Immerse In the Jollification of Gangaur

Gangaur the word is derived from Gan which denotes Isarji (Lord Shiva) and Gauri (Godess Parvati) who symbolizes Saubhagya that is marital bliss. Gangaur is celebrated all over Rajasthan and is state’s one of the most important festivals, predominantly celebrated by women of all ages.  The married women of the house pray for their husbands’ long life and the unmarried young girls look up to getting a good handsome husband like Lord Shiva.

Though the actual celebrations begin from the very next day after Holi and goes on for 18 days. The eve of Gangaur is celebrated as Sinjara.  So, if you are in Rajasthan, here are a few places where you can visit and be a part of the carousal.

1. Jaipur

The magnificence of the procession starts from the Zanani Deodi in the City Palace, which passes through Tripolia Bazaar, Choti Chaupar, Gangauri Bazaar, Chaugan Stadium, finally closing at Talkatora. The procession consists of bejeweled idols of Lord Shiva and Parvati, decorated elephants, camels, palanquins, chariots, and folk performances. It becomes a sight to behold.

2. Shahpura Haveli

The grand Gangaur procession starts from Shahpura Haveli passing through the streets of Shahpura village with royal pomp and pageantry. The procession includes horses, brass band, lancers along with the deities. Witness the charm of various activities and ceremonies of the festival and celebrate with the royal family of Shahpura. If you are interested in the event, go to the link .

3. Udaipur

The Gangaur celebration in Udaipur coincides with the Mewar Festival (20-22^nd March 2018), which is celebrated to welcome spring. The whole of Udaipur gets soaked in the colors of these festivities. Women carry along with them their Isar- Gangaur in the procession. The procession reaches the Gangaur Ghat and the idols are taken into the royal decorated boats and further immersed in the waters of Pichola Lake.

Image via Google

4. Alsisar Mahal, Jhunjhunu

Alsisar witnesses the pomp of Gangaur celebration at an extravagant scale. The whole village comes down to Alsisar Mahal to worship the communion of Shiva and Parvati (Gauri) and enjoy every moment. The procession is followed by folk music and dance which simply multiplies the joy of the festival.

This year Gangaur is being celebrated on 20^th of March 2018. So if you are pinning up options for globetrotting then this is the festival that should not be missed!

Rajasthan’s most awaited Magnetic Fields Festival began from today

Magnetic Fields Festival – A magical musical carnival where the festivities never end kicked off today at the heritage hotel of Alsisar today. The three days festival is by far is proved to be a sensory explosion of stimulation with great music, wonderful people and extraordinary performers in this freezing temperature of Alsisar!!

Set in the pristine heritage village of Alsisar in Rajasthan, Alsisar Mahal is a battle hardened palace that has  been renovated and refurbished into a luxurious hotel. Earlier Alsisar Mahal was the residence of the Thakur of Alsisar.

Alsisar Mahal is the most recent addition to Alsisar Group of Hotels which has now become an ideal base to explore not only the old historic capital of Jhunjhunu but also the whole painted region of Shekhawati. This majestic palace, spread over a lush 10 acre plot, is situated in village Alsisar which is 23 kms from district headquarters ‘JhunJhunu’ in Rajasthan. The regal magnificence of the Alsisar Mahal’s architecture and the splendor of its beautifully decorated interiors are just mesmerizing; antique furniture, intricately carved poster beds and medieval delicate Rajasthani motifs on fabric recreates a flavor of luxury living for our guests.

The expansive paved courtyards with quaint lawns and time aged trees lend it a distinctive character to enchant you in its spell, transporting you to the romance and grand style of the royal era.

Top 10 Weekend Getaways From Jaipur

1. ALSISAR

The entire Shekhawati region has mesmerized millions of tourists and has been aptly dubbed as the ‘Open Art Gallery’ of Rajasthan. The region, which is approximately 200 kms from Jaipur is replete with palaces, minor castles, wells and also a deer sanctuary. As the region is said to be a mini desert, we advice to you travel on a horse or a camel to enjoy the semi desert feel and watch for the well preserved wall painted havelis.

2. BHANGARH

How about hiking on a blissful and adventurous break at Bhangarh and discovers the secrets of the Haunted Ruins of Rajasthan along with heritage sceneries?
Flanked among three Aravali Mountains, 52 km. away from Jaipur, Bhangarh is situated in Alwar district of Rajasthan and is known to be India’s most haunted place.
The remains of Bhangarh Fort are informative enough to take you on a mesmerizing journey, of the reminiscence from the past. Entry to the place is closed after sunset due to paranormal activities reported inside. It’s just not the place, but the route also gives whimsical experience.

3. BUNDI

With a majority of blue houses, Bundi, loacted 219.7 km away from Jaipur via NH 12, is surrounded by the Aravali Hills. Lazy and narrow lanes, Lakes, around 60 step wells (Baories), temples and mosque dominate the town. Not many knew this fact that Jodhpur- the blue city and Bundi have a strong affinity to the color blue. Get to the top of Bundi Fort to get a glimpse of the beautiful Blue City. A picturesque Nawal Sagar man made lake in the heart of the town, add more beauty to the place, especially during sunset when it soaks the reflection of the two-storied fortified complex ‘Garh Palace’. Garh Palace is host to ‘Chitrashala’ where the walls and ceilings are embellished with miniature paintings. Bundi miniature paintings depicted on the walls are still in its original form.

4. DEEG PALACE, BHARATPUR

Relatively less explored in Eastern Rajasthan, Deeg Water Palace is an awe-inspiring visual masterpiece, 192 km from Jaipur in Rajasthan.
Built in 1772, Deeg palace was a luxurious summer resort for the rulers of Bharatpur State. It is open 9 am to 5 pm except on Fridays.
Stay the night at Bharatpur, just 32 km away from here !

5. JODHPUR

Rambling between the mighty Mehrangarh fort and Umaid Bhawan, the sun kissed city of Jodhpur is situated 337 km away from Jaipur. Founded by Rao Jodha in 1459, Jodhpur is dotted with soaring forts and palaces shimmering in sandstone while the narrow lanes lead to an alluring world of antiques and handicrafts. The blue of houses renders an alluring “Blue City” especially to be seen at sunrise and sunset. The other places to visit include Sheesh Mahal, and Osiyan Temple that are some of the most imposing architectural works of ancient times and the Osiyan sand dunes will take you away from all the hustle bustle. Jodhpur Sweets, Gatta, Chakke ki sabzi and Mirchibada are not be missed !

6. MOUNT ABU

Mount Abu is the only hill station in the dry arid lands of Rajasthan, which can be reached through a 7 hour drive from the capital city of Jaipur. This hill station provides a great tourist destination owing to its picturesque land. Some of the main attractions of the city are Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temple, Mt. Abu Wildlife Sanctuary. Capture a perfect sunset from the Sunset Point in Mt. Abu J

7. NAWALGARH

Situated 115 km from Jaipur, Nawalgarh is better known as the ‘Open Air Art Gallery’. It is a small town where the vibrant streets depict the true blend of architecture smoothly fusing the Hindu, Mughal, Persian and British facets together. As you walk down this “Open Air Art Gallery” you will be amazed to see how the painted havelis and frescoes have captured the culture,customs and royal lifestyle of the Shekhawatis. The Roop Niwas Kothi , Murarka Haveli, Bhagton Ki Choti Haveli are some architectural gems which illustrate an impeccable mélange of Rajput and European architecture.

8. PUSHKAR

Situated 14 km (8.7 mi) northwest of Ajmer, Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India and is also one of the five pilgrimage sites for the Hindu. The town has hundreds of temples, including 14th-century Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma- creator of the world. People from all over the world visit Pushkar especially for Pushkar Fair, the largest cattle fair of the country. Set on Pushkar Lake, Pushkar is a sacred Hindu site with 52 ghats (stone staircases) where pilgrims bathe. You can also drive to the Dargah in Ajmer !

9. RANTHAMBORE

Once a hunting preserve of the Maharajas of Jaipur and now a Project Tiger Reserve, Ranthambore National Park or Ranthambhore is one of the largest national parks in northern India, covering an area of 392 km². It is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, about 160 km southeast of Jaipur. Ranthambore gives a unique flavor of nature, history and wildlife and houses a large number of Bengal tigers that can be easily observed hunting and taking care of their young ones during the jungle safari.

The destination pulls the attention of myriad wildlife lovers and photographers every year. The legendary Machli or T-16, is probably the oldest and world’s most photographed Tigress alive who also has a postal stamp on her.

10. SHAHPURA

65 kms. Away from Jaipur city, Shahpura, offers a life that is unhurried, a beautiful town of friendly people un-spoilt by the creepy fingers by modernity. The real charm lies in visiting its quaint village and experiencing a feel of authentic rural Rajasthan with all its charming eccentricity. Exquisite and discreet, the 300 years old impressive Shahpura Haveli is a tribute to the glorious past.

 

 

The Musical Extravaganza Starts Tomorrow

Are you all set to dance under the sparkling bed of stars at the Magnetic Field Festival 2015?

Magnetic Fields Festival is a magical 3 day music carnival set within one of the world’s most beautiful venue of 17^th Century, Alsisar Mahal which was earlier the residence of the Thakur of Alsisar.

Magnetic Fields is not only music from dawn to dusk, it’s so much more than this with kite flying, disco in the middle of the desert, yoga and camping. Great artists of India and International are ready to make your trip unforgettable with grandeur, awesome food and crazy moments under the backdrop of the royal setting.

So, pack your bags and let yourself lose in the Bedouin dens of Magnetic Fields 2015. For more details visit : http://www.alsisar.com/ and http://magneticfields.in/ or drop in @Alsisar Mahal, Alsisar,Jhunjunu, Rajasthan. Contact us – Tel.no. 01595-245 271, 01595-245 272, Fax No.01595-275260(INDIA)

 

 

10 best Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan

Rajasthan, a major tourism center of the country has many offerings in its kitty for the visiting tourists. People of Rajasthan are globally known for their hospitality spirit. This spirit is reflected in a local phrase as ‘Padharo Mhare Des’ which means ‘Welcome to my land’ The enthusiasm and courtesy with which they welcome   the tourist compel the visitors to frequent the state.

 

Every heritage hotel in Rajasthan has a distinctive history. The furniture, furnishings, even the photographs and paintings on the walls reminds you about the gracious days of Rajasthan. For a supreme and fascinating experience, visit to the finest Heritage Hotels of Rajasthan is must.

Ajit Bhawan

Ajit Bhawan- India’s First Heritage Hotel is for those who fancy Rajasthan as a perfect base to taste supreme luxuries of the gorgeous era. Rooms at Ajit Bhawan are exquisitely furnished, with luxurious bed, royal furnishing, rendering some soothing moments to the guests.  Take an exhilarating drive through the enchanting city of Jodhpur in a classic vintage car accompanied by your royal butler.

Ajit Bhawan

Image- https://www.facebook.com/ajitbhawanjodhpur

 

Ram Bagh Palace:

From the home of the queen’s, to royal guesthouse and hunting lodge, and subsequently as the residence of the Maharaja, Ram Bagh Palace has stepped graciously through many royal shifts. In 1972, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces took the charge to carry on the royal tradition of the luxurious Rambagh Palace. For an unforgettable palace experience in posh luxury Ram Bagh Palace situated in the Pink City of Jaipur will leave really good memories in to your mind to cherish beyond time.

Image- http://www.tajhotels.com/

Samode Palace:

This 475 year old palace is a celebration of luxury and royalty. The tough exterior with delicate interior is certainly a rare combination.  The sensitively restored Samode Palace is one of the finest gems in the bejewelled crown of Rajasthan’s royal abodes. A marvelous, fascinating destination for dreams, romance and love.

Samode Palace

Image- www.samode.com/samodepalace

Taj Lake Palace:

Nestled in Pichola Lake in the city of Udaipur, Taj Lake Palace seems as white flower blooming from the water. With the Aravalli Mountains and city palaces as a backdrop one gets an impending sense of fascination. The property has been a perfect location for many Hollywood and Bollywood movies. This marvelous complex with a unique experience offers stunning views and intricate décor envelop guests in royal mystique.

Image: http://www.tajhotels.com/luxury

 

Alsisar Mahal:

Situated in Alsisar Shekhawati, and host to an annual music Event, Magnetic Fields Festival, Alsisar Mahal the sixteenth palace is dubbed as open art gallery for the magnum opus of centuries old arts and creativity.  The regal magnificence of the Alsisar Mahal’s architecture and the splendor of its beautifully decorated interiors are just mesmerizing that allows guests to sit back and relax in an ambience which was once exclusively confined to the royal families of Rajasthan.

Image- http://www.alsisarmahal.com/

 

6. Laxmi Vilas Heritage Hotel:

Bharatpur bears relics to the rich architectural splendor and cultural heritage of the ancient times. Blessed with natural scenic beauty, it draws several visitors for the captivating sight of magnificent palaces and nature’s marvels. One such marvel is – Laxmi Vilas Heritage Hotel where royalty has been preserved to the core till date.

All rooms are gracefully furnished mixed with the elements of historical romance. Tourists can discover the unremitting world of charm as the traditions of hospitality have still been kept alive at the Laxmi Vilas Palace.

Laxmi Vilas

Image Source: http://www.laxmivilas.com/

Raj Niwas Palace:

Formerly, Royal abode, Raj Niwas Palace was built in 1876 to commemorate the arrival of King Albert Edwards of England to Dholpur. The magnanimous suits at Raj Niwas Palace are masterpieces of exquisite luxury featuring spellbinding combination of Dutch interior and European antiques, making your stay truly relaxed, comfortable and cherished. Antique royal furniture charmingly enhances the Rajasthani experience and recreates a flavor of luxury living to the guests.

 

Shahpura House

Opulent in every way, is a splendid royal retreat to experience a unique blend of the traditional Rajputana hospitality with modern comforts., Shahpura House with the royal luxuries preserved and nurtured for years,  brings you the most magnificent experience of the lavish heritage site in the middle of the town. Tourists visiting Jaipur must plan their stay at Shahpura House.

Shahpura House

 

Image- http://www.shahpura.com/

Devi Garh by Lebua:

This Heritage hotel is a princely resort which as a change in theme has recreated the interior with contemporary design and material while conserving the exterior in original glory.

 

Deogarh Mahal

Unlike most of the heritage properties, the management of Deogarh Mahal still remains with Royal family of Deogarh which reflects in the hospitality of the palace. The origional palace was converted into a Hotel by the Deogarh family members and the part of the family stills lives there. After spending a few nights at Deogarh Palace, one’s expectations of the next place on the itinerary are likely to become impossibly high.

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Shekhawati Tourism – The Romance of Rich Culture and Architecture

Shekhawati is one of the most popular travel destinations in Rajasthan. Every third foreign tourist visiting Rajasthan also travels to Shekhawati. Known for Historical Monuments, magnificently painted havelis and vivacious culture, the modern Shekhawati Tourism is benchmarked for the warm hospitality and Internationally Awarded Hotels & Resorts. Here  you’ll see a perfect amalgamation of ages old traditional culture, modern luxury and comforts. A fabulous stay in Shekhawati with heritage hotels is a unique experience which leaves you spell bounded as you explore it more & more. The major attractions like desert safari, Fresco trail, resplendent Havelis, Painted walls are a delight to take up a round tour in form of Itinerary.

On your vacation in this storybook town, you’d be absorbed in the most delighting activities which follows..

Painted Havelis – Shekhawati is popularly known as an open air art gallery and there are many fresco trails at the heart of the town accompanying many splendid havelis. Walking and camel cart tours are organized to enjoy the trail through these resplendent painted havelis.

Camel Cart Rides – You could enjoy the countryside sitting on top of the camel or from the cart. You can savor the mesmerizing view of the local Bawari (Water tank). Blue bulls and many species of birds are sighted on the way. Barbeque and bonfire are also organized in the countryside around the Bawari .

Shopping – Shekhawati is famed for Laak (lacquer) bangles and souvenirs, they are made at small shops in front of the guest in the colors and design preferred by the guests. Traditional silver ware and dancing puppets are also popular in the beautiful markets of Shekhawati .

Wherever you cast an eye, frescoes smile back. Explore the city with one of the many heritage hotels, which are maintained in the classical medieval theme with modern luxuries. Apart from the beautiful frescoes, you can also witness precious arms with jade handles and beautiful curios in the Havelis of Shekhawati.