So you've decided to embark on an exciting journey to discover the wonders of Rajasthan. Smart choice. As one of India's most colourful and culturally rich states, Rajasthan offers a glimpse into the heart of India. From Jaipur City Tour to Jodhpur's blue city, a trip to Rajasthan is a feast for the senses. And what better way to experience all the state has to offer than with one of the many Rajasthan tour packages? Whether you want to ride camels through rolling dunes, explore ancient forts and palaces, shop colourful bazaars, or dine on delicious curries, a Rajasthan tour packages has something for every taste. Get ready to be dazzled by the golden Thar desert, vibrant festivals, and warm Rajasthani hospitality. Adventure awaits in Rajasthan, so pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable Indian getaway. The desert is calling.
Exploring the Pink City on a Jaipur City Tour
A Jaipur City Tour is only complete with exploring the Pink City. This historic part of town is named for the rose-coloured sandstone used in many of its buildings. You'll want to spend at least a day taking it all in.
Begin at the City Palace, a sprawling royal complex still home to Jaipur City Tour with family today. Inside are museums housing rare manuscripts, weapons, and the world's most enormous silver urn. Just outside, the Palace of Winds, or Hawa Mahal, features 953 windows - perfect for the royal court ladies to gaze upon the city below without being seen.
Jantar Mantar observatory lets you experience the world's largest stone sundial, and other astronomical instruments used centuries ago. The 18th-century UNESCO World Heritage site is an architectural and scientific masterpiece.
For a glimpse of local life, wander the bustling markets and bazaars. Johari Bazaar sells dazzling gemstones, handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani textiles. Just be prepared to haggle - it's all part of the experience!
Amber Fort, the former capital of the Kachwaha clan, should be noticed. Perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of a lake below, the elegant palace complex is a prime example of Rajput architecture. Arrive early, and you may spot native wildlife on the way up.
A perfect ending to your day is watching the sunset over the city from Nahargarh Fort. The sprawling fort offers a scenic spot for a picnic while you wait for the sky to erupt in a riot of oranges and reds. It is a magical moment you'll remember for years to come.
Camel Treks and Desert Camps in Jaisalmer
Once in Jaisalmer, the best way to experience the desert is on the back of a camel with an overnight stay in a desert camp.
Camel Safaris
Camel treks in the Thar Desert will take you deep into the golden dunes. Riding a camel is a thrill, but watching the sunset over the rippling sand sea is a magical experience you'll never forget. Most treks stop at a desert camp where you'll stay the night, sleeping under the stars.
The following day, wake early to watch the sunrise - a stunning way to start the day. After breakfast, continue your trek or head back to Jaisalmer. Either way, a camel safari in Rajasthan should be on your list.
Luxury Desert Camps
If you want to experience the desert in comfort, stay at one of the luxury desert camps near Jaisalmer. Tents are furnished with plush beds, linens, and decor, giving a taste of nomadic life with modern amenities. Many offer cultural shows, meals, and activities like dune bashing, desert wildlife spotting, and stargazing.
A popular option is The Serai, with 21 luxury tents and an infinity pool overlooking the dunes. For an authentic experience, try Damodra Desert Camp or Prince Desert Camp, with basic yet comfortable tents and delicious home-cooked meals. Waking in a luxury desert camp as the sun rises over golden dunes is a memory you will cherish forever.
Whether primary or luxury, a camel safari and night in a desert camp is the perfect way to experience the captivating beauty of Rajasthan's Thar Desert; add it to Plan your itinerary and prepare for a trip unlike any other.
Discovering the Blue Houses of Jodhpur
A trip to Jodhpur isn't complete without seeing the blue houses that earned it the nickname "Blue City." The oldest part of Jodhpur contains many houses painted in vibrant shades of blue, giving the area a whimsical, storybook feel.
These vivid blue houses are concentrated in the Brahmpuri and Navchokiya neighbourhoods near Mehrangarh Fort. As you wander the narrow lanes, you'll spot indigo-coloured homes at every turn. The blue pigment historically came from indigo, a plant native to India, and was thought to keep houses cool in the hot climate. Today, the blue colour is also considered auspicious.
To get the best views of the blue houses, head to Mehrangarh Fort, which sits atop a hill overlooking Jodhpur. From the ramparts of the 15th-century fort, you can gaze out over the sea of cobalt blue below. The houses appear to cascade down the hillside, a waterfall of vivid colour against the pale stone fort.
To look closer, visit the Brahmpuri neighbourhood just west of the fort. Many of the blue houses have decorative balconies and windows, some adorned with colourful flower pots. The lanes are too narrow for vehicles, so the best way to explore is on foot. As you wander, notice how the shades of blue vary from house to house, from light periwinkle to deep navy.
Book a walking tour if you want to step inside one of these iconic homes. Sometimes, it offers the chance to visit a historic blue house and chat with the local family there. They can share life in this enchanting part of Jodhpur, where living in a blue house is a point of pride.
A stroll through Jodhpur's blue houses is a feast for the senses. The vivid colours, bustling market lanes, and scent of spices will transport you to another time. It's a perfect glimpse into the cultural heritage of Rajasthan, where tradition and beauty go hand in hand.
Safari Excursions to Ranthambore National Park
A safari in Ranthambore National Park should be at the top of your list for any Rajasthan tour packages. Home to tigers, leopards, and over 300 species of birds, the park offers an exciting glimpse into the local wildlife.
Jeep Safaris
The best way to spot wildlife in their natural habitat is on an open-air jeep safari. Jeeps seat up to 6 people and have an elevated viewing platform, giving you a panoramic view of the park. Jeep safaris run in the early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active. As you bounce along the dirt roads, keep your eyes peeled for a tiger emerging from the brush or a leopard lounging in a tree. Your knowledgeable guide can point out paw prints and scat on the ground to track the whereabouts of wildlife.
Canter Safaris
For larger groups, canter safaris are a popular option. Canters are open-air trucks that seat up to 16 people. While less intimate than a jeep safari, canters provide excellent viewing and photo opportunities. Canter safaris follow the same schedule as jeep safaris, venturing in the early morning and late afternoon.
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris are available on select trails if you prefer to explore the park on foot. Walking safaris are limited to small groups and are only offered in the dry season from October to June when the brush is less dense. While tigers and leopards are rarely spotted, you'll have opportunities to see wildlife like sloth bears, hyenas, jungle cats, and numerous bird species up close in their natural environment.
A safari in Ranthambore National Park is a quintessential Indian wildlife experience. Whether bouncing through the jungle in an open-air jeep or venturing down forested trails on foot, you'll glimpse the lives of tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and over 300 species of exotic birds that call this park home. Every Rajasthan tour is complete with a safari excursion into the wild.
Visiting the Magnificent Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur
When exploring the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, you'll get a taste of the grandeur and opulence of Rajasthan's warrior past. This majestic fort sits high on a hilltop, dominating the skyline of Jodhpur, the "Blue City." As one of the largest forts in India, you'll want to devote at least half a day to exploring its palaces, temples, and museum.
The Fort's Imposing Architecture
The fort's thick, red sandstone walls stand over 100 feet high and enclose palaces and courtyards. Seven massive gates lead into the fort, each with sharp iron spikes to deter invaders from elephants. The most impressive is the Jai Pol, or Victory Gate. Once inside, you'll find the fort is, a small city with shops, temples, and living quarters.
The Palaces and Temples
Within the fort walls are several lavish palaces, including the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) and the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), with stained glass windows and mirrored ceilings. The temples feature intricate carvings and paintings. At the Chamunda Mataji temple, you can receive a blessing from the fort's resident elephant.
The Mehrangarh Museum
The Mehrangarh Museum is one of the best in Rajasthan. It houses palanquins, howdahs, paintings, and other artefacts that showcase the rich history of Jodhpur. One of the highlights is the turban gallery, featuring different styles of headgear once worn by Rajasthani men. From the ramparts, you get panoramic views of the city below.
A visit to the Mehrangarh Fort is a highlight of any trip to Jodhpur. Let yourself get lost wandering its many palaces, temples, and ramparts. At every turn, you'll discover something new in this mediaeval Rajasthani kingdom frozen in time. The fort is open every day of the week from 9 am to 5 pm. Admission tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
Conclusion
After exploring the myriad colours of Rajasthan through its vibrant cities, opulent palaces, and golden deserts, you've got an authentic taste of the magical place that is India. The enticing smells of exotic spices, the rhythmic beats of traditional music, and the warm smiles of the locals will forever stay with you. Rajasthan has won you over with its old-world charm and rustic lifestyle that remains unchanged. Though your trip has ended, the memories you've made will last forever. If the stunning pink sunsets and starry nights in the desert left you wanting more, don't worry—Rajasthan's call will draw you back to discover more of its vibrant culture and striking landscapes. This enchanting place has left an indelible mark on your heart.
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