Ancient History
of Rajasthan:
Rajasthan, often referred to as the "Land of Kings," has a rich and vibrant history dating back to ancient times. The region was inhabited by various indigenous tribes and communities before the arrival of the Aryans. It witnessed the rise and fall of several ancient kingdoms, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Kushans. However, it was during the medieval period that Rajasthan truly flourished with the emergence of Rajput dynasties like the Chauhans, Rathores, and Sisodiyas. These kingdoms built magnificent forts, palaces, and temples, many of which still stand as a testament to Rajasthan's glorious past. The region also saw the influence of Mughal and British rulers, further enriching its cultural tapestry.
Rajasthan Tourist Places:
Famous Places
• Jaipur (Pink City): The capital city known for its iconic Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Amber Fort.
• Udaipur (City of Lakes): Famous for its picturesque Lake Pichola, City Palace, and Jag Mandir Palace.
• Jodhpur (Blue City): Renowned for the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, and Umaid Bhawan Palace.
• Jaisalmer (Golden City): Known for its stunning Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, and Sam Sand Dunes.
• Pushkar: A sacred city famous for the Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake, and the annual Pushkar Camel Fair.
Off-Beat Places
• Ranthambore National Park: A wildlife sanctuary known for its tiger population, offering jeep safaris and birdwatching opportunities.
• Bundi: A hidden gem with ancient step wells (baoris), palaces, and temples, including the iconic Taragarh Fort.
• Mount Abu: The only hill station in Rajasthan, known for the Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, and scenic viewpoints like Guru Shikhar.
Where to Go
• Jaipur: Visit Amber Fort, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar. Explore the colorful bazaars of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar.
• Udaipur: Explore City Palace, Jag Mandir, and Saheliyon ki Bari. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola and visit the nearby Eklingji Temple.
• Jodhpur: Explore Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, and the vibrant markets of Sardar Market and Clock Tower.
• Jaisalmer: Visit Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake. Experience a desert safari in the Thar Desert.
What to Eat
• Dal Baati Churma: A traditional Rajasthani dish consisting of baked wheat balls (baati) served with lentils (dal) and sweetened flour (churma).
• Laal Maas: A spicy mutton curry cooked with red chilies, garlic, and yogurt, a specialty of Rajasthan.
• Ghevar: A popular Rajasthani sweet made from flour, sugar syrup, and ghee, often enjoyed during festivals like Teej and Raksha Bandhan.
How to Reach
:
• By Air: Rajasthan has several airports, including in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur, with regular flights from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
• By Road: The state is well-connected by national highways, with frequent bus services from nearby states like Delhi, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
• By Train: Rajasthan has an extensive railway network, with major railway stations in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur, served by trains from all over India.
What to Pack
• Light Clothing during summer: Rajasthan can get very hot, especially in summers, so pack lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
• Warm Clothing during Winter: Rajasthan has extremes of temperature. Winters are very cold and biting. Pack enough warm clothes to keep yourself safe and warm.
• Sun Protection: Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or scarf to protect yourself from the harsh sun during summers.
• Comfortable Footwear: Pack comfortable walking shoes or sandals, especially if you plan to explore forts and palaces on foot.
Best Time to Visit
• Winter (October to March): The best time to visit Rajasthan, with pleasant weather and festivals like Diwali and Desert Festival celebrated during this time.
• Monsoon (July to September): Rajasthan receives minimal rainfall, but the landscapes turn lush green, and off-season discounts are available.
• Summer (April to June): Mount Abu – The highest place of Rajasthan. A quick gateaway trip to Mt Abu never disappoints. Rajasthan experiences extreme heat during summers and rest of the places are better to avoid.
8.
Dos and Don'ts
• Dos: Respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and haggle respectfully while shopping in markets.
• Don'ts: Avoid littering in historical sites, touching religious artifacts without permission, and disrespecting local customs and beliefs.
Exploring Rajasthan offers a journey through time, with its magnificent forts, palaces, and vibrant culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a glimpse of India's royal past.
