Many people keep asking: where should I go when I visit India? And in usual circumstances, when people get their away-from-job-holidays for only 2 to 3 weeks, I usually suggest not to try to run all over India, but concentrate one particular region. India is huge and time spent in train going from one city to another can be measured up to 10h if not even more. That’s why I made this article, to introduce you with a very simple path through India’s largest state by area – Rajasthan.
As enchanting as they are, though, there is more to this most royal of regions than its seemingly timeless architectural wonders. This is also a land of sand dunes and jungle, of camel trains and wild tigers, of glittering jewels, vivid colors and vibrant culture. There are enough festivals here to fill a calendar (and an artist’s palette), and the shopping and cuisine are nothing short of spectacular. In truth, Rajasthan just about has it all. It is the must-see state of this must-see country, brimming with startling, thought-provoking and, ultimately, unforgettable attractions.
Lonely Planet
Well, clearly you will start Your trip with New Delhi, as most likely Your plane will land there. For more – New Delhi is truly worth to see! But when you have visited all symbolic spots of it, such as India Gate, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Swaminarayan Akshardham, Humayun’s Tomb and many more, and you feel like you want to escape the capital city and explore more, you are highly recommended to extend your experience to the maximum: go and explore history and amazing Indian vibe in Rajasthan!
WHY RAJASTHAN?
Rajasthan is a perfect destination for those who are looking for a real Indian experience. It’s the right place where to enjoy amazing cuisine, warm hospitality, interesting history and stunning architecture. It’s the place where to disappear in your own peace and freedom amongst India’s colors and delightful sense of chaos. You will see majestic forts, palaces and well decorated mansions, temples and much more in cities painted in unison sense of colors, unique for each city.
JAIPUR
Area: 11117.8sq. km
Altitude: 431m above sea level
Population: 6,663,971 (Census of India, 2011)
Best time to visit: winter (October to March)
Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan. It’s also known as the pink city. Historical city center has small, cute streets filled with decorative balconies and occasional, deeply red clothing hanging over their sides. There are markets of spice, flowers, vegetables, and much more – it’s a true pleasure to walk through streets of Jaipur and get lost into its pinkness and specific smell of spice!
You definitely should start your visit to Jaipur by visiting City Palace, which is actually a palace complex and brings to its visitors detailed architecture and vows one with an interesting history found in multiple exhibitions. Close to the City Palace, in historical center of Jaipur, you will not be able to pass Hawa Mahal without noticing it. It is yet another palace which reminds of a honeycomb with its portholes and miniature windows. But if you prefer forts, Jaipur has not only one, but 3 magnificent forts to offer: Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort and probably the most scenic one of all times – Nahargarh Fort – which brings panoramic views of Jaipur’s pink colored buildings.
For more authentic cultural visit, go to Chokhi Dhani Resort where you will be able to enjoy historic Indian buildings, handcrafts, entertainment and food. And don’t forget about Raj Mandir Cinema – not only one of the oldest cinemas in India, but probably also one of the fanciest, one of the kind, most sophisticated cinemas in the world!
JODHPUR
Area: 289.85sq. km
Altitude: 231m above sea level
Population: 1,300,000 (2015)
Best time to visit: winter (October to March)
A thrilling city located next to a harsh and grim Thar Desert, Jodhpur is not only spoiled with never ending sunshine all year around, but also with vividness of its marvelous blue-painted buildings. It’s a very busy city with its small streets filled with traffic and people (and of course – cows!)
So far Jodhpur is probably one of the ‘craziest’ cities of all. It’s busy and active, it’s filled with color, character and uniqueness. It is definitely a wonder for ones eyes!
Mehrangarth Fort, a massive fort on the top of the hill, overlooking blue city, is one of the largest forts in India. It is not only a home to several inside palaces and beautiful courtyards; it also strikes with its history – you can still see imprints of cannonball hits on the second gate of it. And Jodhpur’s largest buildings just don’t end there! It is also a home to Umaid Bhawan Palace – the world’s largest private residence.
Jodhpur is special for its desert tourism. You can hire a camel, go for a long ride with it and stay a night under bright stars in the middle of desert accompanied with local people, their stories and exceptional cooking. Also, if you are awaken with sudden need for shopping, Sadar Market is a nice choice for souvenir and handmade product purchases. But right next to it you will find Ghanta Ghar – scenic Jodhpur’s clock tower.
UDAIPUR
Area: 37sq. km
Altitude: 598m above sea level
Population: 598,685 (2011)
Best time to visit: winter (October to March)
The true highlight of Rajasthan has to be Udaipur – the white city. It has the most detailed, elegant and exceptional architecture, the most laid back lifestyle and beautiful art. Udaipur has a magnificent vibe! It is place number one for an artistic soul.
This city has a total relaxation upon it. You will want to spend more and more time here as you will unwind from all your stress and troubles, and disappear into long walks alongside of lakes and through out tiny streets. Every day you will be able to silently admire colorfully dressed Indian ladies washing their yet another bright pair of clothes in the lake, and experience extraordinary peace while sitting by the lake and looking at the other side of the city.
But be sure to visit magnificent City Palace and its courtyards, terraces and gardens, and Jagdish Temple based in the city center with its unique architecture. In Udaipur, let yourself to reach higher levels of India’s dining by having your meals on the rooftops of white buildings. Most of restaurants have a special access to rooftops and they will be happy to serve your morning tea or dinner curry right there while you get lost into beauty of the panorama.
On streets of Udaipur you will find many local artists and clothing stores where you can buy presents not only for your beloved ones but also for yourself as the quality and beauty of these items will be hard to beat. Also you can find your way to the Spice Market which is not that well known for tourists, so you will stream through local people and enjoy true colors, smells and, most importantly, taste of India.
TIPS
- Use night train rides to save not only on hotel room, but also on time given to explore India.
- When you compare Indian prices to European/USA prices, most of even very good quality hotels are not that expensive. In Jaipur we stayed in Chokhi Dhani Resort and had a blast of 5 star (first time in our lifetime!) comfort: free food, swimming pool, gym access and entrance to the Chokhi Dhani Resort’s village where traditional art, dances and shows were found.
- Make sure you spend all your Indian Rupees as you will not be able to take any back to your country and in airport they will charge big extra charge for money exchange.
©Picture credit goes to one and only Marie Kalfon
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