Mount Abu Winter Festival concluded with fanfare

People from across the globe visited the renowned Mount Abu Winter Festival which concluded today at the resplendent hill station. The festival embodied the true cultural and traditional spirit of Rajasthan with mesmerizing dance performances, local sports, processions, activities and much more.

The earlier two days of the festival witnessed numerous attractions, performances, competitions and activities as well. These included – Dog Show, Turban Tying Competition, Mehendi Competition, Best of Rajasthan and Live Musical Performances. Much to the delight of the visitors there were also several competitions between the locals and tourists like – Matka Race and Matka Fod as well as Tug of War. Yet another feature of the festival was a grand procession, which started from the Bus Stop and ended at Nakki Lake.

The concluding day of the festival began with ‘Cycling’ in the morning. This was followed by Mr & Miss Aravali competition in the afternoon and a Heritage Walk in the evening. The evening also witnessed vibrant and colorful cultural performances by Nagar Palika at the  Polo Ground followed by a beautiful display of fireworks in the night at the same venue.

Top places in Rajasthan for New Year’s Vacations

With Christmas and New Year vacations around the corner, the airfares are bound to rise. But this year, after the shutdown of Jet Airways, airfares to international destinations like London, Europe, and the US have surged by over 100% as compared to the last year.

Because the international airfares have surged, you don’t have to be dismayed and cancel your holidays abroad. This year don’t go far, rather opt for domestic and short-haul destinations in India itself!

We’ve found a 15-20% jump in advance bookings for destinations like Jaipur and Udaipur from the year-earlier as an increase in winter schedule capacity has resulted in a decline in some domestic fares.

With this in mind, it’s time that you look closer to home and start exploring your own country’s hidden treasures.

There’s so much to see right here in Rajasthan, A Dilli-wala or wali can just explore something new in their neighborhood in Jaipur or the connoisseurs of princely experiences in Mumbai and Bangalore can head a lil extra couple of hours for exotic destinations near Jodhpur, Bikaner or Udaipur.

We’ve listed a few handpicked experiences for you! Pick your destination and enjoy best of experiences locally 😉

 

Ranakpur

Tucked away in a remote valley in the Aravali range, Ranakpur is situated around 60 km north of Udaipur in Pali district. Ranakpur in the state of Rajasthan is one of the five most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. It is home to an exceptionally beautiful temple complex and a must-visit for the tourists coming to this region. The place is well connected through a road network to other places in the region. A winter holiday admiring the marvelous marble architecture surrounded by the abundance of nature is no less than a holiday abroad.

 

Narlai

Narlai is a small village surrounded by the oldest Aravalli range in Pali district, Rajasthan. It lies in between Udaipur and Jodhpur. Narlai is a perfect holiday destination to enjoy and experience a Rajasthani village life with the best equestrian Marwari horses.

A comfortable 2 hrs ride from jodhpur—‘Rawla Narlai’ makes for a most charming destination to stop & inhale the magic of rural Rajasthan while you get spoilt with their white-gloved hospitality and its splendid folk tales. This 17th-century village gives a perception of the rural Rajasthan and the visit to this small hamlet would surely leave you spellbound.

Rawla Narlai, which was once a favorite hunting lodge to the royal family of Jodhpur has been meticulously and tastefully restored and converted to the finest heritage boutique hotel. An abundance of wildlife made this area a popular haunt for a favorite royal indulgence, ‘shikar’ (hunting) & the ‘Rawla’ provided the perfect abode to set up camp during their sojourns.

 

Go for a countryside safari, or have tea by the lake, climb up to elephant hill or go for a leopard sighting Narlai has plenty of experiences to indulge. Experiencing Mystical stepwell dinner is something no place can even match to.

How to reach: www.rawlanarlai.com

Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh is a Mewar fortress near Udaipur. The magnanimous fort has seven fortified gateways and there are over 360 temples within the fort which is an experience in itself. From the palace top, it is possible to look tens of kilometers into the Aravali Range. Kumbalgarh is situated 82 km from Udaipur towards its northwest and is easily accessible by road.  Beautiful scenery, lush greenery and the frequency of tourists and travelers have also made it one of the most preferred locations for the vacationers.

Alsisar

In the storybook town of Shekhawati dwells Alsisar, which is an exceptional hamlet of rustic life with an array of colors it garners deep inside the heart of its desert. A pastoral calmness hangs in the air of Alsisar as soon you enter the boundaries of this village of ancient and medieval Havelis. There lies the battle-hardened palace of Alsisar.

 

Alsisar Mahal is a spectacular retreat featuring splendid views over the village boasting beautifully appointed suites, a darbar hall converted into a modern fine dining establishment, and enchanting lawns and pool. The expansive serene courtyards and gardens lend a distinctive character to transport guests into the romance and grandeur of its dignified era.

 

From the most playful to the incredibly sophisticated, Alsisar Mahal abides an array of different ambiances and hosts marvelous New Year’s Eve dinner party that will leave you with memories of an unforgettable time in the palace.

How to reach: www.alsisarmahal.com

Ranthambhore

For those who are passionate lovers of wildlife, India does not dishearten them at all. Ranthambore National Park is a must-see place. This gift of nature having a long history is famous for the tigers It is the place where some unique activities can be enjoyed by travelers since more tigers in comparison to any other sanctuary or park of India can be seen. This excellent tiger reserve is spread over around 400 square kilometers, and it is located in the middle of hill ranges of Aravali and Vindhya.

Nahargarh Hotel is a retreat here, which is just a few yards away from Ranthambhore National Park. Stretched across acres of land, and encompassed by lush wilderness, Nahargarh dressed in ivory white fortification and set amidst thousands of trees offers a tranquil experience of royalty and wilderness. The exuberant palace hotel is revered amongst the guests for being one of the most indulgent properties in Rajasthan; where adventurous safaris and tiger tour moments bring excitement to mornings, while evenings are more engaging with cultural performances.

You can experience a fascinating holiday in Nahargarh featuring fine amenities, anticipatory service and mesmeric views of wildlife.
How to reach: www.nahargarh.com

 

Mount Abu

Nakki Lake

Situated amidst lush green, forested hills on the highest peak in the Aravali range, Mount Abu is the hill station for the Indian state of Rajasthan. Its cool and soothing climate makes it an ideal retreat for vacationers. Explore a number of Jain temples, including the Dilwara Temples, a complex carved of white marble, or visit the nearby Achalgarh fort, which houses many beautiful temples of its own.

 

The Winter Festival takes place each year in Mount Abu during the last week of December. It celebrates the happiness and cheerfulness among the people of this picturesque hill station. Tourists are welcomed here during the festival with great enthusiasm and they celebrate the festival with great joy and happiness.

Pushkar

Pushkar has a magnetic appeal with 400 temples that are blue-white and a number of mesmerizing ghats. The town resounds with chanting of hymns, along with drums and gongs. Pushkar is a happy tourist attraction for the mix of eager tourists flocking from the world over.

There is a dash of westernization due to foreign tourists but the town retains a mystique. The Nag Pahar is a small hill that separates Pushkar from Ajmer a mere 11 km apart, which is another attraction you mustn’t miss. And, when it comes to hot air ballooning ride in Rajasthan, one should make their way to Pushkar.

Bhainsrorgarh

Who doesn’t love the view of lush green forests and rivers? 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 winter, a visit to the Badoli Temple, capturing the beauty of the river and enjoy the moments of relaxation while dining on a cliff is holiday bliss.

Bonus 

 

 

When it comes to the adventure holiday, you just can’t let go of the number of options that can be experienced here in Rajasthan. To feel the thrills and chills, paragliding over Jodhpur and Jaisalmer can prove to be completely out of heaven. Feeling of butterflies in the stomach when taking a flight atop some grand forts is simply hard to define in some limited words is priceless. There is something about Rajasthan’s beautiful landscapes, and palaces dotted on them; they create a royal aura, and if seen from high above the fray, their beauty doubles up and would rekindle the tourists’ love for air travel. Besides, Udaipur, Ghanerao, Kumbhalgarh, and Udaipur are some of the best places to go trekking in Rajasthan.

Wait no more and plan a trip in your very own country’s Royal Rajasthan, and make it an insta-worthy getaway of the year with your loved ones. There will be ample moments to capture on your trip to these destinations of Rajasthan.

 

Jaipur City Palace opens for Royal Stays.

When we talk about luxury hotels in India, the opulence of heritage properties in Rajasthan cannot be overlooked. Carrying an illustrious history of royalty, these magnificent palaces now serve as the epitomes of fine living. Now, Rajasthan’s capital city Jaipur has another new palace added to its list of heritage properties available for Royal stays, and that is the fathoming City Palace, Jaipur. The pink city is already on the map for foreign travelers, and this addition will undoubtedly garner more attention to the royal legacy of Jaipur.

A stay at the City Palace will provide an inspiring journey into the rich history, cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Jaipur’s royal family. The room comes with an indoor swimming pool. Guests will be feted by a private butler who will arrange curated city experiences including shopping tours, guided walks through local museums and other excursions. Authentic Rajasthani meals may be enjoyed at the terrace overlooking the Aravalis, and peaceful daily breakfasts can be had in the company of peacocks who are often a sight at the Palace’s lush gardens.

Your experience with City Palace starts as soon as you walk out of the airport where a chauffeur-driven car will be waiting to transport you to your exquisite chambers. Booking the Gudliya Suite will let you have access to a lounge, kitchen, bathroom, and an indoor swimming pool. The suite is located in a private section of the palace. Starting from November 23, the airbnb suite can be booked for an inaugural price of INR 71455 per night, but the original tariff, which is INR 572280 per night, will begin from January 1, 2020. Once you arrive, a private butler is assigned to you to take care of all your special needs to provide sightseeing recommendations, make travel arrangements for excursions, organize restaurant bookings, etc. A member of the royal staff will also be assigned to escort you on a private shopping tour of Pink City’s highly lauded retail treasures.

Guests will also be treated to two curated gourmet experiences: breakfast and dinner, at City Palace’s in-house restaurant, Baradari. The cafe was renovated for adaptive re-use a couple of years ago and its new avatar as a modern restaurant has been quite a success. You can expect tailored menus featuring hearty Rajasthani dishes like laal maas, top-shelf wine, and champagne, as well as an interaction with the chef during these meals.

Finally, history and architecture buffs will be pleased to know that there’s a complimentary guided tour of the 1700s complex conducted by a member of the royal staff who will explain the intricacies of the architecture, art, and décor at the palace. If you’re still curious, ask questions about Jaipur’s legendary, historic sagas of war and love and you’ll hear some incredible folk tales.

It is applaudable to know that the proceeds of each booking will go to the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting rural women and people of Rajasthan.

 

 

Pushkar Fair to begin from 4th November 2019

There’s nothing like Pushkar Camel Fair. It’s a celebration of the uniqueness of Rajasthan and experiencing the festival is the dream of every traveler. This is the time when Pushkar comes truly alive with multiple hues. The small sleepy town comes out of its hibernation mode and becomes the playground of people from the world over.

The history of Pushkar Fair is a hundred years old but the festival keeps not only that historic spirit alive but also has new age elements to it now. This year the much-awaited fair will begin on 4th November and will culminate on 12th November on the day of Hindu festival Kartik Purnima.

Apart from the buying and selling of livestock, the fair has become an important tourist attraction. Competitions such as the ‘matka phod’, ‘longest moustache’ and ‘bridal competition’ are the main draws for this fair, which attracts thousands of tourists. In recent years, the fair has also included an exhibition cricket match between the local Pushkar Club and a team of foreign tourists. Pushkar Camel Fair has so many events and activities that your day will be full but we advise you to take out a little time to stroll in the narrow lanes of the town. Also, don’t forget to try local foods and do indulge in retail therapy. Spend some time at the famous Brahma Temple and watch the evening Aarti at Pushkar Lake too.

For your convenience, here’s a tentative impression of the flow of events at Pushkar Camel fair 2019.

4th to 9th November – Cattle Trading
Cattle trading is at its peak during these days along with a variety of cattle contests.

10th to 11th November –  Cultural Galore
These two days will see some cultural activities like dance shows, music performances sponsored by the Rajasthan State Government.

12th November – Holy Dips
This is the Holy Day when people take dips in the Pushkar Lake, and other religious ceremonies take place.

Best places for your next getaway, just 6 hrs drive from Rajasthan’s capital

Did you know the Fanciest places perfect for your next getaway are just 6 hr drive away? Yes, we are talking about – the blue city of Jodhpur.

Jodhpur is a beautiful city still rooted in tradition. The city with exotic blue houses reveres the erstwhile royal family of Jodhpur even today. The vibrancy and hustle-bustle of the city have its charm. That’s the reason the city is frequently visited by national and international travellers.

So, this weekend relax and rejuvenate and explore Jodhpur like never before.

Jaipur-Jodhpur Highway 

Well, it’s not just about the destination even the road journey from Jaipur-Jodhpur is so exciting, an ultimate drive for travel lovers. The entire run offers spectacular views. You’ll be mesmerized by the changing landscape before your eyes at every turn.

On the way to Jodhpur

So, when the trip is so beautiful, take time to stay only at the best places that we have discreetly chosen for you-

Ajit Bhawan– India’s First Heritage Hotel– where breathtaking decor, extensive facilities and utmost comfort would fit in so perfectly with your idea of a dream vacation that you may hate to leave even when the vacations are over. So holiday like a maharaja at India’s first heritage hotel: the palatial Ajit Bhawan.

Before being reimagined as India’s first heritage hotel, this iconic building was once home to the former Maharaja’s younger brother, Major General Maharaj Dhiraj Sir Ajit Singh Ji. The Resort exudes royalty from its every nook and corner.

Rooms have been given an old rustic outlook with modern amenities. A guest can feel the essence of the regal era. If the walls at the Ajit Bhawan could talk, they’d have plenty of stories to tell about the aristocrats that used to call this historic property home. Combining heritage with class, this elegant property offers you all the luxuries of a royal holiday within easy reach of all of the city’s attractions.

And you never know, if you get a chance to meet the renowned fashion designer Raghvendra Rathore or his elder brother Maharaj Suryaveer Singh ji. Don’t be surprised the place belongs to them only.

Address- Ajit Bhawan, Near Circuit House, National Highway 65,

 Ajit Colony Jodhpur City, Rajasthan, India

Website-http://www.ajitbhawan.com/

On The Rocks- Probably first standalone restaurants in Jodhpur, that introduced the concept of fine dining. On The Rocks is not just a restaurant or a bar, rather it’s a place that provides a variety of ambiences to suit different tastes.

There are five completely different setups here and we will take you through each of them. Dine at a wonderful open-air restaurant or choose a superbly designed indoor eatery. On The Rocks is ready to leave you mesmerized with its amazing ambience, delicious food from Indian, Pan Asian to Continental Dishes & service with a local touch. You must experience this little world to holiday in style! You will love the Tandoori and Mughlai food offered here. The exclusivity of On The Rocks makes it a must-visit place when you are in Jodhpur.

Address

OnTheRocks

 Near Circuit House, Ajit Colony

Website-www.ontherocksjodhpur.com

Khaas Bagh- A Gem in jodhpur’s crown. ‘Khaas Bagh’ is a connoisseur’s paradise in every sense of the word.

One can experience the scenic wonders, seated and feasting in the Vintage Car. ‘Khaas Bagh’, this translated means ‘exceptional garden’, stands true to its name. Built-in the early 1900s in an Indo-Islamic-Colonial architectural style, the stunning main building is complemented by a stable-full of classic motorcars, boutiques, restaurants and a well-stocked bar.

Be it for lunch, dinner or even a ‘sundowner’, do drop by & indulge in an unforgettable experience of royal grandeur that celebrates the finer things in life, because here, ‘the piece de resistance’ is the experience itself!!

Website-https://www.khaasbagh.com/

Wait it’s not over yet..

Pal Haveli- If you are keen into history, you must witness the grandeur of the only living haveli among the 700 Havelis of Jodhpur- Pal Haveli

With a view of the famous Clock Tower

The Haveli rooms are exquisitely enriched with treasured, antiquated furniture. You’ll experience the most indulgent moments where luxury is met with warm hospitality.

One of the best experience is dining at its rooftop Indique restaurant. With a captivating view of the majestic Mehrangarh in the backdrop, and 360-degree view of other tourist attractions like Umaid Bhawan, Jaswant Thada, Clock Tower and Gulab Sagar from the terrace, Indique, is an open museum to witness the architectural wonders from such close corners. The imposing open-air restaurant offers a truly romantic setting for a private candlelit dinner. A spectacular view of the skylights renders a sumptuous gastronomical experience under the moon.

Indique Restaurant- Pal Haveli, Jodhpur

Address

Pal Haveli, Gulab Sagar,
Near Clock Tower,
Jodhpur

Website- http://palhaveli.com/

Pal Garh Resort– Just 20 min away in the of outskirts of Jodhpur, find this beautiful destination untouched-Pal Garh. The place garners pleasure and peace of mind for the travellers. With a laid-back yet beautifully spirited surrounding Pal Garh is a splendid retreat.

Relax by the Open to Sky pool or in their beautiful done heritage rooms no doubt Pal Garh is a great escape.

Address

Pal Village, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Website-https://www.palgarh.com/

Well, let’s take a drive for 2 more hours and reach somewhere which is still unexplored

Rawla Narlai-A Heritage Resort- A comfortable 2 hrs ride from both—‘Rawla Narlai’ makes for a most charming destination to stop & inhale the magic of rural Rajasthan while you get spoilt with their white-gloved hospitality.

Rawla Narlai, which was once favourite hunting lodge to the royal family of Jodhpur has been meticulously and tastefully restored and converted to the finest heritage boutique hotel. An abundance of wildlife made this area a popular haunt for a favourite royal indulgence, ‘shikar’ (hunting) & the ‘Rawla’ provided the perfect abode to set up camp during their sojourns.

Step Well Dining at Narlai 

 

Go for a countryside safari, or have tea by the lake, climb up to elephant hill or go for a leopard sighting Narlai has plenty of experiences to indulge. Experiencing Mystical stepwell dinner is something no place can even match to.

Address

Village Narlai, Rajasthan, India

Website-http://www.rawlanarlai.com/

Wait no more and plan a trip and make it an insta-worthy getaway with your loved ones 🙂 There will be ample moments to capture on your trip to this part of Rajasthan.

 

Happy Weekend Trip!

Image Copyright- Respective Properties

Photography by PathfynderSolutions

Early Mornings For An Elephant Ride At Amber Fort

Located 11kms away from the hubbub city of Jaipur on the Aravalli hilltop lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Hill Forts of Rajasthan – Amber Fort. As regal as can be, Jaipur’s magnificent Amber Fort rightly personifies the state’s rich culture.

But there is something enchanting and delighting when you are in Jaipur and to be more precise – at Amber Fort. Elephants – beautifully painted and richly ornamented are the most adored creatures in Rajasthan. These elephants are used in providing rides to the tourists to make there journey pleasant and amusing. These rides tend to transform you into a regal era of Maharajas when they used to commute with pride on these adorned elephant backs.

With the increased influx of tourists in Jaipur, the timings of elephant ride at Amer Fort will now be open a little early, between 7.00 am to 11.30 am in the mornings.

So now you can take an elephant ride up the cobbled path on the fort and truly feel like you deserve all the royal treatment that is being bestowed upon you.

Udaipur: Among the Top 15 Cities of World

Venice of the East and the City of Lakes- Udaipur is a lakeside paradise of shimmering marbles and oozing romance. A peaceful city on the banks of Lake Pichola wins hearts of millions. Udaipur is said to be one of the best cities in India. Well, turns out that it is not just best of India, but stands among the best cities around the world. It has been ranked third best out of the listed 15 best cities of the world by Travel + Leisure magazine based on sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value. Udaipur excelled leaving behind Mumbai and Delhi and is the only Indian city in the list.

Image via Google

Known for its breathtaking scenery, class apart museums and luxurious hotels, Udaipur holds pride in its history. With the explosions of colors in the markets, Udaipur is a city full of cultural and traditional marvels. With its numerous lakes and unusually calm and peaceful aura in India, Udaipur has become World’s Third Best City making India proud.

Jaipur To Sri Ganganagar: Let’s Fly!

Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas known for its incredible destinations is a state with huge landmass. Thanks to the excellent connectivity among the cities of this magnificent sate that it does not trouble us much.

Rajasthan is that state which is not just connected by the roads; it is a state with one of the greatest intra-state air connectivity. Yes, the state of Rajasthan has connected its cities by the means of air transport better than most.

Boasting of its unparalleled intra-state air connectivity, a most recent development was done in the capital city- Jaipur.  A new aerial route between Jaipur and Sri Ganganagar has been established and is now functional. On 10^th of July, CM Vasundhara  Raje herself flagged off the first flight on the route from Sanganer airport of Jaipur. Two flights every day from both the cities will take off, 7am and 4pm from Sr Ganganagar and 9am and 6pm from Jaipur giving a boost to the tourism industry in the state.

But it does not end here. CM Vasundhara Raje plans on bringing in more cities in the air connectivity plan in near future. Seems like being the best is still not enough for Rajasthan!

Jodhpur’s Sardar Government Museum Got a Facelift

The beautiful blue hues, the grand palaces and lavish hotels, Jodhpur is in itself a paradise. Imagine waking up to the rays to sun falling on you at a place from where the sun seems to rise. Known as the Sun City, Jodhpur is the gateway to the Thar Desert. Not just the palaces and hotels, Jodhpur is also quite famous for numerous museums it holds.

Well, the blue city is calling out the museum fans! Culture, history, animals or books, the Sardar Government Museum in Jodhpur is the way to go. Standing tall amidst the Umaid Bagh, built by Maharaja Umaid Singh and named after his father Maharaja Sardar Singh, the place is simply just lit!

With thousands and thousands of finest of objects at display, Sardar Government Museum is a treasure beyond comparison. The museums takes you on a journey to introduce you to the rich culture, the undying history and tales valour of the people of Jodhpur by the means of artefacts, coins and paintings miniatures, terracotta and so on.  Sardar Government Museum also houses a grand collection of arms among many other objects.

The museum is one of the rare ones to have a library and a zoo. Sadly because of negligence, the museum lost its charm. But with great efforts done lately, it went through a phase of restoration and conservation and is now open again for the public after the inauguration ceremony held earlier this month. We are glad that the museum is now back at being the diamond that it was meant to be.

If you are a keen historian or someone whom the cultural history of places interests, or simply a traveller, we highly recommend you to visit the gem on the lands of the blue city for an experience like never before.

 

Images via Google.

The War Museum, Jaisalmer Becomes First Of It’s Kind To Have Light & Sound Show

To commemorate the heroic battle fought and recount the chilling moments of valour and bravery of the gallant soldiers of the Indian armed forces, the Indian Army set up India’s first historical war museum in Jaisalmer in the year 2015.

Recently, this war museum became country’s first to have light and sound show. The show brought alive the history of wars fought by the Indian Army since Independence. The legendary Battle of Longewala is the highlight of the show. It is showcased in detail with audio-visual effects of laser animations of actual bunkers, tanks, guns, aircraft and soldiers.

This unique War Museum is a tribute to all gallant soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice to defend the motherland, is surely a ‘must visit destination’ for all Indian and foreign tourists coming to Jaisalmer.