India is a mecca for an array of exotic tourist destinations, but for a visitor desirous of seeking architectural beauty one needs just to visit Rajasthan once and see some of the spectacular forts, palaces, old mansions or just the marketplace to allow the heritage affluence of this beautiful desert state to sink in. Each and every major city, be it Jodhpur, Jaipur or Jaisalmer among others, have their own allure and a display of aristocratic opulence.
Rajasthan was once a state replete with Royal families and today this is visible in the many buildings which have still managed to retain the same charisma and allure as was the case in the days gone by. The real blend of the Indian and Mughal architecture can be seen these gems which are said to be the modern day wonders of Rajasthan. These are the prime reason Rajasthan Tour Packages are extremely popular for Indians as well as foreigners.
Jaipur – the Pink City
No visit to this capital city could be deemed complete without visiting the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal, the intriguing Observatory of Jantar Mantar or an excursion on elephant back to the lofty Amber Fort.
Chand Baori
This rather overlooked but spectacular 13 storey step well, Chand Baori still holds pure and emerald green water, some 30 m below the surface. Scores of staircases lead down to this square-shaped step well, which would have been the principal source of water to the city of Jaipur at one time.
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Only second in length to the Great Wall of China, the walls of this impressive fort extend for a distance of 36 km and lie on top of a hill overlooking the city of Jaipur. With a total of seven fortified entrances and walls averaging an incredible width of 4.5 meters in places, the structure epitomises a true symbol of safety and protection for all that chose to live within its walls.
Udaipur – the lake city
The stunning city sitting on the shores of Lake Pichola is said to be the most artistic in the whole of Rajasthan. Other attractions here include the Mehrangarh Fort, Clock Tower, Jag Mandir Palace and the Inside Bhawan Palace.
Jodhpur
Located on the fringes of the Thar desert, Jodhpur is home to the stunning citadel of Mehrangarh Fort which is visible large on the skyline of the city. The indigo tainted houses, which are clearly visible from the ramparts of this impressive fort have given Jodhpur the name of ‘The Blue City’
Jaisalmer- the desert city
Jaisalmer lies on the far west of the Thar desert, making it one of the remotest desert destinations. The landmark of the city is the yellow sandstone Jaisalmer fort, which towers over the city from the top of the ridge it is located on.
The walls of this medieval fort hold some of the oldest parts of the city, complete with narrow winding lanes lined up with fascinating stores selling handicrafts on either side. Apart from these marvels, Jaisalmer is home to a large number of havelis decorated in latticework dating back to the 12th century.
Pushkar – the city of temples
Pushkar lies on the banks of Lake Pushkar, said to be the holiest water body in India. An incredible over 500 temples adorn this city, each immaculately whitewashed, with the Brahma temple occupying the pride of place. The Pushkar lake has 52 ghats or places for pilgrims to bathe and make floral offerings during prayer. In fact, it is said that the town itself was formed when Lord Brahma scattered lotus petals on earth, which in turn formed into lakes and created Pushkar.