Rajasthan, is a Kaleidoscope of magnificent palaces, havelis and forts, each projecting the grandeur and the golden past of an era which is as live as the present when you experience it. Most of the Heritage properties have been converted into Hotels or Museums which are well preserved. The cities of Rajasthan still maintain their medieval flavour, rich in arts and crafts. Beautiful gardens and lakes adorn the awe inspiring landscape. This land comes alive with the vibrant Rajasthanis attired in multi-hued costumes, folk dancing to traditional music. There is a lot to offer to every kind of a traveller-travel in style by the "Palace on Wheels", stay like a Maharaja at the Heritage Hotels, meet the Gujjars (Nomads) on a trek along the Aravalli Ranges, go on a desert safari on camels and elephants, spot tigers at the wild life sanctuaries or witness the largest Animal Fair at Pushkar.

Truly, a visit to this wonderful state will leave a lasting spell on your mind !

Jaipur - The Pink City & State capital of Rajasthan is four hours travel by train from Delhi. Rajasthan (state of India) is proud of its many heritage properties (Havelis/ Palaces) converted into Heritage Hotels. Rich Indian History, heritage and craftsmanship drapes this once sandy state and is the most popular holiday circuit. It could be combined with Agra (The Golden Triangle) or seen as a part of the complete Rajasthan Circuit. Other famous places are Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner & Ajmer where the Pushkar Cattle Festival is held every year.

The beautiful city of lakes, palaces and fountains, Udaipur is sited on three lakes - Pichola, Fateh Sagar and Udai Sagar. Magnificent palaces turned into hotels provide a stay that is unequalled anywhere in the world. The city Palace overlooking lake Pichola has been converted into a museum. Some French Impressionist painter called Udaipur the "Versailles" of the desert.

Amidst the burning sands of the Thar Desert, is Jodhpur, the city of forts. Dominating and straddling the rocky eminence is the Jodhpur Fort, its sheer vertical walls reflecting the strength of its warrior - builders. The formidable fort is entered through seven gates and encloses several palaces interspersed with vast courtyards. The walled city is studded with Lakes, Palaces and Temples.

Set in the lonely silence of the desert is Jaisalmer - an architectural dream. In the lean cobbled alleys of this citadel city lie a cluster of havelis (mansions) with stone carvings & lattice work of breath - taking intricacy. There are several Jain Temples in and around the city. The ideal time to visit Jaisalmer is January and February when the Annual Desert Festival takes place.

B I K A N E R - THE CAMEL COUNTRY

Bikaner, a true desert city in a camel country lies to the North of the state of Rajasthan. This city dotted with many sand dunes is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. Besides riding, the ship of the desert is used for pulling heavy carts transporting grains and working on wells. The wells of Bikaner, built on high plinths with slender minaret towers are another attraction.

Along the River Chambal in Southern Rajasthan lies Kota, providing an amazing contrast of the medieval age and modern industrialisation. Impressive forts, palaces and temples retain the past glory of this otherwise industrial heartland of Rajasthan. An old palace overlooks the Kota Barrage and the commanding Kota Fort provides a splendid view of the Chambal Valley Project with its many dams.

Bundi, a small but beautiful town with immense historic wealth, lies 36 kms from Kota. Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills on three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways. The picturesque lake in the heart of the town is surrounded by forts, palaces, havelis, temples and intricately carved stone idols and "Chhatris" (Cenotaphs).

Chittorgarh, the fortified settlement of Rajasthan, echoes with tales of valour and romance. The Royal Past is evident from its forts, palaces and "Chhatirs". The Vijay Stambh" or Tower of Victory, built to mark the victory of Rana Kumbha, is worth a visit. The palaces and temples of princess - poet Mira and Kalika Mata are the other attractions.

Bharatpur lies 55 kms by road from Agra on the Jaipur highway. It is connected to other major cities like New Delhi. It is visited mainly for the Keoladeo "Ghana National Park". Every year the rare Siberian Cranes come to spend the winter at this Bird Sanctuary. The fort at Bharatpur is different than other forts as it is void of carvings and ornamentation. A brief stopover at the sanctuary, enroute to Jaipur is generally on the itinerary.