Is it just me or does your next holiday seem a long way in the distance! Now I have heard of a species of humans who ACCRUE annual leave and are even FORCED to take holidays because they have TOO MANY?!?!?! But this is a very strange and foreign concept to me. I’ve always been either in the negative when it comes to annual leave or I can be found on extend unpaid leave. My motto has always been: life is too short to accrue leave!

But sometimes this mandate can place us avid adventurers in a bit of a puzzle. Yes there are years of our lives when we spend all our money gallivanting the globe but there are also, how do I put it… dry spells? You know the years when you undertake a renovation or perhaps you add to your brood or take some time off work and just don’t have the kind of cash flow required to jump on a plane to India.

I still think, life is too short to accrue annual leave and so we need to think and plan creatively! One of the biggest challenges of being grounded in Rajasthan due to lack of funds for international travel is of course the fact that the cost of living here is really high. You can’t just book a last minute weekend away or road trip up Jaisalmer to the Whitsundays, because a) fuel is expensive and b) accommodation is INSANELY expensive. But there are definitely ways to get those holidays feels without breaking the budget and explore some of our own beautiful backyard at the same time. Here are some of my hot tips:

Plan ahead. If you can plan some weekends away outside of peak holiday periods in jaisalmer, you will save a lot of money on accommodation costs and you will have plenty more options to choose from.

Use Rajasthan tour planner. This accommodation and Car rental service has really changed the way I travel. I have used it prolifically throughout Asia and at home in India and it has proved to not only be reliable and reasonable, but it’s a great way to obtain local knowledge of the places you are visiting.

Rajasthan tour planner is a great way to travel for free (you are literally crashing on someone’s “couch” or spare bed). It’s also a great travelling network – you can accrue friends all around the world.

Learn to love roughing it! Camping is such a great way to travel – especially as a family. If you’re not a natural camper, learn to love it! Borrow gear from friends or family so you can have a bit of a trial run before investing in the complete setup. Kids love nothing better than the adventure of camping, so head to the bush or the beach and enjoy connecting with nature and getting back to basics. If you can foster a love of camping in your family when your kids are young, you will set yourself up for easy, fun, cheap, holidays for the rest of your lives! And if you’re not used to roughing it, just choose your destination wisely. Make sure the campground has good facilities like hot water, toilets etc. And what could go wrong?!

Take control of your calendar! We all know how busy life can get. Before you know it the months are taken over with birthday parties, christenings, family gatherings and work events. It might all be fun, but you know what it equates to… months of endless busy weekends where you just can’t get away. For me it’s all about balance and prioritising holiday time. Whether you want to get away with the girls, your partner or your family, take control of your calendar and book out some weekends in advance so it actually happens.

Even if you don’t have any massive international trips on the horizon, there is still something really exciting and rewarding about looking at your calendar and knowing you have a romantic weekend away coming up next month and a camping trip with family the month after that. It’s great to allow for some spontaneity – if the weather is going to be good, why not hit the open road and chase the sun? But remember if you want to make holidaying part of your lifestyle you need to plan ahead and prioritise!

The lively land of Mughal, Rajasthan is one of the beautiful destinations of North India. Presenting majestic ambience to the travelers, the state is best known for its historical structures and sightseeing spots. This cultural, historic state has different things to offer every few miles. One gets to catch appealing monuments, mesmerizing forts, enchanting palaces, tranquil lakes, amazing wildlife destinations, deserts, sand dunes, museums, villages, heritage hotels and a lot more in Rajasthan. These attractions are outstanding and offer best architecture to the viewers. Further, the hospitality one receives in this wonderland is very traditional and simply great.

Almost all the major attractions of Rajasthan lie in the beautiful pink city of the state, Jaipur. This mesmerizing capital city of Rajasthan is a famous travel destination of the world. Featuring attractions like Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Birla temple and Albert Hall museum, Jaipur is the heart and soul of Rajasthan. If you are a history lover then you can start your tour with Hawa Mahal, the gorgeous palace built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The attraction was built to allow royal ladies to observe the outer view, without being noticed. An interesting thing about the attraction is that the architecture and décor of Hawa Mahal resembles the crown of Hindu Lord, Krishna. One should definitely visit this fascinating destination.

Next destination to cover in Rajasthan is Udaipur, ‘the appealing city of lakes’. Also considered as the most romantic city of India, Udaipur features some of the majestic and astounding attractions of the world. Here, one can enjoy attractions like Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Monsoon Palace, Jagdish Temple, Lake Palace, etc. Amongst these, Lake Pichola is the most highlighted destination of Udaipur. This gripping lake shelters two compelling islands, Jag Niwas and the Jag Mandir. Established by Maharana Udai Singh II, the lake is perfect for boating and sightseeing. In the heart of Pichola Lake their lies Lake Palace a beautiful heritage hotel of Udaipur. Well! One must visit these enthralling attractions of Udaipur.

If you want to witness the biggest camel fair of Rajasthan then visit Pushkar as your next travel destination. This intriguing destination holds the annual Pushkar Camel Fair, which includes several competitions like camel race, matka phod, longest moustache, bridal competition, etc. Thousands of travelers from all over the world visit Pushkar to enjoy this interesting event. Additionally, the major highlight of this festival is the buying and selling of livestock and a cricket match, which has recently started between the Pushkar club and a team of random foreign travelers.

Besides these, you can also explore other cities of Rajasthan like Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Jodhpur, etc. Well! Exploring regal attractions via Rajasthan Tours will never fail to lure you. So, plan your Rajasthan tours and enjoy the destination to the fullest.

 Rajasthan is one of the most vibrant and colorful regions of India. It is the largest state of India and has beautiful city Jaipur as the state capital. This regal and imperial state of India is such a fascinating tourism destination in the country where temptation never ends. Tourists have wonderful opportunities to meet with endless temptation of tourism. In this article, I am attempting to put brief information about top five destinations of the state where you can experience best of Rajasthan tourism with excellent tourist facilities. Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer and Bikaner are top five destinations of the state offering tourists truly and complete essence of tours and travels is the regal state of Rajasthan, India.

Jaipur is the capital of the state. Fondly known as the Pink City of India, it never fails to lure tourists and vacationers with its temptation which lies in its forts, palaces, lakes, temples, gardens, fairs & festivals, streets, bazaars and heritage hotels. Worth visit monuments in Jaipur city are Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Gaitore, Statue Circle, Albert Hall Museum, etc. Temple attractions in the city are Govind Dev Ji Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Swami Narayan Temple, Moti Dungri, Galtaji Temple, etc. Worth visit gardens in the city are Vidyadhar Gardens, Kanak Vrindavan Valley, Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, etc. Important fairs & festivals celebrate in the city are Gangaur Festival, Teej Festival, Kite Festival and Elephant Festival. Shopping attractions in the city are handicrafts, camel leather products, artificial jewelry, carpets, etc.

Tourists on Jaipur city tours can make excursions to fascinating destinations like Samode Palace, Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Pushkar, Sariska Tiger Reserve and Ranthambhore National Park. Jaipur is also a destination of golden triangle tours which cover Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Golden triangle tour adds more charm your Rajasthan travel and tourism.

Jodhpur, Bikaner and Jaisalmer lie in the historic desert triangle travel tour of the state. They are also noteworthy cities not only for Rajasthan but also of India. Jaisalmer is situated in the very hearty of Thar Desert and Bikaner and Jaisalmer are located on the edge of the Thar Desert. A well-organized tour in cities of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner; tourists have brilliant opportunity to relish exhilarating camel safari trip and cherish the charm of mind-boggling waves of rippling sand dunes. Junagarh Fort, Havelis, Lalgarh Palace and Camel Breeding Farm & Research Centre are key attractions of Bikaner, the Camel Country. Golden Fort (also called Sonar Kila or Jaisalmer Fort), Jain Temples and Havelis are major attractions of tourism in Jaisalmer, the Golden City of India. Mehrangarh Fort, Fort Museum, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Sardar Market, Balsamand Lake & Palace, Jaswant Thada, Mandore Gardens, etc are very fascinating attractions of city tours in Jodhpur, the Blue City of India and also known as the Sun City. You will surly love to explore fascinating desert triangle on your Rajasthan tours and travels.

Udaipur is one of the most popular attractions of Rajasthan tourism. It is a beautiful city in the state known for lakes, palaces, temples and gardens. Lake Palace, Jag Mandir Palace, City Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, Pratap Memorial, Nagda Temples, Eklingji Temple, Fateh Sagar Lake, Pichola Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Shilpgram, etc are worth visit attractions of city tours in Rajasthan, India.

Jaipur the ‘Pink City of India’ is a land of mind-blowing monuments which showcases the glimpses of royalty of royal dynasties who ruled it for centuries. The historic city Jaipur is the capital city of pulsating Rajasthan which is known worldwide for its magnificent monuments like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Rambagh Palace, Jaigarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort and many more. It is among the most famous Rajasthan Tourist Places where tourists from across the globe flock to experience the customs, traditions, legacy and vibrant festivals of this place. This is one of the popular destinations of Rajasthan Tourism where one can get the glimpses of bygone raj culture. Some of the popular attractions of this place are:

Hawa Mahal:

This pyramid-shaped five storied mask is among the most popular and most visited attraction of Jaipur Tour. As its walls are pierced with more than 900 windows, it is also known as ‘Palace of Winds’ or ‘Palace of the Breeze’. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 for the women of royal families to see the street processions without themselves being seen. This palace is famous for its 953 small windows, popularly known as ‘Jharokhas’, decorated with tiny latticework which fascinates tourists during their visit to this place.

City Palace:

It is among the known attractions of Jaipur famous for its architectural pattern based on traditional Rajput and Mughal styles. This palace was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II and later several changes were made by his successors. The whole palace is elegantly designed and divided into courtyards, gardens and buildings. Each part is indistinguishable from the other in terms of construction, design and decoration. Some of the beautiful palaces and imposing halls of this palace are Badal Mahal, Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal which fascinate tourists during their visit to this place.

Jantar Mantar:

Jantar Mantar of Jaipur is biggest among the five stone observatories of India which was built by Maharajah Jai Singh II in the 18th century. It is known for its remarkable collection of architectural astronomical instruments which showcases the scientific achievements of the royal dynasties of that time. During the bygone era this observatory was used for determining time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars in their orbits and calculating the heavenly altitudes of various heavenly bodies.

Jaipur is among the popular attractions of Rajasthan which is famous for its heritage monuments, colorful festivals, vibrant culture and exotic cuisine. Some of other most popular attractions of this place are Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Laxmi Naryan Temple, Gaitore and Nahargarh Fort.

Jaipur the most favored destination of Rajasthan Tourism is famous round the world for its royal heritage, audacious cultural saga and natural beauty. For more information visit www.rajasthantourplanner.com/.

May 9 days in the country’s 476 birth anniversary is being celebrated Maharana Pratap. Pratap was a warrior, who never bowed forward to the Mughals. Their struggle is immortalized in history. Every child in India grew by reading about them. Nevertheless, there are certain things about them which seems impossible to hear, but in reality are true.

One the greatest warriors of Indian history, Maharana Pratap died on January 29 in the year 1597. Maharana Pratap was the ruler of Mewar, a province in modern day Rajasthan in North West India.

Pratap was the eldest son of Uday Singh II, founder of Udaipur, and Maharani Jaiwanta Bai. Renowned as a fearsome warrior and an excellent combat strategist, Pratap protected the Mewar region against the repeated onslaughts of the Mughals.

On his 419th death anniversary, we bring to you nine facts about Maharana Pratap:Maharana Pratap is revered as one of the strongest warriors India has ever seen. Standing at 7 feet 5 inches, he would carry a 80-kilogram spear and two swords weighing around 208 kilograms in total. He would also wear an armour weighing 72 kilogram.

Pratap’s ascension to the throne was dicey. Rani Dheer Bai, Pratap’s stepmother, wanted Kunwar Jagmal to be the king after Udai Singh’s defeat at the hands of Mughal emperor Akbar. In 1568, Akbar had captured the Chittorgarh Fort and the Mewar royalty took shelter in Udaipur. After long conflict and debate, Pratap was made the king as the court saw Jagmal to be an unfit ruler.

Before fighting the Mughals, Pratap had to face the wrath of his domestic adversaries. By the time of his reign, almost all Rajput dynasties had surrendered to Akbar and had become members of his council. Akbar sent six diplomatic missions to Pratap to create a peaceful alliance between the two mighty rulers.

After the fifth diplomatic mission, Pratap had sent his son Amar Singh to the Mughal court to deny Akbar’s proposal of peace. As he did not present himself before the Mughal emperor, it was not a fair sight. Due to his act of defiance, Akbar decided to march on Pratap.

Pratap’s prowess in fights was proved at the Battle of Haldighati in 1576. Mughal emperor Akbar ordered Man Singh I, one of his Rajput army commanders, and Asaf Khan I to attack Pratap. Man Singh and Asaf Khan had gathered an army almost half the size of the Mughal military force and held position at Haldighati, a mountain pass around 40 kilometres from Udaipur.

On the other hand, Pratap had gathered Gwalior’s Ram Shah Tanwar and his three sons- Rawat Krishnadasji Chundawat, Maan Singhji Jhala and Chandrasenji Rathore of Marwar, the Afghan leader Hakim Khan Sur and a small army of people from the Bhil tribe led by Rao Poonja.

The battle took place on June 18, 1576 for four hours. The Mughal army found a traitor in Pratap’s brother Shakti Singh who told them about the secret pass.

The Mughal cavalry was led by Man Singh I but was outfought at first by the Rajput soldiers. Pratap decided to kill Man Singh on his own and rode his war horse Chetak against Man Singh’s elephant. Both Chetak and Pratap were injured by Man’s elephant. Seeing this the Mewari contingent lost hope. However, Pratap chieftain Man Singh Jhala exchanged armours with Pratap to confuse the Mughal army. Chetak tried to escape via Haldighati pass with a single long leap, for which it is famous, but was killed by Mughal archers.

Pratap was devastated to know about his horse’s death. Realising his fault, Shakti Singh offered his own horse to Pratap, so that the latter could escape.

After the battle, the Mughal forces, personally led by Akbar, continued to conquer the entire Mewar region including Chittor, Gogunda, Kumbhalgarh (Pratap’s temporary capital) and Udaipur. All Rajput dynasties including that of Bundi surrendered to Akbar, leaving Pratap completely alone.

After 1579, following rebellions in Bengal, Bihar and Punjab, Akbar loosed the noose on Mewar. Pratap took advantage of the situation and gathered an army using the money given by Dan Shiromani Bhamashah, who later became one of Pratap’s ministers. Pratap recovered most of his turf– Kumbhalgarh and the areas around Chittor. He gathered an army of 40,000 soldiers and conquered Gogunda, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore and Udaipur from Mughal ally Jagannath Kachhawa.

Pratap had rebuilt his capital in the city of Chavand, around 60 kilometres south of Udaipur and spent the rest of his life there. Because of his fight for freedom against the Mughals, Maharana Pratap is widely regarded as India’s first freedom fighter.

If you are planning to enjoy the same luxury and hospitality that the erstwhile Maharajas of Rajasthan used to experience, then you must opt for a stay in Rajasthan heritage hotels.  You can experience the royal lifestyle of the kings and the queens during your vacation in the royal state of Rajasthan. Marvel at the regal splendor, magnificent structure, world-class facilities, sumptuous meals, and enchanting interiors while enjoying the impeccable hospitality of turban-wearing staff. These heritage hotels were originally the palaces of the kings, nobles and ministers your tour might be incomplete, if you do not opt for a stay in a heritage property. Here is a list of top 10 best Place to stay in Rajasthan.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Once known as the “pleasure palace” for Maharana Jagat Singh II, this beautiful heritage hotel on Lake Pichola, has played home to even Bond girl Octupussy. Touted as one of the most romantic hotels in the world, the Taj Lake Palace is a heavenly abode for lovers. The floating white marvel makes a stunning vision under a moonlit sky. With the tasteful Mewar decor blended with the hard-to-beat hospitality, this hotel is luxury at its best.

Samode Palace, Jaipur

In the heart of the city, yet hidden from the world, is a heritage hotel that displays a combination of Indian and Mughal artwork. Known for its Indo-Saracean architecture, the 475 year old Samode Palace is indeed an illustration of opulence. The intricate murals on the walls, adorned by beautiful mirror work, will take you back in time to another era. With each room, uniquely designed, this heritage hotel promises you the experience of nothing less than a royal.

Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

The Rambagh Palace has always been all about hospitality. Initially built for the queen’s favourite handmaiden in 1835, Rambagh Palace was later refurbished as a guesthouse and hunting lodge for royal guests of the then monarch, Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II. With each room made specifically for royalty, this hotel lets you indulge in complete luxury. With the option of playing Polo or riding an elephant, you will feel no less than the guests of the king that resided in this very place. A visit to the Polo Bar at Rambagh Palace is a must!

Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Spread across a vast area of 26 acres, lies one of the largest private residences in the world, the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Initially known as the Chittar Palace, due to the sandstone used from Chittar, this golden creation displays the Art Deco Style of the 1900s. Designed by British architect Henry Lancaster, the hotel has both Rajput, as well as, Renaissance influences. The hotel has a museum, a marble squash court and a billiards room for recreation. Do experience a tour of Jodhpur city in a vintage car along with a royal butler.

Jai Mahal Palace Hotel, Jaipur

Jai Mahal Palace, a place where old world royalty comes together with modern luxury. Formerly home to the Prime Minister of the princely state of Jaipur, this heritage hotel is surrounded by 18 acres of lush gardens. And these Mughal Gardens are undoubtedly one of the best Mughal Gardens there are! With the regal decadence blending in with the contemporary elegance, this hotel is hands-down a unique experience.

Neemrana Fort Palace, Alwar

Showcasing the proud lineage of Prithviraj Chauhan III, this 15th century heritage hotel is one of the unique hotels in the state. Close to Delhi, this hotel invites in tourists from the national capital too. Along with the beauty of the hanging gardens, swimming pools and Ayurvedic Spa, the Neemrana Fort-Palace, provides you the exhilerating experience of the country’s first zip-line. Could it get more fun than this!

Khimsar Fort, Khimsar

History comes alive in this 16th century monument. Lying at the edge of the Thar Desert, the majestic Khimsar Fort has seen a past of battles and bravery. Now, millenia away from the dark yet valiant past, this heritage hotel is indeed an abode for lavishness. Awarded as the ‘National Grand Heritage Award For Excellence’ by the Department of Tourism, Government of India, this hotel definitely lives up to this honour conferred to them.

Narain Niwas Palace Hotel, Jaipur

A uo;garden house” built in 1928 for Thakur Amar Singh, grandson of the founder of Kanota family, the Narain Niwas is an epitome of grandeur. The designing of the structure is Anglo-Indian, with Victorian artwork blending in with Rajput frescos. Located centrally in the Pink City, this place is perfect to experience some excellent Rajput hospitality.

Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur

Built in early 20th century by Maharana Fateh Singh, this grand heritage hotel was solely meant for royal guests and dignitaries. Open to all now, the guests are treated no lesser than the earlier royal ones. Combined with modern day luxury, this lakeside heritage hotel is a purely decadent experience for the senses.

Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh

The authentic Bhainsrorgarh delicacies will make you want to visit this heritage hotel over and over again. The secret heirloom recipes that have been in the royal family kitchens over ages, will be a treat for your tastebuds. Add to it, the warm hospitality of the in-house royal family, and residing in this heritage hotel will be an experience of a lifetime.