Postcards from: Colourful Rajasthan

Bright colours, magnificent forts and delicious food are integral part of Rajasthan. It is the north-western state of India, biggest in terms of area. Rajasthan is known for its friendly people and warm hospitality. Every year, thousands of tourist flock to this part of country especially during winters, to witness Great Indian Thar desert, various festivals, fairs and cultural heritage.

I am trying a humble attempt in this article to showcase the culture, panorama & colours of various cities in lively Rajasthan.

Jodhpur – The Blue city

It is a city in western Rajasthan famous for its spicy delicacies and magnificent architectural landmarks. Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace and Jaswant Thada are must visit if you are here. Jodhpur is also called as ‘Blue city’, because of an ancient part of the city where all houses are painted with blue colour. Jodhpur bears scorching sunshine during summers and blue colour act as natural reflector of heat keeping houses naturally cool.

Jaipur – The Pink city

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and the biggest city in the state. It boasts many tourist attractions like Amer Fort, Jaigarh fort [World’s biggest canon is here], Jantar Mantar [UNESCO World Heritage site], Hawa Mahal [Palace of Wind], City Palace to name a few. Enjoy traditional Rajasthani food and village culture at a private resort called ‘Chokhi Dhani’ about an hour drive out of Jaipur city.

Pushkar – The Holy City

A sleepy town near Ajmer city in central Rajasthan, which comes alive during the month of October and November every year when the biggest cattle fair on planet, marks its beginning. Thousands of devotees arrive here to take dip in holy Pushkar Lake and so are the merchants with their cattle for trading.

Udaipur – The White City

It is a famous heritage city in southern Rajasthan and called as ‘City of lakes’. The most touristic is Lake Pichola which boasts of Lake Palace; a luxurious hotel and ‘Jag Mandir’ Island. There are ample excursion options available as well to Chittorgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh fort, Ranakpur Jain temples & Nathdwara temple. A must visit city, if you are in India.

Ranthambhore – Call of the Wild

It is a wild life sanctuary near town of Swai Madhopur, famous for its tiger’s density. Jungle of Ranthambhore provides an ideal habitat for big cats in their natural environment. Numerous luxurious private and state government resorts are here and they can arrange for safari bookings as well. Famous Ranthambhore fort which is a UNESCO World Heritage site as well, situated inside the national park.

India is land of diversity and Rajasthan is a snapshot of it. ‘Padharo Mhare Des’, a Rajasthani phrase means ‘You are welcome to our country’ demonstrate the hospitality of Indian people for everyone. Come, explore, indulge & take back in your memories the various colours from this country.