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While painting a picture of India, the mind invariably drifts to Rajasthan- the vast expanse of sun-coloured dunes, dotted with forts of majestic kings, where every nook echoes a folktale, and every individual's heart beckons with their traditional greeting of "Padharo Mhare Desh" (welcome to my land).
The land truly is a perfect amalgamation of colours, culture, and unparalleled heritage. However, in a land that has it all, choosing the must-dos can be a task. So let us make the decision easier for you! In this blog, we have suggested the six best experiences you cannot afford to miss on your Rajasthan trip. From the marvellous corridors of Amber Fort and the haunting tales of the Bhangarh to the rawness of Ranthambore, we have covered the best!
Familiarise yourself with the Royal Splendor at the Amber Fort
A major attraction in the capital city, Jaipur, the Amber Fort is the legacy of Raja Man Singh I (a former general of the Mughal Emperor Akbar, who later became the king of Amer) and an exemplary fusion of Hindu and Mughal architectural style. This four-level structure, built of red sandstone and marble, comprises adorned gates, cobbled paths, serene courtyards, many halls (of which the Diwan-e-Aam, the hall of public audience, is especially popular) and the Maota Lake at the forefront, making the fort's facade an unforgettable sight, especially at sunrise and sunset. Moreover, the fort's beauty is glorified by the continuous cultural shows that happen on the complex grounds, such as puppet shows and Rajasthani folk dance and music, allowing travellers to delve into the history and culture of Rajasthan at the same time.
Do you know? An important part of the everyday culture of the older palaces was the dance performances, and, in the Amber Fort, the Sheesh Mahal (the Mirror Palace) was built for the same. An interesting aspect of the Sheesh Mahal is how mirrors were strategically placed. It is said that a single candle's light can illuminate the entire room, reflecting off the intricate mirror mosaics.
Experience the Authentic Culture at the Pushkar Camel Fair
Among Rajasthan's must-attend festivals, the Pushkar Camel Fair is a desert extravaganza of performances, parades, camel races, local delicacies and whatnot! It is a true celebration of Rajasthani culture.
Every year, in the holy city of Pushkar, the desert fair takes place in the month of October or November and hosts travellers and pilgrims from around the world. Some of the main attractions are- the hot air balloon rides over the desert scape, the camel beauty contest (where men in colourful turbans turn their camels into models), the folk dance performances of ghoomar, and the holy dip in the Pushkar Lake (especially on the full-moon day).
Do you know? There are rarely any temples of the Indian god Brahma in India, and Pushkar is home to one of the most prominent temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in India. Legend has it that when both Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma wanted to claim their superiority, Lord Shiva gave them a task. He created a pillar and asked both gods to find the end of the pillar, and the one who finds it first will be considered superior. By the end, Vishnu accepted his defeat. However, Lord Brahma lied, and so Shiva cursed him that there would not be any temple to worship him. Today, the followers of Lord Brahma from across the world especially visit Pushkar to seek the lord's blessings.
Visit the Former Royal Hunting Ground of Ranthambore
Now a major national park in India, the Ranthambore National Park was once a former royal hunting ground. The park is home to many wildlife species, such as leopard, caracal, jungle cat, rusty-spotted cat, Indian elephant, wild water buffalo, gaur, nilgai, barasingha, blackbuck, etc., along with around 300 bird species and the beautiful lake of Padam Talao. However, most people are excited to be here primarily because of the high chances of spotting the majestic Royal Bengal tiger. With the right naturalist guide, you can hope to see tigers even during the day, thanks to its relatively low tiger-to-prey ratio. Moreover, in the park still stands the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historical aspect of the park adds more charm to this breathtaking creation of Mother Nature.
Do you know? Legend has it that, during wars, when women and children used to write letters to their warriors on the battlefield, they would first address them to Lord Ganesha in the temple located in the Ranthambore Fort Complex. Interestingly, even today, people come to offer thousands of letters and wedding cards to the Ganesha idol to seek his blessings for the new journey ahead.
Trace the Haunting Tales at the Bhangarh Fort
Ranked amongst India's most haunted places, the Bhangarh Fort is an intoxicating mix of history and folklore. Situated at the edge of the Sariska Tiger Reserve in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, the fort has many legends associated with it. However, the most popular of them is the tragic story of a sorcerer falling deeply in love with Princess Ratnavati of Bhangarh. Knowing that he could never win her affection, the sorcerer resorted to black magic. Using a magical potion, he tried to sway the princess; however, getting to know of the plan, the princess threw the potion onto a boulder, which also rolled onto the sorcerer and crushed him. But before the sorcerer died, he cursed the princess and the town, prophesying that it would become a doomed site where no one would ever be able to live. With a guided tour of the fort, beyond the many legends, one can also observe the remarkable architecture of that time. Although much is in ruins, by exploring the fort, one can easily make out the place for meetings, markets or private spaces.
Do you know? What increases the thrill is the fact that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has officially prohibited visitors from staying inside the fort premises after sunset till sunrise. This unique directive, along with the spine-tingling tales, has sparked global interest.
Marvel at the Architectural Brilliance of the Abhaneri Step Well
Located near Jaipur in the village of Abhaneri, these step wells (famously called the "Chand Baori") are one of the world's deepest and most artistic step wells. The place was built in the 8th century by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty to store water and serve as a cool spot for social gatherings during the scorching heat of summer. There are around 13 stories and 3,500 narrow steps, which are arranged in perfect symmetry, often giving a mirror image! Interestingly, the wells have been a popular shooting place in India for both Rajasthani folk and national songs and movies alike.
Do you know? As per archaeological datings, the nearby temple of Harshat Mata Temple is also believed to have been built around the same time as the step wells, and it also boasts unique architecture and beauty. It is believed that people would often visit Harshat Mata, the goddess of joy and happiness, to seek her blessings. Moreover, the elevated position of the temple provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
See the Artisan's Village Come to Life at Shilpgram
Organised in December every year, the multi-day Shilpgram festival in Udaipur is truly a living ethnography museum. Interestingly, the festival is not limited to showcasing the beauty of only Rajasthan but, spreading over an area of 70 acres, the complex also has 26 traditional village dwellings from the western Indian states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa. Each dwelling authentically represents the culture and the best-seller from their respective states. On your visit, try your hand at pottery and dyeing, explore the paintings in the museum section, delight in the famous Rajasthani delicacy of dal bati and churma, watch the beautiful dance events, especially the night performances, and buy authentic souvenirs, marking the most immersive experience!
Rajasthan, with its rich tapestry of experiences, thus offers travellers a journey into the soul and heart of India. Starting from forts and folktales to bountiful festivals, every moment spent in the state promises wonder. So pack your bags, and let the royal odyssey begin!