Monsoon Palace - It Was Built Basically To Watch The Monsoon Clouds

MONSOON PALACE

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UDAIPUR

The Monsoon Palace, formerly known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, is a hilltop palatial residence in the Udaipur city. It is named as Sajjangarh after Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874–1884) of the Mewar Dynasty, who built Sajjangarh Fort in 1884. It offers a panoramic view of the city's lakes, palaces and surrounding countryside. It was built basically to watch the monsoon clouds; hence, appropriately, it is popularly known as Monsoon Palace. The Monsoon Palace provides a beautiful view of the sunset. High in the Aravalli Hills, just outside Udaipur, the Palace is illuminated in the evenings, giving a glow of golden orange. 

Sajjangarh is a hilltop palatial residence in the city of Udaipur, which is often referred to as the 'Monsoon Palace'. It derives its name from Maharana Sajjan Singh (1874–1884) of the Mewar Dynasty, who was responsible for its construction. Built in 1884, the palace is located in the Aravalli Hills, just outside Udaipur. The aim behind the construction of the palace was to watch the monsoon clouds.

Appropriately known as the Monsoon Palace, it is believed that the Maharana built it at the top of the hill to get a view of his ancestral home of Chittorgarh. Reflecting the history of the Mewar Kingdom, the palace is located on Bansdara Peak of the Aravalli range, at an elevation of 944 metres. Built with white marble, the palace overlooks the Pichola Lake and provides beautiful views of the palaces and surrounding countryside.

The nine storey complex aimed to serve as an astronomical centre. From the palace, the Maharana planned to keep a track of the movement of monsoon clouds in the area surrounding the palace, and also to provide employment to people.

In addition to these, the palatial complex was also supposed to serve as a resort for the royal family. Owing to his untimely death, the construction of the palace was completed by his successor Maharana Fateh Singh, who used it to watch the monsoon clouds.

For the Royal Family, the palace also served as a hunting lodge. Built on marble pillars, the palace has high turrets and guards regulating each of the towers, along with a central court, a staircase and many rooms and quarters.

The pillars that support the palace have been carved with exquisite motifs of leaves and flowers. In the precincts of the palace, a unique water harvesting structure exists to collect rainwater in an underground cistern. Lime mortar has been used to plaster the walls of the palace.  

By Air

The nearest airport in Udaipur is called the Maharana Pratap Airport which is situated about 20 kilometres away from the city center. It is well-connected by air to all major cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Jaipur. Some of the popular airlines that have daily flights to and from Udaipur are Jet Airways, Indian Airlines, Air Deccan, and Kingfisher Airlines. 

Once you reach at the airport, you can hire cabs or book pre-paid taxis that are easily available for travelling between the airport and the city.

By Train

Udaipur lies on a vast network of rail that connects it to major cities in India such as Jaipur, Delhi, Kolkata, Indore, Mumbai and Kota. Some of the popular trains that run daily are Mewar Express, Gwalior-Udaipur Express, Bandra-Udaipur SF Express, Chetak Express and Annanya Expres. In fact, the famous and luxurious Palace of Wheels also makes a scheduled stop in Udaipur.

Once you reach the station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw depending on where do you want to get down in the city. The fare will depend on the number of kilometers covered.

By Bus

There is a very well-established bus service network to Udaipur, linking it to several cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Indore, Kota and Ahmedabad, among others. There are a number of options when it comes to travelling by bus. These include deluxe buses, air-conditioned coaches and State-run transport.

Ana Sagar Lake - It Is Surrounded By Two Popular Attractions Of Ajmer

ANA SAGAR LAKE

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AJMER

Ana sagar Lake was founded by the grandfather of Prithivi Raj Chauhan, King Anaji Chauhan between 1135 -1150 AD, Ana Sagar Lake is an artificial lake. It is one of Ajmer’s most popular lakes and one of India’s largest lakes. Named after its founder, the lake was founded during the 12th century, after a dam was built across Luni River. Ana Sagar Lake is surrounded by Daulat Bagh Gardens and Khobra Behroon temple, two popular attractions of Ajmer.

The best time to visit Ana Sagar Lake is between October and March when the climate is pleasant and the water level is full. The lake dries up in the summer season.

Ana Sagar lake is around 13 km from the main city of Ajmer. You can also spot an island in the middle of the lake. Indulge in water scooter ride or boating here.

There is also an island in the center of the lake. Boat or water scooter could be hired from the east side of the Dault Bagh to easily reach the island. The lake gets dry every summer. A circuit house is there on a hill near the lake that used to be British Residency. This beautiful lake of the 12th century is highly attracted by a large number of tourists every year.

The Ana Sagar Lake is just 1.8 km away from Ajmer railway station. Tourists who are interesting to visit this historic lake can hire a rickshaw or cab or even take a walk to reach the destination.

By Air

Ajmer also boasts a great connectivity through air. The nearest airport is only 135 kilometers away from the city

By Train

Ajmer is easily accessed by train. The main line passes through the city. The main line connects the city to Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Most of the trains stop at Ajmer station. In fact, you can board the super fast train Shatabdi Express from Delhi to Ajmer.

By Road

Ajmer is well connected by roads to a number of major cities. Reaching Ajmer from Delhi will take 9 hours. Moreover, it is also well connected to a number of other cities like Aligarh, Agra, Jaipur, Bikaner, Bharatpur, Barmer, Jodhour, Aligarh, Mount Abu, Jaisalmer etc. A number of buses and taxis ply on this route to connect the city with the various cities. The city bus service, operating between Ajmer and Pushkar is one of the most popular modes of transport. Other popular modes of transport are tongas, cycle-rickshaws, auto rickshaws are other popular modes of transport.

Experience The Royal Life Of The Maharajas

PALACE ON WHEELS

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR

Rajasthan is a magnificent land of numerous kingdoms, majestic forts and palaces, diverse cultures, varied landscapes and vibrant colours. The best way to experience this royal land is with the Palace on Wheels. It stands on its tracks, a gleaming sealed carriage, the personification of regal.

The train chugs out of Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi on a week-long run through Rajasthan every Wednesday night. The trip includes a visit to Agra and the Taj Mahal. Turban-wearing attendants take over from the moment you arrive at the platform, assigning you your cars and detailing all the facilities that are on board. The train moves by night and arrives each morning at a new destination where novel experiences await you.

The week-long tour also includes special culture shows arranged at some of the cities. If you're looking for souvenirs, our guides will direct you to government-approved shops.

FACILITIES

There are 14 saloons in total, each equipped with four twin-bedded chambers with attached baths that have running hot and cold water and showers. All modern amenities have been thoughtfully provided: sofas to sink into, strategically placed lights to read by, wonderfully appointed beds with comfortable furnishings, inbuilt wardrobes, and massive plain glass windows to watch the countryside roll by.

Each coach also has a common seating lounge where passengers can get together to enjoy a quiet cup of tea and watch cities as they pass. An attached pantry with each saloon provides refreshments on demand.

There is the comfortable bar-cum-lounge where you can relax over your favourite drink, burrow in a book or converse with fellow passengers. Attached to it are two restaurant cars, Maharaja and Maharani. Accompanying chefs can whip up a delicious Indian meal, including Rajasthani food, or Continental and Chinese cuisines.

Indulge your sense in the well-equipped royal spa that offers various massages, therapies and revitalising solutions amidst a majestic ambience.

Special assistance, in the form of wheel chairs, crèches and an attendant are available for disabled individuals.

BOOK NOW

JOURNEY

Palace On Wheels

The Palace on Wheels is one of the world's most exciting rail journeys. Everything that you would need on this journey is taken care of. All you need to do is soak in the colours and experience the royal life of the Maharajas.

The tour starts at Delhi and comes back to the city after passing through (in order) Jaipur-Sawai Madhopur-Chittorgarh-Udaipur-Jaisalmer-Jodhpur-Bharatpur-Agra.

Pushkar Lake – Asia’s Prevalent Camel Fair Originates Every Year (October-November) In This Place

PUSHKAR LAKE

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AJMER

Pushkar Lake is located in the holy city of Pushkar in Ajmer district of Rajasthan. The lake is related to the mythology of Lord Brahma. The scenic lake of Pushkar is situated in a valley about 10 kms to the northwest of Ajmer. Pushkar Lake is enclosed by hills and desert. Pushkar Lake is one of the most holy place for Hindus.

There are about 52 Ghats and 400 temples in Pushkar which are situated on the banks of the Pushkar Lake. It is considered that the famed waters of the Pushkar wash away the sins of whole life.

Pilgrims from all over come to take bath in the holy waters of Pushkar on the day of Kartik Purnima or on any of the four days before the day of Kartik Purnima and also worship at the Ghats. The spiritual water of the Lake is also considered to treat skin diseases, making Pushkar "the Lourdes of the East".

The history of Pushkar Lake dates back to 4th century BC. The creation of Pushkar Lake, as an artificial lake goes back to12th century. In 1615–16, the Mughal emperor Jahangir set up his hunting lodge on the shores of the Pushkar Lake. He came to this lodge for hunting when he was staying in Ajmer, about 20 kilometres from Pushkar.

This act breaks the local custom of in which animals are not to be killed in the areas of the holy lake. Later, grandson of Jahangir named Aurangzeb (1618–1707) destroyed some of the temples of the pushkar which were built again afterwards. The Rajput rulers of Amber, Bundi, Bikaner and Jaisalmer put their maximum efforts to re-establish the significance of the lake and its nearby temples.

Ghats of the Pushkar Lake are also renovated and also temples are built around it by various rulers like Maharaja Man Singh I of Amber, Daulat Rao Scindia, Maha Rana Pratap etc.

There are about 52 ghats at the lake which is used by pilgrims to take bath. But 10 of fiftytwo ghats are most famous and are important historical architecture too. These are the Varaha Ghat, the Dadhich Ghat, Saptarishi Ghats, Gwalior Ghat, Kota Ghat, Gau ghat, Yag Ghat, Jaipur Ghat, Karni Ghat and Gangaur Ghat.

Pushkar Camel Fair is Asia’s largest camel fair which commences on Prabodhini Ekadashi, the 11th lunar day in the bright fortnight and ends on Kartik Poornima – the full Moon day in the month of Kartik (October– November) . The lake becomes too crowded during this time as it is said that taking bath on Kartik Poornima is very blissful and wash away all you sins.

By Air

Pushkar Lake can be reach through nearest Jaipur Airport (148 Km) which is well connected with regular domestic flights to Delhi, Mumbai.

By Train

Pushkar Lake is well connected through nearest Ajmer Railway station (      15 km) to major cities railway stations like Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Chennai, Ajmer, Pali, Jaipur, Ahmedabad.

By Bus

Pushkar Lake is located at the centre of Pushkar city. One can easily reach here by hiring taxi or bus from Ajmer.

Udaipur City Palace – It Is Largest Attractive Palace And Built Only In Sandstone And Granite

CITY PALACE

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UDAIPUR

Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan state of India and located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur and often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Initially, Maharana Udai Singh built this superb wonder, but the present form of the Palace is the result of subsequent additions by his successors.

City Palace boasts of the wonderful blend of Medieval, European and Chinese Architecture. The Palace has various towers, domes and arches, which add to the flavor of heritage site. Towering on the banks of Pichola Lake, City Palace is truly a feast to the eyes. City Palace is a marvelous assortment of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. Encircled by fortifications, this imposing Palace is wholly built in granite and marble.

City Palace has several gates that are known as "Pols". 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate) is the main gate to the City Palace complex that will take you to the first courtyard. On passing 'Bara Pol', you will come across a triple arched gate, which is known as 'Tripolia'. Between these two gates, you would see eight marble arches or Toranas, where Kings used to weigh themselves with gold and silver. Besides Tripolia, there is an arena where elephant fights were staged. Across 'Tripolia', you would enter the 'Elephant Gate' or the 'Hathi Pol'.

City Palace comprises 11 wonderful palaces, which were built by different rulers still they resemble each other. With the sheer glimpse of unique paintings, antique furniture and exquisite glass mirror & ornamental tiles work of these palaces, you will get amazed. Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace) has figures of crystal and porcelain. However, Bhim Vilas flaunts a fabulous collection of miniature paintings depicting the real life stories of Radha-Krishna.

The 'Krishna Vilas' is known for the noteworthy album of miniature paintings portraying royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) is celebrated for its lavish decor while Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors) is known for its breathtaking mirror work. 'Chini Chitrashala' is renowned for its Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles. 'Dilkusha Mahal' (Palace of Joy) is known for the murals and wall paintings.

Bada Mahal is the exotic garden palace that stands erect on a 90 feet high natural rock formation. Rang Bhawan is the palace that used to contain royal treasure. There are temples of Lord Krishna, Meera Bai and Shiva, located right to the 'Rang Bhawan'. 'Mor Chowk' has exceptional glass mosaics of peacocks, set in the walls presenting the three seasons of summer, winter and monsoon. 'Laxmi Vilas Chowk' is an art gallery with a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings.

Situated in the premises of City Place complex, Jagdish Temple is the biggest and most beautiful temple of Udaipur. This temple Appeals to the aesthetic sense of the people and we will further discuss it in our other section. You can also trace a Shrine of Dhuni Mata in the complex of City Palace. This part is considered as the oldest part of the Palace where a sage passed his life meditating here.

In 1974, a part of the City Palace and the 'Zenana Mahal' (Ladies Chamber) have been transformed into a museum. The museum is open for public and we have discussed it in our other section about museums. One can locate some striking paintings in the 'Zenana Mahal' which further leads to Lakshmi Chowk. 'Lakshmi Chowk' is a beautiful white pavilion. In City palace, the most captivating sight can be viewed from the towers and terraces of 'Amar Vilas' from where you can get a breathtaking view of Lake Pichola.

'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of this Palace and has wonderful hanging gardens with fountains, towers and terraces. City Palace is structured in a way that it offers a splendid view of the lake from all its Balconies, cupolas and towers. Unlike the craggy exterior, City Palace has amazing interiors with delicate mirror-work, marble work, murals, wall paintings, silver work, inlay work and surplus of colored glass. The exquisite work of City Palace cannot be bounded in words, so one must visit this palace to capture the real picture of it.

By Air

Udaipur Airport namely Maharana Pratap Airport is located near Dabok at a distance of 22 kms from the city of Udaipur. Many domestic airlines connect the city to all the major cities of India including Jaipur, Mumbai, Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. Regular air services are available for Delhi and Mumbai.

By Rail

Udaipur Railway Station is located at a comfortable distance from the city of Udaipur. Rajasthan Railways connects Udaipur station with all the other cities of Rajasthan as well as India. There are frequent trains which run to and from Udaipur connecting Jaipur, Mumbai and Delhi. One can also travel to this beautiful city by the luxurious Palace on Wheels.

By Road

Udaipur is well connected by road to major cities in India. Brilliant road network ensure people to enjoy a relaxed journey to and from Udaipur. This mode of commuting is quite easy and economical. Udaipur Bus Stand has regular bus services, connecting Udaipur with nearby cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Chittorgarh, Indore, Kota, Ajmer, Ahmedabad and Mt. Abu. Rajasthan Roadways provides the facility of Deluxe Buses and AC coaches for the convenience of passengers. One can also hire taxis and cars to reach Udaipur by road.

Jaigarh Fort – It Provides A Glorious View Of The Amer Surroundings

JAIGARH FORT

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JAIPUR

The Jaigarh Fort is conveniently located at Amber, which is roughly 14 km from the centre of the city of Jaipur.The Jaigarh Fort is a majestic stronghold built by Sawan Jai Singh II. 

This almost-intact fort is surrounded by huge battlements and is connected to the Amer Fort (also called 'Amber' Fort), with subterranean passages. Originally built to protect the Amer Fort and the palace within the complex, the Jaigarh Fort is architecturally similar to the Amer Fort, and offers a panoramic view of the city of Jaipur.

The fort houses the world's largest cannon on wheels, a majestic palace complex and the assembly hall of the warriors known as 'Shubhat Niwas' along with a museum and an armory. Apart from the intricate architecture of the fort, the fort was also renowned for a huge treasure that was believed to be buried under the fort.

It is now said that the government of Rajasthan seized the treasure when it was discovered in the 1970s. The Jaigarh Fort was built to secure Jaipur City and the Amer fort from warlords and rivals.

The fort is built with thick walls of red sandstone and is spread over a vast range of 3 kilometers in length, with a width of one kilometer. The fort houses the world's greatest cannon on wheels known as the 'Jaivana Cannon' and a huge palace complex.

This includes the Laxmi Vilas, Lalit Mandir, Aram Mandir and the Vilas Mandir. The fort has a well-tended garden which can be viewed by tourists even today along with an armory and a museum.

Jaigarh Fort has a rich history behind it. During the Mughal period, Jaigarh Fort, located 150 miles away from the capital, became one of the main cannon foundries due to abundance of arms and ammunition there.

It was also a storage place for arms, ammunition and other important requirements of war. It was looked after by Dara Shikoh, but when he was defeated by Aurangzeb, the fort came under the rule of Jai Singh, who renovated and refurbished it. One interesting story goes with the history of the fort. According to folklore, the rulers buried a huge treasure in the soil of the Fort. However, the treasure was never recovered.

Jaigarh Fort may be reached from Jaipur at ease by road. One may take a taxi or cab, and even frequent buses run by Rajasthan Road Transport Corporation are available. The buses are well-furnished, with comfortable seats and air conditioning. One may also take an auto-rickshaw, which will charge not less than Rs. 500. Sometimes, tourists opt for one of the several packages offered by the travel guides, which includes a whole-day excursion to all the three forts nearby: the Jaigarh Fort, the Nahargarh fort and the Amber Fort.

Jag Mandir – Visitors Are Welcomed By Eight Royal Elephants

JAG MANDIR PALACE

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UDAIPUR

Jag Mandir is situated on an island in the Picalo Lake of Udaipur city in the Rajasthan state of India.It was constructed by Maharana Karan Singh as a hideout for Prince Khurram the estranged son of Emperor Jehangir the implacable foe of the Maharana. The reason for the aid was that the prince was the son of a Rajput mother.

It is also said that Shah Jahan [prince Khurram] derived some of these ideas for the Taj Mahal from this palace when he stayed there in 1623-24. The island has some striking carving including a row of elephants that looks as though they are guarding the island. The exquisitely carved chhatri in grey and blue stone is another example. 

Jag Mandir is built on an island and a charming little boat ride is required in order to reach this magnificent palace, also known as Lake Garden Palace. Visitors are greeted by eight majestic elephants, carved in stone, adorning the entrance.

Once you walk onto the grounds of the Jag Mandir, the lush garden is a sight for sore eyes; Fountains and tiny water pools, rich flower beds and a large patch of greenery welcome visitors to the royal grounds. These grounds are also used for concerts and shows. Remember to check with the hotel whether something is on for when you plan to visit.

Maharana Jagat Singh who made a number of additions to it later renovated the place. Within the palace was the temple dedicated to the Lord Jagdish and hence the name is derived from that. There is a museum detailing the history of the island as well and the neat courtyards.

For those wanting to enjoy a blissful romantic evening out, take to Jag Mandir in the evening. The Darikhana restaurant at Jag Mandir plays host to a splendid evening of romance. Dining here is on the exclusive side, and a minimum spend is required. For those only in the mood for some drinks, there is a bar, which also caters to the shisha crowd.  Jag Mandir truly is majestic, and for all you Bollywood fans; Darikhana was the very place where renowned Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon got married.

By Air

Indian Airlines daily connects Udaipur with Jodhpur, Jaipur, Aurangabad, Mumbai and Delhi, Maharana Pratap Airport, 28 kms.

By Train

The Railway Station is about 2 Km. from the city centre. Udaipur is directly connected by rail with Delhi, Jaipur, Ajmer, Chittaur, Jodhpur and Ahmedabad. 

By Bus

Udaipur is connected by National Highway No. 8, the major road link between Mumbai and Delhi. The Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh Road Transport Corporation operate buses to Udaipur from various regions. Private bus companies also operate in the region during night hours. The State Transport Bus Stand is on City Station Road, NH 8, Udaipur.

Dramatic Alila Fort Bishangarh To Welcome Guests From February 2017

OPENING IN FEBRUARY 2017

Located at Bishangarh Village in the Jaipur District, barely 6 km off the Delhi-Jaipur National Highway, Alila Fort Bishangarh is easily accessible from both Delhi and Jaipur. It is 180 km (3 hours) from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi while it is only 55 km (1 hour) from Jaipur Airport. 

The drive to Amber Fort at Jaipur is only 45 minutes away and Bishangarh is a good base to explore Jaipur’s innumerable tourist attractions.

Alila to reopen 230-year-old fort in Rajasthan

Alila has unveiled a dramatic new hotel in India, set in a 230-year-old fort in Rajasthan.

Scheduled to welcome its first guests in February 2017, Alila Fort Bishangarh will be positioned on a peak in the Aravalli hills, with 360-degree views of the Rajasthani landscape. The building is surrounded by original two-metre thick stone walls with turrets.

Once inside, the luxury hotel will feature just 59 suites, all with large openable windows, bathtubs and day beds. There are four suite categories and 22 different layouts.

F&B options at the hotel include an indoor restaurant, outdoor grill, a lounge and a bar with a “cigar and cognac turret”, while other facilities include a spa, a large banqueting hall and a conference room.

Outside the hotel walls, at the bottom of the hill, lie banqueting lawns, a swimming pool and terrace, another bar, a fitness centre, children’s clubs and an organic garden.

“The quest in the preservation of this ancient warrior fort inspired the creation of a world-class boutique resort for guests to appreciate the beauty of the Aravalli hills,” Alila said in a statement. “The project grew out of a love for the heritage of the building and the surrounding landscape, with sustainability as a core commitment.

“The original fort has been left intact and much care has been given to the reconstruction of new residential areas to ensure it is everything a modern-day Maharaja or Maharani could wish for and more,” it added.

Alila Fort Bishangarh will become the company’s second property in India, following the Alila Diwa Goa which opened in 2010.

Dilwara Jain Temple – It Is Encircled By A Tall White Wall Which Prevent From Seeing In The Sunshine

DILWARA JAIN TEMPLE

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MOUNT ABU

Dilwara temple is one of the most beautiful temples in India and it’s definitely the most beautiful Jain temple in the world. Dilwara Temples of Rajasthan are popular for their beautiful artistic work. Located near Mount Abu in Rajasthan, Dilwara Temple is easily accessible from any town or city of Rajasthan.

The Jain Dilwara temple complex is located 2.5 km from the Mount Abu town centre.It is a major sacred pilgrimage site for Jains worldwide and is Mount Abu’s most popular attraction.

Dilwara Temple forms a famous pilgrimage of the followers of Jainism. The striking use of marble, in the construction of this temple, is truly worth-admiring. However, the simple architecture of the temple, reminds one of the virtues of Jainism. Set amidst the picturesque hills, Dilwara temples are said to have built during the 11th and 13th century.

In the huge temple complex, there are five shrines that are dedicated to Lord Adinath, Lord Rishabhdeo, Lord Neminath, Lord Mahavir Swami and Lord Parshvanath respectively.

The temple complex is set in beautiful surroundings of mango trees and wooded hills – a walk around the complex is worth it.The Dilwara temples predates the town of Mount Abu by several centuries and was built when this site was just a remote mountain area.

It is believed that the artisans were paid according to the amount of dust they collected, encouraging them to carve ever more intricately.

Set in beautiful surroundings of mango trees and wooded hills, the Jain Dilwara temple complex is located 2.5 km (miles) from the Mount Abu town centre. Built by Vastupal Tejpal between the 11^th and 13^th centuries AD, these temples are famous worldwide for their superb marble carvings.

The Dilwara temple complex is surrounded by a high white wall which prevent from seeing in the sunlight. The entrance way to the marble temples is opulent.For Jain pilgrims, there is a rest house on the approach road with facilities to bathe and prepare themselves, which is mandatory to perform puja to the idols. 

The approach road is also lined with stalls selling a collection of tourist kitsch lending a carnival atmosphere to the sanctity of the temples. It would be beautiful and serene here except for the noisy tourist guides and visitors that break the sanctity of these magnificent temples.

Dilwara Temples are considered to be an example of perfect architecture, in terms of Jain Temples. The intricately carved ceilings, entryways, pillars and panels highlight the aesthetic appeal of this temple. For its mastery over architecture, Dilwara Temple is sometimes regarded as one of the most stunning pilgrimage sites of Jains.

Mount Abu is a beautiful and one & only hill station of Rajasthan. Several train services are available by Indian Railways for Mount-Abu from different cities. Dilwara Temple lies at a distance of 2.5 kms from Mount Abu. From Mount Abu railway station, many bus services and taxis are available for Dilwara

Diwali Maha Arati Along With A Night Tour Of The Entire Jaipur City.

JAIPUR DIWALI SPECIAL ARATI 

Overview

About the Activity:

Fixed departure: 30th October 2016

Rs.3100/per adult

A festival symbolising the victory of light over darkness or if spiritually saying, good over evil, is celebrated all over India as Diwali. Numerous lights shining in every household, streets, temples and buildings magnify the whole concept of this festival.

Rather, a tribute to the goddess of prosperity and wealth, Lekshmi will be the major part of this festival. This one day tour to the Pink City of Rajasthan, Jaipur will enable you to be a part of the Diwali Maha Arati along with a night tour of the entire city.

Hours long Arati will definitely let you revel in a distinct experience and the tour following it discloses the predominant landmarks of Jaipur decorated with umpteen number of illuminations and diyas.

The package includes food and transportation during the trip.

Itinerary

Day 1 -

At around 05:00 PM, get picked up from your hotel to the location where Diwali Maha Arati happens.

You will be welcomed in a traditional Rajasthani style with Tikka and the indigenous music.

Immediately, you can spot the rows of oil lamps and multi coloured illuminated decoration.

By 6:30, the Diwali Maha Arati starts, partake to lift your soul spiritually and holistically up.

The events lasts up to 08:00 PM and as everyone knows this particular routine is done as a tribute to the goddess Lekshmi during the time of Diwali.

Spread a new cloth on a raised platform on which you can place a handful of grains at the centre and, on this, place a kalash or pitcher made of gold, silver, copper, or terracotta.

Fill three-fourth of the kalash with water and place a betel nut, a flower, a coin, and some rice grains in it. Arrange five kinds of leaves or mango leaves in the kalash.

Place a small dish on the kalash and fill it with rice grains. Draw a lotus with turmeric powder ( haldi ) over the rice grains and place the idol of goddess Lakshmi over it, along with coins.

Place the idol of Ganesha: In front of the kalash, on the right (South-West direction), place the idol of Ganesha. Also place ink and books related to your business or occupation on the platform.

Light a lamp and begin the puja by offering haldi, kumkum, and flowers to the platform on which the kalash is placed. Then offer haldi, kumkum, and flowers to the water that is to be used for the puja. Invoke the river goddesses to be part of this water.

Reciting the Vedic mantras addressed to her is believed to invoke the goddess.

Place the idol of Lakshmi in a plate and pour water, panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee or clarified butter, honey, and sugar) and then again water containing some gold ornament or a pearl.

Wipe the idol clean and place it back on the kalash. Alternately, you can just sprinkle water and panchamrit on the idol with a flower.

Also, you can offer sandal paste, saffron paste, perfume ( itra ), haldi, kumkum, abeer, and gulal to the goddess.

Offer a garland of cotton beads to the goddess and offer flowers, especially the marigold flowers and leaves of Bel (wood apple tree).

Light an incense stick and dhoop. Make an offering of sweets, coconut, fruits, and tambul. Make an offering of puffed rice and batasha. Pour some puffed rice, batasha, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds over the idol. Safe where you keep money and jewelry; Worship this safe as a symbol of Lord Kuber.

At last, it is time to perform the aarti for goddess Lakshmi. It should be accompanied only by a small bell. Do not clap hands, as is the practice when performing aarti for other gods.

From 8.00 PM to 9:00 PM, there will be music and fireworks, just enjoy.

Dinner will be served from 9.00 to 11.00 PM

At around 11:00 PM, you will be taken to witness the Pink City night decoration tour covering New Gate, Bari Chopar, outside portion of City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Govind Dev Ji temple.

Then, you will be transferred to your hotel by 12:30 PM and the tour ends here.

Meal - Pure vegetarian dinner

Activity - Diwali Maha Arati, City sightseeing tour

Other Inclusions - Rajasthani style welcome, Music and firework show

Transport

Pick up and drop off at your hotel - Transportation for Pink City night tour

Things To Carry - Comfortable footwear, Warm clothes, Camera.

Advisory - The child's price is applicable for children between the age of 6 and 11.

Tour Type - This is a group tour

Cancellation Policy

 If any cancellations are made before the start date of the trip, 100% of booking value will be charged as cancellation fees.

 In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain activities may be cancelled and in such cases the operator will try his best to provide an alternate feasible activity. However no refund will be provided for the same.

Refund Policy - No refund applicable for this tour.

Confirmation Policy - The customer receives a confirmation voucher via email within 15 minutes of successful booking.

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Some Festive Reasons Are Enormous For Travelling to Rajasthan In October

some festive reasons why you must travel to Rajasthan in October

This is a great time to travel to the state of forts and palaces. Not only because the heat is slowly drifting away, but also because the skies are clear and the views are majestic. The sun shines happily over the age-old bricks and stones, while the festive season makes the colourful state rejoice in full glory.

You see, Rajasthan is not only about history. It is about culture. It is about ancient traditions. And it is about celebrating life in its purest form. That's what happens when the state of Rajasthan celebrates for the entire month of October in the form of various festivals.

Here are the four festivals for which you must travel to Rajasthan:

Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF), Jodhpur
When: October 13-17 

If Jodhpur's Mehrangarh Fort is beautiful, then the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) makes it more magnificent. This is one festival which receives an audience that stretches its arms far and wide to many parts of the world. Reason? Soulful Rajasthani folk music, like you have never heard before. Held at various venues within the Mehrangarh Fort every year, this music festival is championed by the Jodhpur's erstwhile Maharaja Gaj Singh II and The Rolling Stones' frontman Mick. This year's edition of the festival will see the participation of as many as 250 musicians performances by sarangi player Lakha Khan Manganiyar, Scottish saxophonist Brian Molley and his jazz quartet, and Greek lyra players Ross Daly and Kelly Thoma. The performances held during these five days start at dawn with the first rays of the sun lighting up the fort and last right upto the night, when the fort's walls gleam in the moonlight.

Adventure Festival, Kota
When: October 15-17

When you are done admiring the breathtaking landscape around the Chambal river in Kota, you can take part in the Adventure Festival that the place host every year. As the name suggests, the festival is dedicated to a melange of adventure activities including parasailing, rafting, wind surfing, water skiing, kayaking, rock climbing, gliding, trekking, angling and rural excursions.

Marwar Festival, Jodhpur
When: October 15-16 

One of the most popular annual festivals of Jodhpur, the Marwar Festival, formerly known as the Maand Festival, is held in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan--the erstwhile rulers of the state. The biggest thing that attracts travellers to this festival is the folk music and the folk dance to go along with it. These songs, dances and the entire revelry is dedicated to the romantic lifestyle of Rajasthan's rulers. The music and dance of the Marwar region is the main theme of this festival. The festival is held is places like the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the Mandore Gardens, and the Mehrangarh Fort.

Dussehra Mela, Kota
When: October 15-17

Living in big towns and cities, we hardly get to enjoy the real fervour of Dussehra. But the Dussehra Mela held in Kota is an amazing way to go back to our roots and take part in celebrating Dussehra the traditional way. Apart from the Ramlila that is held here every year, a close to 75-foot-tall cracker-stuffed effigy of Ravana, along with his brother Kumbhkarana and his son Meghnadh, are set to fire. Held on the same venue is a traditional mela where you can go shopping and enjoy street food as well.