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.

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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.

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?

 

 

The Lake Festival Starts With Full Enthusiasm In The Lake City Of Udaipur

The lake city of Rajasthan – Udaipur is one of the finest tourist destinations in the state of Rajasthan as well as across the globe. The state tourism department started off with the first lake festival in Udaipur from 11^th Feb 2016.

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The 4 day event is witnessing various cultural, sports as well as musical events around the two lakes of Pichola and Fateh Sagar. One beautiful thing of the festival which is kind of a new concept is that there will be floating markets where people on decorated boats will showcase some finest handicrafts and shilpkala belongings of the city as well as of the State. One can also see other attractions as a part of the festival like Dragon boat race, performances of musical bands and many more.

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So, join in the festival to spread the beauty and serenity of the lakes of Udaipur and enjoy the adventure sports and other activities 🙂

 

Bagore Ki Haveli Is India’s Top Museum

Rajasthan added another feather in its cap! This year the list of Trip Advisor’s Traveler Award included some offbeat names which were even unheard by the Indian travelers and one such is destination is the Bagore Ki Haveli in Udaipur, which enriches the holiday experience by helping the visitors understand the glorious heritage of that place.

Image credit:  www.tripadvisor.in

Trip Advisor’s Traveler Choice Award threw a limelight on Rajasthan by awarding Udaipur’s Bagore Ki Haveli as the top museum in India. Bagore Ki Haveli is built on the banks of Lake Pichola in the Lake City of Rajasthan- Udaipur. It is an 18^th century old mansion built by Amir Chand Badwa, Prime Minister of Mewar’s Royal Court but it was converted into a museum in the year 1986.

Image credit: www.hotelsinudaipur.org.in

The Haveli also provides a glimpse of the royal life and gives you a pleasure to wander. The Bagore Ki Haveli also showcases one hour night show from 7pm to 8pm followed by a Rajasthani folk dance performance by Dharohar, a dance group.

Image credit: www.wheelsonourfeet.com

Bagore Ki Haveli secured the top spot in India and 17^th in Asia, making Rajasthan proud and making it shine in its glory.

Explore The 6 Best Heritage Sites Of Rajasthan On World Heritage Day

Rajasthan is known all around the world for its rich heritage. Having some of the best forts, palaces and monuments are till date maintained in really good conditions as they are very precious to the lives of Rajasthanis.

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 vigor. This massive fort though being attacked thrice by the enemies, couldn’t take over the powerful people of this place. The fort of Chittor is known for its own beauty and uniqueness.

3) City Palace, Udaipur

The grandness of this palace can be seen now, 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.

4) Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

One of the largest private residences of the world 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 color 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 gives it 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 desert of Rajasthan is an architectural wonder in itself.

A Dip Into The 6 Famous Lakes Of Rajasthan This Summer

1) Nakki Lake

Do you know why is it named as Nakki Lake? Here is it.  Dug out from the nails for the protection from demons, thus got it name as Nakki Lake. Situated on the only hill station of Rajasthan- Mount Abu, Nakki Lake serves the most important tourist destination of Mount Abu as well as Rajasthan.

Image Credit : http://www.travelportalofindia.com

2) Ana Sagar Lake

Approximately 13 kms spread this lake built by Anaji Chauhan is in the city of Ajmer. Ana Sagar is the biggest artificial lake in Ajmer, with a small accessible island. Another small lake in Ajmer is Foy Sagar.

3) Gadisar Lake

A man-made lake which was initially constructed for water conservation, is the only perennial water body in the desert city of Rajasthan, and thus proves to be the must visit site in Jaisalmer.

4) Pushkar Lake

A sacred lake which has a religious significance, is a must visit during the major fair of India – Pushkar Fair. It has its own beauty during the night, when people sit at the Ghats to enjoy the serene beauty and peaceful environment.

5) Mansagar Lake

Situated in the capital city of Rajasthan- Jaipur is an artificial lake which has Jal Mahal situated in the middle. It is a famous tourist attraction of Jaipur which also provides the facility of boating. The Jal Mahal highlights the attractiveness and importance of this lake.

6) Lake Pichola

Considered as one of the most beautiful lakes of Rajasthan, is situated in the ‘City of Lakes’ – Udaipur. Some of the main tourist attractions of Udaipur are situated along the periphery of this lake. With its own charm, people also come to enjoy its scenic beauty – sunrise and sunset. Fateh Sagar Lake is also an important lake of Udaipur which is connected with Lake Pichola. This lake was originally constructed for irrigation purpose, and to provide water for drinking in the city of Udaipur.

 

 

 

 

Udaipur Celebrates The Mewar Festival (22-24 March 2015)

The Mewar Festival is celebrated with liveliness and vitality in Udaipur. The city of lakes is lit with bright colors. Though this festival coincides with the festival of Gangaur, it has its own importance in the Mewar region. The ceremonies of Mewar festival are quite similar to that of Gangaur. The dressed Isar (Lord Shiva) and Gangaur (Parvati/ Gauri) are carried in a procession and immersed in Lake Pichola.  As all the religious ceremonies and offerings are over, people assemble and get together to enjoy the various folk dances and other cultural activities. The day ends with an amazing show of fireworks and people enjoy this festival with zeal, energy and excitement.

Image credit: traveltrance.com

 

Image credit:udaipurtimes.com

 

Trip to Incredible Rajasthan, the Best Weekend Getaway Option

The month February is ending on a good note. How? Didn’t you take a note of long weekend ? On Thursday 27th Feb, the Mahashivratri is falling, followed by a weekend on 1st and 2nd March. We know you can manage a leave on 28th February. Hereby comes four consecutive days of no work and complete fun in your kitty. 

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Weekends are precious and you deserve to make the most of them. Aren’t you? Since a long weekend is on the cards, don’t let it fizzle out. Make this upcoming weekend awesome by heading for a short and sweet trip. Now the question is where to go. You may plan your journey to India’s most visited tourist destination, none other than culturally rich and vibrant Rajasthan. Weather is also in favor.

Start your journey from the lake city Udaipur. Located at the base of Aravalli Hills, the city is full of royal surprises. Boat ride on the Lake Pichola and admiring the pleasing view of sunrise while sipping a hot cup of tea from the city’s multitude rooftop café are strictly NOT TO MISS. We also recommend a quick jaunt to its colorful bazaars.

Serene Lake Pichola of Udaipur

Next day, after breakfast proceed for you next destination i.e. Kumbalgarh. Located at 101 kms, it is easily accessible via road within less than 2 hrs from Udaipur. The Kumbalgarh Fort, the birth place of the legendary warrior Rana Pratap is the main attraction of the place. The 36 km long Wall of the fort that claims to be the 2nd longest wall after the Great Wall of China will mesmerize you. Other attractions include- Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Vedi temple, Haldi Ghati and the Badal Mahal.

Wall of Kumbalgarh Fort

If you enjoy architecture and heritage, you would love visiting Ranakpur. Distanced 50 kms from Kumbhalgarh, this pilgrimage town is famous for its beautiful sculptured Jain temples. The nearby ‘Sun Temple’ dedicated to the Sun God is another worth visiting site in the town.

Ranakpur Jain temple

Last destination of the journey would be picturesque Mount Abu. The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mt. Abu is home to several tourist attractions from natural beauty to architectural and historical places. Intricately carved with superb marble artwork, Dilwara temples of Mount Abu have their own uniqueness to speak of.

Dilwara Jain Temple

In Mt. Abu, you would enjoy sitting by the banks of its beautiful Nakki Lake and taking boat rides on it. Sit atop of toad looking like rock for a while and enjoy splendorous view of the enchanting Nakki lake and the city. Go for a romantic walk up to Honeymoon Point and enjoy amazing view of stunning sunset. If you’re an adventure lover, exploring Mount Abu on bike would be a superb idea.

   Nakki Lake of Mount Abu (Image via Google)

Toad Rock, Mount Abu (Image via Google)

With this, fabulous journey ends and so the weekend. Hope you have great time. Happy long weekend !

Mewar Festival- A welcoming Festive Fervour!

Rajasthan- ‘Dharti Dhoran Ri’ – The Land of Warriors!!

At the same time a place of Royals, embracing its multifarious cultural and ethnic traditions finely knitted with all modesty and mehmaan-nawazi..!!.It yet again takes up the festive mood to another level where in one would simply get awestruck with the sand-breezy fragrance and the welcoming festive fervor.

As known, fairs and fests have been an indispensable part for people of Rajasthan. Mewar Fest is one amongst these fairs. The Mewar Festival is celebrated as it welcomes the spring.

For the year 2013, The Mewar Festival of Udaipur is set to be celebrated for three days: from 13^th April to 15^th April. To keep people entertained, the organizers encourage local artists and artisans to come and display their talents. Many cultural programs and plays are organized for the amusement of people of Rajasthan. The whole city of Udaipur is decorated beautifully in colorful streamers and the feel of a grand celebration enwraps the locals as well as the visitors and guests because celebrations are just round the corner!!

The fair is held in two parts where the first part holds the religious importance and after this comes the joy of celebration which includes various performances on Rajasthani folk-songs, dances like Kalbelia, Gavri dance etc. and other art forms like snake-charming, chari-dance, etc.

The most scintillating feature of this festival is the grand procession that takes place on ‘Gangaur Ghat’ in Udaipur as the auspicious water from this ghat is used in filling up the pots, to be carried by the women participants for the religious ceremony. Thereafter, the procession flocks towards the Jagdish Chowk which gets eventful and active, which lies near Jagdish Mandir at the crossing of City Palace of Udaipur.

The three-day Mewar festival of Rajasthan comes to an end when the idols of Isar and Gangaur are taken to Lake Pichola of Udaipur. Then the idols are transferred on a specially decorated boat with much ardor and solemnity!! This is then followed by the Royal Treat as the Royals of Udaipur, participates in the rituals, of carrying ‘Gangaur Ki Sawari’ in 5ft long boat. This boat is decorated and ducked up with colorful stuffs for the royal carriage of Gangaur only!

Mewar Festival of Rajasthan offers a brilliant opportunity worth grabbing, to the interested wayfarer who wants to be regaled by the tales, legends and sights of medieval and vintage traditional vistas.