come to quench their thirst here. Existence of a number of observation posts at this point enables you to see the animals in wild.

Ranthambore Fort

The rugged beauty of this ancient fort enchants tourists. Lying on a high plateau of over 700 feet amidst the park, the fort is a worth visit place. Visiting the Ranthambore fort also enables tourists to have the panoramic views of the park from its high walls.

Rajasthan Wildlife boasts of many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Tourists can visit Ranthambore National Park to have a memorable experience of wildlife tour.

Article Source : rajasthanindiatour.wordpress.com/2013/03/14/about-ranthambore-national-park/

Myriad Shades of the Rainbow of Rajasthani Culture

Culture of any place holds great importance for the people who wish to visit the destination. Rajasthan is a land, which is known for its opulent culture. The desert land has some of the most fascinating elements that make it a culturally rich state. Over centuries, the state has hosted many civilizations, adding its distinct flavour to this gorgeous cultural bouquet.

Festivals

Embellishing the richness of the culture of Rajasthan, fairs and festivals are a big hit with tourists. Locals celebrate the festivals in great zeal and fervour. Artists, puppeteers and snake charmers attract the visitors. Rajasthani folks enhance the beauty of the desert land. A plethora of interesting competitions and traditional games further makes the atmosphere lively.

Rajasthan heritage tour enables you to experience the following elements:

Monumental Heritage

The ancient fort and palatial palaces narrate about the tales of valour of the state. Standing as a witness of the richness, these structures speak volume about its monumental heritage.

The state had got fame for the magnificent forts, exquisitely carved temples, which are a treasure of the royal state. Lake Place, Chittaurgarh Fort, Jaisalmer Havelis and Dilwara Jain Temples are the worth-visiting places during your Rajasthan tour.

Handicrafts

The art of royal state is distinguishing with its unlimited charm. Tourists can spot the wonderful textiles, paintings and handicrafts. Bagaru prints, hand block printing, zari embroidery and tie and die of coloring fabric are the main methods to get the clothes ready with appealing patterns and designs. Paintings can be seen on the walls of the forts and palaces of the state. It is among the most impressive features of the Rajasthan cultural tour.

People

The inhabitants of the royal state are known for their friendly nature. Displaying unity in diversity, Rajasthan is a state where Rajasthani people are sure to impress you. Locals of the state belong to various castes and tribes.

Dance and Music

Traditional folk dance and music form an important part of Rajasthani culture. It can be seen during the festivals and other significant occasions when people of the desert land get filled with enthusiasm and indulge in the unlimited fun. The Ghoomer dance and the Kalbeliya dance are a major attraction for travellers.

Cuisine

It is another well-known feature of Rajasthani culture. Cooking in the state has its own share of interest for travellers. Prepared using simple ingredients, the cuisine of Rajasthan depends on the lifestyle of people. 'Dal-baati' and 'Churma' are the food items that can be carried for days. 'Soola' is among the non-vegetarian dishes in the variety of cuisine of the state.

How about re-living the golden era while witnessing the culture of Rajasthan? Get to know the culture, people, cuisine, festivals and more with Rajasthan Travel Guide.

A Different Experience of Rajasthan Wildlife Tour

The royal state of Rajasthan is a safe abode for a wide variety of wildlife. It is home to different exotic wildlife sanctuaries, providing shelter to the various endangered species of birds and animals. Wildlife of Rajasthan attracts nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts from all around the world.

Rajasthan is a dwelling place of various mammals and birds. The state is home to a variety of species, which is an added attraction of Rajasthan. Wildlife lovers can take a stroll to various national parks that the state houses on their Rajasthan wildlife tour. A visit to these wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan also enables you to enjoy the adventure.

Some of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan include:

Keoladeo National Park

Known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, this national park lies between the cities of Agra and Jaipur. It boasts of being one of Asia's best birding areas with around 380 resident as well as migrant species. These include Demoiselle, Common and the rare Siberian Cranes. The park is also a great spot to see mammals like Striped Hyena, Fishing Cat, Sambar, Jungle Cat and Wild Boar. The bird sanctuary is a must visit for wildlife lovers. A must visit destination on your Rajasthan wildlife travel, it boasts of providing shelter to a large variety of birds including 328 types of birds out of which are 117 migrated birds.

Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary

Lying in the capital city, Jaipur, Sariska national park is a popular wildlife destination in Rajasthan. It is larger than Ranthambore that sprawls in an area of 800 sq km in total. The landscape of Sariska encompasses hills and narrow valleys of the Aravalli hill range. Dry deciduous forests, grasslands, sheer cliffs and rugged landscape form the sanctuary. Tourists can come across the sights of various animals including leopard, chital, sambar, nilgai, langur, hyena and jungle cats. This famous wildlife sanctuary also serves as the abode of peafowl, woodpeckers, eagles and sand grouse that makes it counted among the prominent wildlife attractions of Rajasthan.

Ranthambore Tiger Reserve

If you mention Rajasthan Wildlife, it is hard to skip Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. This famous national park positions itself in the Sawai Madhopur district of the state. It is among the finest tiger reserves in the country. It provides shelter to a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, birds, trees and plants. Existence of endangered species of royal Bengal tigers adds fame to the park. Tourists can spot the majestic Bengal tigers during the day time. The park offers good opportunities to enjoy wildlife viewing and jungle safari. Travellers can enjoy jeep safari in the park, which is a great way to watch the wildlife.

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary

Lying in the Aravalli ranges amidst the spectacular hill station of Mount Abu, this wildlife sanctuary of Rajasthan sprawls in 7 km of area. It also serves as a famous destination for world eco-system. It is home to different species of animals including leopard, sambar, wild boar, chinkara and langur. A huge variety of orchids, bamboo trees and herbal plants adds more charm to the place.

Embark on a Rajasthan wildlife tour to capture the sights of various endangered animals. The wildlife sanctuaries of the state also serve as the best attractions of Rajasthan.

Article Sources : http://www.squidoo.com/wildlife-of-rajasthan

Rejoice with the Vibrant Festivals in Rajasthan

Festivals are an inseparable part of any place. Reflecting its rich cultural heritage, the festivals of Rajasthan are a prime lure to tourists. The state celebrates many fairs and festivals that showcase the myriad of culture to the visitors. Festivals of Rajasthan bring enthusiasm to the lives of the people.

With Rajasthan festival tour, you can enjoy the following festivals:

Desert Festival

This vibrant festival at Jaisalmer acts like a sonnet to the rich heritage of Rajasthan. Organized over three days in the months of January or February, the festival holds tourists' attention. Counted among the popular Rajasthan festivals, it includes folk dances, camel races and musical performances. There are a number of fun-filled competitions as well. These include turban tying competition and moustache competition. It is a good occasion to see the richness of cultural activities of the royal land.

Mewar Festival

Held in Udaipur, the Mewar festival takes place in March or April. The traditionally attired women wind their way towards Lake Pichola. The procession of women carrying an image of the Goddess Gauri fascinates every onlooker. The procession is followed by dances, songs and other such festivities. Mewar festival Udaipur concludes with an imposing fireworks display.

Camel Fair

If you wish to witness the thriving art and culture of the place, then head to Camel fair in Puskhar. This five-day camel fair in the small town showcases the rich heritage of the place. The fair is held in October or November. Many people visit Pushkar to take a dip in the holy water of the Pushkar Lake. The activities at the fair include selling and buying cattle, various colourful competitions and lots more.

Gangaur Festival

This holy festival is among the few events, which are celebrated throughout the state. Dedicated to Mata Gauri (Parvati), the spouse of Lord Shiva, this event occurs in Chaitra (Hindu month) July or August. Especially women celebrate the event with great enthusiasm. Another feature of the event includes the exclusive dance performances.

Elephant Festival

Celebrated during March, the Elephant Festival in Jaipur offers you to enjoy the spectacular sight of decorated elephants. This festival is one of its kind that draws huge number of spectators. Elephant processions, polo, races and playing Holi by sitting on the camels' back make this event more interesting for onlookers.

Urs Festival

Held at Ajmer, the festival commemorates Khwaja's symbolic union with God. This sacred festival is celebrated every year on the tomb of the Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The Dargah Sharif in Ajmer is the site where the mortal of the Saint Remains lie buried. It is the spot of the largest Muslim Fair in India.

Festivals in Rajasthan showcase the cultural festivity of the place. Gangaur Festival Jaipur is a religious event, which is especially celebrated by women.

Rajasthan Attractions Symbolize the Past Glory

A delight for all types of tourists, Rajasthan is a land with magnetic attractions. The glittering sand dunes, the magnificent monuments, the vibrant festivals and the lively people add a magic to your Rajasthan tour. Visit Rajasthan to explore myriad of attractions of this beautiful state.

If you wish to re-live in the ancient era, then head to Rajasthan, the land of royals. This is an ideal destination where you can take a dip into the regal era. It houses many havelis, forts, palaces, museums and wildlife sanctuaries that serve as the popular tourist attractions of Rajasthan India.

Rajasthan Tourism India takes you to a wonderland where you can explore the following attractions:

Forts-The Reminiscence of Past

The princely state house a long series of forts and palaces, which have become the identity of the place. Rajasthan forts and palaces tours enable you to view the extravaganza of affluence of the rulers of the destination. These magnificent structures were constructed to protect the cities these were built in.

The well-known forts in the state are:

• Chittorgarh Fort 
• Jaisalmer Fort 
• Nahargarh Fort 
• Kumbhalgarh Fort 
• Mandawa Fort 
• Mehrangarh Fort

Palaces- The Royal Residences

Narrating the history of erstwhile Rajput rulers, the magnificent palaces of the royal land have an astonishing appeal. The magnificence, the architecture and the carvings, everything is amazing in these huge palaces. Constructed by different rulers and architects, these places are also serving as the wedding venues.

Some of the worth-exploring palaces of Rajasthan include:

• Umaid Bhawan Palace 
• Amber Fort 
• Hawa Mahal 
• City Palace 
• Shiv Niwas Palace 
• Lake Palace Udaipur 
• Lalgarh Palace 

Museums-The Treasure Houses

Tourist Places in Rajasthan also include some of the famous museums in India. These showcase a number of relics from the past. Visitors can explore these museums to get the glimpses of the bygone era. Some of the well-known museums include:

• Birla Museum 
• Government Central Museum 
• City Palace Museum 
• Mehrangarh Fort Museum 
• Sawai Man Singh Museum 
• Fateh Prakash Museum 

Safaris-Rippling Sand Dunes

If you wish to explore the terrains of the state, then taking on a safari will be fruitful. Safari is the best for those who dares to face the complexities of the state. The safari enables you to enjoy the adventurous time. Tourists can have a delightful experience amidst the Golden dunes. Sitting on giant animals' back, and riding in the state offers you a kingly feel.

• Jeep Safari
• Elephant Safari
• Desert Safari
• Horse Safari

Art & Crafts- Specimen of Skills

The royal kings and the courts induced the expert musicians, sculptures, architects and writers. The state is a gem of the best Indian handicrafts, attracting travellers from all over the world. You can shop for fabrics, precious stones, Kundan and Minakari coating in gold and silver jewellery. Blue pottery, miniature paintings, blankets, carpets and trinkets are the highlights of your Rajasthan tour.