Timings changed for Elephant Safari in Amer

The Rajasthan forest department has asked the archaeology department to change the timing of elephant safari at elephant village and Amer Fort, amid complaints that the elephants were being used for taking tourists on a tour throughout the day. The new timing will be from 8 am to 12 pm. There will be no elephant safari thereafter.

The officials said that currently the elephants are being used for safaris throughout the day at Amber Fort as well as the Elephant Village.

“The animals have no time for rest, so they become aggressive. We have seen some instances of tourists getting hurt during elephant safaris. These incidents are few and far between, but they are definitely avoidable,” said a forest department officer.

He added that the elephant safari will not be allowed between 12 pm and 3 pm at Amber Fort and Elephant Village.

When tourists and tour agencies can’t get an elephant safari at Amer Palace, they go to the Elephant Village and pay mahouts for a safari on the village premises.

“This practice should be discouraged. We have written to the archaeology department to check in on this practice on Amer Fort premises as it exhausts the elephants. We will make sure that the new timing is enforced strictly at Elephant Village,” said the officer.

Jhalawar: a fascinating bird sighting destination.

Rajasthan’s historic district with religious values- Jhalawar is slowly and gradually making its mark in Eco-Tourism and wildlife. The traditionally rich land of Hadoti region is becoming a new Birding Hot Spot in Rajasthan and is attracting tourist from across the world.

This year the Second Bird Festival of the District has been organized with Zeal and Enthusiasm along with a collaboration of District Administration and Forest Department.

According to the Bird enthusiast Anil Rodgers, the Bird Festival has been organized in a wonderful manner and under the keen supervision of District Collector Dr. Jitendra Kumar Soni. The presence and participation of school and college student, wildlife research scholars, scientists, local bird and environment lovers, participants from Kota, Bundi, Udaipur, Chittorgarh and Bharatpur including many other District added to the charm of the festival. A world-class Wildlife and Birding Photography Exhibition showing the true Wild colors of Hadoti along with a rare and exclusive stamp collection was also a part of the festival.

Jhalawar is replete with the rich avifaunal biodiversity, there are more than 250 local and migratory species recorded here. Including Bar-Headed Geese, Greylag Geese, Ruddy Shelduck, Flamingoes, Northern Shovelor, Northern Pintail, Common Teal,  Gadwal, Red Crested Pochard, TufftedPochard,  White Eyed Pochard, Common Pochard, EurasionWegion, Pallas Gull, Black Tailed Godvit, Redshank, Green Shank and many other waders. Moreover, Jhalawar has active habitation of critically endangered Long-billed vultures, and White Rumped Vultures and you can also see rare Asian King Vulture (Sarcogypscalvus)  and endangered Egyptian Vultures in Abundance. Wetlands of Jhalawar are a big attraction to see the tallest flying bird, Sarus Cranes are breeding here in good numbers as well as you can see Painted storks, Whooly necked stork, Migratory Black Stork and Resident Black Necked Stork in the Gorges and Open Wetlands.

Besides these, Ancient Kolvi Caves, World Heritage Site Gagron Fort, Dalhanpur Ruins, Sun Temple, Chandrabhaga Temple are worth visiting places in Jhalawar. Enriched with old traditional values wouldn’t be able to miss the hospitality of the people of Jhalawar.

Image Credits: Wildlife Photographer Anil Rodgers

Rajasthan Royals Team Trip Into The Wild At Ranthambore

Like too much of studies or being into the books may lead to stress, similarly too much of play might also lead to stress. So our very own Rajasthan Royals team took off for a trip into the wild.

The Rajasthan Royals team boarded for Ranthambore in the luxury train – heritage Palace on Wheels. Some of the players which captured our attention were Rajasthan Royals’ captain Ajinkya Rahane, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jofra Archer, Krishnappa Gowtham. Ranthambore known to be home a large number of tigers in Rajasthan, it seemed that the tigers were too excited to watch the players. The team visited the Ranthambore National Park for safari in gypsies to catch hold of a sight of tigers.

 

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.

After NTCA’s objection, Ranthambore and Sariska Wildlife Parks to remain closed for Monsoon.

We were happier after the recent announcement of the opening of Wildlife reserves and parks to be opened for Monsoon, But after NTCA’s objection, Rajasthan Forest Department has taken its previous orders back and decided to close the reserves.

All the three tiger reserves of Rajasthan — Ranthambhore, Sariska and Mukandara — will be closed this year during monsoon. According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the Rajasthan Forest Department has dropped its orders to keep the parks open during monsoon, as it is the breeding period of wild animals, especially the tigers, and also because of safety concerns for visitors.

Although, there is still some hope of tiger sighting as five of ten zones remain open during monsoon where tourism continues unabated. One zone of Sariska also remains opened for tourism during monsoon.

 

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ranthambore for Wildlife Safari in Summers!

 

Summer season is here again in its full bloom and the first thing that hits our mind about summers is the sweltering heat. Well, for the wildlife freaks there isn’t any better time to get into the lush forest of Ranthambore National Park. It is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, which is about 130 km from Jaipur.

Read to know the reasons why we are suggesting Summers as the best time  for Ranthambhore-

1. One of the best place to see Feline Wonders- Yes, Ranthambhore Forest is one such place that has maximum tiger density when compared to any other tiger reserve of the country. The number of tigers increased to 60 in 2016. There are 10 zones in the national park and each zone has marked territories for several tigers. It is believed that zones 1 to 5 are the best places for spotting tigers. The remaining zones have lesser sightings for tigers.

Tigress T-60 with her cub, Ranthambhore, June 16.

 

2. Chances of sightings not so rare-  As the deciduous forest is at its driest state, chances of sighting grows manifolds. Your eyes can wander through the wide dried jungle giving you far better chance to see the feline wonder even from a distance which is not the case in winters when the jungle is lush green. When the hot and blazing sun dries up all the water bodies in the forests, it becomes easier to see denizens of the wild who are forced to quench their thirst at these tiny oases left in this dry season of the year.

Tigress T-17, May 2012

3. Varied Habitat- Apart from that the great Landscape of Ranthambore is a sight to behold in itself; it is evident that Ranthambore is the only place which has ravines, lakes, vast fields, small plateaus and valleys, hilltops, rugged land all at one place. Besides the presence of historical ravines, the great Ranthambore Fort within the National Park makes up for a terrific backdrop for photography.

4. Glimpse near the water body– Birds and animals of the park appear panting and their usual movements become soporific as they spend most of their time in the shade of survived trees, which are left around perennial waterholes. This state of the deciduous forest in dry season creates a perfect condition for observing wildlife with the maximum chances of sightings because all the wildlife creatures will eventually pay a visit to have water; you just have to wait patiently around the water bodies.

 

The most amazing thing is this formation of several water belts in Ranthambore National Park.  No matter how grilling the sun is, if you really wish to see the tigers then these are the spots you should drive to.

 

Another interesting advantage of visiting Ranthambore National Park in summer is the increasing alarm-calls or distress-calls emitted by langurs, when they see a predator. This helps in getting the direction as where to drive for tiger sighting. And without the benefit of covering grasses the tigers can be easily sighted, as the dry and sparse vegetation during summers is conducive for a clear glimpse into the heart of the jungle.

 

5. The Vintage Backdrop- Ranthambhore National Park carries with it decades of history. Witnessing the grandeur of majestic tiger against the glory of bygone era can not be experienced anywhere else as in its premises stands many archaeological remnant.

So the next time if you are wondering what could be the best time to visit Ranthambore, don’t allow the prospect of soaring temperature to divert your plans. We bet it is summer with its equivalent heat for sure, which is the coolest time to visit Ranthambore National Park.

Ranthambore Festival- a melange of international- local music, art and wildlife at Nahargarh Palace in Rajasthan!

 

The first long weekend of New Year calls for some exciting adventure or unforgettable holiday experience! Imagine if you could get it all in one package? Give a thought to this kind of weekend which is filled with the strains of folk music, majestic performances by music and dance luminaries, an open-air wildlife film festival on a giant screen, tiger safaris, and fantastic interactive talks on conservation success stories by wildlife conservationists, music workshops, yoga & meditation camps!!!  All this will be experienced in the stunning Nahargarh Palace amid Ranthambore Forest. January 27-29 2017. it’s  a long weekend  and now you know what to do.

The Ranthambore Festival hosted by Alsisar Hotels-  Nahargarh Palace is a not-for-profit cultural showcase to bring together nature and music lovers, international and Indian musical luminaries, nature and wildlife conservationists, business thought leaders, and social influencers to consolidate and supercharge the music and nature conservation effort and influence a wide audience towards action. There’ll be much more than the music and talks..

Heritage Walk

In collaboration with Pause and Effect, the Ranthambore Festival will conduct heritage walks to unveil the history and hidden treasures of the environs surrounding us.The walk, guided by locals, will start at Nahargarh Palace and culminate at UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ranthambore Fort will educating festival-goers about the legends & legacies of the region.

Wildlife Film Festival

If the Jungle  safaris in Ranthambore National Park are too close for your comfort, you can visit the outdoor film festival to view the secret lives of animals through the lenses of wildlife filmmakers from around the country.

The Main Stage

Nestled in the forests of Ranthambore lies Nahargarh, the magnificent royal palace of Alsisars, this is the venue for Ranthambore Festival. The beautiful halls, courtyards, terraces, avenues and the newly constructed Hathi Kund at Nahargarh will be completely transformed on the republic day weekend of 2017 as it plays host to a festival.

Within the ramparts of Nahargarh Palace lies its crown jewel, Hanthikund, where the Ranthambore festival’s headlining performers will take the spotlight. Built in the style of traditional step-wells that date back to 200 AD, the BookASmile Hanthikund main stage promises an unforgettable cultural experience under the stars.

Registrations are now Live on Bookmyshow ! Their residential and non residential all-access passes are now available at early bird prices, and you can book them here: https://goo.gl/9TPFcn
Since the Nahargarh Palace has limited rooms available, it is recommended that you book early to avoid disappointment.

There are several routes to Nahargarh Palace, Ranthambore, and they’re all as convenient as they are scenic. Here’s some help choosing your best option to reach the festival.

 

Wildlife Safari to begin this week in Desert National Park, Jaisalmer

The Golden City of Jaisalmer is popular for the yellow stone buildings giving it a distinctive golden glow. It is a tourist hotspot for its shimmering sand dunes, Sonar Quila (Jaisalmer fort), Tanot Mata temple and traditional Rajasthani architecture. Now the tourism department of the city brings to you an added adventure- A wildlife safari will be introduced at Jaisalmer’s famed Desert National Park this week to allow tourists to enjoy diverse wildlife that exists amid the Thar Desert besides boosting economy.

About the Park

The park is spread in an area of 3,000 sq km and formed of undulating sand dunes, jagged rocks, dense salt lake bottoms and inter-medial areas. Various species of animals such as black buck, chinkara, desert fox and cat, blue bull, desert gerbil, sand grouse and gecko, fringe-toed agama eagles inhabit the park.

Endangered Great Indian Bustard, one of the world’s heaviest flying birds, can also be seen in it. In winter, the park hosts an incredible variety of migratory raptors such Himalayan and Eurasian Griffon Vultures, Eastern Imperial Eagle and Saker Falcon. The safari at the park will add another feather to the Jaislamer trip’s cap.

About the Safari

A 12-km trail has been identified and tourists will be accompanied by registered guides. The vehicles used for safari were registered with the forest department and no other vehicles would be allowed inside.

If the initiative works then wildlife safari will also come in itinerary of tourist, which will extend their stay for a day. In addition to this, the move will provide livelihood to local residents as they are involved as guides and vehicles drivers.

Entry Tickets

An Indian tourist will be charged `50 as entry fee and a foreigner `300 along with `1,000 as safari vehicle fare.

 

 

Monsoon brings an end to the safari season in wildlife sanctuaries

With the monsoon season approaching, comes a disappointing news for all safari lovers, photographers  and travelers. The season for safari in wildlife sanctuary will be closing on 30th June 2016 and is expected to remain closed till 30th September 2016. The safaris and reserves of Rajasthan include Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keolado National Park, Darrah Sanctuary, Sajjangarh Santuary, Kumbalgarh Sanctuary, Desert national Park, Mount Abu Sanctuary, SitaMata Sanctuary and Tal Chapper Sanctuary.

There are various safety reasons due to which the safaris in the sanctuaries of Rajasthan  remains closed during this time. One of them being heavy rainfall due to which the tracks lose its shape and the water collects which may shoot up the chances of accidents.  

 

The other reason is that this is the breeding season for many animals. It is optimal for the survival of the young in terms of factors such as ambient temperature, water and food availability and also behavioral changes in many animals. Related interests and behaviors are expressed and accepted during this period.

Also, the growth in flora and fauna hikes up vegetation covers which spreads over the roads and tracks increasing the chances of attacks by wild animals and also the poisonous plants that grow alongside that may harm the visitors. Hence, for your safety, it will remain closed this season.

But , hey, don’t be disappointed. Rajasthan provides a wide scape for tourism. Those who want to travel must not cancel their plans due to this reason. Rajasthan welcomes you all with open hearts and wide arms. It’s a state that offers immense opportunities of exploring various cities, heritage sites, and culture . It’s the perfect time to  explore all that while the sanctuaries remains closed.

For more details about the places you can discover in Rajasthan, please wait until the next blog comes up!

Khamma Ghani! 🙂

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.