AJMER

Ajmer has been home to many dynasties that have come and left leaving marks of their culture and tradition on the city. Since the time of Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan, who had founded Ajmer, it has been an amalgam or blend of Hinduism and Islamism. It was one of the few places in Rajasthan that were directly controlled by the British. After years of existence, Ajmer today is widely known as an important pilgrim center equally for Hindus as well as Muslims and is therefore an important destination in Rajsthan tourism. The most famous is the Dargah Sharif tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti.

Places to see : Ajmer offers its guests with a number of tourist attractions. From Mosques to temples, it is center for religious unity. Some of the important tourist destinations are:

• Taragarh
• Nasiyan Temple
• Mayo College
• Man Mahal
• Foy Sagar
• Dargah Sharif
• Ana Sagar
• Akbar’s Palace
• Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
• Pushkar Lake
• Shahjehan’s Mosque

Shopping : Ajmer provides an unlimited shopping option for its tourists especially during the seven days of the Urs fair. During this time the tourists can shop for multi-colored clothes, paintings from the Kisangarh village and fine leather made items from the Tilonia village. It is the traditional and colorful Rajasthani art that lures the tourists. Brass tools, bangles, woodcrafts, leather belts, hand embroidered fabric bags and hour furnishings are an all-time favorite. The most preferred object for shopping is the Jodhpuri juti.

Where to stay? Ajmer, though a very old city, offers a wide variety of hotels to the tourists to help them find it easy for lodging. These hotels are divided into luxury as well as budget hotels with world class facilities like spacious air-conditioned rooms and suites with private balconies in some. The hotels have an in-house restaurant that serves traditional Indian cuisine along with international delicacies.

How to reach? The fact that Ajmer is not far from the reach of many major cities, makes it very easy for people to travel by any transport medium. Also the transport network is well established in Ajmer.

• By air : the nearest airport from Ajmer is in Jaipur. Flights to places in United Arab Emirates have also started aviating.
• By rail : there are daily trains from Delhi in the morning as well as in the evening.
• By road : Ajmer has a very good network of roadways. Transport services in Rajasthan run deluxe buses from Jaipur every 15 minutes.

ALWAR

Surrounded by the Aravalli hills, Alwar has been a witness to many wars and battles in its history. Once a Rajput state, Alwar had found place in the Mahabharata as the Kingdom of Matsya, which was a hiding place for the Pandavas during their exile for 13 years. Today, Alwar is widely known for its scenic beauty and variety of birds and animals found in its environment.

Places to see : The splendid beauty of lush greenery and natural hills of Alwar has an added advantage of beautiful sites that must be visited by the tourists. The forts and palaces of Alwar are elegant in their own style and are reminiscent of the strong empires that have owned the land with pride and honour.

• City Palace Complex
• Company Garden
• The Fort
• Government museum
• Vijay Mandir Palace
• Siliserh Lake
• Jai Samand Lake

Shopping: Alwar is widely known for its shopping spree in various destinations. Shopping is no less than pleasure in the small shops that sell a wide variety of articles rarely found in the land. A tourist can shop for the exquisite silver jewellery that Alwar is famous for. Rajasthani handicrafts are also among the famous items that tourists ship for. Handicraft productions in Alwar include items like terracotta statues, carpets, embroidered leather mojiris or jutis, bangles and pottery.

Where to stay? Alwar offers a number of budget and luxury hotels to its guests. These hotels are well equipped with services that match international standards like spacious and air-conditioned rooms and suites with attached bathrooms. Some suites also offer private balconies at a very reasonable and affordable price. The hotels feature excellent services in hospitality and accommodation. The rooms are elegantly decorated with imperial designs that are reminiscent of the royal stature.

How to reach? Alwar is well known for its well established and well connected transport network. This attribute of Alwar makes it easier for travelers from different parts of the world to tour around the place.

• By air : the nearest airport to Alwar is the one that is located in Jaipur. It caters to both domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : trains that travel to Alwar can be found in different cities of India. Alwar has a railway station of its own.
• By road : Alwar is well connected to the roads of major cities like Delhi. Bus services are available 24 hours a day to and from the major cities of India.

BANSWARA

Known as the city of hundred islands, Banswara is located on the southeast part of Rajasthan. The city is bordered by the Mahi River and a number of islands. Banswara, according to legend, seems to have acquired the name from bans or bamboo shoots which used to grow in abundance in the region centuries ago. The town is enclosed by a stone wall that overlooks the palace of the then rulers.

Places to see : The city of hundred islands is a very important destination in the catalogue of Rajasthan tourism. The prominent position offered in tourism to Banswara is, as a result of the number of fascinating places it offers tourists to visit. The temples are elegantly decorated in imperial style to carry the tradition of typical Rajasthani culture for hundreds of generations. Some of the places that one should not forget visiting are:

• Shri Raj Mandir
• Kagdi Picup and Mahi Dam
• Anand Sagar Lake
• Dialab Lake
• Abdulla Pir

Shopping : There are a number of things to shop for in Banswara. Most famous of them all are the Mojaris and tribal jewellery. These items can be purchased from small as well as large markets in and around the city. Other items include handicrafts, utensils, tribal wares et cetera. Crafted idols of God’s and Goddesses are one of the most amazing materials to purchase. They are made with different materials like metal, stone et cetera.

Where to stay? Banswara offers a number of budget and luxury hotels with facilities that match the international standards. The hotels provide the perfect ambience reminiscent of the Rajput culture. The hotels feature a number of facilities like luxury rooms with services that are rendered on time. Some hotels feature a swimming pool, bars et cetera. The in-house restaurant of the hotels is specialized in serving delicious and mouth watering Indian as well as international delicacies.

How to reach? Banswara has a very well established transport network. Its proximity to many important cities and towns makes it an important tourist destination.

• By air : Udaipur is the nearest airport from Banswara. The airport caters to both domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : the nearest railway station in Banswara is Ratlam which is 80 kilometers from the city. This station has trains running from different parts of the country.
• By road : there are a wide network of bus services connects Banswara to major cities of India. Bus services are available for 24 hours a day to and from the major cities of India.

BARMER

Barmer has been a public figure for quite some years because of its identity as miniature Rajasthan with colors and tradition of its own. The name if the tiny town suggests that it is the hill fort of Bar. Given a full form in 1949, Barmer was formerly known to people as Mallani. The most fascinating part of travelling to Barmer is the amazing sight of brick walled houses with folk motifs and people attired in traditional and colorful Rajasthani clothes. The town is decorated with colors on the Barmer festival that takes place every year. The hill fort of Bahada forms a major attraction of Barmer.

Places to see : Barmer offers its guests with a number of tourist attractions that fill color to their tour and make it memorable. These places are rich in cultural heritage and are reminiscent of the glorious past of India. Some of the tourist attractions are:

• Jasol
• Juna Barmer
• Khed
• Kiradu
• Mahaveer Park
• Mallinath Fair
• Meva Nagar
• Neemari
• Safed Akhara

Shopping : Barmer offers the tourists an ideal place for shopping, the Barmer village. The village is a colossal collection of handcrafted items such as wood carvings, carpets, embroidery, block printing, terracotta, silver filigree et cetera. The tiny markets in Barmer sell a massive collection of pottery, carpets, intricate embroidery works; block printed fabrics and multi-hued traditional costumes.

Where to stay? Barmer offers a number of places to stay in while you are travelling. These hotels are equipped with world class facilities and fine hospitality that would make the tourists feel at home. The rooms in the hotel are categorized into luxury as well as deluxe rooms.  Some hotels even have suites with private balconies. The hotels have an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving traditional Indian as well as international cuisine.

How to reach? Barmer has a very well established network of roadways and railways, which make it easier to travel to the amazing desert spot in the catalogue of Rajasthan tourism.

• By air : the nearest airport from Barmer is at Jodhpur.
• By rail : Barmer is linked with neighbouring districts and states of India like Uttar Pradesh. The total length of railway line is 254 kilometers with 30 railway stations. This broad gauge makes it very easy for the tourists to travel.
• By road : Barmer has well established roadways which are linked to places like Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Jalore, Jaipur, Ajmer and Ahmedabad. Bus services are available in all these places and in few other cities of India.

BHARATPUR

Founded by Maharaja Suraj Mal in 1733, the city of Bharatpur was once known to be a very well-fortified and invincible city. The city has by popular legend been named after Bharat, the brother of Lord Rama. The city has been a major tourist attraction in the history of Rajasthan tourism and adds color that outshines the grandeur of the city from other tourist attractions in Rajasthan. The best time to travel to Bharatpur is during the Brij festival to have a firsthand experience of the cultural events of rural Rajasthan.

Places to see : The city of Bharatpur is an assemblage of fascinating places and colorful rural civilizations. These places are elegantly decorated with beautiful colors that embellishments that are reminiscent of a Bharatpur that existed centuries ago. The city is an epitome of immense beauty and a paradigm of exquisite style of architecture. Some of the places that must be visited while on a tour are:

• Lohagarh Fort
• Bharatpur Palace
• Keoladeo Ghana National Park

Shopping : While on a tour in Bharatpur, one can shop for a variety of articles like antiques, marble carvings, textiles, precious and semi-precious stones, jewellery et cetera. For purchasing articles typical of Rajasthani culture and tradition, one may visit the small markets around the city.

Where to stay? Bharatpur offers a number of hotels with rooms designed on the lines of typical Rajasthani architecture with world class services in hospitality and facilities that spell “leisure”. The hotels are elegantly decorated with traditional rural embellishments that give them the look of ancient havelis and palaces. They range from budget to luxury hotels with rooms that are equipped with world class facilities. Most of the hotels provide facilities like outdoor swimming pool, spa center, health center et cetera. Every hotel has an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious and spicy traditional Indian as well as international cuisines.

How to reach? Bharatpur has a well established transport network that connects to the major towns and cities of India.

• By air : the nearest airport to Bharatpur is in New Delhi. The airport caters to all the domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : Bharatpur is well connected by train to the major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur et cetera.
• By road : Bharatpur is connected to major cities like Agra and Jaipur through good road networks. Bus services are available to and from different cities of India 24 hours a day.

BUNDI

The historical city of Rajasthan, Bundi, is known for its beauty and glory that it offers through the various historical sites that are reminiscent of the glorious past of the city. The city is located at the foothills of a hill with a lake in the heart of the town. The fort in Bundi provides an awe-inspiring look of the city and the historical monuments that greet the eye with honour. Bundi has for years been one of the highlights of Rajasthan tourism primarily for its impressive medieval forts, palaces, havelis and temples. The city owes its name to a former ruler named Bundi Meena.

Places to see : The city that has existed since 1193 has certainly something in store to tell the story of its existence. Bundi tells its story through various places that have today, become important destinations in the catalogue of Rajasthan tourism. Some of the places are:

• Taragarh
• The Palace
• 84 Pillared Cenotaphs
• Menal
• Ratan Daulat
• Nawal Sagar
• Rani-Ji-Ki-Baori
• Phool Sagar
• Shikar Burj
• Sar Bagh
• Jait Sagar Lake
• Rameshwaram
• Ramgarh
• Keshavraipatam
• Bijolia
• Talwas
• Dugari
• Indragarh

Shopping : The impressive and awe-inspiring beauty of Bundi offers less scope for any shopping. The small shops in rural markets sell items like cotton carpets, miniature paintings, Kota saris, stone statues, wooden toys, lac bangles, colorful shawls et cetera. The markets are set in medieval style with decorations that are lyrical in creative expression.

Where to stay? There are a number of hotels in Bundi that provide facilities for lodging. These hotels are equipped with modern facilities that make it easier for the tourists to adapt to its otherwise hot weather. Some of the major hotels have been mansions 150 years ago but have now been converted into hotels of great architectural beauty. Though they have been equipped with modern facilities, the ancient style of architecture and beauty hasn’t been compromised. The hotels range from budget to luxury hotels with rooms that are equipped with some of the finest facilities and hospitality. The hotels have a restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious Indian and international cuisines.

How to reach? Bundi has a wide and well establish transport network that reaches the major cities of India.

• By air : the nearest airport from Bundi is in Jaipur, which is 220 kilometers from Bundi. It caters to various domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : Bundi has a railway station that connects between Bundi and other important cities like Kota, Agra, Chittaurgarh, Benares, Jaipur et cetera.
• By road : bus services to Bundi are very frequent from cities like Ajmer, Kota, Jaipur et cetera. These services are available 24 hours a day.

DURGAPUR

Durgarpur is situated on the foothills of the Aravalli hills and portrays a very picturesque landscape with two rivers namely Mahi and Som flowing through it. Durgarpur is a plethora of fertile alluvial soil, teak, mahua, mango and Khajur trees. Durgarpur is also noted for its variety in wildlife with animals like jackal, jungle cat, Indian fox, hyena, black-faced monkey, porcupine, common mongoose among the common inhabitants. Existing since 1282 A.D., the city greets the eye with its unique style of architecture as seen in its palaces and residences. These palaces and places of immense imperial beauty are adorned by Jharokhas or windows built in stone in a style typical of the time when Maharawal Shiv Singh reined the place.

Places to see : The city has been bejeweled with beautiful places; residences et cetera that have today become a common yet treasured sight for the tourists. These places belong to the history that lies buried in the soil on which they stand with great pride. They are precious structures built in an architectural style that is reminiscent of the past. Some of these places are:

• Juna Mahal
• Gaib Sagar Lake

Shopping : Durgarpur does not offer many options to the tourists as far as shopping is concerned but there are small markets that can be found in and around the city. Durgarpur is famous for teak which makes it easy to get teak from even the smallest of shops. Teakwood can also be bought at a very low price from the small shops in and around Durgarpur. Other items that can be shopped for are handicrafts, antiques from rural Rajasthan, accessories et cetera.

Where to stay? Durgarpur offers a number of places for lodging that make it a very comfortable trip for the tourists. These hotels belong to the 13-14 century and stand with elegance and grandeur. Most of the heritage hotels in Durgarpur are constructed on the lines of typical Rajasthani architecture with beautiful embellishments greeting the eye. They provide a number of rooms that range from standard rooms to suites with private balconies in some. The hotels provide a restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine.

How to reach? Durgarpur is well connected to many major cities of India through means of transport communication.

• By air : the nearest airport from Durgarpur is in Udaipur which is located at a distance of 110 kilometers from Durgarpur.
• By rail : the nearest railway station from Durgarpur is Ratlam, which is located at a distance of 80 kilometers from the city
• By road : wide networks of roads connect Durgarpur to cities and towns of Rajasthan and North India. Bus services are available to and from Durgarpur to other cities.

JAISALMER

Jaisalmer is widely known to people as the city of golden sand owing to the beautiful sand dunes that flow with the wind creating formations of beauty and grandeur. Jaisalmer is a city that rises from the heart of the Thar Desert. The desert fortress enchants the beauty that seems like a replica of the one in tales of the Arabian nights. The narrow lanes, havelis, temples, palaces et cetera are a paradigm of the skills and hard work of the artisans. The evening creates a blissful atmosphere with the setting sun turning the dunes into golden brown motes enveloping the air.

Places to see : Jaisalmer is a land of palaces, monuments and other places et cetera echoing the story behind their existence. Some of these places are:

• The fort
• Manak Chawk
• Gadsisar Lake
• Tazia Tower
• Havelis
• Nathmalji Ki Haveli
• Patwon Ki Haveli
• Salim Singh Ki Haveli
• Jain Temple
• Gyan Bhandar or library

Shopping : A tour to Jailsalmer won’t be complete unless some typical Jaisalmer goods are purchased. A number of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts are available in the tiny shops in Jaisalmer that are as authentic as the dunes of the golden city. It is famous for embroidery, mirror work, rugs, blankets, antiques and old stone work. The most famous thing that Jaisalmer is famous for is silver jewellery. The best shops to go for shopping are the ones that are government operated.

Where to stay? Jaisalmer offers a number of hotels to stay in while on a tour in Rajasthan. Some of the most preferred hotels range from budget to luxury hotels with rooms equipped with the finest of facilities and hospitality. The hotels are well appointed and are comfortable for both National as well as international tourists. They provide facilities like conference halls, banquet halls, an outdoor swimming pool, health clubs et cetera. These facilities along with many others provide a very filling and memorable experience to the tourists. The hotels have an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious Indian as well as international cuisine. Roof-top restaurants are also one of the specialties in some hotels.

How to reach? Jaisalmer, being a much sought out place in the history of Rajasthan tourism and desert tourism, has well established network of transport.

• By air : Jaisalmer has an airport that is located at a distance of 5 kilometers from the city.
• By rail : Jaisalmer is well connected with Jodhpur and other cities by rail.
• By road : Jaisalmer has a good network of roads and is well connected to major cities like Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner et cetera.

BIKANER

Bikaner is a small district located on the North West part of Rajasthan. The city was founded by Rao Bika in 1486 and has since then developed from a small district into the fourth largest city in Rajasthan. Known as the green city, Bikaner is an economically robust city with important production units established on its soil. Bikaner is famous for its “Bikaneri Bhujia”, which is a spicy snack made out of moth dal, spices and edible oil. The intricately carved Jharokhas beautify the city with red sandstone jails on the Jharokhas

Places to see : The green city provides a number of tourist destinations that are reminiscent of preserved history. Some of the important tourist attractions are:

• Junagarh Fort
• Laxmi Niwas Palace
• Lalgarh Palace
• Moolnayakji
• Laxmi Nath Temple
• Kolayat
• Karni Mata Temple
• Shiv Bari Temple
• Camel Farm
• Sur Sagar
• Public Park and Zoo
• Raj Ratan Bihariand Rasik Siromani Temple
• Bhandasar Jain Temple
• Vaishno Dham
• Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum
• Rajasthan State Archives
• Havelis
• Devi Kund Sagar
• Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kalibangan
• Kolayat
• Mukam Nokha
• Deshnok Goddess Karni Temple

Shopping : Bikaner organizes a number of fairs and festivals where people from different parts of the country gather to sell various items. The most famous of all the trade is that of the camels. There are also festivals that are exclusively related to camels with performances by camels and camel races. Bikaner is known for its unique sweets and namkeens that can be purchased from any shop in and around Bikaner.

Where to stay? Bikaner offers a number of hotels to its guests with modern facilities and warm hospitality. The hotels range from budget to economic class hotels with rooms that overlook the beauty of the city. They provide a number of rooms that are equipped with facilities that are in accordance with modern conveniences. The hotels of Bikaner are known for their expertise in fine hospitality services. The hotels provide facilities like an outdoor swimming pool, health club, spa center et cetera. They also provide an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving traditional Rajasthani delicacies along with other Indian and international cuisine.

How to reach? Bikaner has a very well established transport network that connects it to the major cities and towns of India.

• By air : the nearest airport to Bikaner is located in Jodhpur and Jaipur at a distance of 254 kilometers and 325 kilometers respectively.
• By rail : direct trains from the metros and other cities that go to places via Bikaner are available.
• By road :  bus services are available in the major cities of Rajasthan that run to and from Bikaner 24 hours a day.

CHITTAURGARH

The beautiful landscape city atop a 7 mile long hill which was presented as a gift to Bappa Rawai after his marriage with the then Princess Solanki has today become a very important sight for tourists and others who seek to revive the cultural past of India. Chittaurgarh is home to a number of palaces, towers, temples et cetera. The rich history of Chittaurgarh promises the tourists a very interesting trip with many secrets revealed. It has been for years an embodiment of Rajput pride and honour that abounds with tales of gallantry.

Places to see : Chittaurgarh was built in the 8th century and has since then been carrying the pride of being a valiant. Some of the most important places to visit are:

• Nagri
• Barolo
• Bassi wildlife sanctuary
• Sanwariya Ji Temple
• Matri Kundiya Temple
• Bhainsorgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
• Bijaipur
• Sitamata Sanctuary
• Deogarh
• Menal
• Gotsmeshwar
• Jogniya Mata Ji

Shopping: Shopping in Chittaurgarh is a very exciting experience with shops and markets lined up in the rural streets of Rajasthan. Chittaurgarh is known for some very unique items like Thewa jewellery, colorful leather jutis, akola fabrics, wooden painted toys et cetera. Other items that one can shop for include metal wares, fabrics, handicrafts, utensils, glass bangles et cetera. The most preferred places to go for shopping in Chittaurgarh include the sadar bazaar, Rana Sanga market, new cloth market, fort road market, Gandhi chowk and station circle.

Where to stay? The robust city of utmost brevity and sacrifice offer a number of hotels for lodging. These hotels have been set in traditional Rajasthani style without compromising on the modern amenities. They provide facilities like an outdoor swimming pool, health clubs, spa centers et cetera. The hotels can be booked online at affordable prices and amazing discounts especially during peak seasons. They provide rooms that range from standard room to suites with balconies in some. Each hotel has a unique style of architectural beauty that is par excellence. The hotels provide the facilities of a spa, swimming pool and health clubs. They also provide a restaurant that is specialized in serving special traditional Rajasthani delicacies. Other cuisines served in the restaurant include Indian and international.

How to reach? Chittaurgarh is well connected to the major cities of India, thus making it easy for the tourists to travel in and around the city.

• By air : the nearest airport to Chittaurgarh is located in Jodhpur. It caters to both domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : trains are available from different parts of the country to and from Rajasthan.
• By road : Chittaurgarh has very well established and well connected roads to the major cities of Rajasthan. Buses can be boarded from the main bus stand that is located on the western banks of Gambheri River.

DESHNOK

Deshnok is a small village situated south from the Bikaner city. It has been for years known as a pilgrim center of Karni Mata. The etymology of the village can be traced back to the 14th century when it was popularly known as “Dus-nok” meaning ten corners as it was formed by taking ten corners of ten villages.

Places to see : Though Deshnok does not offer many places to see, the temple of Karni Mata, who is believed to have been an incarnation of Goddess Durga, is visited in huge numbers by her believers. Before the temple, is a marble facade supported by solid silver doors that were built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the fourteenth century. This piece of history has been acknowledged widely as a temple of great beauty.

Shopping : Deshnok is popularly known as a place for worshiping Karni Mata, so people don’t bother much about shopping though there are shops nearby that sell religious items like special beads that can be worn around the wrist or neck, temple Prasad, books on the history behind the temple et cetera. To purchase other items, one can go to nearby cities or places that sell typical Rajasthani art through handicrafts, jewellery, fabrics, toys et cetera.

Where to stay? Deshnok offers a number of budget as well as luxury hotels to seek lodging in. Most of these hotels are located at close proximity to the airport and the railway station, thus making it easier for the tourists to travel in and around the city. The hotels range from budget hotels to heritage hotels with rooms that are exclusively equipped with modern facilities for the tourists so that their stay is memorable and comfortable. They are elegantly decorated with typical Rajasthani designs and are built on the lines of typical Rajasthani architecture. Almost all the hotels provide an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving traditional Indian as well as international cuisine.

How to reach? Deshnok is in close proximity to major cities and towns of Rajasthan and this makes it easier for the tourists to travel in and around the village.

• By air : the nearest airport to Deshnok is in Bikaner. It caters to the domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : the nearest railway station to Deshnok is in Bikaner. Trains run to and from different cities of India.
• By road : Deshnok has well connected roadways with bus services that ply to and from different cities 24 hours a day.

JAIPUR

Jaipur or the pink city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jal Singh II. Jaipur is known for being the first planned city of India with the king taking a great amount of interest in designing the layout of the city. The city is home to major palaces that took about 4 years to be constructed in the architectural style that were in accordance with the principles of Shilpa Shastra, an Indian architecture. The rich and cultural heritage of Jaipur can be easily seen in the various historical places that dwell in the city.

Places to see : The city is named the pink city of India because of the pink wash applied to its buildings. Some of the major tourist attractions in Jaipur are:

• Hawa Mahal
• City Palace
• Jaigarh fort
• Albert Hall
• Jantar Mantar
• Amber Fort
• Nahargarh Fort
• Govind Dev Ji temple
• Sisodia Rani Bagh
• Bm Birla Planetarium
• Galta Ji
• Birla Temple
• Kanak Valley
• Jain temple

Shopping : Jaipur is well known to people as the treasure trove for shoppers that provides opportunity for irresistible shopping. Tourists can shop for handicrafts, precious and semi precious stones, Kundan style jewellery, exotic blue pottery, batik painting, block printed textiles of Sanganer and Bagru, tie and die fabrics, Mojari, sandal wood carving, stone carvings et cetera. These items can be purchased from the main markets namely Johari bazaar, bapu bazaar, Nehru bazaar, chaura bazaar, tripolia bazaar and M.I. road.  Jaipur is widely known for its excellency in brass work that can bring beauty and charm in to a dull metal.

Where to stay? Jaipur has many budget and luxury hotels that provide the best of hospitality and services. Most of the hotels are located al close distances from the airport and the railway station and this makes it easy for the people to seek accommodation in the hotels. The hotels provide a number of rooms ranging from standard rooms to suites with private balconies in some. The facilities that are provided are in accordance with modern conveniences and are communicated through traditional hospitality services. These hotels provide an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving traditional Indian and international cuisine.

How to reach? Jaipur has a wide network of transport facilities that connects it to major towns and cities of India.

• By air : the nearest airport is located near Sanganer at a distance of 13 kilometers from Jaipur. Many domestic flights connect the city to all the major cities of India including Udaipur and Jodhpur.
• By rail : Jaipur railway station is the central railway station of Rajasthan. The vast rail network of Indian railways connects Jaipur station with all the other cities of India.
• By road : an excellent network of roadways provides the tourists with the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable journey to and from Jaipur. Bus services are available to and from Jaipur.

JODHPUR

Jodhpur is known to be the second largest city of Rajasthan and was centuries ago a capital of the Marwar Kingdom. It features a number of tourist places like forts, temples, and palaces which are set in the picturesque landscape of the Thar Desert. Like the many cities of Rajasthan that have a special name, Jodhpur also owns one- the Sun City. It is the bright sunny weather that it enjoys all year that gives it the name “the Sun City”. Also referred to as the blue city because of indigo tinge of many houses, Jodhpur is much frequented by tourists every year.

Places to see : Jodhpur is home to a number of tourist places that are relevant even today for their history of rich heritage and culture. Some of the most important places to be visited are:

• Mehrangarh Fort
• Jaswant Thada
• Umaid Bhawan Palace
• Girdikot and Sardar Market
• Museum
• Balsamand Lakes and Gardens
• Mandore
• Mahamandir Temple
• Kailana Lake
• Osian
• Luni Fort
• The Dhawa

Shopping : Shopping in Jodhpur is a very rewarding experience for the visitors. Jodhpur is full of small markets that sell the art of many skilled craftsmen. Jodhpur is famous for the special Jodhpuri suit which gives a royal identity to ones dressing. Most widely sold out items include antiques, bandhini, footwear, Mathaniya’s red chillies et cetera. Some of the most famous places to go for shopping are Sojati gate, station road, Tripolia bazaar, mochi bazaar, Nai Sarak and Clock Tower. Often sought out item for purchasing is the special antique style furniture.

Where to stay? The blue city of India offers a number of hotels for the tourists with world class facilities and modern amenities. These hotels are easily accessible from the airport and railway station. They range from budget to luxury hotels with rooms that are equipped with modern facilities that match international standards. Some of the hotels include facilities like an outdoor swimming pool, spa center, health clubs et cetera. The rooms provided by the hotels feature state-of-the-art facilities to make it a comfortable and memorable stay for the tourists. Almost all the hotels provide a restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious and mouth watering Indian as well as international cuisine.

How to reach? Jodhpur is well connected to the major cities of India through transport communication.

• By air : direct domestic flights can be boarded from the major cities like Delhi Mumbai, Calcutta, Jaipur and Udaipur to reach Jodhpur.
• By rail : Jodhpur is a very famous tourist spot and this characteristic makes it easy for the tourists to travel by rail from any part of India.
• By road : Bus services are available from Delhi and other places to Jodhpur 24 hours a day.

KISHANGARH

Kishangarh is a city in the Ajmer district in Rajasthan. Kishangarh is popularly known as the birth place of the Kishangarh style of painting. This city of Rajasthan has come to be known as the marble city of India with a temple of the nine planets that is non-existent in any other part of the world. Founded in 1609, this city was once the capital of princely state that was ruled by the Rathores. The miniature paintings are based on the principles of the Bani Thani style that got its name from a story with a twist of romance. Bani Thani is believed to have been a court singer and poet in the 18th century.

Places to see : Kishangarh greets the eye with two exclusive sites that are visited every year by thousands of tourists. These include:

• Kishangarh Fort
• Phool Mahal

Shopping : The best thing to shop for in Kishangarh would be the miniature paintings which immortalize the meaning of love through its beautiful colors and figures. Other things that one can shop for include handicrafts, clothes with Rajasthani prints on them, wooden toys, bangles, typical Rajasthani jewellery et cetera.

Where to stay? Kishangarh offers a number of hotels to stay in while on a tour. These hotels are built on the lines of typical Rajasthani architecture that is of immense beauty and art and is a paradigm of the amazing artistic skills of the artisans of those times. The hotels range from budget to luxury hotels and provide rooms with world class facilities. Some of them provide facilities like swimming pool, spa center, health clubs, shopping arcade et cetera. Almost all the hotels provide a restaurant that serves traditional Indian and international cuisine.

How to reach? Kishangarh has a wide network of transport communication that connects it to the major cities and towns of India. The well established and well connected transport system is one the reasons why tourists prefer touring to Kishngarh.

• By air : the nearest airport to Kishangarh is at Jodhpur which is at a distance of 145 kilometers from the city. It caters to both domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : the nearest railway station is in Ajmer which is located at a distance of 27 kilometers from the city.
• By road : Kishangarh has a good network of roads that connect it to the major cities of Rajasthan. Bus services are available to and from the major cities 24 hours a day.

KUMBHALGARH

Kumbhalgarh is a small village that has been into existence since the time of Rana Kumbha. Kumbhalgarh was a fortress that was designed by Rana Kumbha along with 83 other fortresses during his reign. This 36 kilometers long wall stands on the site of an ancient citadel that dates back to the second century. This fortress has today become a village and a home to many monuments, cenotaphs, ponds and flourishing farms.

Places to see : Kumbhalgarh offers a number of tourist places that hold many secrets of the glorious past. Some of these places are:

• Haldighati
• Muchchal Mahavir
• Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary

Shopping : Kumbhalgarh does not make shopping a very pleasant experience, though the very few shopping markets it has offer a lot of unique and special articles. The markets are rich in handcrafted items available at cheap prices. Other popular items include silver jewellery, pottery, stone carvings, puppets et cetera. Handicrafts are a major attraction in Kumbhalgarh. People, who wish to carry the culture with them, can purchase the traditional attire of Rajasthani that is full of glass work and embroidery.

Where to stay? Kumbhalgarh though is a village, offers a number of hotels for the tourists with world class facilities and tender hospitality. The city features a number of hotels that are located on the hills and thereby give a very pleasant and picturesque view of the Kumbhalgarh valley. These hotels are built on the lines of traditional Rajasthani architecture that is reminiscent of the glorious history of the state. The hotels in the city are a perfect blend of age old hospitality and modern services. Some of the hotels provide a swimming pool, a spa center, health club and excursions to some of the tourist attractions in Kumbhalgarh. Almost all the hotels provide a restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious Indian and Continental cuisine.

How to reach? Being an important tourist destination, Kishangarh has a very well established transport networks. It is this aspect of Kumbhalgarh that makes it one of the best tourist places in the catalogue of North India tours.

• By air : the nearest airport from Kishangarh is in Udaipur which is located at a distance of 84 kilometers from the village. It caters to both the domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : the nearest railway station is in Ratlam which is at a distance of 80 kilometers from the village.
• By road : bus services are available from Udaipur and Ranakpur almost 24 hours a day.

MOUNT ABU

Mount Abu is a consecrated and religious place owing to a legend that explains the yagna that was performed by the sage Vashishtha and how the divine powers were so pleased by the beauty of the land. Mt. Abu is a paradigm of a plethora of peace and divinity that attracts millions of travelers from different parts of the world each year. It is the only hill station in Rajasthan and it acts as one of the tourist destinations that are much more than just a summer vacation spot. The hill station features beautiful and elegantly decorated Jain temples that are from the 11th century. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage centers.

Places to see : The beautiful hill station greets the tourists with lush greenery and imperial grandeur that is evident in the forts as well as temples. The most amazing attraction in Mt. Abu is the summer festival that takes place every year. When it is summer in the whole country, Mt. Abu remains to charm the travelers by being the coldest. The pilgrimage center is an amazing summer retreat and provides the following places to its tourists to visit:

• Sunset Point
• Mount Abu
• Honeymoon Point
• Mount Abu and the Crags
• Achalgarh fort
• Sunrise Palace
• Kesar Bhawan Palace
• Archaeological monuments
• Ashok Vatika
• Gandhi Park
• Terrace Garden
• Gaumukh Temple
• Adhar Devi Temple
• Dilwara Temple
• Vimala Vashi temple
• Luna Vashi Temple
• Shri Raghunathji Temple
• Nakki Lake
• Government museums

Shopping : Shopping is more of a pleasure that just an activity when tourists come to Mt. Abu. Of all the places in Rajasthan, the most famous place where one can shop is the market near Nakki Lake which is known to the denizens as “Nakki Maal”. The most famous items that are shopped for from the markets in Mount Abu include jewellery, fabrics, wooden articles, gemstones, metal crafts, leather ware, Kota saris and apparels, special traditional Rajasthani bangles, Sanganeri prints in linen (fabrics), curios that are made from marble, sandalwood, sandstone et cetera.

Where to stay? Mount Abu features a number of hotels that range from budget to luxury hotels. The hotels savor stunning and picturesque views of the hill station. Equipped with all the required world class facilities and good accommodation, the hotels are a paradigm of fine hospitality services. Most of the hotels are located at close proximity to the airport and railway station while some are located on prime locations to give you the ultimate experience of the blend of tranquility and beauty. The hotels have multiple rooms that range from deluxe to luxury rooms with an outdoor swimming pool, a cyber café in some, chopping arcade et cetera. They also feature a restaurant that serves Indian as well as international delicacies.

How to reach? The reputation of Mt, Abu as the best tourist spot in Rajasthan tourism owes to the fact that it is well connected to the major cities of India as well as to other countries of the world in terms of transportation.

• By air : the nearest airport to Mt. Abu is in Udaipur.  It caters to all domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : Abu road is the nearest railway station and is located at a distance of 22 kilometers from Mount Abu.
• By road : Rajasthan roadways make it comfortable for not just those travelers who come from other states but also for those people who come from within Rajasthan. Bus services are available to and from other parts of the country.

NAGAUR

Nagaur is a city in Rajasthan that was founded by Naga Kshatriyas. Boasting off its royalty the city stands on a land between Jodhpur and Bikaner. Also known as the village “khatwan”, Nagaur has been an administrative center of the Nagaur district. The land that dates back to the 4th century has been referred to in the Mahabharata. Though the city is not rich in flora and fauna, it is home to a number of species like babul, neem, peepal et cetera.

Places to see : Nagaur sets the beauty of Rajasthan with beautiful forts and magnificent palaces that reminds the people of the rich heritage that it pursued many centuries ago. It features the majestic Nagaur fort that is located at the tail of the Thar Desert, thereby giving a picturesque view of the city. The outstanding beauty of the fort stands out in the otherwise dull sandy stretch of the desert. The most interesting and fascinating beauty of Rajasthan is observed during the Nagaur fair that is held each year. Held during the month of February, the 4 days fair is witness to a number of people coming from different parts of the world. The fair features cock fights, camel races, puppet shows, folk dances and a host of other things. The evenings are mesmerized by the melodies of folk musicians.

Shopping : Though Nagaur doesn’t provide many options for a heavy shopping, the small shops in the city sell rare and beautiful curios that are typical to the tradition of Rajasthan. Other materials that one can shop for in Nagaur includes jewelry, traditional fabrics, wooden toys and other articles, gemstones, sculptures, traditional Rajasthani bangles et cetera.

Where to stay? The beauty of Nagaur is incomplete without the beautiful places that allow for accommodation. Some of the hotels in the city were palaces in the 3rd century. These palaces were later converted into heritage hotels without compromising their imperial grandeur. Today, they are labeled as one of the finest hotels that run under the aegis of fine hospitality centers. These hotels range from budget to luxury hotels with rooms that are equipped with world class facilities to make the stay memorable and comfortable for the guests. Some hotels have an outdoor swimming pool, in-house restaurant that serves delicious and mouth-watering delicacies, spa center, sports center, health club et cetera.

How to reach? Nagaur is one of the most chosen destinations because of its easy accessibility to transport medium.

• By air : the nearest airport to Nagaur is in Udaipur. All major domestic as well as international flights are available to and from the various countries of the world.
• By rail : the Nagaur railway station has a number of trains running to and from the major cities of India.
• By road : Nagaur has very well connected roadways that allow for 24 hour bus services from within the state as well as from other major cities of India.

NATHDWARA

Located on the left bank of the Banas River, Nathdwara is has today become a very famous pilgrimage center. Large number of devotees flock the place for worship. Nathdwara is famous for its pious and sacred Vaishnava temple that is dedicated to lord Srinath. The place where the idol of Lord Srinath is located has become a famous tourist destination. This idol has been sculpted out of a single piece of black marble that belongs to the 12th century. It was first installed by Sri Vallabhacharya in a temple near Mathura.

Places to see : The most famous place in Nathdwara where tourists flock in large numbers is the Srinathji Temple. The haveli of Srinathji, as the temple is usually called, was once the palace of the Rajput rulers. The idol of Lord Srinathji is decorated in regal splendor each year. Thousands of tourists and worshipers flock the temple to get a glimpse of the decorated idol.

Shopping : Nathdwara is more of a pilgrimage center than a city with options for shopping. One can still purchase items like beads that can be both religious as well as fashionable. Special dyed t-shirts with prints of Lord Krishna. Traditional bangles those are typical of Rajasthani culture; Lockets, with images of lord Krishna et cetera. Typical Rajasthani fabrics can be purchased from small shops that are located little away from the city.

Where to stay? Keeping in mind the huge crowds that visit Nathdwara each year, Rajasthan tourism has arranged for accommodation through its several hotels. The hotels in Nathdwara are affordable and easy to book. They are equipped with world class facilities and services that match international standards. There is room for the better offs and those who are looking for only an accommodation facility without any additional services. They offer a restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious Indian as well as international cuisines.

How to reach? Nathdwara is known for its well connected and well established network of transportation. This makes it easier for the tourists to travel to and from the various parts of the country and the world.

• By air : the nearest airport is located in Udaipur which is at a distance of 48 kilometers from Nathdwara. It features all domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : the nearest railway station is in Udaipur and is located at a distance of 48 kilometers from the city.
• By road : bus services are available 24 hours a day to and from the major cities of India.

PUSHKAR

Pushkar is widely known as the sister city of Ajmer. It is located at close proximity to the city with a distance of only 11 kilometers. The history of the city can be traced in the accounts of the 4th century that were written by Chinese travelers as well in the scripts that were written during the era of Muslim invasions. Taking a bath in Pushkar is considered to be very pious and holy as popular legend has it that lord Brahma battled with the demon Vajra Nabh with a lotus flower whose petals apparently floated to the earth and settled in three places in Pushkar. In the places where the petals landed, lakes sprang up. Couple of years ago, a holy dip on any of the Pushkar lakes was considered to drive all the sins away from the body and were believed to go to heaven after they died.

Places to see : Pushkar offers a number of places to the tourists to visit. The most fascinating part of Pushkar is the Pushkar fair that is held every year. During the fair, people from different parts of the country club together and sell articles. For women it is the best time to discuss about things in life and family. It is an important pilgrimage venue of huge cattle fair. People get to see many bazaars, auctions, music and sports et cetera. Some of the most important places to visit are:

Shopping : The bazaars in Pushkar allow for many cultural and commercial markets that sell rare items specific of the Rajasthani culture. The most popular article that is sold is silver jewellery. Traditional bangles are also very widely sold in the bazaars. Other articles that one can buy include fabrics; include jewelry, traditional fabrics, wooden toys, gemstones, sculptures et cetera.

Where to stay? The sister city of Ajmer has a number of hotels that provide cheap accommodation. The hotels range from budget to luxury hotels with various facilities that match international standards. Each hotel is known for its peculiar style of disposing amazing hospitality services. They feature a number of rooms that range from standard to deluxe rooms. Some hotels even feature suites with private balconies. Most of them provide an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious and mouth watering delicacies from the secret kitchens of India. International cuisines are also among the highlights.

How to reach? Pushkar is located at close proximity to all the major transport systems of the country.

• By air : the nearest airport is in Jaipur. It caters to all the domestic and international flights.
• By rail : the nearest railway station to Pushkar is in Ajmer and is set on a broad gauge, hence connecting to the major cities of India.
• By road : Pushkar is 11 kilometers from the main bus stand in Ajmer. Bus services are available in plenty 24 hours a day.

RANAKPUR

Ranakpur is a village in Rajasthan that was named after Rana Kumbha. It is widely known for some of the elegantly and meticulously carved Jain temples in amber stone. Ranakpur is one of the five pious places in Rajasthan known for the exceptional beauty of the Jain temples. The Jain temples were constructed in AD 1439 on the mountain ranges of Pali district, which is located at a distance of 39 kilometers from the Phalna railway station.  Lush greenery and blue waters of the streams mark the glory of Ranakpur.

Places to see : The beautiful scenery of Ranakpur offers many options for tourists to travel to. The Jain temples that are located in Ranakpur are among the most ancient and well decorated ones in competition with the beauty of other temples. There are about 3 Jain temples dedicated to lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman and Navi Mata. Some of the most important tourist destinations in Ranakpur are:

• Sadri
• Desuri
• Ghanerao
• Narlai
• Mucchal Mahaveer
• Kumbhalgarh
• Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary
• Falna

Shopping : Being a small village, Ranakpur doesn’t provide many options for shopping. For those who cannot afford going back home without shopping can go to Udaipur. Udaipur is a big city and provides a wonderful shopping experience. One can purchase miniature paintings which are the most popular item for shopping. The paintings are a piece of wonderful art and a paradigm of the work of skilled artisans. Other items that once can shop for includes jewellery, gems, pottery and other handicrafts. Puppets and stone carved items are also few of the widely shopped items.

Where to stay? Ranakpur proffers a number of hotels to seek lodging in. These hotels are equipped with world class facilities that are communicated through fine hospitality. These hotels offer a number of rooms that are equipped with facilities that make the stay comfortable for the tourists. The hotels range from budget hotels to luxury hotels that can be booked at affordable prices. Most of the hotels have a restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious and mouth watering Indian as well as International delicacies.

How to reach? Ranakpur is known for its improved transport system. It is one of the most preferred tourist destinations because it has a well connected and well established transport network.

• By air : the nearest airport to Ranakpur is in Udaipur. It caters to all the domestic and international flights.
• By rail : the nearest railway station is in Udaipur. It takes 5 hours by bus from Udaipur to Ranakpur.
• By road : bus services are available 24 hours a day from Udaipur and from other cities of India.

RANTHAMBORE

Ranthambore is a city in Rajasthan that has been home to many wars and reigns. The first thing that one is reminded of where there is a reference to Ranthambore is the famous Ranthambore national park. It is covered with dense forest and has always been a favourite spot for adventure lovers. It includes some of the rarest species of flora and fauna.

Places to see : Ranthambore offers a number of places to the tourists. The national park is one among the nine reserves that are to be included in Project Tiger. Despite of the small area of the national park, the dense forest and deciduous habitat of the national park is considered to be sufficient for the species. The many tourist destinations are a paradigm of natural beauty at its best. Some of the most fascinating places are:

• Ranthambore fort
• Ranthambore national park
• Padam Talao

Shopping : Ranthambore is widely known for its wildlife sanctuary more than any other place that is suitable for shopping. The village offers very little option for shopping so; one can easily go for shopping to Jaipur which is the capital city of Rajasthan. It is rich in traditional handicrafts and silver jewellery. Other items include tie-and-die textiles, woodcrafts, gems and stones et cetera. There are lots of shopping joints in and around the city.

Where to stay? The city provides a directory of fine hotels and accommodations that are affordable and fine in standard. The hotels range from budget to luxury hotels. They provide a number of rooms that are equipped with world class facilities and amazing hospitality services. The rooms provided by the hostel range from standard to deluxe room and suites with private balconies in some. The hotel includes an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving delicious and mouth watering Indian as well as international cuisines.

How to reach? The reputation of Ranthambore as one of the major tourist attractions in the catalogue of Rajasthan tourism, it attracts better technology and infrastructure. Therefore, it has been pampered with well established and well connected transport networks.

• By air : the nearest airport to Ranthambore is in Jaipur and is well connected to the major cities of India.
• By rail : the nearest railway station is at Ranthambore and is connected to many major cities of India.  There are daily trains to Ranthambore from New Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai.
• By road :  bus services are available 24 hours a day to and from Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai.

SARISKA

Sariska is a place in the state of Rajasthan that had once been an ancient Rajput state. Formerly known as Mewat, the people of Sariska did not like any invasions of the territory by external bodies. This conservatism has made the place a very rich heritage of typical Rajasthani culture. One can see the beauty of ancient palaces and forts of Rajasthan. The palaces are decorated with beauty that is par excellence.

Places to see : Sariska offers a number of places for the tourists to visit when they are on a holiday to the desert land. The beautiful palaces are attractive enough to outstand the otherwise dull and dry desert sand of Rajasthan. The places are pieces of great artistic skills that were possessed by the artisans and craftsmen during the Rajput era. They make up an idyllic picnic spot for both children as well as adults. The forts and palaces are located at close proximity to the city, thereby making it easy for the tourists to travel. Some of the most important places to visit in Sariska are:

• Sariska Palace
• Siliserh Lake Palace
• Vijai Mandir Palace
• Jai Samand Lake

Shopping : Shopping is an exciting experience in Sariska as it proffers a number of shops. It is nestled with beautifully decorated colorful shops that sell innumerable items at affordable prices. A tourist can purchase items like silver jewellery, traditional Rajasthani bangles, traditional dresses, special jutis, accessories et cetera. Handicrafts and pottery are items that are very widely purchased from the shops.

Where to stay? Sariska offers many places to stay in for the tourists while they are on a tour. The hotels in Sariska range from budget to luxury hotels with rooms and suites that are equipped with modern facilities that match international standards. These facilities are communicated through traditional hospitality that makes the hotels of Sariska one among the best in India. The rooms in the hotels range from standard to deluxe or suites, thereby making the booking very flexible. Some rooms include suites with private balconies. The hotels provide an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving spicy Indian as well as delicious international cuisines.

How to reach? Sariska has a very well established and well connected transport network that connects it to the various places of India as well as the world.

• By air :  the nearest airport is in Delhi which is at a distance of 163 kilometers from Sariska. It is well connected to all the major cities of India.
• By rail : the most regular trains that go via Delhi and Varanasi are Shatabdi express and Marudhar express respectively.
• By road : bus services are available to and from the various cities of India as well as from various places within Rajasthan.

SHEKHAWATI

Shekhawati is a region that lies to the North of Jaipur. It is well known as a land where the businessmen of the Marwari class started building havelis or mansions during the 18th and the 19th century. The Rajputs and the Marwaris were the dominant and the two major communities in Shekhawati during that time. Owing to trade fights, the Marwaris were moved to the port but their love for the land never died and their descendants still live to represent the glory of the past.

Places to see : Shekhawati is a colourful rainbow of a number of unique places. It greets the eye of the tourists with beautiful places and is famous for being known as an open gallery. Shekhawati means “the land of Shekha’s clan”. It was earlier a part of the Jaipur state and it today has become an epitome of art and a powerful history. Some of the most important places that one can visit are:

• Dundlod
• Sikar
• Nawalgarh
• Mukandgarh
• Khetri
• Jhunjhunu
• Mandawa
• Churu
• Bissau
• Harsh Nath Temle
• Jeen Mata Temple
• Rambagh
• Lachhmangarh Fort
• Bagad
• Chirawa
• Pilani
• Surajgarh and Kajara
• Alsisar and Malsisar
• Mehansar
• Churu
• Salasar Balaji
• Ratangarh
• Sardar Shahar
• Dudhwa Khara
• Tal Chhapar

Shopping : Shekhawati is often known as an open air gallery as it provides an amazing experience to those who have an eye for detail when it comes to art and paintings. The shopping areas in Shekhawati are famous for their excellence in handicrafts and pottery. The paintings of Shekhawati are very popular and can be used for decorating ones home. The frescos painted on paper and cloth is very nice. Excellent furniture can also be purchased from the shopping places in the city. Other items that can be purchased include decorated chests, carvings, cradles, textiles, tie-dye fabrics, metal wares, traditional bangles et cetera.

Where to stay? The great palaces and mansions of Shekhawati provide a truly regal experience to the tourists. These mansions-turned-hotels are very popular for their traditional way of hospitality. The ambience is set in such a way that it is reminiscent of the imperial past. The hotels have as many as 100 rooms and range from standard to deluxe rooms and some also have suites with private balconies. The hotels that were once mansions have been converted to hotels without compromising on the beauty of the art. The hotels comprise of an in-house restaurant that is specialized in serving spicy and delicious Indian especially Rajasthani cuisine.

How to reach? Shekhawati is located at close proximity to the major cities of India and places of the world. It has a body of well connected and well established transport networks.

• By air : the nearest airport is in Jaipur. It caters to all the domestic as well as international flights.
• By rail : the railway station is located in Jaipur. There are a number of trains that travel to and from the major cities of India.
• By road : bus services are available from Jaipur 24 hours a day.

UDAIPUR

Udaipur is known as the city of lakes as it is home to a number of lakes, one of which is the Udai Sagar which is famous for being the most beautiful lakes among many others. It is known for the palaces and forts that were constructed in the Rajput era. It is home to the Lake palace which envelopes an entire island in the Pichola Lake. Though many of these palaces have been converted into hotels, their beauty has still been kept alive. Apart from being called the city of lakes, Udaipur is also called the “white city”. “The Venice of the East” is another phrase that is used to refer to the beautiful city. It is known to be one of the most romantic places in India.

Places to see : The city of lakes has a wide variety in the choice of places to visit. It welcomes the tourists with beautiful palaces and forts. The most fascinating event that draws thousands of people from different parts of the world is the fair popularly known as the Shilpgram fair or the Mewar festival. Thousands of tourists are lured to the fair because of its colorful diversity and cultural exhibitions.

Shopping : Shopping in Udaipur is an amazing experience as the shops are very colorful, exquisite and typical of Rajasthani culture. The shops in Udaipur sell unique craft items. Other items include folk toys, puppets, traditional attire, pottery, meta wares, paintings, silver jewellery, precious stones, turbans, crafted idols of Gods and Goddesses in terracotta; stone and metal, tie-dye fabrics, paintings, hand printed textiles et cetera. The miniature paintings are done in original style of the Mewar School of Art. Some of the popular bazaars in Udaipur are Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Chetak Circle, Bada Bazaar and Palace road.

Where to stay? Udaipur offers a number of hotels with facilities that meet international standards. These hotels were once palaces and mansions but have been converted into luxury and heritage hotels without compromising on the beauty that existed during the imperial period. The ambience and the designs in the hotels are reminiscent of the regal stature that existed centuries ago. The hotels range from standard to luxury hotels. They provide a number of rooms with modern facilities that are communicated in a traditional way. Most of the hotels have an in-house restaurant that serves delicious and spicy Indian as well as International cuisines. The main focus of these restaurants is traditional Rajasthani food.

How to reach? Udaipur is connected to the places of the world, thus making it easier for even the international tourists to have a comfortable journey.

• By air : Udaipur has an airport of its own and is connected to the various places of the world.
• By rail : there are regular trains to and from the major cities of India like Jaipur, Rajasthan, and Ahmedabad et cetera.
• By road : bus services are available to and from the major cities of India 24 hours a day.

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