Rajasthan’s first Citizen- Airline Partnership flights to begin from today| Jaisalmer

Recently, airlines have discontinued flight connectivity to Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer being a tourist destination of Rajasthan has 60% of its economy dependent on tourism. The block in the air connectivity would further affect the tourism footfall in Jaisalmer, drastically . In post-Covid-19 times, the citizens of Jaisalmer and the tourism fraternity have come together to face this challenge. An NGO of Jaisalmer’s working towards the transformation of Jaisalmer into a resilient, self-sustaining community, hosted a series of conversations with the State and Central Government, District Administration and the Airline company to sign an MoU that will ensure flight connectivity to Jaisalmer.

This first of its kind Citizen-Airline Partnership will ease tourism and bring self-reliance to the city by strengthening its socio-economic ecosystem. The city of Jaisalmer and local administration have also started massive cleanliness drives to welcome tourists in a much cleaner heritage city.

SpiceJet reopens flight bookings for routes Delhi-Jaisalmer-Delhi (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) and Ahmedabad-Jaisalmer-Ahmedabad (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) starting 12 February 2021.

Soak in the magic of Music, Heritage, and Culture at Jodhpur RIFF 2018

Timed to coincide with “Sharad Purnima” the brightest full moon of the year, this year being 24th -28th October in north India, Jodhpur RIFF features a series of mesmerizing concerts and spectacular events based in and around Mehrangarh Fort.
Mehrangarh Fort is voted “Asia’s Best Fortress” by Time Magazine.

 

India’s most magical destination festival, JodhpurRIFF combines the incredible setting of Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur with an eclectic lineup of Indian and international artists in a 5-day musical extravaganza.  The festival is a not-for-profit partnership project involving two of India’s leading heritage trusts: Mehrangarh Museum Trust and Jaipur Virasat Foundation.

Jodhpur RIFF’s festivities will be kicked off by a two and a half hour variety program of traditional Rajasthani music, also featuring excerpts from our main stage performances and ending in a rousing finale with drummers and dancers. So, if you’re planning a trip to Jodhpur and will be there between 24-28 October, you are in for quite the treat.

 

Download the entire day wise (24th to 28th October 2018) programme schedule from https://www.jodhpurriff.org/

Note: All Images via jodhpurriff.org

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.

A Trip To The Museums Of Rajasthan On International Museum Day

For a state that is rich in its culture, traditions, history and heritage, museums have been the only source to safeguard and preserve the artefacts of the bygone era and further, thus leading to become an important part of our society.

International Museum Day which is celebrated every year on May 18 is the occasion to raise awareness on how important museums are in the development of society. Keeping in mind how these museums have been an important part of cultural exchange, cooperations and mutual understanding among people and the countries for a positive development, the theme of International Museum Day this year is “Hyperconnected museums: New approaches, new publics”.

On International Museum Day let’s take a trip to the famous museums of Rajasthan that form an intrinsic part of the tourist attractions.

1. Albert Hall Museum, Jaipur

Established in the year 1876 to welcome Prince of Wales, this is the oldest museum in the state of Rajasthan. It is full of rare and tastefully decorated collection of various displayed objects, arms and carpets. The main attractions include the Persian carpets, coins, jewellery and costumes from different period of history and an Egyptian mummy.

2. City Palace Museum, Jaipur

Also known as Sawai Man Singh Museum, it houses the largest and finest collection of arms in India. The sword of Maharaja Man Singh which weighs about 5 kgs is one of the attractive exhibits.

3. City Palace Museum, Udaipur

The main part of the City Palace complex is open to the tourists as the City Palace Museum. It rooms historical paintings of which several are of the battle of Haldighati. Except this, the museum also rooms a remarkable collection of miniatures. It has a unique depiction of the architectural and artistic evolution of Mewar through centuries.

Image via Google

4. Mehrangarh Museum Trust

The Mehrangarh Museum showcases the heritage of the Marwar. The museum houses an exquisite collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, armaments and costumes.

5. Chitrashala, Bundi

Bundi is famous for its wall paintings and tourists from all around the world visit to see this intricate piece of art. The Garh Palace is host to ‘Chitrashala’ where the walls and ceilings are embellished with miniature paintings and are still in its original form.

These are some of the main museums which caught our attention. Though every city in the royal state of Rajasthan has its own addition to history, culture and tradition and has preserved it in their respective cities.

 

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.

EXCITING FEBRUARY EVENTS IN RAJASTHAN TO LOOK FORWARD TO

Rajasthan has, over the past few years, gained the prominence of being one of the most international and local festival-friendly regions in India. Apart from the fact that it makes for a fascinating festival venue, the amazing weather and very welcoming government make it a favorite among festival organizers and goers, which has made laws easier for the exciting events with outstanding line up of artists to flourish. Not to miss the cultural ethos of the Rajasthani people, who are just extremely hospitable lot. The most colourful state of India will host numerous festivals in the upcoming months, ranging from world music festivals to sufi musical nights and literary events. Have a look and save your dates for these 3 festivals that the state will host in the month of February. 

Udaipur World Music Festival

The Lake City, during the Udaipur World Music Festival, witnesses the incredible performances of world-class musicians from the world. The second edition of this festival is all set to electrify Udaipur from 9^th February to 11^th February, and create new landmarks in the field of music. This exciting event will witness the Morning and Evening sessions of concerts on all three days of the February month.

Dates: 9th -11th February, 2018

Venue: Udaipur City
Schedule: http://www.udaipurworldmusicfestival.com/uwmf2018/schedule.html

 

World Sacred Spirit Festival, Jodhpur

The World Sacred Spirit Festival in Rajasthan brings together amazing artists from across India and around the world in a stunning royal setting.The prestigious site of the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur opens its doors to an extraordinary sacred and historical musical journey. Magnificent, inherited and spiritual arts will carry you to the very origin of a tradition linked to those pilgrims of the past, travelers of the spirit, who brought to civilization a sense of inspiration and meaning. This years festival MMT is dedicating to Martand Singh Ji who passed away last year.  The 2018 edition of the festival will commence at the breathtaking Nagaur Fort from 12th-15th February before moving to the massive Mehrangarh Fort from 15th to 18th February.

Dates: 12th -15th Feb at Nagaur Fort
15th – 18th Feb at Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur

Details: http://worldsacredspiritfestival.org/

Sambhar Mahotsav

Sambhar is a famous place for excursions which is a small city in Jaipur district of Rajasthan State in India. The place is also known as Sambhar Lake Town and also Salt Lake City. Sambhar is located along with Sambhar Lake which is the largest saline lake in India. Experience Sambhar at its colorful and exotic best during the Sambhar Mahotsav from 23rd to 25th February 2018. This annually organized festival offers an opportunity For visitors to attend folk dance and music concepts, to watch artisans at work, to Shop directly from NGO’s craftspeople and village co-operatives. The cool spring and soothing rays of night will welcome about 5,000 tourists in the Great Sambhar for the two-day long 1st Sambhar Mahotsav.

Dates: 23rd night to 25th Afternoon

Venue: Sambhar Lake shores

Details: https://www.facebook.com/SambharMahotsav/

Images via festival official pages

 

 

Welcome the New Year 2018 in Rajasthan

A fusion of modernity and tradition, the vibrant colours of Rajasthan are truly captivating.  This New Year’s eve enjoy a quick getaway and celebrate it amidst the royalty of palaces and serenity of nature in Rajasthan. Mesmerizing destinations in Rajasthan give you a marvelous insight of historic sites, wildlife and pilgrimages. Unwind and pamper your soul as we list out the best destinations to mark the new year in Rajasthan with sheer bliss.

The Blushing Pink City – Jaipur

 

The capital city of Rajasthan is not just the epicenter, but the pink city is the party pulse of the state. A home to the most luxurious hotels and clubs in the state, jaipur is a combination of heritage, luxury nightlife and shopping where the fun and excitement is limitless.

The golden threshold of sand and dunes- Jaisalmer

One of the best place for new year in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer has beautiful golden yellow stone fort with detailed stone carvings to embellish the traditional Jharokhas and arches. While a campfire within the sand dunes of Jaisalmer is an experience one can never forget.

The shimmering city of lakes – Udaipur

 

One of the most romantic cities of Rajasthan, Udaipur is surrounded with shimmering lakes, luxury resorts and the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary. It is once in a lifetime experience when you cruise through the lake pichola on wooden boat or gaze at the panorama of lakes from City palace of Udaipur.

The brimming sand of Bikaner

Another desert destination popular for its camel festival, sand dune riding and  various other desert activities, Bikaner is home to the Junagarh Fort which is an amalgamation of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. But if you love tranquility over grandeur, enjoy nature’s bliss on the banks of the river Gajner.

The tourist city among world’s top ten – Jodhpur

The blue city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is enchanting as it dazzles with its spectacular architecture and brightly painted homes. However, if you seek serenity in this famous tourist destination, away from the hustle and bustle of city life head straight to a heaven for bird lovers, Khichan. It is a small village and bird paradise in Jodhpur District hosting 20,000 Demoiselle Cranes.

The hill station of hot land- Mount Abu

 

For a chilly new year experience, visit the only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu. It is amidst forest hills of coniferous trees and dotted with huge rocks. It is home to many sages and is famous for its Dilwara Jain Temple built in the 11th-13th Century.

The place famous for not just jauhar but magnificent UNESCO fort- Chittorgarh

The famous fort of Chittorgarh takes you back to the 15th century AD. Get a glimpse of heaven on new year’s day at the Char Bagh patterned garden that plays host to many peacocks and several parakeets at sunrise and sunset even today.

The undiscovered paradise- Bundi

 

Quite strange that this destination is still hidden from the tourist crowd. Regarded for its intricate paintings, Bundi is the historically rich town of Rajasthan. Encompassed by the Aravalli Hills on three sides. The intricate carvings on its monuments and impressive medieval forts, palaces, havelis and temples with carved pillars with a beautiful lake is an enchanting paradise right in the heart of the town.

The tiger land – Sawai Madhopur

The tiger land of Rajasthan is this fascinating paradise of wildlife and nature called Ranthambhore in Sawai Madhopur. Nestling adjacent to the natural beauty of the wildlife of Ranthambhore is Nahargarh Palace. In the town of Sawai Madhopur dwells this leading luxury Palace Resort. It hosts fantastic new year events in Rajasthan. For a picture-perfect yet thrilling and dramatic experiences with sun-kissed poolside, head straight to this place. The palace’s royale spots like the Hathikund, swimming pool, Lancer’s Bar and Den Bar with fine detailing and ambiances will pose a blissful contrast to the ruggedness of the jungle.

The storybook town – Shekhawati

In the painted town of Shekhawati lay the magnificent Palace Alsisar Mahal of Alsisar. If you wish to join an exclusive party at the 17th-century palace in Rajasthan then you’ll be enthralled to experience the exciting activities and arrangements in Alsisar. There are magic shows, snake-charmers and dancers, fireworks off the roof of the palace and the exotic banquet with succulent cuisines.

The sacred town of holy ghats and temples- Pushkar

Begin the fresh year by washing away the sins of the past year and praying for a prosperous and peaceful 2018 at Pushkar. Among the many famous temples in Pushkar, you can find the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Bramha. The Pushkar Lake has huge religious significance, as it is supposed to have been created when Bramha dropped a lotus on earth. Ajmer and Pushkar are both places of worship and if one is religiously inclined, can prove to be perfect sites to begin an auspicious year.

A roundup of most amazing Musical Festivals in Rajasthan

Since decades Indian music enthusiasts salivated over international music festivals, like the kinds of  Coachella and Glastonbury. But not any more, now the desert state of Rajasthan, with an impressive calendar of music festivals is becoming India’s hottest music destinations. Off late, Rajasthan with its folk art culture is fast becoming the preferred music destination for music lovers. The audience for these festivals is largely from India. Although, there are some festivals in the state that also attract a bevy of international visitors as well as performers. Read about the most prominent Music Festivals of Rajasthan that one mustn’t miss –

Ranthambore Festival

Nahargarh Palace, Ranthambhore (January 19-21, 2018)

Calling all music luminaries, nature lovers, wildlife conservationists, business thought leaders and social influencers to this enthralling jamboree. Get ready for a weekend filled with some amazing and educational experiences. You can look forward to an amazing selection of indigenous and international musical performances.

The festival lets you immerse in interactive music workshops, TED talks, Rajasthani folk art workshops, wildlife and nature panel discussions and wildlife film festival. The Ranthambore festival also has street theatre, yoga workshops, food, pop-up art and crafts stalls to keep you entertained.

The ambiance is perfect, the chance of spotting tigers is high, Rajasthani cuisine is delectable and the Ranthambore festival at Nahargarh Palace is on. Don’t keep Rajasthan waiting!

 

Udaipur World Music Festival

Image via google

Udaipur (February 9-11, 2018)

Nearly 150 artists from various countries converge in the city to combine genres and cultures through music. As with most festivals in Rajasthan, the ambience takes center stage with early morning concerts in the backdrop of Fateh Sagar Lake. While the 2018 line-up is yet to be officially announced, the 2017 edition featured artists from 16 countries, including the UK, Iran, Norway, Cuba and Switzerland.

Iranian American singer Azam Ali enthralled the audience with Electro Sufi World Music and Ablaye Cissoko from Senegal collaborated with Constantinople Ensemble from Canada. The finale performance was by the London Community Gospel Choir. Festival Director Sanjeev Bhargava says, “A festival of this scale featuring such diverse music from so many different continents and regions coming together in one of the best tourist destinations of India makes Udaipur a culturally vibrant destination.”

World Sacred Spirit Festival

Image via google

Jodhpur (February 16-17, 2018)

Held in February every year, the event brings lovers of Sufism together. Sufi poets sing renditions of Rumi and Bulley Shah as the crowds sway into a spiritual trance. Next year’s festival will be held at three different breathtaking venues, Mehrangarh Fort, Ahhichatragarh Fort of Nagaur and Toorji Stepwell Square, across the desert city of Jodhpur. Artistes scheduled to perform include sitar player Irshad Khan, folk singer and storyteller Parvathy Baul. musician Mehdi Nassouli, tabla player Zuheb Ahmed Khan from Palestine, flute player Lingling Yu from China and musicians Samuel Cattiau and Quentin Dujardin. Princess Shivranjani Rajye of Jodhpur curates the festival. Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur said “The festival is a pioneering effort in cultural conservation and music tourism in India.”

 

Magnetic Fields

Alsisar Mahal, Rajasthan 

Held in December every year, Magnetic Fields has been growing in popularity organically. The festival’s main draw is the holistic experience which includes camping under the skies, discreet parties, dance and music in palace dungeons, art installations with jazz, jam and electronica.

The 2017 line-up included British artist Four Tet, Canadian composer and musician Dan Snaith, Your Chin by Mumbai based Raxit Tiwari, and Donal Bergin, a prominent name in London’s electronic music scene. The three-day carnival combines the history of the magnificent venue Alsisar Mahal with rustic pleasures, such as kite flying at sunset as electronic and jazz melodies resonate in the desert palace.

Jodhpur RIFF 2017 Begins Today

The 5 day annual cultural extravaganza, Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) starts today. The festival is organized to coincide with Hindu festival Sharad Purnima which is a full-moon night. The imposing Mehrangarh Fort of Sun City Jodhpur is the venue of the event like every year. Jaswant Thada will also host some of the events.

2017 is the UK and India cultural year. To celebrate this, The Spree (Paisley) Twins will perform tomorrow. Many foreign artists are collaborating with local performers to present never seen before acts. More than 350 international artists will grace the event with their unforgettable performances. Traditional folk music by Bhil tribe will be one of the highlights.

Today, the festival started with a Children’s Folk Morning which was meant for school groups only. The real fun will begin at opening night tonight. Tonight you will get to witness traditional Rajasthani folk performances from 8:30 pm to 10 pm.

The weekend is close so don’t miss this much awaited folk festival!

Kumbhalgarh Festival kicked off today

The unconquered fort of Kumbhalgarh is majestic, and the stern and strong stature of the fort is amazingly inspiring!  To patronize the overall aura  and magnificence of Kumbhalgarh area, the tourism department of Rajasthan has organized an exquisite festival- ‘Kumbhalgarh Festival’ purely dedicated to the place!

Kumbhalgarh Festival, every year, in all its glory promotes the artistic and cultural heritage of the place. It is a beautiful effort of the tourism department of Rajasthan, which is primarily divided into two parts-Folk performances at the daytime and an impressive show of light and sound at night.  It is also a platform where India’s finest classical musician, artists and renowned dancers assemble to delight the viewers with their best performances. Among the highlights of this festival includes the dance performance by local artists. Indulging games and sports such as musical chairs, turban tying and tug of war are also a part of the festival that encourages tourists to participate and enjoy.

The festival has kicked off today i.e 01- 03 December 2016 .If you are somewhere near or around Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh, don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this fun filled festival.

Here are the rushes from the festival held in March this year 🙂