Rajasthan – The Land of Palaces and Forts

Rajasthan is a land of Palaces and Forts which is situated on the western side of India. The state is one of the perfect representatives of the colorful culture of the land of Incredible India. The capital of Rajasthan is Jaipur which is situated on the eastern side of the state. The Rajasthan capital – Jaipur is also known as the ‘Pink City’. As per the census of 2011, Rajasthan city population was 68,548,437. It is one of the most visited states of India in terms of domestic and international tourists. Therefore, it is one of the best tourism states in India alongwith Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and West Bengal which generates huge revenue from its tourism.

History of Rajasthan: The Formation

The origin of Rajasthan dates back to the Vedic and Indus civilization. The Gurjars, Rajputs, Jats, Meenas, Bhils, Rebabi, Charans, Yadavs, Bishnois, and others had made great contribution in building the civilization. Rulers like Hem Chandra Vikramaditya, Maharana Pratap, and Maharaja Suraj Mal were great and prominent rulers of the region.

The Rajputs, Marathas, and Mughals also took turns to rule the region. In the 19^th century the British set their feet in the land of the kings and reigned there until the dawn of Indian independence. Let the history speak for itself.

Geography of Rajasthan

The geography of Rajasthan is magnificent. The state spreads across an area of 342,239 km² and is divided into 33 tehsils which are further fragmented into numerous towns and villages. The prominent geographic characteristics of the state are the Aravalli Range and the Thar Desert as both have immense influence over the topography and climate of the state.

Biodiversity of Rajasthan

Although the major portion of Rajasthan is desert and has little forest cover, the land has a rich biodiversity. The natural vegetation of Rajasthan is classified as Northern Desert Thorn Forest. Migratory birds and local birds that include Godavan, Harriers, Falcons, Kestrels, Short Toed Eagles, Sand Grouse, and Partridge have found their haven in the region. Blackbuck, Caracal, and Desert Foxes are spotted in the region.

Climatic Conditions of Rajasthan

Rajasthan experiences a tropical desert climate. The average summer temperature is around 40-45 degree Celsius. The winter lasts from October to February, with January being the coldest as cold waves are a common occurrence in winter. The place remains cool during nights.

There is a vast difference between the weather of day and night. The state receives most of its rains in July and August. The best time to visit is from the mid of October to mid of March as the weather is favorable for sightseeing places during this period.

Rajasthan Culture

The culture of Rajasthan has imbibed its charm from the deep rooted customs and traditions of the people and their lifestyle. The Kathpuli, Chang, Bhopa, Kachchhighori, Tejaji, and Terali form a part of the Rajasthani culture.

The regional songs in form of ballads represent the life of the brave and the common people and are usually a ritual among the locals. The rituals practiced in Rajasthan will win your heart. ‘Marwari’ is the regional language of Rajasthan. The other widely spoken languages are Hindi, Bhili, Punjabi, and Urdu.

Interesting Facts about Rajasthan

• It is the largest State in India on the basis of total area.
• The Ranthambore National Park became a part of the Project Tiger in the year 1973.
• The State Animal is Camel and Chinkara.
• The State Bird is Godavan.
• The Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of largest private residence in the world.
• It is the biggest wool producing state in the country.
• The spirit possession and the ‘Ghorala’are among popular ghost stories of the locals.
• The common links of the Kuldhara story and Bhangarh story are the ghost towns and the tag of scary places.

Tourism in Rajasthan: Best Tourist Attractions

The industry of tourism in Rajasthan is flourishing at a fast pace which is directly improving the scope of Indian Tourism. The rare sight of trickling rivers and lakes in the desert offers a scenic view to the tourists. Tourists should consult a trustworthy travel guide and also gather necessary information about the hotels and resorts of Rajasthan before visit.

• Temples: The temples in Rajasthan offer a perfect blend of architecture and craftsmanship. The popular temples of the region include the Rani Satiji Temple, Bandeshwar Temple, Galta Temple, Brahma Temple, Dilwara Temple, Ranakpur Temple, Lodurva Jain Temple, and Mirpur Jain Temple.
• Palaces: The majestic charm of royalty can be witnessed by the tourists once they visit the palaces in Rajasthan. The Umaid Bhawan, The City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Rambagh Palace, Devi Garh Palace, Jal Mahal, and Lake Palace are some of the prominent palaces in Rajasthan.
• Forts: A large number of historic forts are found in Rajasthan each of which is an exemplary example of brilliant architecture. The Chittorgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Ranthambore Fort, Gagron Fort, Amber Fort, Golden Fortress, and Jaisalmer Fort are among the popular forts of Rajasthan.
• Hill Stations: Mount Abu, a popular hill station in Rajasthan and the Dhosi hill are among the best vacation spots in Rajasthan that can be enjoyed in summer.
• Adventurous Spots: A ‘Camel Trip’ amidst the ‘Sand Dunes’ in the Rajasthan and Chambal River Safari are popular as some of the adventurous places in the state. You will admire the glorious beauty of “Mirage (Mrig Trishna)” effect in the Sand Dunes of Rajasthan during the noon.
• Historical Monuments: Vijay Stamb, Jantar Mantar, the ancient Havelis of Mandawa and Ramgarh, the Binnayaga Buddhist caves, Kolvi Caves and Hatiagor Buddhist Caves are some of the examples of the best medieval architecture and historical monuments in India.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: The Desert National Park, The Sariska Tiger Reserve, Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Jaisamand Sanctuary Bhensrod Garh Sanctuary, Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary, Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary, Jawahar Sagar sanctuary, and Darrah Sanctuary.
• National Parks: The Ranthambore National Park, Keoladeo National Park, Desert National Park, and Sawai Madhopur.
• Haunted Places: Some of the most haunted places in India are found in Rajasthan. The Rana Kumbha Palace of Chittorgarh, NH-79 near Dudu Village, Nahargarh Fort, Brij Raj Bhavan, Kuldhara Village, Jagatpura, and Bhangarh Fort are popular among the tourists and locals as the scary places of the region.
• Romantic Places for Couples: Mount Abu and Udaipur (The Venice of India) are among the best honeymoon destinations for newlyweds. A romantic ‘Camel Safari’ would set the perfect mood for the honeymoon couples.
• Other Popular Tourist Attractions: The shrine of the sufi saikh Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, Soniji Ki Nasiyan, Birla Planetarium, Nakki Lake, Patwon ki Haveli, Albert Hall Museum, Picholla Lake, etc. are among the best tourist attractions in the state.

People of Rajasthan

The ethnicity of Rajasthan derives its colorful characteristics from its diverse traditions and set of beliefs. The major religions of the region are Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Jainism, Christianity, Buddhism and Sindhi.

Rajasthan Cuisines

The Rajasthani cuisine is as colorful and varied in taste as the culture of its people. The recipes are mostly vegetarian. The popular dishes of Rajasthan include Bajre ki Roti with Lehsun Chutney, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Dahi Shorba, Mawa Kachori, Pyaj Kachori with Gevar, and Mirchi Bada.

The Rabri topped Jalebi is a favorite sweet of Rajasthan. Dal Baati Churma, Alwar Ka Mawa, Malpaus, Sohan Halwa, Ghevar and different types of Ladoos are the popular sweets of the land. Fall in love with variety of foods in this colourful hub.

Major Festivals in Rajasthan

The major festivals of the region are Diwali, Holi, Teej, Gangaur, Shri Devnarayan Jayanti, Gogaji, Makar Sankranti, and Janmashtami. Other important social celebrations include the Camel Festival, Kite Festival, Desert Festival, Gangaur Festival, Mewar Festival, Elephant Festival, Urs Ajmer Sharif, Summer Festival, Teej Festival, Kajli Teej, Dussehra Festival, and Marwar Festival. The folk culture that includes the folk dance and music is an integral part of the festivities. The ‘Kalbelia’ Dance and ‘Ghoomar’ Dance are performed on most social celebrations.

Popular Fairs in Rajasthan

The fairs of Rajasthan are organized with great enthusiasm and gusto. The snake charmers, acrobats, puppeteers, and folk performers enhance the ambience of the fairs. The Nagaur Fair, Baneshwar Fair, and Pushkar Fair are among the popular fairs of Rajasthan.

Clothing Trends in Rajasthan

The clothing trends of Rajasthan reflect the colourful culture of the land. Color, mirror work, embroidery and bold prints are the main characteristic of Rajasthani clothing. Lehenga, Chaniya Choli and Odhni form a part of Rajasthani traditional dresses for women while Dhoti, Angrakhi, Jhari, Amari Angrakha, Achkans and Dhabla are a part of traditional dresses for men. A variety of turbans urban which are locally known as Pencha, Sela, Potia, Saafa and Pagri are sported by men.

Shopping Hunt in Rajasthan

The Ganapati Plaza, Crystal Palm, The Triton, Crystal Court, Jalsa Mall, MGF Metropolitan Mall, Celebration mall, and Lake City Mall are some of the shopping malls that are also frequented Rajasthan tourist spots. Besides shopping malls the local bazaar of the towns and villages also offer excellent quality handicrafts, jewelry, and artifacts.

Present Scenario

Though Rajasthan’s economy is mainly agrarian and pastoral, efforts are being taken for the growth and development of all the other important sectors of the state. The urbane and younger lot of the population is up-to-date with the latest fashion trends. Salwar Kameez, Western and Semi-western wear have sneaked their way into the closet of women while men find sporting Shirts, Trousers, Jeans and T-Shirts comfortable. As per the Census of 2011, the literacy rate of Rajasthan is 67.06%.

Rajasthan tourism has invited both national and internal visitors for exploring the Rajasthan tourist places. So what is holding you back? There are lots of places to visit in summer as well as winter during your stay in Rajasthan. The haunted villages in Rajasthan will instill the suspense in your trip and the whole journey will be exciting. The land full of colours is waiting for treating the tourists with its best services.

Districts of Rajasthan