Winter is perhaps the best time to take a break from hibernation and get soaked in art, color, carnival and history. What better location to accomplish the same than the Great Indian Desert? Warm and sun-soaked afternoons, ideal for desert safaris and outdoor activities; chilly evenings leading to an enjoyable night with hot Rajasthani cuisine and waking up to bearable cold mornings; Rajasthan offers an idyllic setting for a perfect winter holiday.
So, if you still have not decided as to where should you be headed this winter, give Royal Rajasthan a chance. Here, in the land of kingdoms, time will just fly.
Check the list of cities to take you on a journey through the land of royalty:
Jaipur
The rich cultural heritage and the grandeur of the pink city entice the traveler into a fairytale. While in Jaipur, do not miss visiting the City palace, the honeycomb Hawa Mahal, the royal observatory Jantar Mantar, and the legendary Amber Fort. To enjoy the sumptuous Rajasthani thali along with a full-fledged folk entertainment package, visit the resort village 'Choki Dhani'. Not to forget carrying an empty bag since you are in a shopper's paradise.
Jaisalmer
If your next spot is Jaisalmer, start your trip from the Jaisalmer fort which is also known as the Golden Fort of Rajasthan, followed by the Patwon ki Haveli, Bada Bagh and The Thar Heritage Museum. Spending your vacation in Rajasthan and haven't given Desert Safari a shot? Sand dunes characterize Jaisalmer that beckons everyone for desert safari and dune bashing.
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Udaipur
The beautiful lakes and palaces make the city one of the best tourist destinations in Rajasthan. Situated in the middle of the lake Pichola is the pleasure palace; the City Palace Complex which is a must visit. Also, other places you should not miss In Udaipur are the small ornamental garden Sahelion ki Bari, The Udaipur Solar Observatory, Bagore ki Haveli, Shilpgram and last but not the least, the Udaipur Ropeway.
Jodhpur
If the Sun city is your next halt, some of the popular places you should visit are the Mehrangarh Fort, Balsamand Lake, Kailana Lake, Jaswant Thada, Clock Tower, Old city markets, Mandore Gardens and many more. If you love adventure, go for zip lining at the north of the Mehrangarh fort. Do not leave Jodhpur without eating the Mawa Kachori at Janta Sweet Home.
Mount Abu
The only hill station in the desert state offers a plethora of options to travelers. Some of the popular places you should pay a visit in Mount Abu are the marble carved Dilwara Jain Temple, the sacred Nakki Lake, the man made crocodile breeding spot Trevor's Tank, the highest point in Mount Abu Guru Shikhar and the immovable Achalgarh. Also to witness the sunset from a hilltop, do not miss going to the Sunset Point as well as the Honeymoon Point.
Bikaner
To experience the rich cultural heritage, make sure you visit the all time favorite tourist destination, Bikaner. The city of great warriors, beautiful palaces and temples should definitely be on your to visit list. Some of the most popular destinations include the never conquered Junagarh Fort, the antique Fort Museum, the architectural masterpiece Lalgarh Palace and the Gajner Palace. If you haven't ridden on a Camel's back, you haven't visited Rajasthan yet. So, do not miss the Bikaner Camel Safari Day Tours.
Pushkar
The spiritual town of Hindus is one of the most popular pilgrimage attractions. Some of the most popular places that you must visit in Pushkar are the sacred Pushkar Lake, the annual Pushkar Fair, Man Mahal and the marvelous temples of course. Do not forget to take a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake before heading to your next destination.
Ranthambore
What is better than a rendezvous with tigers on your trip to Rajasthan! Situated close to the Thar desert, the Ranthambore National Park is a must visit. Leopards, Jackals, Hyenas, Deers, you name it and the national park has it. Situated on a hill top, the Ranthambore Fort offers a scenic view of the Ranthambore National park. It is believed that Akbar also spent some time in the fort. To spot panthers in plenty, do not miss the Kachida Valley.
Bundi
One of the lesser known tourist spots in Rajasthan, Bundi is a place which should have a place on your travel list. Bundi's pride, Taragarh Fort, is a splendor. Other notable places include step-wells of Bundi, Chhattar Mahal, Nawal Sagar, Phool Sagar, Keshar Bagh and many others.
Chittorgarh
The city houses a number of exquisite attractions. Some of these eminent sightseeing places include Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha's Palace, Vijay Stambh, Kumbha Shyam Temple, Victory Tower and many more. When visiting the Rana Kumbha's palace do not miss the sound and light show. Also, make sure you visit Padmini's palace before you bid adieu to Chittorgarh.
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Bharatpur
Since it is winter time, why not do some bird watching at one of the most well known reserves in the world, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Lohagarh Fort, as the name suggests, is an enormous iron structure built in 18th century. Another place you must visit is the Government Museum of Bharatpur situated within the Lohagarh Fort which showcases Bharatpur's archaeological wealth.
Nahargarh Fort
If you want to relive the popular beer scene in Rang De basanti where Aamir Khan along with Sharman Joshi and Siddharth jump off a cliff, visit the Nahargarh Fort. According to the popular legend, the word Nahar stands for the Rathore prince Nahar Singh whose spirit supposedly haunted the fort and hindered the construction. A temple was built in his memory which pacified his spirit leading to the name 'Nahargarh Fort'.
Bishnoi Village Safari
If you wish to take a break from the usual tourist experience, you must take the Bishnoi Village Safari. The safari includes a once in a lifetime trip through the surrounding deserts of Jodhpur introducing you to the life of the ancient clan of Rajasthan, the Bishnois. Stay in a local home for a night to get a raw experience of their lives, interact with the villagers and click a lot of photographs to treasure the memories.
Alwar
One of the main reasons you would be paying Alwar a visit is to see the supposedly haunted place, Bhangarh Fort. Located within the Rajgarh municipality of Alwar, the fort is said to be cursed by a black magic sorcerer. The ASI has put a board which strictly states that entering the premises before sunrise as well as after sunset is strictly prohibited. Other tourist attractions include the Government Museum of Alwar, City Palace, Garbhaji falls and many more.
Sariska Tiger Reserve
Situated in a wooded valley between Alwar and Jaipur, the Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the most popular tiger reserves in the country. The tiger reserve is home to a number of carnivores including hyenas, jackals, leopards, and of course, tigers. Taking the early morning safari is a must to see the sunrise. Do not miss visiting the Hanuman Temple which is located at a distance of 20 kms within the jungle.
Rajasthan houses some of the breathtaking places and palaces. So chalk out your plan, pack your bags, and do not forget to pack some sunscreen!
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