Nakki Lake in Mount Abu the mythological lake with a very interesting story behind its creation is the heart of Mount Abu, the legend has it that this lake was dugg by Gods or Devtas using their nails or nakh that’s why the name Nakki Lake – few sections of local tribes also consider Nakki Lake as a holy lake and worship it, Nakki lake is also the only Indian artificial lake situated at a height of 1200 Mtr’s above sea level. Recently in 2006-2007 Nakki Lake in Mount Abu was granted a huge financial boost for its protection amongst eight other lakes in India.
Situated within walking distance from the main market and almost 80% of Hotel’s and restaurent’s of Mount Abu, Nakki lake posses the crown of being the heart of Mount Abu Tour Package. The hub of evening activity and boating – Nakki Lake in Mount Abu is the perfect place to spent your evening with your partner, friends and family.
The picture perfect location of the lake surrounded with mountains, gardens and rock formations also make it a very good location for photography. In the evening the setting sun makes the canvas Nakki Lake in Mount Abu.
History
Nakki Lake is about a half mile in length and a quarter of mile broad also has a quite interesting history as well. One historical story explained that it was dug out from nails by gods for the protection against demon ‘Bashkali’. Another romantic history was of Rasia Balam, a sculpture of Dilwara Jain templeand Kings daughter name Kunwari Kanya. King put up the challenge of digging of the lake in one night and he will marry his daughter to that one. It is believed that Rasia Balam dug a lake overnight with his nails. Later Queen refused to marry their daughter.
Some also believed that Rasia Balam was an aged sage and was the incarnation of Lord Shiva and the teenager was the embodiment of Ma Parvati. Due to betrayal, they will again come back to complete their love. The famous poem ‘Lost Love’ describe their story very well, Nakki Lake in Mount Abu.
Boating at Nakki Lake
A visit to Mount Abu is incomplete without boating in the pristine waters of Nakki Lake. As you sail through, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of majestic hills, nature and strangely shaped rocks surrounding the lake. There are two types of boats available, the pedal boats and the Shikharas. The refreshing boating experience lasts for thirty minutes in which you take a tour of the entire Nakki Lake.
Best time to visit Nakki Lake
The Nakki Lake can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to explore it is during monsoons and winters. The temperature lingers around 30 degrees Celsius in monsoons, and it does not fall below 12 degrees Celsius in winters. The lush greenery enhances the beauty of the lake in the monsoons. Nakki Lake in Mount Abu Summers are comparatively hot in Mount Abu Monumentsas the mercury soars up to 39 degrees. Therefore, it is better to avoid visiting between March-June. You should prefer exploring the scenic lake from July to January.
How to Reach Nakki Lake
Nakki Lake in Mount Abu, a pristine hill station nestled between the Aravallis, is well connected to the state and different parts of the country like other parts of Rajasthan.
The city does not has an airport, but is easily accessible to travellers from different parts of the country. The nearest airport to Mount Abu is the Maharana Pratap airport in Dabok, Udaipur which is at a distance of 185 km. The airport in Ahmedabad is around 221 km away. From the airport you can hire a cab or taxi to reach your destination.
The nearest railway station to the city is Abu road railway station. The distance of the railway station from the main city is just 28 km. The station is connected with major railway tracks connecting it throughout India. From the railway station you can hire a taxi or share a cab with other tourists as well, Nakki Lake in Mount Abu.
The city also boasts of a well maintained network of road. Deluxe and semi-deluxe buses which are run by the Rajasthan State Transport Corporation as well as some private companies ply at regular intervals, making connectivity easier for travellers.
If you like driving or prefer scenic roads, travelling in your own vehicle is also a good option. The drive to the hill station is an adventurous journey, if you take regular intervals at various places. National highway 14 is well connected with the city.
Local transport is also available in the form of unmetered taxis and cabs. If you really want to have a wonderful time in this beautiful place, you can also hire a bike at a nominal amount and enjoy the mystic beauty of this place. You will just need to shell out the expense for fuel.
Shekhawati Travel Guide is a region in the Thar Desert, the northern part of Rajasthan. This region is famous for its havelis which comprise of Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Churu. Shekhawati gives a colourful display of Rajasthani culture. As the history entails, Marwari merchant constructed these grand and beautiful havelis.
One will be awestruck by such huge havelis (mansions) which are a home of beautiful art, architecture as well as the commendable fresco paintings. Shekhawati is also known as “Open Art Gallery” and it is because, the showcase of architecture can be witnessed in the havelis which are present out in the open. Those who want to experience the rich heritage of India, Shekhawati can be the best place. Shekhawati Travel Guide is not only home of haveli but it is home of step wells, chhatris and forts build by Shekhawati Rajput rulers and Marwar community. It is undoubtedly a paradise for art and architecture lovers.
History of Shekhawati: a historical place of Rajasthan
The word ‘Shekhawati‘ originated from the ‘Garden of the Shekhas’. It comes from Rao Shekha who was the chief of a tribal community called Barwada. They used to rule in Amer which is currently known as Jaipur.
Rao always maintains a status of a quo and he was the first chieftain who signed a treaty with Amer that made him an independent ruler. Afterwards, the legacy of Shekhawati got linked with the Mughals, British East India Company and the state come under the British rule.
You can find a few strong pieces of evidence of Shekhawati in Marukantar Desha period of Ramayana. As we know that over the 16 mahajanapadas period to Buddha, we can find only two Janapadas like Avanti and Virata in Rajasthan.
Shekhawati was influenced by Avanti and later, it was occupied by Nandas of Magadha. According to some historians, Rajasthan, as well as Shekhawati Travel Guide, was obtained by Mauyas from Nandas. On the other part, during the ancient period, Shekhawati was divided into several janapadas and it was known as Matsya Kingdom.
Every Janapada was a free republic state and this system was developed by Aryan. After Gupta Dynasty, some parts of Shekhawati like, Jhunjhunu, Fatehpur, and Narhar were occupied by the Kaimkhanis, and later the entire Shekhawati region was occupied by Rajputs.
Rajasthan is a place of Rajputs and still, you can find some Rajput families in Rajasthan. It is true that they have lost their kingdom after India’s independence, but they have strong influences in Rajasthan. Shekhawati was founded and ruled by Shekhawat Rajputs, and Rao Shekha from Dhundhar established his independent kingdom with the capital at Amarsar.
After Rao Shekha, Rajasthan, as well as Shekhawati Travel Guide, was ruled by several rulers from the same dynasty as Rao Raimal, Rao Suja, and Rao Lunkaran. In the time of Rao Shekha, Shekhawati was divided into 33 thikanas which was known as Pargana. Each of them had their fort which was structured by mud and later, Rajputs developed some stone embedded forms in these Parganas as their head office. Even a few of them had their flag and emblems.
Architectural Style of Havelis in Shekhawati:
The word ‘fresco’ can be found in Michelangelo’s ‘The Creation of Adam’ and it is described the art of painting done by natural and wet plasters. If you want to explore some fresco arts then you must visit Shekhawati once because here you can find numerous havelis that designed with fresco paintings. Especially, you can find such havelis in Fatehpur, Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu and Mandawa regions of Shekhawati.
Earlier, traders or Bania in Rajasthan used to earn huge loyalty from their business, but they did not invest such amounts for building their own havelis. Rajput kings were wealthy enough to establish some magnificent havelis in Shekhawati and they were structured some havelis with particular theme and motifs Rajasthan Budget Tours.
But, you can find some small mansions made by traders in Shekhawati Travel Guide and these havelis are painted with fresco painting. Ilay Cooper already mentioned such paintings in his books named “The Painted Towns of Shekhawati” and he has written that those unexplored havelis were built by the Bania or traders.
They used to build such small havelis to represent their social status. You can travel through some small villages in Shekhawati to explore such havelis built between 1830 -1930. But, you will get surprised to see the significant proofs of the time machine in these havelis.
Do you know that an aeroplane was painted on the Belgian glass during that time? Even, Lord Krishna and his gopikas were painted with some modern ornaments designed with lapis lazuli and gold. We know that such fresco images were developed by the imagination of the painters, but they have predicted the future through their artworks, which is quite surprising.
Structure of the havelis in Shekhawati share some common layouts and you can find deep influences of Mughal’s artworks in their structures. Most of the havelis have at least two floors and the upper floors of these havelis are designed as an open balcony, which was known as ‘chajja’.
Apart from that, you can find few rooms on the terrace of these havelis and the ground floor of these mansions are designed separately to make a uniform structure.
Places to see in Shekhawati
There are many towns to see in Shekhawati Travel Guide and roam around to witness the beauty of this painted land. Here we have listed the best places to visit in Shekhawati, the main points of attraction in the region are Alsisar, Mandawa, Dundlod, Fatehpur, Ramgarh, Bissau, Mahansar, Khandela, Jhujhunu, Sikar, Khetri, Nawalgarh, Mukundgarh, Bagar, Chirawa and many more…We also covers parts of Churu and other adjoining districts of Shekhawati region where the art and culture attraction points are relevant to the visitors traveling this area of Rajasthan.
Nawalgarh
Nawalgarh was a prosperous town in the Shekhawati region. Thakur Nawal Singh was the founder of this city, and from here itself, the city has derived its name. Thakur Nawal Singh is considered to be the son of Shardul Singh (most successful ruler of Shekhawati). There are a lot of havelis in Nawalgarh with some of them being the Aath Haveli, Murarka Haveli, Khedwal Bhawan, Bhagton ki Haveli, and Anandi Lal Poddar Haveli and these are renowned as the top visited places of Nawalgarh.
Attractive frescoes and mural paintings are breath-taking and actually showcase the talent of workmen who created it. Apart from this Ganga Mai is one famous attraction of Nawalgarh. This temple is dedicated to goddess Ganga. Beautifully carved structure and the astonishing interior are worth visiting. Upper dome (mandapa) is filled with a lot of beautiful paintings.
Sethani Ka Johara
Showcasing the bravery and valour of the wives of warriors, the Sethani Ka Johara has always taken the tourists back to the bygone era. Sethani ka Johara is a reservoir located west to Churu, Shekhawati Travel Guide. All the havelis in Shekhawati region were built in 18th century and early 20th century. This reservoir was built in 1899 by a widow of Bhagwan das Bagla. It was the finest Johara in the area containing sufficient water in it. This attractive Johara not only attracts humans but also a large number of birds. This peaceful place is perfect for spending your evening while you witness picturesque sunset. One can actually spot the reflection of architecture in the water.
Tal Chappar sanctuary
Located in the Churu district of Rajasthan and 250km from Jaipur, Rajasthan “Tal Chappar sanctuary” is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Shekhawati Travel Guide region. It is known for the exquisite birds such as the Blackbug and other variety of birds. The name of this Sanctuary was given after the name of Chhapar village. The whole sanctuary is covered with open grassland and scattered Acacia and Prosopis trees.
Migratory birds visit this sanctuary in the month of September, which includes birds like Montagu’s harrier, marsh harrier, pale harrier, imperial eagle, tawny eagle, short-toed eagle, sparrow hawk, Skylark, crested lark, ring drove, brown dove, blue jay, southern grey shrike, etc. There are two rest houses situated in the sanctuary. It is Perfect home for birds’ lovers. One can spot the desert fox and also the desert cat here. It has become a hotspot among wildlife lovers.
Khetri Mahal
Known as wind palace of Jhunjhunu, Khetri Mahal is proudly situated in the Khetri. Surprisingly this Mahal has no windows still it is known as a wind palace. You can actually have a soothing feeling while exploring this Mahal because of the wind flow. Most of the rooms are connected through arched portals. This Mahal was built in the year 1770. The terrace gives an absolutely breathtaking view of all the buildings of that region.
It was famous for its paintings and murals, now fragments of these paintings are kept in private chamber of Thakurs. Structure of the Khetri Mahal is unique than any other building of that region. One can spot the gigantic Badalgarh Fort from Khetri Mahal which was constructed in the early 16th century. A large portion of the Mahal is covered with pinkish plaster.
Mandawa
Mandawa is a beautiful town of Shekhawati Travel Guide region. It is situated 190km off to Jaipur which is capital of Rajasthan. This town is filled with fort and Havelis. It once functioned as a trade hotspot for the goods from China and the Middle East. There are references regarding the founder of Mandawa and Mandu Jat. This place was known as ‘Mandu ki Dhani’, ‘Mandu ka Bas’ or ‘Manduwas’ which changed to ‘Manduwa’, ‘Mandwa’ and finally to ‘Mandawa’.
Thakur Nawal Singh was the ruler of Nawalgarh as well as Mandawa and magnificent Mandawa fort was built by him in the middle of the town. This fort is presently serving as a heritage hotel. One can experience the era of Lord Krishna after entering in the fort as its gateway is adorned with paintings of Lord Krishna and his cows.
Dundlod
Dundlod is the town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan. The town can be reached by road from Delhi, Bikaner and Jaipur. Dundlod is famous for its forts and havelis, which are decorated by richly fresco paintings. Dundlod fort is the massive Rajputana fort built by Keshari Singh in the year 1750 and later major additions were added by Sheo Singh in the 19th century. Beautiful Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenka is also one of the major tourist attractions here which was built in the year 1888, the dome of chhatri has beautifully carved floral motifs.
War panorama of Mahabharata is described in the paintings of inner base. Apart from the Chhatri, there is Satyanarayan Temple built by the Goenka Family. Dundlod fort can also be called as the most perfect mixture of Rajput as well as Mughal art. The Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of private audience) is decorated with fine antiques and an impressive library, the Zenana quarters are on the 1st floor, featuring furniture and exquisite décor.
Best Time to Visit Shekhawati
You can visit Shekhawati at any time, but it is better to visit during winter. The temperature during winter remains comfortable and this time is ideal for sightseeing. The best time to visit Shekhawati is from October to December.
Else, you can plan your trip during March to explore Shekhawati Travel Guide in moderate temperatures. The temperature during winter (November to February) in Shekhawati ranges 5°C to 28°C. But, you can find extreme heat during summer and the temperature during summer can reach up to 45°C.
Apart from that, you can visit Shekhawati during monsoon (July-September), and you will feel the cool breeze with a pleasant climate in Shekhawati. Check the Rajasthan Tour Packages of Colorful Indian Holidays to plan your heritage trips to the beautiful places in the state including Shekhawati.
How to Reach Shekhawati?
By Air : Saganer Airport in Jaipur is the nearest airport to reach Shekhawati by Air. You can take a bus or taxi to cover the rest of journey from airport to Shekhawati that is covered roughly in half an hour.
By Rail : Jhunjhunu is the nearest city having railway station to reach Shekhawati by train. There are regular trains to Jhunjhunu and Jaipur from rest of the country.
By Road : Jaipur is at the distance of 8 km from Shekhawati Travel Guide that is covered by bus or taxi. There are regular buses from other cities of Rajasthan to reach here. You can also reach by your own car.
Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal Kolkata, the city of Joy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is a gateway to eastern India. The former British capital of India is a colorful palette of art and architecture, museums, temples, football clubs, Coffee houses, lip-smacking street food along with plethora of cultural festivals. It is a place where you will be able to see a unique blend of old and modern culture. The city of joy Kolkata is known for its liveliness and rich culture and heritage. The city of Kolkata comes alive in the Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal.
Being the most prominent festival of Kolkata, Durga Pujais the soul and pride of West Bengal. Every year in Kolkata the festival of Durga Puja brings great enthusiasm, joyous moments and a chance to get together with families and friends in the most amazing manner like never before. Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal is never celebrated in the same manner every year.
The theme of the Durga PujaPandals change along with the design of the idol of Goddess Durga. In some parts of India, it is celebrated for 6 days while in other parts it is celebrated for 10 days but the charm of Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal never fades. In West Bengal, you will witness the best of Durga Puja Festival because it is the main cultural festival of Bengalis. The festival of Durga Puja showcases the rich culture and heritage of West Bengal.
Durga Puja Festivalis around the corner. So, it is the best time to plan a trip to Kolkata in advance to enjoy the best of this grand Festival. This blog’s useful insights will help you to plan your trip to Kolkata to enjoy and dive deep into the spiritual realm and cultural whirlwind of Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal.
Highlights
Durga Puja celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
Durga Puja is celebrated during the seventh month of the Hindu calendar, which typically falls between September and October, Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal.
This festival is widely celebrated in West Bengal and other eastern Indian states like Assam, Tripura, and Odisha.
The first day of Durga Puja is Mahalaya which marks the arrival of the goddess Durga on earth.
The last day of Durga Puja is Dashami which is said to be the day when Durga achieved her victory over Mahishasura and returned to her husband Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal.
What is the Festival of Durga Puja?
According to the Hindu Mythology, Goddess Durga emerged from the collective energy of all the Kings and Gods (devas) as an embodiment of Shakti or divine feminine power, to destroy demon Mahishasura; who was blessed to not be defeated by any man or god. The name Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal in Sanskrit means ‘the impenetrable’; she exists in a state of self-sufficiency and in ultimate power. This powerful form of Mother Goddess is highly revered in Kolkata which is why her return is celebrated with much grandeur and ceremonies.
If you are in Kolkata during Durga Pooja, these are the popular features of the grand celebrations, you shouldn’t miss out on. The preparations for the festival are as fascinating as the festival itself. A week prior to the festival, the city gears up and can be seen wearing a look of eagerness and excitement as it prepares itself to welcome the Goddess home Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal.
How is Durga Puja celebrated?
The way in which the festival of Durga Puja is celebrated is quite similar to that of Ganesh Chaturthi Festival. People in Kolkata start preparing 7 days prior to the festival. The town appears lively and full of colorful clothes, decor items, etc. People get dressed in new and bright colored clothes for the festival. Though the preparations start quite early to the festival, major rituals take place starting from the day of Mahalaya when the eyes of the idols of Goddess Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal are painted. This ritual is known as Chokkhu Daan in the local context. It is often said that the goddess descends on the earth at the time of this ritual.
Maha Shasthi
The first day of Durga Puja (Shasthi), the beautifully painted idols of Goddess Durga are brought into homes or pandals. Then, they are embellished with flowers, clothes, red vermilion, jewelry, etc. Sweets are also kept in front of the idol as an offering. The idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva are also kept on the stage Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal.
Maha Saptami
Next following day (Maha Saptami), a small banana plant known as Kala Bou is carried away to a river for a bath and is dressed in a bright red colored saree. Then it is brought back in a procession to be established near the idol of Goddess Durga. It is done to invoke the presence of the Goddess Durga into the idol. The ritual is called Pran Pratisthan. People perform rituals and prayers (puja) for the remaining duration of the festival.
Several types of cultural activities also take place. People unify to sing traditional songs, dance and perform plays. During the following days, the goddess is worshipped in her different forms – Kumari (goddess of fertility), Mai (mother), Ajima (grandmother) and Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal.
Vijaya Dashami
Last day the final day of Durga Puja (Vijaya Dashami), the idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped and made offerings to. Devotees gather in large numbers to bid farewell to the goddess. People perform a farewell ceremony, i.e. Aarti on the last day. Afterward, the idols are carried away to the water bodies in an elaborate street procession, in which people sing and dance. The procession is initiated by women, Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal especially married ones, who smear red vermilion on the idol of the goddess and later to other ladies of the group. It is believed to symbolize fertility and marriage.
Later on, the idols of the Goddess Durga are immersed in water. It is said that Goddess Durga gained victory over the buffalo devil on this day and established peace in the world. People pray to the goddess for bringing peace and happiness to their lives and bid adieu to her. It is believed that the goddess returns to her home with her husband Lord Shiva. On the occasion of Durga Puja Festival in West Bengal, people distribute gifts and sweets among their friends and relatives.
Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur Famously known as the Pink City, Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, the largest Indian state situated in the North-Western region of India. One of the top tourist destinations in India, the vibrant city of Jaipur is a prime attraction of tourists for its amazing royal heritage as well as its colorful culture and traditions. Surrounded by the hilly terrain of Aravali range, the city is situated on the periphery of the Thar Desert around 280 km away from Delhi, the National Capital of India. The beauty of Jaipur lies in its distinguished character which is the perfect muddle of quaint and contemporary architecture, culture and traditions.
The city is the showcase of ageless magnificent forts and palaces, quaint local markets, along with the modern colonies, bustling malls and food courts. One of the important cities of the medieval era, the city of Jaipur was established by the King Jai Singh II in the year 1727. Jai Singh II was the ruler of Amer during 1699 and 1744 when he shifted the capital from Amer to Jaipur to accommodate the growing population. The scarcity of water at the Amer, which is located around 11 km from the Jaipur city, was the prime reason to shift the capital.
The architecture of the Jaipur city was developed after a long research on architecture and Vastushastra and then the construction of the city started in the year 1726 and completed after the four years. The palaces, royal offices, major roads and entry gates were constructed within four years. The city was divided into the nine blocks among which two blocks are the royal blocks which contain the palaces, state buildings and offices whereas the remaining 7 blocks were allotted to the public. Also, the seven massive gates were built for the entry into the Jaipur Tourism.
The city was named after the King Maharaja Jai Singh II. The Buildings of the Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur were colored in the Pink color during the reign of King Sawai Ram Singh I in the year 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales. Later, this distinct pink color of the whole city became the identity of the Jaipur city and known as the pink city of India.
The prime tourist attractions of the Jaipur are the Jantar Mantar Observatory, Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal and City Palace along with the famous temples such as Birla Mandir, Garh Ganesh Temple, Galtaji Temple, Govind Dev Ji Temple, Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple and Sanghiji Jain temple. The Amber Fort and the Jantar Mantar are the UNESCO world heritage sites in Jaipur. The grandeur of the Forts and Palaces are the testimony of the glory and valor of the rulers of the Jaipur Tour Packages.
Hawa Mahal – A honey-comb shaped architecture with 953 windows
Jaipur A prominent attraction in this capital city, Hawa Mahal impresses tourists with its amazing architecture. Also known as ‘the Wind Palace’, or the ‘palace of the Breeze’, it is a five-story structure built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1798. The unique design of the windows is the prime feature of this architectural marvel.
It has 953 small windows called jharokhas which made attractive with intricate latticework. Besides, the beautiful lattice of the windows of Hawa Mahal provides a clear view of the streets and the outside world to the royal women who lived inside. At the same time, it restricted the view of the inside for the outsiders. Cool breeze stays inside this palace always irrespective of the season of the year Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur
Amber Fort and Palace – A masterpiece of the Rajputana architecture
Amber Fort and Palace is another hot tourist destination in the desert capital of Jaipur. Overlooking the lovely Maota Lake, this majestic fort nestled atop a hill provides captivating views of the city. This monument was once the home of the Rajput rulers until the city of Jaipur was built.
You can find a series of elegant palaces, exquisite halls, charming temples and well-maintained gardens inside this fort. The elaborate mirror work of this palace adds its splendor. Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur Visit this tourist spot in the evening to enjoy the breathtaking sound and light show that brings the impressive history of Amber Fort alive.
Jal Mahal – A charming palace in a unique location
Jal Mahal or the Water Palace holds a major position in the list of the stunning architecture of Rajasthan. A fine example of the beautiful combination of Mughal and Rajputana architectural styles, this palace is located in the middle of the gorgeous Man Sagar Lake.
Built using red sandstone, four stories of this five-story structure remain underwater when the lake is full makes it one of the beautiful tourist attraction in Jaipur. Being a palace in the middle of the lake, you can reach it by using a traditional boat.
The panoramic Aravalli mountain range and the crystal clear water of the Man Sagar Lake offer breathtaking views of Jal Mahal. This location is also a haven for many exotic migratory birds and rich flora and fauna Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
City Palace – A remarkable monument with everlasting architecture
City Palace is a fascinating monument in Jaipur with stunning architecture and amazing decorations. Built during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this marvelous structure is guarded by huge impounding walls.
The fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles is the prime attraction of the City Palace. The major part of this monument comprises the Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal. Each corner of this palace made attractive with eye-catching engravings and fine artworks.
Travelers can also visit some of the famous museums inside the palace such as the Baggi Khana and the Maharani Palace where they can watch several things belonged to the royal families Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
Jantar Mantar – An impressive observatory with a collection of astronomical instruments
Visiting the Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is a mind-blowing experience especially for astronomers and historians. This UNESCO World Heritage Site gives a clear idea of the astronomical skills of the famous Indian king, Maharaja Sawai Jai Sing.
Built-in 1738, visitors can watch a great collection of several astronomical instruments made of brass and stone in this picnic spot. They can observe different astronomical positions in this observatory with the naked eye, Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
Plotting the shadow of Samrat Yantra, the largest sundial in the world, one can calculate the arrival of monsoons and the time for eclipses. The architectural brilliance of Jantar Mantar makes it the astronomical heritage of the Jaipur City.
Albert Hall Museum
There’s a long history that goes behind the opening of Albert Hall as a museum. In 1876 when the foundation stone was laid to celebrate the visit of the Prince of Wales, there arose a lot of confusion regarding the usage of the hall.
Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur It was only in 1880 when a local surgeon, Dr Thomas Holbein Hendley suggested to use the Albert Hall to showcase antique artefacts and with the passing time Albert Hall became one of the biggest museums in India. Gradually, the collection in the museum have increased and have brought this to international standards.
Albert Hall is home to one of the six Egyptian mummies in India and it was gifted by the Brugsch Bey Museum of Cairo, Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
Jaigarh Fort
Every fort in Jaipur has its unique elegance but, Jaigarh Fort has to be one of the most vibrant forts of all and hence making it on the top list of places to visit in Jaipur.
Jaigarh fort is situated rocky promontory of the Aravali range also known as the Hill of Eagles. Raja Jai Singh II constructed this fort in the year 1726, using red sandstone and surrounded it with thick walls which run as long as 3kms.
Inside the fort, you can visit Ram Harihar Mandir, Kal Bhairav Mandir and of course the fort museum which has a great collection of primitive swords, daggers and various other arms and ammunition. And witness the world’s largest cannon-on-wheels, Jaivana. You can also buy souvenirs from the museum gift shop, Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
Galta Ji
This place in Jaipur looks straight out of the Game of Thrones set, Galta Ji is popularly known as the Monkey temple and is a definite place to visit in Jaipur. In the desert state of Rajasthan, this is a natural spring in the mountain pass of Aravalli hills. Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur So, when the locals discovered the place, they honoured it by building a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and some scared water reservoir.
Galta Ji is also the home for many langurs and macaques and hence the name monkey temple. You can buy peanuts or bananas from the entry gate of the temple and feed them but beware of your belongings otherwise, this rowdy creature will snatch it and run away Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
Birla Mandir
Throughout India, there are numerous Birla Mandir Temples which are quite pre-eminent in all sorts. Similarly, the Birla Mandir of Jaipur has a lot of significance among the locals and recently it has grabbed the attention of the tourists. And did you know, Birla family is the reason behind several Hindu temples made of white marble or red sandstone in India?
It is located on an elevated platform at the base of Moti Dungari Hill in Jaipur. The gates of the temple were opened to the public in the year 1985. Look closely, you’ll see three huge domes which signify three different approaches to religion.
The temple premises are surrounded by a well-maintained garden and small souvenirs shops. Stroll around for a little bit and enjoy the peaceful environment of the Birla Mandir, Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
Nahargarh Fort
Originally named Sudarshangarh, Nahargarh Fort is the best place to visit in Jaipur to get a panoramic view of the city. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II to strengthen the security and the fort was also used as a safe-house for British wives during the sepoy mutiny.
Nahargarh Fort is situated on the highest ridge of Jaipur with striking views of the city and hence making it the best place in Jaipur to sit, relax and enjoy the sunset. Earlier the Fort was used as an exotic picnic destination as well as for summer excursion by the royal families. The walls and ceilings inside the fort were designed with delicate paintings. Nahargarh Fort is surrounded by jungle where in the early days, the king used to go to the jungle for hunting.
Tourists can explore the Fort’s museum and indulge themselves in history or roam around the sculpture park. If hungry, swing by one of many restaurants inside the fort offering authentic Indian delicacies and finger food, Best Tourist Attractions In Jaipur.
Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur, Rajasthan, the Jhalana Leopard Reserve, also known as Jhalana Safari Park, is India’s first leopard reserve. The Aravali Hills, India’s oldest mountain range, surround it. Jhalana was declared as a leopard reserve in 2017. The reserve is 20 square kilometres in size and includes a Leopard Safari in Jhalana. Jhalana is about 8-9 kilometres from Jaipur Pink City and is home to a wide variety of flora and animals.
The leopard population and other wildlife of the Jhalana Sanctuary in Jaipur are well-known. The forest was once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Rajasthan. Leopards, as well as other animals like common langurs, desert foxes, and others, are frequently spotted in this reserve. This park also provides views of the Aravalli mountain range and one of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets. Because the leopard population has been well-preserved, the park’s leopard population has increased significantly.
Over 30 leopards and five cubs live in the Jhalana Leopard Conservation Reserve right now! In addition to leopards, you can encounter striped hyenas, Indian civets, desert cats, and forest cats, as well as desert foxes, jackals, porcupines, jungle rats, monitor lizards, mongooses, Sambar deer, spotted deer (chital), Blue Bull (Nilgai), and many snakes. You can also go to Shikaar Audhi, the three-story hunting lodge of Jaipur’s royal families. It’s situated in the heart of the leopard reserve! There’s an animal-spotting platform there, as well as views of the sunrise and sunset Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
Jhalana Leopard Reserve Flora and Fauna:
Flora of the Jhalana Leopard Reserve: The Aravallis’ small valleys and sheer cliffs dominate the terrain of the Jhalana Leopard Reserve. The Jhalana forest’s tranquillity and intriguing natural surrounds are incredibly calming and enjoyable to the psyche. This region stands out as a unique and exceptional destination for environment lovers because of its diverse species in such a heavily populated area, Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
Jhalana is a dry-climate deciduous forest. The forest remains dry for the majority of the year because trees shed their leaves in the dry season and turn lush emerald during the monsoons. Jhalana trees are dominated by plants like juliflora (Prosopis juliflora) and khejri (Prosopis cineraria). The fast-growing juliflora was originally planted to provide local villagers with firewood. Other grasslands and forests, on the other hand, are not supported by trees. More local flora varieties, such as dhak (Butea monosperma), salar (Boswellia serrata), dhonk (Anogeissus pendula), and kumta, can be found in the slanting valleys (Acacia Senegal).
Fauna In Jhalana Leopard Reserve: Obviously, the majestic Leopard is the prime and most covered mammal of this Jhalana Leopard Reserve, which is also the top predator of the region and who comes first in the food chain of the Jhalana forest reserve. Although the Leopard is considered to be a nocturnal, solitary, shy, and seldom seen hunter with masterful stealth hunting skills, leopards in the Jhalana National Park are diurnal, similar to tigers in Ranthambore and Sariska, making it one of the most visited reserve forests by Leopard lovers.
Leopards, Indian civets, desert cats, and jungle cats are among the other big cats found at the Jhalana Leopard Park. Other animals such as the Striped Hyena, desert foxes, jackals, porcupines, jungle rats, monitor lizards, mongooses, Sambar deer, spotted deer (chital), Blue Bull (Nilgai), and several snakes find food and shelter in this area.
Jhalana Leopard Reserve is home to a plethora of endangered bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Jhalana National Park is home to various birds, including the Indian Pitta, Dusky Eagle, Owl, Spotted Owlet, and others.
Jhalana Leopard Reserve’s Best Time to Visit:
The Jhalana Leopard Reserve (India’s first leopard reserve) is open to travellers for safari trips all year, including during the monsoon season, which runs from January 1 to December 31. Most of the country’s protected areas are closed during the monsoon season, but there’s plenty to make up for it Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
While the Jhalana Leopard Safarimay be enjoyed at any time and visitors can marvel at the majestic Leopard, the months of November to April are regarded the finest for visiting Jhalana Reserve since the weather is comfortable and nature is in full bloom, emphasising the forest’s splendour.
Getting to The Jhalana Leopard Reserve:
By Air: The Jaipur International Airport is just 6 kilometers from the Jhalana Leopard Reserve, around a 15-minute drive from the airport. Numerous domestic and international flights link the pink city of Jaipur to cities all over India and the world. To get to Jhalana Safari Park, take a taxi, cab, or bus from Jaipur airport.
By Rail: The Jhalana Leopard Reserve is located near the Jaipur Junction Railway Station. It is approximately 11.7 kilometers from the park. The station is a well-known tourist destination with direct trains from major Indian cities such as Udaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai. You can either hire a taxi or take the local bus to get from the station to Jhalana.
By Road: A direct road passes through the Jhalana forest reserve, linking it to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Kota, and others, which are further linked to India’s major cities. If you choose a direct road trip from Delhi, Mumbai, or Udaipur, you will have no trouble reaching Jhalana. To get to Jhalana, you can either drive yourself or take the state bus, Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
About Ranthambore national park
It is one of India’s largest and most well-known national parks, as well as a popular wildlife tourism destination in Rajasthan. Ranthambore is located in Rajasthan’s Sawai Madhopur district, around 180 kilometres from Jaipur (Jaipur International Airport is the closest airport) and 110 kilometres from Kota. The nearest railway station to Ranthambore is Sawai Madhopur. Tiger sightings are best in Ranthambore National Park‘s ten zones, with zones 1-5 being the greatest.
The park is regarded as one of the top wildlife reserves in India. It is best described as a tiger-friendly land that proudly preserves India’s most famous tigers, Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur characterized by distinctive marks on their bodies and ruling territories. The dense vegetation provides the best conditions for the tiger to search for his prey in stealth, and it is the only national park in India where mother and cub tigers can be found in large numbers.
Ranthambore National Park: A Quick Tour
The reserve was first established by the Indian government in 1955 as the Sawai Madhopur Gaming Sanctuary.
In 1973, it was designated as one of India’s Project Tiger Reserves.
Ranthambore became a national park in 1980.
Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary and Keladevi Sanctuary were established in the nearby forests in 1984.
Sawai Mansingh and Kaladevi Sanctuaries were added to the tiger reserve in 1991.
The Ranthambore National Park is famous for its tiger population and is one of the best places in India to see these magnificent predators in their natural habitat. It is the only reserve in the area where visitors can easily see tigers at any time. It is one of the reasons why tiger tours are so popular in the region.
Ranthambore’s wildlife
Among the major wild creatures are the leopard, nilgai, wild boar, sambar, hyena, sloth bear, and chital. It also provides habitat for a wide variety of trees, plants, birds, and reptiles. The reserve boasts a thriving bird life, with over 270 different kinds of birds.
In 2005, there were 26 tigers in the reserve, a considerable decrease from the reserve’s projected tiger population of 44 in 1982. In 2008, according to a survey done by non-government resources, 34 adult tigers were registered in Ranthambore. More than 14 tiger cubs have been registered, bringing acclaim for the Ranthambore Tigers‘ well-being to conservation efforts and the wildlife management authorities.
More importantly, tigers in Ranthambore are today’s heroes because they have a name, identity, and distinctive markings. The local pet names for Ranthambore tigers include Machali (T-16), Dollar (T-25), Sitara (T-28), Bina One, Bina Two, and many others. Wildlife scientists, photographers, and jungle officials have all had emotional experiences as a result of their work. Because of the increase in Ranthambore’s population, some tigers have been relocated to neighbouring reserves like Sariska Tiger Reserve. As an example, the tigress sisters (Bina One and Bina Two) have lately relocated.
Ranthambore is an excellent place to live if you want to:
There are 40 different types of mammals.
320 different bird species
Reptiles (40 species)
a pair of amphibian species
Butterflies (50 species)
300 different plant species
When is the best time to visit Ranthambore?
From November to March, the peak tourist season in Ranthambore National Park, when all of the safari gates are open. Ranthambore Park is closed during the monsoon season, which runs from July to mid-October, but people can still visit since a few gates are partially open. Summer is the best time to visit Ranthambore for wildlife photographers, as tigers emerge from their caves in search of water, increasing the chances of seeing a Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
How do you get to Ranthambore?
By Air: The closest airport to Ranthambore is Jaipur, which is 180 kilometers away from the reserve.
By Rail: Sawai Madhopur railway station, on the Delhi-Mumbai trunk line, is approximately 11 km from Ranthambore National Park.
By Road: Ranthambore is easily connected by road. To get to Sawai Madhopur, it is best to hire a car or taxi. Just 1.5 kilometers separate you from the Kota-Ranthambore mega highway.
Ranthambore’s Tourist Attractions
Trinetra Ganesh Temple is the oldest Ganesh shrine in Rajasthan, and it is located within the famous Ranthambore Tour Package. King Hammeer, who dreamed of Lord Ganesha before discovering an idol of him with three eyes (Trinetra) in the fort, founded this famous temple in Ranthambhore.
Ranthambore Fort is a 13-kilometer drive from Sawai Madhopur Railway Station and is an ancient fort. The Ranthambore Fort, which was established in 944 AD and was originally known as “Ranath Bhawar Garh,” which means “a place of Rajput warriors,” was the home of the most famous Ranthambore tigress, Machali, who died a few years ago. Tiger fans, especially those who admired Machali, the “Queen of Ranthambore,” came to this fort in particular to see her mighty and royal movements. She was renowned for her courage and for extending her territories by beating the other Ranthambore tigers.
The Kachida Valley is situated on the reserve’s outskirts and features various outcrops and low hills. Tourists will go on a Jeep Safari to explore the Kachida Valley area and have a great time. It is the only place where the Panther population of Ranthambore National Park can be identified. They avoid going into the main area of the jungle to avoid encountering tigers. Aside from that, there are a lot of beers here.
The Jogi Mahal is a fort that is considered one of the must-see attractions in Ranthambore National Park.
About the Sariska Wildlife sanctuary
Sariska National Park, Rajasthan, is one of the most visited national parks in the world, located in the Alwar region of Jaipur. The Rajasthan government manages this national park, which is located about 107 kilometres from Jaipur and spans an unfathomable 800 square kilometres of territory. The park is separated into deciduous forest, farmland, harsh terrain, and cliffs portions.
The ‘Siliserh Lake’ and the ‘Jai Samand Lake,’ which are home to different crocodiles, water snakes, and other land and water wildlife, are surrounded by the Sariska National Park. Despite the fact that there are few tourist attractions in the Sariska area, the National Park serves as an unspoiled retreat for visitors looking for peace and endless stretches of diverse vegetation in Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur, Rajasthan.
The sanctuary also contains the ruins of ancient Garh-Rajor temples dating from the 11th century. A 17th-century fort on Kankwari’s hilltop also offers a beautiful view of soaring vultures and eagles. Several carnivores live in Sariska Park, including the Wild Dog, Jungle Cat, Hyena, Jackal, Leopard, and Tiger. Sambar, Nilgai, Chausingha, Chital, Wild Boar, and Langur are among the herbivorous species they eat, Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
Safari Times in Sariska National Park
In the Sariska Tiger Reserve, safaris are performed in two different time slots, with different timings in the winter and summer.
A Winter Safari
Safari is conducted twice a day, in the morning and evening. The safari timings for both slots in the winter are as follows:
Morning Safari: 6.30 a.m. to 10.30 a.m.
Evening Safari: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
A Summer Safari
During the summer, the safari is also held twice a day, in the morning and evening. The following are the summer safari times in Sariska National Park:
Morning Safari is: 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Evening Safari is: 2.30 to 6.30 p.m.
When is the best time to go to Sariska National Park?
The best time to visit Sariska National Park is in October and continues through June. Apart from that, the Sariska National Park is closed to tourists from July to September. However, if you want to go for wildlife photography or anything similar, the area is open all year Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
You may do the same by booking a ‘hide’ in one of the water holes, which provides an excellent opportunity to see Sariska National Park‘s wildlife. However, you must first obtain permission from the Forest Reception Office.
Flora
The forests of Sariska National Park are dry deciduous, with Dhok being the most common tree type, with mild to direct inclines accounting for more than 90% of the tree cover. The edges on steep dry slants bolster Salar. In valley beds, Khair and Cheela can be found. Bamboo only grows to a limited extent in wet and cool areas. Aam, Jamun, Arjun, and Bahera, which grow in clammy despondency on nallah banks, grow to enormous proportions.
Ber and Adusa make up the majority of the land distribution. Great grain species include Zizyphus and Grewia. Dhok’s dried and fallen leaves aid herbivores in surviving the summer months when the grain is scarce. The woods turn a dark green color during rainstorm months and are fully dry by late spring Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
Fauna
The National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Forest carnivores include the Jaguar, Hyena, Jackal, and Jungle Cat. Caracals and wild dogs are seldom seen. Sambhar, Chital, Wild Boar, Nilgai, Hare, and Porcupine are among the prey population. In terms of creature distribution, Sariska National Park is special. The wild animals in this area seem to have chosen their territories – their boundaries. Kundli for Chitals, Sambhar, and Tarunda and Kalighati for Nilgai are best observed from Slopka. The Pondupole Nallah is home to four-horned antelopes known as Chausingha. Chausingha is the only Indian buck with four horns on the planet.
Sariska is also known for theSariska National Park Safari, which allows visitors to see Langurs and Rhesus monkeys daily. Talviksh is the center of Rhesus’s basic population, and it is possible to see many of them at once. Pandupole, Slopka, and Kalighati all have large populations of langurs.
Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur When it comes to bird species, you can see grey partridge, sand grouse, crested serpent eagle, woodpecker, horned owl, tree pie, bush quail, and several others, totaling 225 species.
History of the Sariska National Park Safari
The forest of Sariska, which the Aravallis surround, is mentioned in the Mahabharata. It is where the Pandavas spent their final year of exile, according to the epic. It was also here that Lord Hanuman defeated the great Bhima. There is a shrine devoted to Lord Hanuman here as evidence Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
Sariska has attracted the attention of many rulers over the years, and Maharaja Jai Singh II constructed the Kankwari Fort here. The Maharaja of Alwar used the Sariska jungles as a hunting ground until hunting was outlawed in 1955. It was designated as a wildlife reserve, and the Sariska Tiger Reserve was established in 1978.
What is the best way to get to Sariska National Park?
Air: The Jaipur Airport is the closest airport to Sariska National Park. The distance between the airport and the Park is 122 kilometers, and it can be traveled by road or train. There are direct bus and taxis from the airport to Alwar, where the Park is situated.
Rail: The closest rail station is Alwar railway station, which is 37 kilometers away from the Park. This railway station has direct connections to several major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
Road: Sariska National Park is well-connected by road, with several bus and taxi services operating along the route. Private and government buses or taxis are available from all of Rajasthan’s major cities.
Jeep Safari
A jeep safari is the only way to see Sariska National Park. It is a 3-hour expedition led by knowledgeable guides. Each trip can accommodate at least six people and will run from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Jeep safaris are perfect for exploring the Park’s vast expanse as well as seeing the magnificent wildlife that calls it home. It is also the perfect way to get some of the best photos of these magnificent creatures.
Canter Safari
A Canter Safari, which takes place in open vans called canters, is another way to see the Park. It is the best way to see all of the Park’s zones, particularly if you’re traveling in a large group.
This safari takes about 20 people and takes them to all four zones of the Park. The hours are 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
It is suggested that you book your safari ahead of time, as demand for these safaris is strong, especially during peak seasons. Safaris are timed differently depending on the season Wildlife Sanctuaries Around Jaipur.
Amber Fort Light and Sound Show is a spectacle of great visual delight that hosts a breathtaking son-et-lumière. Once this fort has been home to 28 kings of the Kachwaha dynasty before they moved to Jaipur. The sound and light show is a glorious attempt in reviving the pride, history, and traditions.
Through the light show, they have tried to highlight the local legends, folklore, and celebrates the maestros of folk music. Also, they have tried to give Rajasthan its unique identity. Amber Fort Light and Sound Show have been set in a spectacular location, with a brilliant view. You will enjoy the view of the rising Jaigarh on the left, and magnificent hills behind it.
This well-organized evening sound and light show is an attractive attraction of Amber Fort Jaipur. It is a grand effort to revive the pride, history, and traditions of the fort.
The show exposes local legends, folklore, and celebrates folk music masters, who give Rajasthan their distinct identity till date.
The show is presented in a spectacular location where you can enjoy spectacular views of Amber Fort in front, Jaigad Fort rising to the left and magnificent hills behind it. During this 52-minute show, colorful lights illuminate the structure and reflect beautifully on Lake Mata reflecting the mythical past of the Amber Fort, dating back 600 years! Made exciting by the harmonious mix of folk music and legends of Rajput kings. The charming description tells you of Amber’s memory lane through its traditions and the grand lifestyle of the royal family. The story of the fort’s glorious past has been written by Gulzar and written by Amitabh Bachchan, the most distinctive voice in Indian cinema Amber Fort Light and Sound Show.
The Dance, Sound and Light Show
The Amer Fort & Palace Complex in Jaipur hosts a breathtaking nighttime entertainment. Since the ancient times of kings and queens, Rajasthan has celebrated various dance forms, styles of music, songs, and plays that have survived until now. The Amber Fort Light and Sound Show highlights local legends, folklore and the maestros of folk music. Through this, they are trying to revive the pride, history, and traditions of the fort and the city.
The show is set up in a spectacular location such that you can witness an impeccable view of the Amber Fort and Palace Complex in the front, Jaigarh on the left and the beautiful hills behind it. The striking landmark adds to the ambience of the Amber fort. The beauty of the monument, serene lake and starry night also adds to the magic.
The music is composed by singers like Ustad Sultan khan and Shubha Mudgal and the show is scripted by the very famous Gulzar and narrated in the most distinctive voice of Bollywood by Amitabh Bachchan. He narrates various stories and legends of Rajput kings, their traditions and their grand lifestyle throughout the Amber Fort Light and Sound Show.
This fascinating dance and sound attraction of the Amer Fort has been attracting tourists from all over the country. People come and enjoy the light-effects and the stories of bravery and pride of the Rajput Kings, cherishing the proud heritage of India. During this long show, Jaipur Tour Packages the bright and colorful lights illuminate the structure and beautifully reflect on Maota Lake, while its rocky walls provide an energetic backdrop for the light-effects.
Following the show, you can enjoy the dinner or buffet and reflect on the entertaining illustration of the elegant and decent culture of Rajasthan. It is a must-visit on your trip to Jaipur as you’ll have the most delightful experience of your life.
Timings, Tickets Fee & Tips
The Amber Fort Light and Sound Show starts every night at the foot of the fort, Kesar Kyari Garden situated on Maota Lake. During winters from October to February, the show starts at 6:30 pm in English and 7:30 pm in Hindi, from March to April it is 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm, from May to September it is 7:30 pm and 8:30 pm respectively. The show last 52 minutes totally. It is recommended for people going to see the show to reach at least 25 minutes before the show starts.
Month
English (Show)
Hindi (Show)
October to February
6:30 pm (English)
7:30 pm (Hindi)
March to April
7:00 pm(English)
8:00 pm (Hindi)
May to September
7:30 pm(English)
8:30 pm (Hindi)
Amber Fort Light and Sound Show It is extremely cold during the show, as you are seated outside with water surrounding you, so it is advisable for you to dress accordingly. Photography and videography are prohibited during the show. Also, it is better to reach the show 25 minutes before it starts to be seated properly and to enjoy the rest of the show Excursions from Jaipur.
Mount Abu Tour Guide is a very beautiful place located in Rajasthan, India. Located on a high rocky plateau, this city experiences colder climates and offers pretty amazing sceneries. Well connected to other parts of the country, this city has been a popular tourist destination for various adventures and sightseeing.
Located on the beautiful Aravali Plateau, the city of Mount Abu is adorned by lush green forests and loaded with pristine beauty of lakes, architecture of temples and heritage of ancient forts and havelis. Exhibiting the best royalty of bygone times, this city is home to numerous marvels loaded with artistic features and picture worthy craftsmanship. Amidst this enchanting surroundings, the life here is very calm and the locals are friendly as well.
Home to various entrincing landmarks, the Mount Abu city has been exciting its visitors and tourists since ages. Be it the reflection of the starry sky on the Nakki Lake or the flawless ornamental carvings of Dilwara Jain Temple, here you will find some of the best sceneries which will soothe our eyes as well as souls. Here, you will find various serene spots like the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Peace Park, Guru Shikhar Peak, Sunset Point, Abu Road, Trevour’s Tank Toad Rock and many more.
Haven for the adrenaline junkies, the city of Mount Abu tour package has been blessed with beautiful surroundings as well as a plethora of adventures. Attracting flocks of tourists, one can try their hands on a number of adventures here. From camping below the starry nights to rowing the boat in Nakki Lake, Mount Abu Tour Guide is bestowed with some of the best adrenaline rushing activities.
Interesting facts about Mount Abu
Mount Abu is a mythologically and historically significant place.
It is the spiritual home of the Gurjars and the Rajputs.
It is the spiritual base for the Brahma Kumaris.
It is Rajasthan’s only hill-station, located along the Gujarat border.
Guru Shikhar is Mount Abu’s tallest peak, at about 1722 metres.
The Summer, Winter and Gangaur festivals are big annual celebrations.
Temples, monuments, nature, wildlife and adventure are the highlights of Mount Abu Tour Guide.
History of Mount Abu
The historical name of the region was Arbudaanchal. Native Gurjar people have resided in the area since 6th century. Rao Lumba of Chauhan Dynasty ended the rule of the Parmars in 1311. Their capital city of Chandravati was eventually shifted to Sirohi. Under the British rule, it was used as their headquarters.
One of the most favored summer destinations in India, Mount Abu Tour Guide is popular not just amidst the Gujaratis and Rajasthanis but visitors from around the world. Often referred to as ‘an oasis in the desert’, its heights are home to a number of rivers, lakes and evergreen forests that have made it a hit destination among honeymooners. In addition to the scenic beauty of the city, Mount Abu tourism takes you deep into the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan housing numerous forts and historical sites. No matter how long you come here for, your trip to Mount Abu will undoubtedly be a memorable one.
Tourist Places To Visit In Mount Abu
Mount Abu is nestled cozily in the Aravalli Range in Sirohi district of Rajasthan. Labeled ‘an oasis in the desert’, Mount Abu is home to a number of tourist attractions that cater to all sorts of tastes, preferences and budget. From Nakki lake, Gurushikhar, Mount Abu wild life sanctuary to the architectural delights like Dilwara Jain Temples, Adhar devi temple, AchalGarh fort, etc, the hill station has it all to keep you interested.
Till a few years back, Mount Abu Tour Guide used to be one of the most talked about holiday spot in the Bollywood movies. Popular daily soaps further highlighted its quintessential charm, and that’s how this ‘once-not-so-known-place’ emerged as one of the sought-after destinations among weekenders and travelers from different parts of the world. Here are thetop tourist places to visit in Mount Abu.
Dilwara Jain Temples
This temple is famous for its architecture & history. Located at the distance of approx 2.5 KMs from mount Abu and built by the ministers of Solanki rulers of Gujarat in the 13th century. Dilwara Temple is one of the finest Jain temple known world over for its extraordinary architecture and marvelous marble stone carvings. You will seem this temple is fairly basic from outside but you must hear that every cloud has a silver lining, the interior showcases the extraordinary work of human craftsmanship. Beautiful lush green mountains surrounds the temple which gives you a very pleasant feeling. If you know the value of art then you will spend your many hours just looking at minutely carved ceilings and the pillars.
This temple opens daily even on public holidays and opening time is 12:00 PM and closing time is 06:00 PM. No fees for tourists but Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
Guru Shikhar
Guru Shikhar, a prominent peak in the Arbuda Mountains of Rajasthan, is the highest point of the Aravalli Range. It rises to a height of 1,722 metres 5,650 ft. It is 15 km from Mount Abu Tour Guide and a road from there leads nearly to the top of the mountain. Guru-Shikhar or ‘the peak of the guru’ named after Dattatreya, a manifestation of Vishnu, and a cave at the summit contains a temple dedicated to him, built in the early 14th Century, plus one dedicated his mother, Anasuya, wife of sage Atri nearby.
The Mount Abu Observatory is also located in this place which is under the management of Physical Research Laboratory, and is famous for conducting research and experiments regarding astronomical findings. This makes it a frequented tourist destination and popular all over the country.
Nakki Lake
If you are in Mount Abu, then you can’t skip this lake. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mount Abu. According to Hindu Mythology, this ancient lake was dug out from nails by gods for the protection against the demon ‘Bashkali’. Apart from its mythological story, this lake also named as love lake of Mount Abu. Nakki Lake has a very peaceful and romantic atmosphere around it. Sunset Point, Toad Rock, and the Maharaja Jaipur Palace in Mount Abu are very close to it.
The lake is in the length of about a half-mile and in width about a quarter of a mile and 20 to 30 ft. deep towards the dam on the west. It is also one of the largest manmade lakes at the height of 11,000 meters in India. You can do boating do in this Nakki Lake and timings are 09:30 AM to 06:00 PM. Mount Abu is also known for its relaxed culture and there are several markets and shops near Nakki Lake, known for its souvenirs, sandalwood products, and other handicraft items.
Sunset Point
The Mount Abu Sunset Point is a famous places to visit in Mount Abu, which lies to the south-west of Ionic Nakki Lake. This spot is popular for watching a scenic view of the sunset every day. It has delightful weather throughout the year so you can visit it during any season.
The central point which is famous for its sunset charm is the one at approx 5 to 10 minutes drive and around thirty minutes walking distance from the Nakki Bazar circle, at the southwest of Nakki Lake. Cabs are available on a sharing basis from the city center to this place at a cost of Rs 10/- per person. It is approx 15 minutes ride to a convenient road, from where one has to walk his way up. This cheery trek of 1km may take about 20 minutes to reach. Make sure to reach the place much before the sunset time, to find a good spot for yourself to enjoy the view.
Best time to visit Mount Abu:
Just by virtue of being a hill-station, you know Mount Abu Tour Guide has pleasant weather conditions for most part of the year. Even surrounded by desert down below, the town stays cool in the summers, with light showers in the monsoon and really chilly winters. It’s best to plan a tour during the season that best suits your interests.
How to get to Mount Abu
By Air : To fly to Mount Abu, you have to land 210 km away at Udaipur Airport, or Maharana Pratap Airport as it is also known. All the main domestic carriers have flights arriving here on a daily or weekly schedule from most major cities. Once you land, taxis and buses are available for hire that drive you to the hill-station.
By Road : The roads leading up to Mount Abu Tour Guide are surprisingly well-maintained, so you can easily reach the destina-tion via car or bus. The duration of the journey depends on where your drive begins, but it does offer the advantage of one’s own space and timing. Private and public buses ply the same highways, for which tickets can be booked in advance.
By Train : Arriving to Mount Abu by train is often considered more convenient than air travel, considering you arrive into Abu Road Station merely 28 km from the city. Trains from big cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jodhpur, Kolkata and more, pass by Abu Road, so finding a train is easy from any corner of the country.
Delhi Tour Guide is both a union territory within India, as well as a city, and features two very different worlds: New Delhi and Old Delhi. The former, inaugurated by the British in 1931 to serve as the imperial capital, is the nation’s modern capital and seat of government, while Old Delhi is considered by many as the symbolic heart of the greater metropolitan area.
One of the most populous regions in the world, Delhi is a heady mix of tradition and modernity, important as both a religious center and India’s busiest international gateway. Its history is as old as the ancient Yamuna River, one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism and a natural dividing line between New Delhi to the west and Old Delhi to the east.
Things to see and do in Delhi and New Delhi are plentiful and include experiencing its diverse arts and crafts industry; its many magnificent monuments; countless performing arts venues; and its excellent cuisine, including delicacies from every corner of India. Delhi Tour Guide is also a shopper’s paradise with numerous bazaars and markets, including Chandni Chowk, the country’s most famous commercial area.
Delhi is India’s second most populous city with about 20 million people
It is said to have been built, invaded and rebuilt countless times, as different kingdoms came to power in the North Indian region
Located here is Asia’s only sacred site for the Baha’i faith, the Lotus Temple
With 20% green and ecological cover, Delhi Tour Guide is one of the greenest cities in the world
Delhi is second only to Nairobi in Kenya, as a city rich in avian biodiversity
Built in 1200 AD, Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest standing brick minaret is found in Delhi
Most of the modern city of Delhi was designed by British architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens
History of Delhi
Delhi has a long, rich history finding its way in the epic Mahabharata – it is said to be the site of the capital of Pandavas, Indraprastha. During the medieval period, the city was ruled by some of the most powerful Indian emperors the world has ever known like Ashoka and Prithviraj Chauhan. The latter was overthrown by a Muslim invader Muhammad Ghori; post which the Turkish dynasties gained dominance in the area. After his death in 1206, Qutb ud-din Aibak took control and laid the foundation of the Mamluk dynasty and the Delhi Private Day Tours.
Lodis ruled Delhi for almost 300 years after the Mamluks and were succeeded by the Khaljis and the Tughlaqs. By the end of the 14th century, the Sayyid dynasty came to power followed by the Lodis, before the sultanate was destroyed in 1526 by the Mughals. Their rule in Delhi Tour Guide continued for over three centuries, all the while fighting for it with the Marathas.
In the early 19th century, the British East India Company took Delhi under their control and later made it their capital in 1911. The name ‘New Delhi’ was coined in 1927 and post-independence on 15th August 1947, it was officially declared as the capital of India.
List of Best Places to Visit in Delhi:
Delhi Tour Guide You can never get tired of sightseeing in Delhi, where you will easily stumble upon many of its iconic monuments, owing to the sheer number of the historical edifices standing in the city. Just like any metropolitan city in the world, Delhi’s daily hustle-bustle is also a sight to behold. The city’s attractions range from architectural marvels to splendid gardens, historic tombs to places of worship, diverse market-places and dynamic neighbourhoods. Whether you have a few days or weeks to spend, here are the attractions worth fitting into your Delhi Tour itinerary:
Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar is a world-famous structure which is located in Delhi. It is one of the monuments that you should definitely visit and enjoy your time. It is also known as a victory. The first ruler of Delhi’s sultanate started the Qutub Minar and hence it was named after the Delhi sultanate. You can also visit significant monuments in and around the Qutub Minar. There was an earthquake in the 14th century which caused damage to Qutub Minar but later was fixed by Sikandar Lodi.
After that, there was another earthquake in 1803 and it was again renovated by the British Indian army. The planning and financial arrangements for Qutub Minar was done by the Afghani tribe who came to India. It was during the 11th century where different Nomadic clans were united and converted to Islam. The monument is exceptionally constructed and it is one of the beautiful places that you can visit in Delhi Tour Guide so don’t miss out on this special historical monument. Check out the exceptional beauty of the architectures and find out how the rulers have created such beautiful constructions with basic tools.
Humayun’s Tomb
The tomb was named after the Mughal emperor as it was commissioned by his first wife Begum. It is yet another monument addressed under the UNESCO Heritage site which attracts countless tourists from across the globe. The construction was done under the supervision of begam after the Mughal emperor passed away. It took about 7 years to complete Humayun’s Tomb and it was taken care of well.
This is one of the best historical monuments that you should visit without any doubts and the construction was overlooked in the period of Akbar’s reign. It is a great place for every tourist to visit as the ethereal beauty of the tomb is a great place to visit and enjoy. It is one such beautiful place that tourists should never miss out.
There are so many monuments in and around the tomb which you can check out and spend the whole day in here. It is one of the best places and the best time to visit during the month of October as winter climate will help you to enjoy the ambience and the coldest days of the year will be perfect for sightseeing in and around the tomb.
There are so many monuments in and around the tomb which you can check out and spend the whole day in here. It is one of the best places and the best time to visit during the month of October as winter climate will help you to enjoy the ambience and the coldest days of the year will be perfect for sightseeing in and around the tomb.
You can take really good photographs here with perfect lighting and also take a look at the exceptional Persian architect Mirak Mirza works. There are also some restaurants where you can enjoy having lunch or dinner with your family. Collect some souvenirs near the nearby shop to keep it as a remembrance of this place. You can also utilise the guides to check out the famous tourist spots usually visited by the wanderlusts.
Lotus Temple
Lotus temple is one of the main attractions for tourists and especially peace lovers and history class girls. The Lotus temple was constructed using marble clad petals all over the sides and it can hold up to 2,500 people. The Lotus temple has won several accolades and more than 70 million visitors have visited this Lotus temple. Moreover, hundred million visitors have already visited in the year 2014.
This one tourist attraction that you should definitely checkout. Previously the place was called the house of worship for all kinds of religion and faith. Persian architect from Canada designed this construction with the inspiration of lotus. The most visited tourist attraction in the country has 10,000 daily visitors. The Bahai religion has no idols or pictures to worship and there are around seven houses of worship situated in different countries such as Sydney, Frankfurt, Germany, Willmott, USA and more.
You will definitely enjoy this place and feel peaceful from inside. This unique place has a charming Garden and infuses an aura of positive Vibes. People from diverse religions visit this beautiful place as Lotus is a common symbol of many religions. When you are visiting this place, you can enjoy other places as well as there are several tourist attractions located near this incredible building.
Akshardham Temple
Swaminarayan Akshardham temple is located in New Delhi very close to Noida. The temple was opened 15 years ago in front of Doctor APJ Abdul Kalam, KL Advani and Manmohan Singh. The temple is one of the best tourist destinations that everyone loves to visit once. This exceptional architecture inculcates a perfect clean atmosphere. Most of the tourists who have visited New Delhi will definitely check out this place as it is a must-see tourist destination.
One can stay up to 3 hours there to explore the beautiful temple. Moreover, it is essential to know that the temple took around 5 years to be completed. The temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Swami Narayan and it holds the value of ancient culture in the country. You will also get to view the sculptures of Indian heroes, factory arts and warriors in bronze. The old temple is marvelous and you can also get to view the life teachings of Bhagwan Swami Narayan. The entry fee is not more than 200 and it varies for children and adults. The nearest metro station is Akshardham and you can easily reach the temple.
Red Fort
It is time to relish the historic fort in the Delhi region which served as the exceptional residence for Mughal emperors. Famous emperor Shah Jahan constructed the Red fort when he moved the capital from Agra to Delhi. The Red Fort was constructed by the architect Ustad Ahmed Lahori who built the Taj Mahal. The fort is very near to the Yamuna river and the construction was initiated in the first month of the Islamic calendar and it was under the supervision of Shahjahan himself.
After Shahjahan, his successor Aurangzeb constructed the pearl mosque. Several rulers defeated the Mughal army and plundered the Red Fort to acquire the peacock throne. The history of the Red Fort is vast and it is one of the major historical forts that you should definitely visit without any doubts. Moreover, the Red Fort is represented as the senate of mohal creativity which had an influence on buildings constructed later in and around the Indian subcontinent.
When you visit the Red Fort, you should definitely take a look at the structures such as Lahori gate, Delhi chhata chowk, naubat khana, Mumtaz Mahal, rang Mahal, Khaas Mahal Hira Mahal and more. You can definitely spend at least half a day in the red fort to explore these historical monuments and have a great time.
India Gate
India gate which was formerly called as the all India war memorial is in New Delhi and it is also called Kingsway. Edwin Lutyens constructed the memorial gate which stands as a memorial for more than 70000 soldiers of the British Indian army who died in the first world war. It is one of the iconic places that needs no introduction as it is a popular tourist place to visit.
The design is compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, in Paris and for Arch of Constantine, the India gate is one of the main tourist attractions that is open from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The republic day parade also passes through this spot and many process protests have taken place in this popular spot. The design and structure is exceptional and is rare to look at. Over there, you will find the words inscribed in the India gate
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is located in New Delhi, it was built in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur to revise the calendar and astronomical tables. The altitude of the observatory is 723 feet (220 m) and its primary purpose was to compile astronomical tables and to predict the time and movement of the Sun, Moon, and planets. It consists of 13 architectural Astronomy Instruments including Ram Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Jai Prakash Yantra, and Mishra Yantra which are the specific attractions of Jantar Mantar.
Shopping In Delhi:
Massive extravagant glass malls or colourful heritage open-air markets, Delhi has a range of shopping experiences to offer where you can buy everything — from big brands to handicrafts to fresh organic produce. Here’s a pick of top shopping places you must visit at least once, during your stay in the city:
Chandni Chowk – The historic marketplace that has specialised bazaars for products ranging from electronics to silver jewellery to spices. It is also a renowned destination to sample Delhi’s delicious street food.
Sarojini Nagar – Head to this famous shopping district in South Delhi for its countless clothing stalls and stores that sell branded attires at pocket-friendly prices.
Khan Market – Not the largest market in Delhi, but known for its branded outlets, boutiques and bookstores. There are also good restaurants and cafés here.
Janpath & Tibetan Market – Souvenirs, hand-crafted textiles, jewellery, instruments, flags, bags and anything else you can imagine, can all be found at this vibrant market — at bargained prices!
Sundar Nagar – Discover wondrous objects at this artsy market such as exquisite antiques, precious jewellery, unique home décor and hand-spun textiles. Take a break at one of the market’s upscale tea houses.
Best time to visit In Delhi:
Delhi gets extreme summers and really cold winters, separated by an unpredictable monsoon and pleasant transitional days across the year. No matter the season, the city is always welcoming tourists so you can plan a trip as per dates convenient to you. However, if weather is a consideration, early and late winters are the best time to visit Delhi — around November and February. Being out and about is most comfortable in these months, so you can maximise your days.
How to get to Delhi:
How to reach Delhi is the first and foremost thing that comes to mind while planning a trip to this historic city. Serving as the capital city of the nation, Delhi has best transport facilities and reaching here is no fuss. The city is well-connected to major parts of the country by air, rail and road. Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) is the main aerodrome serving national and international travellers a large.
By Air:
Delhi boasts the best domestic and international air connectivity of the country, with flights from all major cities and most towns landing at the award-winning Indira Gandhi International Airport. Minutes within landing, you can book yourself a taxi to enter the city via the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway or catch one of the lines from the Airport Metro Station.
By Road:
Delhi has a dense road network, including five national highways such as NH1, NH2, NH8, NH10 & NH24. From any direction or neighbouring state, you can easily and comfortably drive yourself, hire an outstation taxi or take a bus to one of the three bus terminals in the city.
By Train:
The Old Delhi Railway Station, New Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station make up the main junctions for trains arriving into Delhi from various parts of the country. There are countless options for trains to the all-important region around the capital that run daily and weekly.
Agra Tour Guide Taj Mahal in Agra might leave no room for other tourist attractions in India to allure both domestic as well as international tourists. But do you know what else makes Agraone of the best and most visited tourist destinations in India? Well, the city offers the tourists an opportunity to travel back in the Mughal era. Agra, situated on the banks of the River Yamuna, boasts of many other architectural marvels and render exciting activities that make holidays in Agra wonderful in all the senses.
With a wonderful combination of history, culture, food and shopping, Agra is an ideal destination where one can plan a vacation with family, friends, and even a honeymoon. Right from visiting the fascinating tombs and mausoleums like Taj Mahal; Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj); Mariam’s Tomb; Sikandra (Akbar’s Tomb); Chini ka Rauza to the magnificent Agra Fort and the fortified city of Fatehpur Sikri there are a lot of experiences one can get while holidaying in Agra Tour Guide.
The vibrant fairs and festivals in Agra are celebrated with much gusto. Off all, the important and must-see includes Taj Literary Festival, Taj Mahotsav, Hot Air Balloon Festival, Ram Barat, Kailash Fair along with other important festivals of India. Even though a trip to Agra can be planned at any time of the year, but visiting the city during any of these festivals will be an altogether different travel experience.
Coming to shopping, Agra Tour Guide has a wide range of interesting things that one can choose to buy from. The city is best known for leather, rugs & carpets, mini marble structures and other unique items which one can find them by visiting Kinari Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, Subhash Emporium and more. Besides, travellers can’t leave the city without relishing the delectable Mughalai food and the famous Petha made from white pumpkin or ash gourd infused with different flavours. So, without much ado, plan a trip and explore Agra tourismas the city as numerous ways to make your holiday a memorable one.
History of Agra
History of Agrahas quite a rich background, which is fully apparent from the various historical monuments that are located in and around the city. The initial reference for the city of Agra comes from the age of epic, when in the Mahabharata Agra was referred to as “Agravana”. Agra has also been referred to as “Arya Griha” which means the abode of the Aryans. There has been a lot of historical influence on this lovely city and the Agra’s history gets reverberated in the historical monuments that have been built during the rule of the Mughals.
Not only the Mughals, there were a lot of other rulers who were responsible for the rich heritage and history of Agra. The one who was responsible for finding the Agra Tour Guide was Sikandar Lodhi who belonged to the lodhi dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate and it was in the 16th century. One could notice the square Persian-styled gardens which were for the first time introduced by another Mughal emperor Babar. The History of Agra city witnessed another gem being added to its crown when Emperor Akbar first built the Agra fort and Fatehpur Sikri close to Agra.
Under the bizarre circumstances Fatehpur Sikri got demolished and was left isolated that had remained the capital of Akbar for a long span of fifteen years. History of Agra has witnessed a lot of things being added and removed to it and hence has a rich past that simply captivates the tourists when spoken about. The beautification of Agra city was done by Jahangir with splendid palaces and verdant gardens. The actual beautification was done when Shajahan ascended the throne of the Mughal Empire and built the famousTaj Mahal Agra Tours in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Best places to visit in Agra
As they say ‘Agra ka Taj Mahal nahi dekha to kya dekha’ (if you haven’t seen Agra’s Taj Mahal then what have you seen in this world?). The city is famous because of this elegant and spectacular marble monument that stands as a dedication of love. But apart from Taj Mahal, the city possesses awe inspiring attractions that guarantee a quality time and a peek into the life of the Mughal rulers, their love stories and struggle for power and fame. Here are some of the must visit gems of Agra Tour Guide.
Taj Mahal
One of the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal is a glorious monument dedicated to a beautiful love story. Taj Mahal is on the top of the list of Agra Tour Guide famous places as it beckons a large number of tourists. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built this edifice in the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is a mesmerising monument designed using white colour marble which gives the building a very distinct appearance.
Persian and Mughal style of architecture have been featured primarily in the main building and the minarets. Visitors simply cannot stop themselves from admiring the beauty of the exterior and interior that are one of its kinds in the world. Taj Mahal Day Tour is also one of the best places to visit in Agra in night as it is open during the full moon nights for visitors who wish to catch a glimpse of the monument glowing under the stunning natural lighting.
Agra Fort
This 16th century structure is made of red sandstone because of which it is also known as Red Fort. The walls of the fort cover almost two kilometres of the area and the interiors house many different unique buildings that are designed in different styles of Indian architecture. Two of the most beautiful palaces include Jahangir Palace and Khas Palace. Agra Fort is truly splendid but the views of Taj Mahal from the building’s jharokhas are one of the reasons why it is a must during a well planned Agra Tour Guide.
Jama Masjid
Originally known as Masjid Jahan Numa, Jama Masjid is the finest examples of Mughal craftsmanship. It took six years to construct Jama Masjid and the structure reflects Indo Persian and Islamic styles of carvings and patterns. It is believed that several stones used in the construction were a gift or donation from the nobles who were a part of the royal court. Learning Agra’s history and its political relevance in Mughal era is incomplete without spending some time to admire this marvelous structure. No wonder, Jama Masjid is one of the most popular places to see in Agra.
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb
This red sandstone building is one of the most admired historical places in Agra. Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb provides a glimpse into the era when Mughal architecture and cultural outlook were at its peak. The primary designs in the interiors of the tomb resemble Taj Mahal’s decors. Because of this reason, it is also known as the Mini Taj Mahal among the tourists. Apart from the main building, there are a number of gorgeous structures scattered outside the complex. Its location on the banks of Yamuna River and a striking garden adorning the structure gives it a very picturesque view.
Akbar’s Tomb
Akbar’s Tomb is among the most important Agra India points of interest. This architectural wonder is situated on the grounds of Sikandra, another of the important tourist places near Agra Tour Guide. Building process for the exquisite monument started in the year 1600 and Akbar himself commissioned the project. The complex where Akbar’s tomb resides is spread in an area of 116 acres and red sandstone was used in the construction. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, minarets and other public buildings makes it one of the best places to visit in Agra.
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a lovely little settlement that is an integral part of Mughal history and its grandeur. The city was founded by Akbar who ruled his kingdom keeping this place as the capital for many years. Today, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the most amazing places to visit near Agra. The fortified town is bedecked with colourful gardens, harems, decorative mosques, resplendent palaces, magnificent gates and many beautiful residential and public structures Agra Tour Guide.
Sadar Bazar
If you want to indulge in shopping or enjoy the taste of some of the famous Agra foods then Sadar Bazar is where you should head to. Sadar Bazar is an important business area of the city where one can buy several souvenirs including miniature Taj Mahal, precious stones and post cards. Wooden handicraft items are also sold here and are a highlight of the market. Sadar Bazar is one of the Agra’s best places and favourite among the foodies who come here to enjoy different varieties of chat, biryani and chicken frankie, Agra Tour Guide.
Best time to visit Agra
Agra weather oscillates in extreme directions due to it being on the Indian plains. The summers are extremely hot and humid with the temperature often soaring upto 40 degrees in the afternoon.
The monsoon season often results in flooding of the town and is not the recommended time to visit Agra India.
Winters are very cold and the months of January and December experiences thick, dense fog along with low temperatures up to 10 to 12 degrees.
Hence, the best time to plan your Agra travels is between February to March and September to mid November. The weather during these months is moderate and provides ample opportunities to explore important places in Agra Tour Guide.
How to reach Agra
The best way to reach Agra is by rail and road. Agra Tour Guide is very close to New Delhi and most of the tourists usually visit the city on a day trip. It takes 3 hours to reach Agra by road and an equal time is consumed when commuting by train.
By Air
Agra has its own airport but has limited flights available as the runaway is used by Indian air force. Agra airport is also away from the city and hence not preferred by the travellers. Delhi and Lucknow are closest to Agra Tour Guide, UP. A majority of tourists visiting Agra usually land in Delhi because of the connectivity and many international flights arriving and departing on a frequent basis.
By Road
From Delhi, NH2, also known as Delhi Agra expressway, connects both cities on a superfast route. It takes 3 hours to travel to Agra from Delhi and many local travel companies organize one day Agra sightseeing trips that include Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Mehtab Bagh and a few more attractions. These sightseeing trips also includes Fatehpur Sikri but this way you get less time to enjoy all the places properly. Delhi to Agra Taj Mahal tour packages are very popular and it depends on the preferences of a traveller concerning the number of days and budget they have in hand.
One can hire a car, or book bus tickets that leave from Delhi Anand Vihar ISBT at every half an hour. Two days in Agra will showcase all the important landmarks in a very comfortable way.
Agra is also connected to Gwalior, Lucknow and Jaipur and private cabs as well as buses ply from these cities.
Train
Agra has a decent connectivity of trains and it is easy to find one travelling from long distances like Bangalore and Chennai. Most of the trains on Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai routes stop at Agra station or Agra Fort Railway Station. There are several short distance trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Gwalior including Shatabdi and super luxury coaches. Agra has five operational railway stations that include Agra Tour Guide Cantt, Agra Fort Station, Raja Ki Mandi, Agra City (not operational), and Idgah station.
Bikaner Tour Guide has a rich cultural heritage and it is home to magnificent architectural marvels. This city is situated amidst the Thar Desert and is a traveler’s paradise. It is popularly called as the ‘Camel Country’ and it is known for the best riding camels in the world. Here’s a complete Bikaner travel guide for your kind perusal.
Bikaner offers a taste of Arabian nights in India. It hosts the Bikaner Camel Festival which attracts a large number of national and international tourists. Camel safaris are the best way to soak in the spectacular beauty of the Thar Desert here. The vibrant and lively aura of the city will make you fall in love with this place. A complete Bikaner tourist guide like the one you’re reading now will let you know about much more information.
In the arid desert of Rajasthan, Bikaner Tour Guide appears to be like a beautiful oasis. The exquisite forts made up of red bricks, ancient temples, palaces, and museums present a sight to behold. This city is very popular for its delicious cuisines as well.
Some of the best Bikaner places to visit are the Junagarh Fort, Rao Bikaji Fort, Laxmi Niwas Palace, Bhandasar Jain Temple, Karni Mata Temple, Lakshmi Nath Temple, and Mukam Bishnoi Temple. The city is one of the finest destinations in north-west India which should be visited by all at least once in their lifetime Bikaner Tour Guide.
History of Bikaner, Rajasthan
Talking about the history of this colorful city of Rajasthan, it dates back to long ago in the golden pages of the book of history. It was in the 15th century that Bikaner was a barren land that was ruled by the Rajputs and was known by the name of ‘Jangladesh’. In the year 1488, the namesake city was established by Rao Bika and he even built the Junagarh fort which is now considered as a popular tourist attraction to visit in Bikaner.
You would be pleased to know that; considered as the oasis in between the Thar Desert, Bikaner served as a strategic point of trade between Central Asia and Gujarat. Specifically talking about the major construction and development that happened in Bikaner Tour Guide, then it would undoubtedly be under the rule of Raja Rai Singh. He ruled from 1571 AD till 1611 AD and even won several wars and accolades. This brave ruler even conquered the Mewar kingdom and got handsomely rewarded for the same.
It was in the 18th century that the kingdom fell into the hands of the British Empire. Though the Royal family kept ruling the city but the main control was in the hands of Britishers. Gradually, the royal family of Bikaner shifted to the Lalgarh Palace where they continued to reside till date. Owing to its interesting history, Bikaner is one of the favourite places to explore for all the history buffs.
Places to Visit in Bikaner
Bikaner Tour Guide If you love to be associated with a city that has a rich cultural heritage, you need to be in Bikaner. The city was established in the year 1488 AD by Rao Bika Ji, a Rajput prince. The city is known for producing great warriors. The excavations from this city prove that the civilization was at its peak here even before Harappan civilization. Imposing palaces, forts and stunning temples with great architecture boast of the finesse of the Rajput civilization. Here are the 8 places to visit in Bikaner, which are all time favorites for tourists.
Junagarh Fort: Junagarh is an impregnable bastion that holds the distinction of having never been captured. It was constructed in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh, one of Emperor Akbar’s most distinguished generals. The fort complex houses some magnificent palaces constructed in red sandstone and marble and visitors can feast their eyes on an attractive assortment of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows.
Lal garh Palace: Maharaja Ganga Singh commissioned the construction of this majestic palace. This architectural marvel is made entirely of red sandstone and was built in 1902 to commemorate his father, Maharaja Lal Singh. The design was conceptualised by Sir Swinton Jacob, who created this oriental fantasy by blending Rajputana, Islamic and European architecture.
Ganga Museum: Described as the best museum in the State, the museum contains a rich display of archaeological artefacts from Harappa and the early Gupta periods. There are separate sections for paintings, arts and craft, woven carpets, clay pottery, ancient coins and Rajput weaponry.
Bhandasar Jain Temple: Jain Temple Bhandasar is a 15th century temple dedicated to the 5th Tirthankar (a person that has conquered the cycle of life, death and rebirth and paved the path for others to attain nirvana), Sumatinathji, and is one of the oldest monuments of Bikaner Tour Guide. The temple design includes intricate mirror work, murals and gold leaf paintings. Devotees throng to the temple from all corners of the country.
Devi Kund: 8 kilometres from Bikaner is the royal crematorium. It has several exquisite chhatris (cenotaphs), each dedicated to the memory of a ruler of the Bikaji dynasty and situated on the exact spot where each of them was cremated. The chhatri of Maharaj Surat Singh is a fine example of the architecture of that era. Devi Kund also has cenotaphs of 22 female members of the royal family prior to Maharaja Gaj Sigh Ji, who committed sati. There is also one cenotaph of a Sata (male sati) of a ruler. Maharaja Surat Singh’s Chhatri is built entirely in white marble with spectacular Rajput paintings on its ceiling.
Gajner Wild Life Sanctuary: Barely 32 kilometres from Bikaner, on the Jaisalmer road, is a lush green forest which is a haven to the nilgai, chinkara, black buck, wild boar, flocks of imperial sand grouse and many other species of migratory birds that make the sprawling forest their winter home Bikaner Tour Guide.
Gajner Palace and Lake: Gajner is an incomparable jewel of the Thar. The Gajner Palace was founded by Maharaja Gaj Singh ji of Bikaner in the year 1784, and then completed by the great Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner Tour Guide on the banks of the lake. It was meant to serve as a hunting and relaxing lodge for the royal family as well as for visiting guests. It has now been converted into a hotel
Rampuria Haveli: Bikaner has several havelis (aristocratic homes), the most famous cluster being the Rampuria Group of Havelis. Built of dulmera (red) stone, every aspect of the havelis – jharokhas (casements), entrances, latticed windows, divankhanas, gumaharias or basements – is simply exotic. Leaves and flowers decorate every jharokha, lending it a pleasant touch. These massive havelis are decorated with golden work of the highest quality. Their dankhanas (drawing room) take one back to the Mughal and Rajput era. One can notice an abundance of Victorian influence in their design as well. The wood carvings in Rampuria Havelies are extremely exquisite. Spaced close to each other, the havelis are truly a sight to behold.
Laxmi Niwas Palace: Laxmi Niwas Palace was the residence of the king of Bikaner, Maharaja Ganga Singh. Built between 1898 and 1902 by British architect Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, this structure displays an Indo-Saracenic architectural style. It is now a luxury hotel.
Deshnok Karni Mata Temple: Hinduism in India is as multifarious a religion as it is longstanding.Spirituality and symbolism happen to be its two fundamental elements. Also, a deeply involved part of these two aspects of Hinduism are animals. The assertive Hindu belief of inviolability of animals is actually one of the most remarkable aspects of the Indian culture. Bikaner Tour Guide These creatures have been reckoned as channels for love and unity, symbols of the culture and impetuses of growth, by many ancient Indian literary texts.
The life of an animal is held equal to that of a human, the only difference being that unlike the latter their senses have not fully manifested. Right from the classification of beings to the many animal incarnations of Gods, the crucial role of Nature’s beasts is furthermore stressed. The more one comes across the powerful references to animals in India, the more intrigued one gets. And it is only by visiting the numerous religious destinations within the nation, and peeking into their backgrounds that you begin to converge with the thresholds of this centuries’ old culture. Among the prominent seats of religion in India is the legendary Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner Tour Guide.
Shopping in Bikaner:
Purchase colorful and vibrant Rajasthani print from Bikaner. The markets of Bikaner Tour Guide are famous for selling local prints and handicrafts of Rajasthan. In each and every product sold you get a glimpse of Rajasthan. The famous markets in Bikaner are Kote Gate, Station Road Market, Lallgarh Palace Road, Mahatma Gandhi Road, and Bara Bazar. Purchase things like Kundan Jewelry, Sarees with bandhani or leheriya prints, lac bangles, leather mojari, Nokha razai, Bikaneri Bhujia, different varieties of churan, and sweets. Other things that one can buy from Bikaner are miniature paintings, small wooden carved objects, khadi textiles and cosmetics, utensils, embroidered and colorful bags, rugs, and chairs made out of leather.
Best time to visit Bikaner:
The best time to visit Bikaner is during October to February, when the weather is cooler and much more pleasant than the summers. Visiting the city during the monsoon season is not a bad idea, considering the temperatures are lesser as compared to the summers, even though the humidity might be a problem. Visiting Bikaner Tour Guide during the summers is not advisable unless you are willing to bear the scorching desert sun. The discounts offered during the off-season here might make it worthwhile.
How to Reach Bikaner, Rajasthan?
Bikaner Tour Guide If the thing that is stressing you down is travelling issues or facing difficulty in reaching the vacation destination, we would be pleased to tell you that you will face no such thing as far as Bikaner is concerned. This popular place to visit in Rajasthan is well – connected with several major cities and states via different modes of transports. You can easily reach it:
By Air: The nearest airport to reach Bikaner is the Nal Airport. It is located close to the city and just 13 km away from Bikaner. However, it is still under construction and has not started operations yet. The next nearest airport to reach Bikaner would be the Jodhpur airport which is located at a distance of about 251 km from Bikaner Tour Guide. This airport is well – developed and well – connected with various major cities throughout the country. Once you reach the airport, you can easily take a bus or hire a taxi to reach your destination.
By Rail: There are two railway stations located close to Bikaner Tour Guide. They are Bikaner Junction and Lalgarh Railway Junction. They are located at a distance of just about 6 km from the city, so you don’t have to worry about travelling issues. These railway junctions are well – connected with a plenty of major cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Punjab, Hyderabad, Mumbai and many others too. Once you reach the station, you can easily take a cab or hire a taxi to reach your destination.
By Road: The city of Bikaner is well – connected with roads to many nearby cities. There is a regular bus service that runs from a plenty of nearby cities to Bikaner on a daily basis. You can choose between travelling from a government bus or a private bus. Taxis travelling to Bikaner Tour Guide are also easily available. Since the roads are considerably smooth, you can also travel by personal vehicle.
namaste , Thanks for contacting Rajasthan Tour Planner !!!!! you can also send us e mail with your tour requirements on info@rajasthantourplanner.com thanks and best regards Prakash singh