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.