Rajasthan Treasures

Described by Rudyard Kipling as 'Land of Camels andPushkar, Ranthambore National Park, Bundi, and
Snakecharmers', Rajasthan has a vast cultural andKumbhalgarh Fort. Deshnoke Temple, dedicated to
historical repertoire. Royal patronage to arts andGoddess Karni Mata, has been a media sensation for
crafts in the days of kings and queens made sureyears now because rats are considered sacred here
that Rajasthan has a rich and unique lifestyle today.and are practically provided with a safe haven.
Colors, intricate designs and jubilance are embeddedTourists often find it appalling that 'prasad' here is
in every aspect of life in Rajasthan - be it food,first fed to rats and then distributed to other
clothes, houses and mansions, or entertainment.devotees.
Situated to the east of Aravalli Hills, a part ofLavish interiors and warm hospitality of the heritage
Rajasthan falls under Thar desert area but it hashotels of Rajasthan have their roots in the erstwhile
greener cities too where peacocks welcomeroyal traditions of the land. Most of the heritage
monsoons with their graceful dances.hotels were once forts, palaces, outhouses,
Famous as the Land of Rajputs, warrior clan knownguesthouses or hunting lodges of the rulers of the
for its chivalry, Rajasthan retains medieval charm toland and to this date, guests receive royal treatment
this day and its massive forts have been mutehere. However, they are fitted with all the modern
witnesses to several exceptional tales of romance,conveniences to keep guests comfortable. Frescoes
loyalty and heroism in the past. Haunting strains ofand wall paintings of the mansions of Shekhawati
desert music give an ethereal mood to gorgeousregion are much talked about too. The vibrant colors
sunsets at Sam Sand Dunes of Jaisalmer and theand varying themes of these frescoes are so popular
acrobatic and graceful performances by folkthat many Westerners especially request to include
performers lure tourists to distant villages.them in their itineraries during their Rajasthan tour.
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is one of the biggestRajasthan is a paradise for wildlife lovers, bird
forts of India while Chittorgarh Fort has fascinatingwatchers, and photography enthusiasts. You may
legends that are strange in their own way. Beautifulspot as many as 100 species of birds at Kaladeo
Rani Padmini who committed 'Jauhar' (self-immolation)Ghana Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur in a single day.
or Panna Dhai who sacrificed her own son to saveSariska Tiger Reserve and Ranthambor National Park
the prince from the hands of the usurper haveare famous for their collection of Royal Bengal Tigers.
become immortal and still live in touching narrations,The Ranthambor Fort is an excellent match to the
folk songs and plays of the region.rugged and forbidding surroundings of the huge
Freshly pounded red chillies and spices form anwildlife sanctuary known for an exotic collection of
important part of Rajasthani cuisine and brass andother animals too. Rajasthan is for those who dare,
copper utensils are still in favor in rural Rahasthan.for those who dream of lavish interiors and
Rajasthan Tours invariably include Jaipur, the capitalsophisticated lifestyle, for those who love unique
of Rajasthan; the three desert cities of Jaisalmer,cultures and for those who are artistic in nature. In
Jodhpur, and Bikaner; and the romantic city offact, Rajasthan charms everyone with its versatile
Udaipur also known as the 'City of Lakes'. Some ofwonders.
the other major tourist attractions of Rajasthan are