Let’s Celebrate the Heritage of Rajasthan On World Heritage Day

World Heritage Day is not just a day to cherish the beautiful monuments around us. The day which is celebrated every year on April 18 is meant to raise awareness to protect our history and culture. International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) is the one behind the idea of celebrating a day called International Day for Monuments and Sites. The day came to be known as World Heritage Day and is celebrated by countries that are members of UNESCO.

The theme for World Heritage Day 2018 is ‘Heritage for Generations’. It has been decided keeping in mind the fact that communication across the generations of heritage practitioners generates enriching exchanges by combining the knowledge with the energy and dynamism thus bringing a more holistic approach. Rajasthan is globally popular for its rich heritage of architecture and culture. Having some of the best forts, palaces and monuments in cities like Jaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Udaipur which are till date maintained in really good conditions are very precious to the lives of Rajasthani’s.

Today we want to remind everyone that our heritage needs to be protected. This is an important step towards maintaining the beauty of our state and keeping the spirit of Rajasthan alive forever.

1) Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

Recognized as the World Heritage Site, this observatory fascinates the visitors with the collection of various astronomical instruments which were used earlier to know the correct timings through the movement of celestial bodies.

2) Chittorgarh Fort, Chittor

One of the largest forts of India, it is the true epitome of Rajputana pride and vigour. This massive fort though being attacked thrice by the enemies, couldn’t take over the powerful people of this place. The fort of Chittorgarh is known for its own beauty and uniqueness.

3) City Palace, Udaipur

The grandness of this palace can be seen, as it took almost 400 years to construct this complex. The attractiveness of this palace is shown more effectively as it is surrounded by Lake Pichola. This magnificent palace stands as a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.

Picture courtesy: myudaipurcity.com

4) Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

One of the largest private residences in the world, it is the house of the erstwhile Jodhpur royal family. Not only being a private residence, it also provides the chance to experience the royal and luxurious life at the Taj Palace Hotel in Umaid Bhawan, Jodhpur.

 

 

5) Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace Of Winds is situated in the capital city of the state of Rajasthan. Its walls of pink colour give a hint of the Pink City – Jaipur. It was constructed especially for the royal women to be a part of the festivities, as they were secluded from the society by ‘parda’ system. Having its own history, today it gets a worldwide recognition.

6) Chand Baori, Abhaneri

A 13 storey step well is one of the oldest and most attractive landmarks of Rajasthan. Constructed mainly to conserve water in the dry arid desert of Rajasthan is an architectural wonder in itself.

7) Amer Fort

Amer or Amber Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is among the most visited places in Jaipur. The fort situated high on a hill overlooking the Maota Lake is spread over a vast area with four levels. Every evening, the fort hosts a spellbinding Light and Sound Show as a part to boost night tourism. With a blend of folk music, the show brings to life the legends, history, traditions and cultures of the Rajputs.

8) City Palace Jaipur

Located in the heart of the old city of Jaipur, City Palace was built in the 18th Century. The Palace is a blend of Rajput, Mughal and European styles of architecture. Within the premises, one will find many gardens, ravishing courtyards and a museum displaying many artefacts from the bygone era. Buildings like Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Maharani Palace add to the allure of the Palace. Their richly crafted walls and ceiling, marble flooring and the mirror work are just an addition to the beauty of the palace. Govind Dev Ji temple, which is in the palace premises, is also a major tourist attraction and sees a heavy footfall daily.

These are only a few to mention, but when you come to the land of royals, there will be many to add on to the list.

Chittorgarh Fort, the Witness to the Valor of Rajput Queen Padmavati

Chittor established in 728 AD by Bappa Rawal is one of the oldest cities of Rajasthan. The imposing Chittorgarh Fort here among the oldest in the state is not only grand to look at but also has equally grand stories attached to it. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chittorgarh fort might be in ruins now but that doesn’t diminish its importance.

The fort has total seven gates or Pol-  Padan Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol, Ganesh Pol, Jodla Pol, Laxman Pol and Ram Pol which is the main gate. A circular road in the fort links all the gates.

Vijay Stambh is called the symbol of Chittor and was built by Rana Kumbha to celebrate his victory over Mahmud Shah I Khilji. The 72 feet high Kirti Stambh built by a businessman, Jijaji Rathore is dedicated to the first Jain tirthankar Adinath.

There are 130 temples in the fort premises. The most popular ones are- Meerabai Temple, Kumbha Shyam Temple (Varaha Temple), Kalika Mata temple and Tulja Bhawani temple.

 

The three-storied Rani Padmini’s palace is surrounded by a water-body. Legend has it that Sultan of Delhi Alauddin Khilji saw the Padmavati’s image in the same water-body and got attracted to her.

The fort has another impressive palace known as Rana Kumbha Palace. This is the place where Rani Padmini, Rani Nagmati and other women of the fort did Jauhar. Jauhar was a Rajput tradition where women immolated themselves on burning fire when the defeat in a war was certain. It was done to not get caught by vicious attackers. The brave Rajput warriors fought to death but never surrendered. This reflects the courage and pride of Rajput clan.

Chittorgarh Fort was attacked thrice, once each by Alauddin Khilji, Bahadur Shah and Akbar. The story of the attack by, Alauddin Khilji is the most well-known. Poet Malik Mohammad Jayasi wrote a poem known as Padmavat which mentions the legend. According to the poem- Rani Padmini or Padmavati was the wife of Rawal Ratan Sen the ruler of Chittor. Padmavati was exceptionally beautiful and hearing about her beauty, Alauddin Khilji attacked Chittorgarh to get the queen. A battle ensued where Ratan Sen was killed and Rani Padmavati along with Rani Nagmati and other women committed Jauhar.

The authenticity of this story has not been established but that hasn’t made it any less popular. Jauhar was anyway a tradition. It shows that Rajput women were symbols of gallantry, honor and culture. The upcoming Hindi movie ‘Padmavati’ has got mired in controversies over various events depicted in it. The idea of taking creative liberties might not have gone down well with some people but the fact remains that a movie cannot lessen a fearless woman. Whatever is shown in a movie can’t take away from history and what Rajput women stand for.

If you are also enamored by the legends and want to witness the place where it all happened, head to Chittorgarh Fort.

Amer Fort ranks 12th among Asia’s top landmarks by TripAdvisor

We are proud to share that tourists’ favorite and Jaipurites’ pride – Amer Fort ranks 12th among Asia’s top landmarks in Traveller’s Choice Awards by the popular travel portal TripAdvisor:D  Also, on the India list, Amer makes it to the second spot after Taj Mahal 🙂
We’re Proud indeed!

It is undoubtedly the most beautiful fort and the pride of Jaipur!!  Amer Fort, also known as Amer  Palace boasts of an artistic grandeur and structural expertise. It is a reminiscent of the bravery and courage of the mighty Rajputs, who had played a remarkable role in the history of medieval India.

Amer Fort, Jaipur

Crowning the crest of a hill, Amer Fort offers a panoramic view of Maota Lake and the historic old town at the base of the hill, which was the early seat of the Amer kings before they made the fort their capital.

This rambling Palace depicts the true lifestyle of the gutsy Rajputs who are better known for their radical, audacious, volatile and decadent behavior. One among the best hill top palaces, Amer  palace presents a curious blend of Muslim and Hindu architectural design. An aide memoir of the yester years, this palace is a redolent of creativeness of the artisans of ancient time.

Light & Sound show at Amer Fort

 

In last couple of years, two major developments have taken place at Amer fort. A very old tunnel to connect Amer  Fort and adjoining Jaigarh Fort is now opened for public along with the electric cab facility for the tourists. Though, the magical epitome of grandeur Amer  Fort under the sun light during day is a mesmeric place for tourists in Jaipur, but now it also caters to the night tourists. The fort turns even more fascinating and enticing with the launch of night tourism. Besides, Elephant rides to fort, sound & light shows and cultural evenings have always been a favorite among the visitors.

Certainly, Amer  Fort, is one of the few places in India where the entry fee is worth it with never ending, consisting of a maze of rooms, tiny and grand!!  Spectacularly set within surrounding rugged hills and dotted with majestic architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Amer Fort is one of the best places to visit on your trip to Jaipur. Now TripAdvisor also agrees 😉

The top 20 places of Jaipur that will make your World Tourism Day interesting!

Jaipur is a place with a glorious past and a very rich historic background. People come from far off places just to get the taste of its beautiful monuments and their architecture. For anyone who wants to visit Jaipur or even know about it, here is a list of 20 places one must visit and why.

1. Albert Hall Museum
Situated in Ram Niwas Garden, Albert Hall Museum is home to many beautiful paintings, sculptures and other distinct objects of historic significance. Dated back to 1876, it’s the oldest museum in the state and is quite popular for its Indo-Saracenic architecture. With lush green lawns alongside, you can sit and enjoy the beauty of this gigantic museum from outside.

2. Amar Jawan Jyoti
Amar Jawan Jyoti was established as a tribute to the martyrs who fought and sacrificed their lives for the pride and honor of the nation. In the evenings, the place is lit with beautiful colored lights which makes the view all the more spectacular. Here one can view art, sculptures and audio visual movies dedicated to the defense force of the country. It is a perfect place for those who are keen to hear the gallant tales of the soldiers of our nation.

3. Amer Fort
Amer or Amber Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is among the most visited places in Jaipur. The fort situated high on a hill overlooking the Maota Lake, is spread over a vast area with four levels, each having a courtyard. Every evening, the fort hosts a spellbinding Light and Sound Show, scripted by the great poet and lyricist Gulzar and voiced by Bollywood superstar Mr Amitabh Bachchan. With a blend of folk music, the show brings to life the legends, history, traditions and cultures of the Rajputs and Jaipur City. The high walls of the fort, made of red sandstone and marble, create an awe-stricken backdrop for the light – effects. This is something to be witnessed by every Jaipurite at least once in their lifetime.

4. Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir, also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple, is a marvel made entirely of white marble. Situated on the elevated platform of the Moti Dunagri Hill, it looks splendid glowing in the night light. The major attraction is towards the idol of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi, which is carved out of one single piece of marble. With the pure and peaceful aura of the temple, surrounded by lush green lawns, it is the ideal hangout place for many Jaipurites as well as tourists to spend their evenings.

5. Chokhi Dhani
For an ultimate Rajasthani experience, Chokhi Dhani, located approx 23 km from Jaipur on Tonk Road, is a place you can’t afford to miss. With the artificial village environment, soak in the spirits of Rajasthani culture and traditions. The lip smacking, traditional Rajasthani food adds to the charismatic appeal of Chokhi Dhani. Once you visit the place, the paintings, the wall art, the camel rides, the dance performances, the enthusiasm, the traditions, the Rajasthani attire and the smiling faces are all bound to mesmerize you and make you feel ecstatic.

6. Chulgiri
Situated in the lap of the Aravali Ranges, is a beautiful Jain temple, Chulgiri. It’s famous for its 60 ft tall dome, which shelters the enormous 21 ft tall sculpture of Mahaveer Swami. The way to the temple is an adventure in itself. Hiking and trekking on the Aravali Hills is altogether a different experience and many tourists visit Chulgiri just for this. The Ghaat Ki Ghooni tunnel which eventually leads to the temple, is a major tourist attraction. During monsoon, surrounded by the greenery, the place looks all the more beautiful and attractive. With many scenic views, it’s a perfect place for a peaceful picnic.

7. City Palace
Located in the heart of the old city of Jaipur, City Palace is where the Kachwaha Rajput clan ruled from. Built in the 18th Century, the Palace is a blend of Rajput, Mughal and European styles of architecture. Within the premises, one will find many gardens, ravishing courtyards and a Museum displaying many artefacts from the bygone era. Buildings like Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Maharani Palace add to the allure of the Palace. Their richly crafted walls and ceiling, marble flooring and the mirror work are just an addition to the beauty of the palace. Govind Dev Ji temple, which is in the palace premises, is also a major tourist attraction and sees a heavy footfall daily.

8. Galtaji
An ancient pilgrimage site, Galtaji, surrounded by the Aravali Hills has a series of temples built in a narrow crevice. From the hills flows a natural spring, that fills the seven sacred kunds, which the pilgrims consider as holy and come in thousands to bathe here. Galta ji is also famous for the hundred of monkeys that live here in the Galwar Bagh or also known as the monkey temple. It is considered very auspicious to visit the temple and to bathe in the kund on Makar Sankranti.

9. Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal or Wind Palace, built in the shape of Lord Krishna’s crown, is the world’s tallest building without a foundation. With 953 Jharokhs, it was built for the Royal Ladies to witness the day to day activities happening on the streets without actually being seen. It was a great retreat in the summers as the winds would blow inside and cool the entire palace. No tourists can ever resist admiring the beauty of this Wind Palace.

10. Jaigarh
Jaigarh, situated on the Cheel ka Teela of the Aravali Ranges, over looks the Amber Fort and the Maota Lake. Also known as the Victory Fort, it is very similar to the Fort of Amber in terms of structure and architecture. The fort has a cannon named Jaivana which was once the world’s largest cannon on wheels. It is convenient to visit Jaigarh and Amber Fort on the same trip as they are considered as one complex.

11. Jal Mahal
Situated in the heart  of the Maan Sagar Lake, is the fine masterpiece of both Rajput and Mughal architecture, Jal Mahal. A five storied building, Jal Mahal has 4 floors underwater and only one floor above it. While it is not open for tourists to visit it from inside, one can marvel at the beauty of this Water Palace from outside, enjoy the picturesque view and have a treat at the nearby Chowpatis.

12. Jawahar Cirlce
Jawahar Circle, located near the Jaipur International Airport is considered as the largest circular park in Asia. The park has many musical fountains, swings jogging track and a chowpaati place to gorge on tasty food. Having a calm and soothing atmosphere, many people come here to spend some quality time.

13. Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has many stone, brass and masonry instruments which were made based on astrology and ancient Hindu Sanskrit texts. The place has the World’s largest stone sundial which has created a major buzz among the tourists.

14. Kanak Vrindavan
Located at the foot of Nahargarh Hills, is a beautiful garden surrounded by lush green lawns and trees and fountains. It has many exquisite ‘Chhatris’ that depict the architecture of the bygone era. The Kanak Vrindavan valley, often being used as a backdrop for my Bollywood movies and a perfect picnic spot, offers a breathtaking view of the Jaipur City and the alluring nearby places.

15. Nahargarh
At the edge of one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, Aravali Hills, stands a magnificent fort named Nahargarh. It’s the favourite hangout place of many Jaipurites because of the height on which the Fort is situated and the breathtaking view of the city that it offers. Trekking to the top of the hill, where the fort stands, is an experience like never before.

16. Panna Meena ki Baori
Panna Meena ki Baori, located near the Amber Fort, is an architectural marvel of the 16th Century. This step well was constructed as a community gathering place for the locals. During the monsoons, the place looks very attractive and soothing. The beauty of the place lies in the unique concept of symmetrical staircases. Legends say that a person can’t use the same staircase to go up and down and many tourist visit this place to check it out themselves.

17. Raj Mandir
Constructed in the Art Moderne Style of architecture, Raj Mandir was considered as the finest architecture building in the history of the cinema halls. The beautiful chandeliers, the carpeted floors, crafted walls and everything about the place makes it a royal experience for the visitors. Titled as the ‘Pride of Asia’, this cinema hall is very popular among the tourists as well as the locals.

18. Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh
Located near Ghat Ki Ghooni, Sisodia Garden was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh as a token of love for his second queen, Queen Sisodia of Udaipur. The garden is adorned with beautiful flower beds, musical fountains, water channels and murals displaying the eternal love story of Radha-Krishna. The place serves as a very famous tourist and picnic spot.

Image via Google

19. Sargasuli
Constructed as a symbol of victory of Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh over Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh, the tower is also called ‘Victory Tower’. The specialty of this sky-high building is that, from its roof one can get a 360 degree panoramic view of the entire Pink City. Located in the heart of the city, this tower is a very popular tourist destination in Jaipur.

20. Vidhadhar ka Bagh
A pristine garden, Vidhadhar ka Bagh was built in the memory of the architect of the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, Vidhadhar Bhattacharya. Located near the Sisodia Garden, the place is a display of scenic beauty surrounded by beautiful fountains, lush green flower beds, royal pavilions and murals of Lord Krishna. It’s a very famous tourist attraction and an ideal place for a peaceful getaway.

Image via Google

Enjoy the architectural beauties of Pink City and connect with the glorious history of each monument as this is the best time of the year to visit the city of Jaipur.

Written by our intern: Avni Mehta

Explore nightlife of Jaipur with “Jaipur by Nite” on September 16 & 17

Great news has arrived for all those who would love to experience night life in Rajasthan. An event called Jaipur by Night is being conducted to promote night tourism in Jaipur. This is going to take place on 16^th and 17^th September.

Band performing in musical night at “Jaipur By Nite” held in 2014

The event will begin with various performances. In fact, 16^th will be dedicated to the cultural performances at the majestic Jaigarh Fort. The entry will begin from 5.30 pm onward where Rajasthani troupe will be performing at Chowk 1 & 2 on the beats of vibrant music while others will be showcasing the various other forms of art such as puppet dance, caricature artist, magic show, handicraft show, live painting at night etc.

Glimpse of musical night at “Jaipur By Nite” held in 2014

A musical concert will also follow at Char Bagh in which the pioneer of Indian pop music, Euphoria will make you tap your feet to the beat of their music. Rajasthan Roots, which is a world’s famous band of folk musicians from Rajasthan, will make you groove under the sheet of stars in the moonlit skies. Then, the event will come to an end with dinner.

Musical night at “Jaipur By Nite” held in 2014

The next day, Jaipur will experience its first after sunset marathon at night at Clarks Amer. The marathon has been divided into two tracks;

10k with timing chip for age group of 14 years and above

5k without timing chip and for all age group.

There will be other attractions running along like roadside bands, music and nukkad show on the theme etc.

Jaigarh Fort

The charges for the event are as mentioned below-

Cultural night at Jaigarh Fort – Rs 2500

10k Marathon – Rs 1000

5k Marathon – Rs 500

For more details, please visit http://www.jaipurbynite.com/

Jaipur to organise fourth edition of “Jaipur by Nite”

To add a spark to the night life of Jaipurites and its tourists, Pink City is holding the 4^th edition of “Jaipur by Nite”. With the carnival beginning on 16 and 17^th September, it will mark the beginning of first-of-its-kind night marathon this year.

With Diya Kumari its Brand Ambassador, the event promises to bring forth the rich heritage and culture of the state.

The first day of the event, i.e. 16^th September will have various musical performances by bands such as Euphoria which will be performing at Jaigarh Fort. With a blend Rajasthani music, Rajasthan Roots will be enchanting its audience with Rajasthani folk fusion. Other than these will be various other Rajasthani Troupe performances like Kachhi Ghodi, Shekhawati Chang Dhap, Bhope Bhopi and Dhol wale along with some fun events such as puppet show, magic show, parrot card reader and live paintings at night.

The next day will be dedicated to Marathon which will begin from Hotel Clarks Amer which will be divided into two categories of 10 km (for 14 years and above with timing chip) and 5 km (no age limit without timing chip).

This event will provide a chance to all the visitors across India to participate and get accustomed to the heritage and culture of Pink City at night.

Take a look at some of the pictures from previous Jaipur by Nite events.

Jaipur’s Nahargarh Fort to have Hot Air Balloon Safari from September 1

With the rise in tourism in Rajasthan, there have been various innovative things adopted by the officials. And in Jaipur’s Nahargarh Fort, IRCTC is going to provide a facility of Hot Air Balloon safari which will be at a height of 3500 ft so that the travellers can enjoy the panoramic view of the city from top. This facility is going to start from September 1, 2016. The keen travellers will be able to travel in it for 45-60 minutes.

Children from 5-12 years will be charged Rs 7,500 whereas others will be charged Rs 12,000 per person which includes picking and dropping off at their respective hotels.

For more information and registration for the same, visit www.irctctourism.com

Image via Google

Where to Stay, Eat, Visit and Shop in Jaipur This Long Weekend

Pink City, Jaipur is among the most loved cities of India. The city has always been a favorite of domestic and international tourists due to its cultural heritage. You get the regal experience in every corner of the city. Now that a long weekend is just around the corner, many people are planning to soak in the aura of this city. If you are also planning a trip to Jaipur this weekend or some other time, here is a quick guide to help you plan-

 

Stay Here

A beautiful place with courteous staff is everyone’s choice of stay. Jaipur has many good hotels where you can stay alone, with family or with friends. You can stay in the heart of city at Devraj Niwas and Zone By The Park for good service at reasonable prices.

For the taste of Rajasthani heritage, Rawla Narlai Resort and Alsisar Haveli are totally suitable. Jaipur also has many international hotels like Radisson Blue, Marriott and Hilton which provide global experience in traditional Pink City.

 

Eat Here

All the hotels mentioned above have their in-house restaurants where you get a wide variety of national and international cuisines. The Forresta Kitchen and Bar at Devraj Niwas and Bazaar restaurant at Zone By The Park are loved by locals too.

Bazaar Restaurant

If you want to taste food that reminds of the legacy of Rajasthan, head to Handi Restaurant and Niros Restaurant. Handi is especially known for its Laal Maas, Handi Meat and Mughlai delicacies.

Jaipur also has many cafes where you can enjoy yummy food in a quirky setup. We like Skylights Café, Nibs Café and Mamu’s Infusion. The best Pyaaz Kachori of the city is available at the popular Rawat Mishthan Bhandar.

The city also has a thriving night life. Bar Palladio, Blackout Lounge and F Bar and Lounge are the favorites among the hip crowd of the city.

 

Visit Here

The historical sites are the main attractions of the Pink City. The 3 forts- Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort and Nahargarh Fort should not be missed. A palace in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, Jal Mahal offers a beautiful view and is the favorite spot of even locals.

The grandeur of City Palace and pink façade of Hawa Mahal mesmerize visitors. If astronomy fascinates you, you have to visit Jantar Mantar which is a world Heritage site. Albert Hall is the state museum of Rajasthan which has many treasures that you will surely admire.

Albert Hall

 

One more place that you cannot miss visiting is Raj Mandir Cinema Hall. The movie theatre is built in royal style and you have to see it even if you don’t have time to watch a complete movie. The theatre has huge chandeliers and soft carpets that add to the royal experience.

 

Shopping

Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are a shopper’s paradise. Everything Rajasthani is available here. Leheriya and bandhej prints, jewellery, Jutis and artifacts, you can buy everything in these markets.

World Trade Park

If you want to shop, eat and hangout in a modern setup the World Trade Park is a must visit.

Jaipur is a magnificent city that will charm you with its amazing beauty!

 

7 Haunted Places of Rajasthan for Daring Souls

Rajasthan always inspires people’s curiosity due to its vibrant culture. The state is even more mysterious when we talk about spooky incidents. There are many places in the state that are believed to be haunted. It is totally up to you whether you believe the legends or not but if you have an adventurous streak, you might want to visit these places-

 

1.Bhangarh Fort

Bhangarh Fort near Alwar  is the spookiest place not just in Rajasthan but in India. The story is that a wizard fell in love with the Queen Ratnawati of Bhangarh but she snubbed him. The wizard died afterwards but he cursed the fort. The curse was that no one will be able to live at the fort. The fort ruined in a battle soon and has lied inhabited since.

People have claimed to hear voices of women crying for help and that of a wizard shouting.

 

2.Kuldhara Village

This village has been lying deserted for more than 200 years. As per the story, its residents left the village overnight to save a girl of the village from an immoral minister. They cursed the village near Jaisalmer before leaving it. Some people have tried to ascertain the presence of ghosts here and have recorded voices of villagers talking. People also saw scratches on their vehicles and came across footprints of children.

 

3.Nahargarh Fort

This majestic fort in Jaipur is said to be haunted by the spirit of Sawai Raja Maan Singh who built it along with Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort. One of the spooky stories associated with the fort is that once an organization took up the work of restoring this fort. Soon the owner of the organization was found dead under mysterious conditions in his house.

 

4.Jagatpura

This is a thriving locality in Jaipur but its lanes are said to be haunted. The tale is that the king of this area was very wicked and many villagers died while cursing him. Their spirits are believed to be roaming around the streets of the area and many people claim to have come across them

 

5.NH 79

This is the highway between Ajmer and Udaipur. A part of this National Highway near Dudu Village is said to be haunted by a lady carrying a baby in her arms. It is said that the baby was an infant when her marriage was mixed with a 3 year old kid. Her mother ran off with the little girl and was hit by some vehicle on the road. People claim to have seen the ghost of the woman on that particular stretch of the road.

 

6.Brijraj Bhavan

Brijraj Bhavan is a heritage hotel in Kota and is said to be haunted by the spirit of an English soldier, Major Burton. During one of the mutinies against British Rule, the Major was killed with his family in this very building. Many people say that they have seen the ghost but it is said to be harmless.

 

7.Rana Kumbha Palace

This is the place where Rani Padmawati jumped in fire along with 700 other females. They performed Jauhar when Alauddin Khilji attacked Chittorgarh. The cries of women have been heard by people at the palace.

Do you dare to explore any of these places now?

Image source- Google (3 to 7)

 

14 Monsoon Destinations Of Rajasthan You Must Visit

No other province awaits rains like the desert state of Rajasthan. The first shower of monsoon is like a breath of relief and a full stop to the constant endurance of blazing heat. After a long scorching summer, a monsoon vacation is a must and to make it even more relaxing and refreshing, exploring the beauty of Rajasthan should be on the top of your bucket list. And to know why, take a look at some of the amazing and some hidden destinations of this state which become way more attractive with every shower.

1. Udaipur

Known as the Venice of East, the rains can bring the romance alive in this city of lakes. The view of clouds, the smell of rain, the greenery and royalty of Taj Lake Palace, City Palace, Sajjangarh Fort aka Monsoon Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir and their surroundings will make you fall in love all over again.

2. Bhainsrorgarh

Who doesn’t love the view of lush green forests and river in monsoon? The heritage boutique hotel of Bhainsrorgarh situated on a cliff on the banks of Chambal River will give you the time of your life. Sightseeing during rains, visit to the Badoli Temple, capturing the beauty of the river and enjoy the moments of relaxation while dining on a cliff is monsoon bliss 😉

Image Credit: www.bhainsrorgarh.com

3. Mount Abu

Visiting a hill station during monsoon can be your first best decision and choosing Mount Abu for the same would be your second best. It is a lethal combination of rains, amazing weather for trek, mountains, waterfalls, flora and fauna, and getting breath taking views from Dilwara Jain Temple and Nakki Lake.

4. Keoladeo

Monsoon is the best time of the year to come and enjoy the natural beauty of Keoladeo National Park aka Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary since more than 350 avian species are available for bird watching. The Bharatpur Forest Lodge can be your stop to sit, feel the rain and enjoy the melodious chirping all around.

5. Narlai

Midway between Jodhpur and Udaipur, Narlai can be your next destination. Old havelis, jeep safari for spotting deer, panthers, chital, leopards, and trekking are some of the major attractions for this time of the year.

6. Bundi

Special for receiving greatest amount of rainfall, Bundi is also famous for the Hadoti Palace, the step wells, Nawal Sagar Lake, and beautifully carved havelis; this less explored travel destination has its own story to tell via the rains.

7. Kumbhalgarh

The rains and cool breeze would be welcoming and soothing for you to visit Kumbhalgarh fort or go out in the wild on a jeep safari in Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary. This is the right weather for you to watch the real beauty of the flora and fauna that comes out with the rain.

8. Mahansar

If you are into mythology, Mahansar is the right destination for you where the sone-chandi ki dukan portray gold leaf paintings of Ramayan and life of Krishna, and to enjoy the best of it you need to take a break from burning summers and visit the place during monsoon. The greenery accompanied with cool temperature will leave you amazed.

Image Credit: www.imagesofrajasthan.com

9. Pushkar

The lakes, the wildlife, the scenic beauty and desert camping are only a few of the major attractions in Pushkar. The city comes to life during monsoons as completely different shades of Pushkar are visible in the midst of monsoon showers.

10. Kuchaman

One of the hidden destinations of Rajasthan, Kuchaman has a lot in store for you especially during monsoons. The cool and refreshing weather is perfect to visit and praise the beauty of Kuchaman Fort, the cliffs, Sheesh Mahal, Meera Mahal, and Jal Mahal.

Image Credit: www.flickr.com

11. Mandawa

Another unexplored place of Rajasthan is Mandawa. The rains are a perfect time to enjoy the old havelis, paintings and open air art gallery in the Mandawa Palace.

12. Ranakpur

Known for its spectacular marble Jain temple and few other temples like the sun temple, Ranakpur is ideal when admired in monsoon season. The fall in temperature makes it easier to wander and enjoy the incredible architecture.

13. Jaipur

Last yet not the least – capital city, the Pink City. Witness the Teej festival which marks the advent of monsoon along with the awe inspiring sites of Jal Mahal, Albert Hall museum, step wells, Hawa Mahal and the temples in Jaipur especially during the rains because it’s the best time of the year to enjoy the marvelous beauty of the city.

And you cannot skip the delicious cuisine of Rajasthan while going around the state and enjoying the major attractions, can you?