Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the fairy tale world stepped in myths and legends, of sepia deserts and shimmering lakes, old havelis, impregnable forts and opulent palaces. From intricately carved Jain temples to the overwhelming royal palaces, experience India’s best with much on offer.

Jaipur

If it pink, it got to be here! Popularlily known as Pink city, Jaipur is possibly one the most popular destination in India. The e city is dotted with palaces, fort, Museums and temples. The Capital of the modern state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a modern city built according to the specifications laid down in ancient architectural texts. Known as the pink city on account of the flush color of its sandstone palaces, it is a major centre for handicrafts. Its former capital, Amber, consists of fortifications with an interesting rang of highly decorated public and private apartments.

AJMER \ Pushkar

A 7th century Chauhan stronghold, Ajmer is a pilgrimage centre for Muslims though people from all religious backgrounds come to pray at its dargah. The British developed Ajmer as an educational centre, and Mayo College, once an exclusive school for boys from royal families, is now among the country's best private schools.
A pilgrimage centre with the only temple in India dedicated to Brahma, the Creator, and Pushkar is the venue of an annual camel fair.

Jodhpur

Somewhere in the desolater deserts cape of Mewar lies Jodhpur. This land is named for its harsh son and hostile desert conditions. The 16th century capital of the Rathore Rajputs, Jodhpur's history is evident in the hilltop Eyre, Mehrangarh, from where its destiny was written. Narrow paths wind up the steep path, leading to the innards of the fort. Once within, the architecture is less formidable, with delicate windows and painted chambers. From its ramparts one has a view of the 20th century art deco Umaid Bhawan Palace.

Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer founded by Rawal Jaisel, a Bhatti Rajputs of the yadav clan. The westernmost citadel of the desert, Jaisalmer has an ancient history linked with its development as a trading centre. Parts of its 'golden' fort continue to be inhabited, and its cobbled streets lead through a journey of medieval enchantment. Jaisalmer is celebrated for the exquisite stone-carved havelis or mansion of the merchants who held the reins of its destiny.

Bikaner

Bikaner forms a lonely desert outpost in the wilderness of western Rajasthan. Founded by one of the scions of the house of Jodhpur, Bikaner's 15th century history combines adventure with enterprise. In later centuries, as an ally of the Mughals and the British, it was able to develop as a modern state, though its architectural attractions remain splendidly Rajput. One of the principal outposts of the desert, it is also a major centre for camel breeding.

Udaipur

Udaipur biggest charm lies in its location, at the foot of the Aravallis. A lake city, and the capital of the Ranas of Mewar, founded in the 16th century, Udaipur is known for its fairytale palaces that nestle along the banks of a lake, or completely cover islands in its midst. The Sisodia rulers of Chittaurgarh who ruled here obviously had more leisure to exercise their taste than at Chittaur where much of their time was spent at war. Udaipur has often been called the most romantic city of India- it is definitely the most serene of all.

Mt. Abu

Green hills a cool climate and an expanse of water all these make Mt. Abu a welcome change from the rest of Rajasthan. A summer retreat in the Aravallis with a large lake and several temples, it also doubles as a pilgrimage centre with its 11th-13th century Dilwara Jain temples known for the quality of their sculpturing.

Bharatpur

The only Jat kingdom in the state, the rock-hard mud fortifications of its fort proved invincible even under repeated siege. The fort houses early remnants of artifacts and sculpture, while the modern palace outside is a sprawling structure. However, Bharatpur is better known as a bird sanctuary (Keoladeo Ghana National Park).