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

The Best of Jodhpur: Blue City’s Top Tourist Attractions

Jodhpur, the second largest city of Rajasthan was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha. The city is known as Blue City because of old houses that are painted blue from the outside. Sun City is another name given to Jodhpur because the place is always sunny.

Jodhpur has everything that attracts a tourist- magnificent buildings, vibrant markets and delicious food. Plan your next vacation in the beautiful city and you will be enchanted. You shouldn’t miss these experiences when in Jodhpur-

Mehrangarh

The most breathtaking fort in Jodhpur is the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. It is situated on a 150m high hill. Rao Jodha constructed the fort in 1459. You will be amazed by its grandness. There is also a museum within the fort that showcases armors, robes, jewellery, palanquins and other royal artifacts. Other attractions of the fort include palaces, galleries, and temples.

You have to try zip-lining at Mehrangarh. Zooming across the fort while you are suspended from a rope will give you the ultimate adrenalin rush.

 

Jaswant Thada

Jaswant Thada lies to the left of the Mehrangarh fort complex. It is a royal cenotaph made up of white marble. It was built in 19^th century to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh. The Mausoleum glows in the sunlight because of the thin marble used in its construction.

 

Sadar Bazar

This is the place to get your shopping fix. The market has the traditional Jodhpuri Leheriya print in colors you might have never seen before. Jutis in a wide variety of designs from Jodhpur are also must buys. Shop for spices too especially the hot red chilies.

 

Clock Tower

While in Sadar Bazaar, you should not miss the functional clock tower. Amid the hustle bustle of the market, the century old clock is still ticking to glory.

 

Sardar Government Museum

You will find a lot about the history of the Blue City here. The museum built in 1909 has a great collection of miniature paintings, sculptures, ancient inscriptions, terracotta artwork, ancient coins, metallic objects, arms and stuffed toys.

You will also find a zoo and a library in the museum premises.

 

Osian Temples

The temples are located in Thar Desert about 65 kilometers from Jodhpur. Osian is also known as Khajuraho of Rajasthan and has temples dating back to 8^th and 11^th centuries. There are 18 temples in total and the most famous are- Sun Temple, Jain Temple and Kali Temple.

 

Mandore Gardens

Mandore is another ancient town near Jodhpur. It is believed that demon king Ravana got married here. There is also a temple dedicated to Ravana in the town.

You have to visit Mandore Gardens to see the Temple of 33 Crore Hindu Gods. The garden also has artistic cenotaphs, high rock terraces and memorials.

 

Lakes

There are also some picturesque lakes in the Sun City. Rajsamand Lake, Kaylana Lake and Takhat Sagar Lake are popular among tourists.

 

Marwar Festival

The Marwar Festival is held in memory of the chivalrous heroes of Rajasthan. Originally known as the “Maand Festival”, Marwar Festival is devoted to music and dance of Marwar region of Rajasthan. The festival is celebrated for two days starting from Sharad Purnima. Dance and music of Marwar region is the main attraction of the fest. Various games are also organized here for spectators. You can enjoy are horse polo, horse rides and cattle games.

 

Jodhpur RIFF

Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) is organized at Mehrangarh Fort every year on the occasion of Sharad Purnima. The four day festival has been endorsed by UNESCO as a “People’s Platform for Creativity and Sustainable Development”. The festival is organized in October and you can enjoy dance, music and other folk performances of not only Rajasthan but from all around the globe.

 

Mawa Kachori

A visit to Jodhpur is incomplete if you do not tickle your taste-buds with the sweet Mawa Kachori. It is a puffed pastry made of flour which is filled with sweet condensed milk and dry fruits.

 

Umaid Bhawan

One of the most fascinating palaces of Jodhpur is the Umaid Bhavan palace. Maharaja Umaid Singh constructed it in 20th century. A part of the palace has now been converted into a hotel and a museum.

Book your tickets now!

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.

 

 

Engulf In The Festivities And Color Of Navratri From Tomorrow

The nine day festival of Navratri is dedicated to the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga. Goddess Durga is often known for power and strength and is the root behind creation and preservation. According to the traditional Hindu calendar, there are 4 important Navratris but the 2 most important are the Chaitra Navratri which fall in the month of April and the other are Sharadiya Navratri which begins in September-October.

Every day the festivities begin with aarti focusing on the nine different manifestations of the goddess on each day. People from across the country come to the state of Rajasthan to celebrate the festival and worship at Sheetla Mata Mandir especially at Amer Fort, Jaipur and Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur.

Indulge in the festive activities of the season from April 8 to April 15, 2016.

 

When it’s morning in the Blue City!

If you are really looking forward to see vibrant colors in the stark desert of Rajasthan, backpack your stuff and head down to explore the blue city of Jodhpur. The legends say that Brahmins first started painting their houses blue to show their high position among the society. Sooner, it was followed by everyone else, which created this incredible contrast to this dusty desert town.

Jodhpur is a prominent city on a tourist map. It is common to see the attractions of Jodhpur. But we thought to do it bit differently. When the first ray of Sun falls on the blue city, we took our camera and went on to discover the streets of Jodhpur to capture the life of its people and their everyday rituals.

1. An old man enjoying the morning sun while reading newspaper.

An old man enjoying the morning sun while reading newspaper.

2. Lady in red walking through the streets carrying pot filled with water on her head
3. Birds in the morning
4. Girls on their way to school
5. A common feature in Indian houses- Clothesline in Balcony. A lady busy in hanging wet laundry
6. An old woman with her stick trying to grasp little sun
7. Panoramic view of the blue city
8. Indigo Aura in the streets
9. Alleyways in the old city
10. Pilgrims at Mehrangarh Fort dressed in bright colors

The three Gems of the Blue City, Jodhpur !!

Marvelously situated on the foothill of a sandstone hillock, the city of Jodhpur seems like an oasis in the vast desert. Its history revolves around the Rathore Clan. Rao Jodha, the chief of the Rathore clan, is credited with the origin of Jodhpur in Rajasthan state of royals. He founded Jodhpur in 1459. The marvellous statue of the founder Rao Jodha ji was also unveiled in Jodhpur a couple of years ago on May 12, 2012, on the occasion of 554^th Jodhpur Foundation Day.

Jodhpur is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Rajasthan. People from India as well as all over the world visit Jodhpur every year. There are numerous tourist attractions in Jodhpur, which can also be a reason for your visit this year during the Marwar Festival and Jodhpur International Folk Festival scheduled for the coming months.

Standing as the sentinel of the country’s western border, tour to Jodhpur is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces and the city is charming with its wealth of historic attractions and colorful markets, which specialize in antiques. The major places to see in Jodhpur Rajasthan are:
Mehrangarh Fort

The most breathtaking fort in Jodhpur is the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. It is situated on a 150m high hill. Rao Jodha, the then chief of Rathore clan, constructed it in 1459. There are a number of attractions within the fort such as several palaces, galleries, a museum, and temples.

Umaid Bhavan Palace

One of the most fascinating palaces of Jodhpur is the Umaid Bhavan palace. Maharaja Umaid Singh constructed it in 20th century. A part of the palace has now been converted into a hotel and a museum.

Jaswant Thada

Jaswant Thada lies to the left of the Mehrangarh fort complex. It is a royal cenotaph made up of white marble. It was built to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some rare portraits of the former rulers of Jodhpur are also displayed here.

So, if you are planning to visit Jodhpur, try to come at such a time so as to experience the popular events  like Marwar Festival and Jodhpur International Folk Festival, and don’t miss to explore the grandeur of these major places in the beautiful Blue City of Rajasthan!

Geo-Tourism- A new trend

A new trend of Geo Tourism is becoming a fad with tourist visiting Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. Mehrangarh fort is established on 750 million year old volcanic rocks which made a welded tuff of the emanations that spurted out from a volcano which were carried by air and ultimately settled here.

Geologists at Jainarayan Vyas University, Jodhpur in association with Mehrangarh Museum Trust, Jodhpur and Geology Alumni Association have joined hands with each other make selfie zones for the tourist visiting it. These selfie zones will not only fulfil the desire of tourist to have a memorabilia of their visit but impart scientific information about these rocks. This is the part of conservation drive launched by these organisations where in along with promoting Geo-tourism, the visiting tourists will be discouraged to deface the rocks through  etches or colouring to maintain the beauty and uniqueness of the rocks.

This will, on one hand will conserve the rocks but will also give another reason to the tourists to visit and admire the distinctiveness of the spot and enlighten them with a rare natural phenomenon.

Jodhpur Celebrated Medieval Heroes’ Sagas with Marwar Festival

 

Because of various legends that are sung by bards in the folk lore, the heroic sagas of the kings and warriors have become a vital part of the Rajasthani culture. And the Marwar Festival this year once again brought to life the celebrations of the brave deeds of medieval heroes.

The main theme behind the festival like every year was to praise the heroes and martyrs of the medieval era with scintillating dance performances, recitals and musical nights by the local and renowned artists from various fields.

There were unusual competitions like Pitcher “Matka Race” Turban Tying competition and Mustache Competitions in which foreign tourists participated with much enthusiasm and even won many competitions.

During evenings, various performances like  Kalbeliya dance, terah tali and Kachchi Ghodi were held by folk artists through which they narrated stories from the past sagas.

The festival for two days was an ongoing colorful ride of cultural and traditional bonanza during which everyone in the Jodhpur town was smeared with all the colors of Rajasthani folk arts.

The spirited folk dancers assembled at the various venues like Mehrangarh Fort, Clock tower, and the holy town of Osian to perform with gusto and entertained the audience with Rajasthani traditional art forms.

A small fete “Haat” was also organized by the state tourism and cultural board wherein a number of craftsmen displayed their skills in handicraft and tatoo art on their cattle, where one can even buy displayed artifacts and craft items for themselves and their cattle.

The night concluded with a cheer from the delighted crowd who could be seen sinking in the festive spirits of Marwar festival and the fading sand dunes bade a breezy farewell to the Marwar festival to come again next year.

Picture Courtesy: Rajasthan Tourism

5 Long Weekend Destinations in Rajasthan

The monsoon showers have deluged entire south, west and northern regions of India and this rejoicing weather is urging you to go out and enjoy the monsoon showers with family and loved ones or may be with yourself 🙂 But the work is not allowing you to take days off. Right? Oh well well !! Here’s your chance to steal some fun moments from the calendar. This year, Independence Day is falling on Friday, which means you will be getting a three day weekend to enjoy a desirably satisfying small holiday and your share of Monsoon!!

In this post we would suggest you some quick getaways to Rajasthan!! Here’s a list of some stunning and awesome destinations to spoil you with compelling choices.  Go ahead and plan your extended weekend!

1. Udaipur and Mount Abu

Plan a trip to Udaipur endearingly called “Venice of East” for its mighty forts and palaces surrounded by shimmering lakes. The rustic hues of monsoon offer a marvelous experience of the royal city. Get awed by the beauty of Monsoon Palace, Lake Palace, Bagore Mansion, take a royal ride on horseback or indulge in city street shopping. If the city get a little too much urban, take a road trip to Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan complete with gushing waterfalls, melting sunset points and awe inspiring natural sceneries.

Possible Itinerary: Delhi – Udaipur -Mount Abu – Delhi:

14th August (Thursday night) Delhi to  Udaipur ( Friday Morning) by Chetak Express / Mewar Express or by bus.

15th August: (Friday) Spend the day in Udaipur

16th August (Saturday): Enjoy the morning in Udaipur, leave for Mount Abu in the afternoon by a bus, reach Mount Abu by late evening

17th August (Sunday): Sightseeing in Mount Abu

17th August (Sunday night): Mount Abu to New Delhi (Monday morning) by Swarna J Raj Express or Ashram Express or by bus via Jodhpur or a direct taxi to Delhi

From Mumbai also you can travel the beautiful city Udaipur along with Mount Abu.

15^th August, Friday: Reach Udaipur by Flight in the morning or by UDZ Superfast Express Train in the Afternoon.

15^th August: Spend the evening in Udaipur.

16^th August Saturday: Enjoy the morning in Udaipur leave for Mount Abu in the afternoon by a bus, reach Mount Abu by late evening.

17th August (Sunday): Sightseeing in Mount Abu

17th August (Sunday night): Mount Abu to Udaipur and then flight back to Mumbai.

2. Jodhpur Jaisalmer from Delhi

The rambling desert land of Jaisalmer covers itself up in shades of green during the monsoons while Jodhpur, the blue city of Rajasthan accentuates its colors in the rains. These rain washed cities look picturesque dotted with ancient forts like Mehrangarh Fort or Jaisalmer Fort; Palaces like Patwon ki Haveli and Umaid Bhavan Palace are just some of the many culturally and historically significant sites to see.

Jaisalmer Fort

Possible Itinerary: Delhi – Jaisalmer – Jaipur – Delhi:

14th August Thursday Board a delhi Jaisalmer express train on Thursday to reach Jaisalmer on Friday Morning or take a taxi/bus.

15th August: (Friday) Enjoy the day in Jaisalmer, Explore Sand dunes nearby and the Golden Fort

16th August (Saturday): Enjoy the day in Jaisalmer, leave for Jodhpur in the evening by a bus or by a cab or by Jaisalmer Delhi express, reach Jodhpur by late evening

17th August (Sunday): Sightseeing + Food tour +Shopping in Jodhpur

17th August (Sunday night): Jodhpur to New Delhi (Monday morning) by Mandor Express by bus/taxi

3. Ranakpur Kumbhalgarh

Ranakpur is a marvelous epitome of nature’s beauty and fabulous marble architecture. Mainly a Jain pilgrimage, Ranakpur would offer you a delighting monsoon experience amid the lush Aravalli ranges. Followed by the sculptured temple sighting tour you can head to a trip to the mesmerizing Kumbhalgarh fort by road. With seven fortified gateways, Kumbhalgarh Fort is famous for its longest wall in after the Great Wall of China.

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Possible Itinerary Delhi-Ranakpur-Udaipur-Delhi

14^th August Thursday: Take HW ADI Mail and reach Falna station on 15^th August Friday Morning. Take Taxi/Bus to Ranakpur.

15^th August Friday: Sightseeing, Shopping and Photography in Ranakpur.

16^th August Saturday: Afternoon 45 minutes drive to Kumbhalgarh Fort and then reach Udaipur.

17^th Sunday Udaipur sightseeing and Journey back to Delhi by Train/Bus.

 

4. Ajmer Pushkar

The holy cities of Pushkar and Ajmer together house two of the most revered holy sites in India. The 14 century Temple dedicated to Brahma is surrounded by numerous ghats and the Pushkar Lake which owes its existence to a legend. Ajmer on the other hand is known for the Shrine of Sufi Saint Moinuddin Chistri, Ajmer’s Dargah Shariff is an important pilgrimage site. Akbar Fort Museum in Ajmer is another place to visit or you can also go shopping in the small colorful markets of Pushkar for handicrafts.

Possible Itinerary: Delhi – Ajmer – Pushkar – Delhi:

15th August (morning) Delhi to  Ajmer ( Friday afternoon) by Ajmer Shatabdi or by a taxi/bus, spend the day in Ajmer

16th August (Saturday): Visit Pushkar by a cab/bus and enjoy the day in Pushkar

17th August (Sunday): Relax in Pushkar in the lake side cafes; go back to Ajmer by evening

17th August (Sunday night): Ajmer to New Delhi (Monday morning) by Chetak Express by bus/taxi

5. Mandawa Nawalgarh Shekhawati

Walk through the painted frescoes of Mandawa and Nawalgarh – the story book town of Shekhawati.  Famous for its magnificently painted havelis and frescoed walls, mandawa is a small town and Nawalgarh is an absolute retreat for those who admire art. The land of great business families of India depicts stupendous history through it intricate paintings and ancient havelis. The famous ones are Poddar Haveli, Morarka Haveli and Aath Haveli in Nawalgarh and Mandawa haveli.  Also don’t miss to check out the colorful bazaars of the town.

Possible Itinerary  Jaipur- Mandawa- Nawalgarh

15^th August Friday: Take a bus/taxi from Jaipur and Reach Nawalgarh in 3- 4 hours.

15^th August : visit Havelis like Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Bansidhar Nevatia Haveli till evening Dinner at Hotel and retire for Night.

16^th August Saturday: Breakfast in the hotel, check out from Hotel and drive to Nawalgarh. Enjoy the fresco trail route of painted walls on the streets of Nawalgarh followed by a Rajasthani style dinner and entertainment at the hotel.

17^th Route back to Jaipur with splendid views of lush green Aravalli ranges and roads washed with monsoon showers.

Jodhpur celebrates 556th Foundation Day

The Sun City Jodhpur is all set to celebrate its 556th Foundation Day, and the entire city is bedecked with colors and events at every nook and corner, especially the heritage and tourist sites. . Apart from the number of programmes that will be conducted in the city on May 11 and 12, there will also be some events to mark the day.

Jodhpur is a historic city and it is a big day for all. Rich with its traditions and royalty, Jodhpur has marked a unique impression all over the world. The entire celebration would exhibit a beautiful picture of the folklore that could be cherished for long in mind.

mehrangarh-jodhpur-india

Starting from May 11, 2014, the Jodhpur Foundation Day celebration would offer instrumental and folk dance presentation by traditional artistes at all major city circles on first day of celebration, and the ‘nopat’ (a musical instrument) would be playing on the five main gates of Jodhpur on May 12 morning.

On the occasion, most vulnerable place of health hazards, the ‘kachhi-basti’ will have a health check-up camp.

If you are in or around the Sun City this weekend, then wait no more, because this event would capture all the colorful essences of Royal Rajasthan. Also make sure to visit the magnanimous Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur.