Famous Rajasthani Food Dishes || You Must Try during Visit

Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas, is famous for its rich culture. But what makes the state distinctive and popular is its cuisine. Rajasthanis love their food and it is evident in their preparations. Dal Bati Churma and Laal Maas are the most famous dishes from the state. Every food enthusiast must have tasted them at least once. Your trip to Rajasthan is incomplete if you haven't experienced their scrumptious dishes. So, let's begin our good journey in Rajasthan and see some famous dishes.

1. Dal Bati & Churma

One of the most famous dishes from the state, no Rajasthani food is complete without Dal Bati Churma. The round Batis dipped in ghee with Panchkuti dal and churma make for an appetizing combination. This dish is the primary food you must try during your visit.

2. Ker Sangri 

A typical desert vegetable, Ker Sangri is a kind of a pickle. Thistangy side dish goes well with Bajra roti. Due to lack of water, these are easy to grow in less water. So, this is a primary food of Rajasthani culture. But it's taste makes you crave for more.

3. Laal Maas ( Red Meat )

You cannot talk about Rajasthani dishes without mentioning the crowd favourite, Laal Maas . This spicy dish gets its colour from the fiery red chillies. Best served with bajra rotis , this dish with plain rice won't disappoint you. The meat is so delicious and the fragrance remains in your finger for long.

4. Gatte ki Sabji

Gatte ki Sabji is undoubtedly the best gravy preparation one can have in Rajasthan. This flavourfuldish prepared with soft besan dumplings is the perfect meal of the day.

5. Churma Laddoo

No Rajasthani feast is complete without Churma Ladoos . These desi ghee ladoos served after dal bati are the most delicious sweets you could have. These mouthwatering sweet ladoos are a must try. These laddoo melt in your mouth gives a great taste.

6. Badam ka Halwa

If there is a way to revisit your childhood memories then this halwa is it.The hot piping halwa is your best buddy, especially during winters. Prepared with dry fruits, suji, sugar and ghee, it melts as soon as it lands on your tongue.

7. Rajasthani Kadi 

The Rajasthani version of kadi is a pungent and spicy one which will give your taste buds a kick start. This light and healthy dish is a staple diet in the state and goes well with rice.

8. Gatte ki Khichdi

Gatte ki Khichdi is undoubtedly the best rice preparation one can have in Rajasthan. This flavourfuldish prepared with rice and soft besan dumplings is theperfect evening snack.

9. Balu Shahi

A dish that can easily take doughnut head on, Balushahi is a traditional Rajasthani sweet dish. A flaky textureon the outside and sugar syrup inside, this is one sweet dish every sweet lover swears by.

10. Bundi Raita

A very famous dish enjoyed by every North Indian, it balances the taste of spices in your food and enhances its flavour. The mild and salty boondo mixed with sweet and sour yogurt makes a mouthwatering combination.

So, these are my top 10 picks for Rajasthani food dishes you must try once in your visit. There are plenty of more which we will cover in another blog.

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And also if you are planning a tour to Rajasthan there are some affordable tour packages out there so you can check them out. 

Visiting Jodhpur || The Blue City of India

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befitting as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, havelis and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. The strapping forts that tower this magnificent city sum up to a spectacle you would not want to miss. The mammoth, imposing fortress of Mehrangarh has a landscape dominating a rocky ridge with the eight gates leading out of the fortress.

So, now we take you to the must visit places in Jodhpur.

1. Mehrangarh Fort & Museum

Mehrangarh, located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is one of the largest forts in India. Built in around 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort is situated 410 feet above the city and is enclosed by imposing thick walls. Inside its boundaries there are several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards. You get mesmerised by seeing the height of fort and the work done on the great walls of this fort. 

The Museum displays the great ancient artwork and priceless war based things. The Museum is so beautiful that it provides a picture of the ancient culture.

2. Umaid Bhawan Palace

Umaid Bhawan Palace, located in Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India, is one of the world's largest private residences. A part of the palace is managed by Taj Hotels. Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of the present owner H.H. Gaj Singh Ji. The palace has 347 rooms and is the principal residence of the former Jodhpur royal family. A part of the palace is a museum.Recently, Umaid Bhawan Palace was awarded as the World's best hotel at the Traveller's Choice Award, which was organised by TripAdvisor.

3. Jaswant Thada

The Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh of Jodhpur State in 1899 in memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, and serves as the cremation ground for the royal Rajput family of Marwar. Now, it is turned to a museum with ancient artifacts. The beautiful view of the city can be seen from here. The gardens and fountains are really great to watch.

4. Ghanta Ghar ( The Clock Tower )

The Ghanta Ghar, also known as the clock tower is situated at the base of the fort. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh from whom the market takes it name. In fact, the tower dominates the entire scenario. In fact, the tower dominates the entire scenario. It is present in Sardar market (Sadar Bazaar), also known as Girdikot, and is a busy shopping site for a variety of items including traditional clothes, jewelleries, foods etc.

5. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, spreads over 72 hectares, near the historic Mehrangarh Fort. The park contains ecologically restored desert and arid land vegetation. The park was created in 2006 to try and restore the natural ecology of a large, rocky area adjoining and below the fort. At present time it is one of the favourite places of tourists. The best time to visit here is monsoon.

6. Toorji Ka Jhalra ( The Step well )

Constructed in 1740, Toorji Ka Jhalra, commonly called stepwell of Jodhpur, is an intricate design of stepwell, one of the few remaining structures depicting the traditional water management systems of Jodhpur. This architectural wonder was built by the queen-consort of Maharaja Abhaya Singh, a sign of the age-old tradition of the region where royal women were in charge of overseeing the public water works. It's now open for tourists and looks really great.

7. Mandore Garden 

The town of Mandore is located 9 kilometres north of the city. In ancient times, it was the capital of Pratiharas who ruled the region in 6^th century AD. The old capital was shifted to Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur due to security concerns in 1459 AD. The remnants of the ancient capital can be still found if you visit the famous Mandore Gardens of Rajasthan. The town also exhibits other historical monuments such as Mandore Fort, old Mandore Palace and Ravan Temple.

So, these are some our must visit places recommendation in Jodhpur City. You can visit all of them with any cab services in Jodhpur at affordable prices. There are plenty of more places to visit in Jodhpur city for foods, art, handloom, and others. You can visit them also.

If you are planning your trip to Rajasthan, then must visit Jodhpur city. Rajasthan tour packages are available at affordable prices for tourists and natives by many tour agencies.

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Famous Rajasthani Handicrafts

The most fabulous state in India not only offers breathtaking tourist attraction but is also famous for its shopping activities. Popularly called the 'Treasure trove of Indian handicrafts', the state offers perfect shopping opportunity. The handicrafts and arts of the land are marked with an exuberance of color and culture and are held in high regard all over the world. Besides foreign revenue, these crafts pieces have earned state and the country immense esteem and admiration.

Textile

Rajasthan produces some exquisite Textiles in lovely colorful fabrics. Bandhani or Bandhej are two such gorgeous forms that portray the rich culture of RajasthanThere is tie and dye work from Jodhpur, the distinctive native hand-block fabrics of Sanganer and Bagru villages around Jaipur and the 'lehariya' prints from the villages around Udaipur.Comtemporary designs and perfectness of the finish of the Rajasthan product has become more lucrative to the buyers.

Jewellery

In Jewelry, meenakari is one of the most attractive and popular forms, which are mostly enameled gold and silver jewellery. The tradition of 'Minakari' and 'Kundan' work in gold reached an all time high in enamel jewellery centres like Bikaner,Ravishing designs of ornate Rajasthan decoratives truly complements the home decor and eyes of the viewers.

Mojaris and Jutis

Leather items like Mojaris or Jutis from Rajasthan is a craft form that is extremely popular across the country as well as around the world. Mojris/Jutis are Rajasthani footwear made up of leather and having exquisite embroidery. The pattern and design of embroidery varies from region to region. However jaipur and Jodhpur are the places most famous for mojris.

These are some of the most famous handloom works of Rajasthan. The state has a wide variety of handloom and other traditional works. There are plenty of traditional families who are working on this art from centuries. 

If you ever plan a visit to Rajasthan please have a look at these amazing handlooms. 

If you want tour packages in Rajasthan and want to hire cabs in cities they are available at affordable prices.

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Rivers of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is biggest state in area with 5.5 percent population but only 1 percent water resources of the country. State is divided in to 13 watersheds and 59 sub-watersheds.

Most of the Rivers originate from the Aravali hills and flow either in east or west. Those Rivers flowing in east merge with Yamuna. Those flowing in west fall into Gulf of Khambhat or lost in desert.

There are not many fresh water rivers in Rajasthan but few are the main source of water.

1. Chambal River 

Chambal River is the chief tributary of the Yamuna River and rises in the Vindhya Range just south of Mhow, western Madhya Pradesh state. From its source it flows north into southeastern Rajasthan state. Turning northeast, it flows past Kota and along the Rajasthan–Madhya Pradesh border; shifting east-southeast, it forms a portion of the Uttar Pradesh–Madhya Pradesh border and flows through Uttar Pradesh to empty into the Yamuna after a 550-mile (900-km) course.

2. Banas River

Banas River, river in Rajasthan state, northwestern India. It rises near Kumbhalgarh and cuts its way tortuously through the Aravali Range. It then flows in a northeasterly course onto the plains and joins the Chambal River, just north of Sheopur, after a course of 310 miles (500 km). The Banas is a seasonal river that is often dry in the hot months, but it is still a source of irrigation. Its main tributaries are the Berach and Kotari rivers.

3. Luni River

The Luni River begins near Ajmer in the Pushkar valley of the western Aravali Range at an elevation of about 550m. At this point, the river is also known as the Sagarmati. The river then flows in the southwest direction through the hills and plains of the Marwar region in Rajasthan. The river flows south-west and enters the Thar Desert before dissipating into the Rann of Kutch, traversing a total of 495 km. In spite of the high salinity, it is a major river in the region and serves as a primary source of irrigation. The Luni is not saline until it reaches Balotra, where high salt content in the soil impacts the river.

4. Sabarmati River

The Sabarmati river is one of the major west-flowing rivers in India. It originates in the Aravalli Range of the Udaipur District of Rajasthan and meets the Gulf of Khambhat of Arabian Sea after travelling 371 km in a south-westerly direction across Rajasthan and Gujarat.

5. Kali Sindh River

The Kali Sindh, is a river in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan in northern India. It is a tributary of the Chambal River in the Ganges Basin. The main tributaries of the Kali Sindh are the Parwan, Niwaj and Ahu rivers. The Kali Sindh River drains a major portion of the Malwa region, and is the biggest river flowing in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh.

So these are some main rivers of Rajasthan. Some of them are seasonal and depends on monsoon. There are many other rivers which are tributaries of these rivers.

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Also, if you are planning a tour or visit to Rajasthan than we can suggest you some best tour packages in Rajasthan. 

Visiting Jaipur { The Pink City }

Jaipur is Rajasthan’s biggest city and its capital. It is known as the Pink City due to the distinct color of its buildings. The ‘pink’ of the Pink City is Gerua coated during the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1905-06. Jaipur is known as much for its fascinating monuments and colorful markets as it is for its gorgeous handloom garments and wonderfully laid-out gardens. So, today we will take you to our visit to Jaipur and must visit places to see. Here, we began:

1. Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal is a palace in Jaipur, India. Made with the red and pink sandstone, the palace sits on the edge of the City Palace. The structure was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, who was the founder of Jaipur.What makes this palace one of the top attractions in Jaipur for travelers is its unique architecture that comprises 953 windows. If the Pink City of India is next on your list of holiday destinations then you must visit this place.

2. City Palace, Jaipur

The City Palace of Jaipur, Rajasthan has won the hearts of many and continues to do so. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh I in 1729-1732, this palace becomes a window to peek into the stories of the glorious past and the authentic culture of Jaipur. It's situated at middle of the city where you can enjoy the whole view of the city. You can reach here by any local cab service in Jaipur.

3. Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory used to measure the distances and positions of celestial objects. India has a total of five such observatories the largest of which is in Jaipur. The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur consists of 19 large instruments each serving a very specific purpose. The most significant among these is the Samrat Yantra which is the largest sundial in the country.

4. Jal Mahal ( Water Palace )

The chaos of Jaipur is the beautiful Jal Mahal Jaipur, the Water Palace. This low-rise symmetrical palace, that once was a shooting lodge for the Maharajah, appears to float in the centre of Sagar Lake. The light sand coloured stone walls of the Jal Mahal Jaipur are at a stark contrast to the deep blue of the waters of the lake.

5. Amer Fort

One of the top tourist attractions of Jaipur, the huge Amer Palace Fort sits atop a small hill, and is located at a distance about 11 km from the main city. The magnificent Amer Fort is an extensive palace complex that has been built with pale yellow and pink sandstone, and with white marble. The fort is divided into four main sections that are graced with their own courtyards. After your visit to Jal Mahal, you can reach here by same road.

6. Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the city of Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh once formed a strong defense ring for the city. Nahargarh means ‘abode of tigers’ and was named so after the tigers which were believed to have roamed around the hills. It is also believed that the fort was named after Prince Nahar Singh Bhomia. You can book cabs to reach here easily on rent by cabs in Jaipur.

7. Albert Hall Museum

The Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur is the oldest museum of the state and functions as the state museum of Rajasthan, India. The building is situated in Ram Niwas garden outside the city wall opposite New gate and is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is also called the Government Central Museum.

So, these are the places you must during your Jaipur visit. There are plenty more places here which you can explore here make it your memorable visit.

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Visiting Udaipur { The Venice Of East }

So, today we will talk about my visit to Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is the crown jewel of the state of Rajasthan. It is surrounded by the beautiful Aravalli Hills in all directions, making this city as lovely as it is. This 'Venice of the East' has an abundance of natural beauty, mesmerising temples and breathtaking architecture which makes it a must-visit destination in India.

So, here are some places you must visit during your visit to Udaipur.

1. Lake Pichola

    Lake Pichola, situated in Udaipur city in is an artificial fresh water lake, created in the year 1362 AD, named after the nearby Picholi village. It is one of the several contiguous lakes, and developed over the last few centuries in and around the famous Udaipur city. Two islands, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir are located within Pichola Lake, and have been developed with several palaces to provide views of the lake. You can get here by nearby taxi or car rent here. You can go by boats and enjoy the view in the middle.

2. City Palace

                 Udaipur’s City Palace is an example of the splendour that the rulers of Mewar enjoyed centuries ago, and it still appears to be just as majestic. It is located on the eastern banks of Pichola lake. The palace is a fusion of Rajasthani, European, Chinese and Mughal architecture, making it one of the most alluring factors of Udaipur.  You can enjoy the whole view of the city from its peak. You must visit the museum here with great monumental artifacts.

3. Jagdish Temple

               Jagdish temple, which is situated in the City Palace complex. It is another architectural marvel built by the Mewar dynasty. The temple is built with Indo-Aryan style of construction, and it gives the temple a rather distinct nature that can’t be overlooked. Lush halls, a carved ceiling and pillars, along with gorgeously painted halls are some of the highlights of Jagdish temple. 

4. Fatehsagar Lake

Lake Fatehsagar offers one of the most alluring qualities of water; the stillness of water reflects the tranquility of nature. The mesmerizing ripples, the crystal clear images give a quick peek into your soul. This soul-stirring effect of lakes makes it one of the best places to visit. Sunset here is the most beautiful thing you can see. The lake is surrounded by huge mountains and gives you a great experience.

5. Saheliyon ki Bari

Saheliyon ki Bari is the sprawling garden not only has ample natural beauty, but fountains, a museum, and marble elephants are also some of the things that demand a visitor’s attention. The garden rests on the banks of Fateh Sagar lake, and was built by the king, Maharana Sangram Singh during 18th century. The splendid architecture of this garden makes it one of the most popular tourist spots of Udaipur. 

6.Shilpgram 

 Shilpgram is a rural arts and crafts complex, situated 3 km west of the city of Udaipur, India. The center is spread over an undulating terrain of about 70 acres of land, surrounded by the Aravali mountains. Shilpgram is an ethnographic museum that depicts the lifestyles of the folk and tribal people of the region. Every night a cultural play and dance program is held here which provide a message to society.

7. Monsoon Palace 

The Monsoon Palace, also known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, is a hilltop palatial residence in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan in India, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake. It is named Sajjangarh after Maharana Sajjan Singh of the Mewar Dynasty, who it was built for in 1884. It's perfect for Monsoon season. The view here is perfect and soothing in monsoon time.

So, these are some places in Udaipur which you should must visit during your visit to Rajasthan. You can easily hire or rent a cab service to travel in Udaipur.

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My Visit to Amazing Forts at Rajasthan

So, today I will share my experience with you about the humongous and amazing Forts of Rajasthan. These are the main attraction of the tourists from all over the world due to their great monumental history. So, here we go: 

                      1. The Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh, located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is one of the largest forts in India. Built in around 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort is situated 410 feet above the city and is enclosed by imposing thick walls. Inside its boundaries there are several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards. One of the largest forts in Rajasthan, it contains some of the finest palaces and preserves in its museum many priceless relics of Indian courtly life.

2.Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli Hills, in the Rajsamand district near Udaipur of Rajasthan state in western India. It is a World Heritage Site included in Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Built during the course of the 15th century by Rana Kumbha.The fort is very big and it takes around two to three hours to visit the whole fort. Light and sound show is also arranged daily at 6:45pm whose duration is 45 minutes.

3. Nahargarh Fort Jaipur

Nahargarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the city of Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh once formed a strong defense ring for the city. Nahargarh means ‘abode of tigers’ and was named so after the tigers which were believed to have roamed around the hills. It is also believed that the fort was named after Prince Nahar Singh Bhomia. You can book cabs to reach here easily on rent by cab service in Jaipur. 

4. Chittor Fort, Chittorgarh

The Chittor Fort or Chittorgarh is one of the largest forts in India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort was the capital of Mewar and is located in the present-day town of Chittor. It sprawls over a hill 180 m in height spread over an area of 280 ha above the plains of the valley drained by the Berach River. It's very beautiful with lakes inside the fort and other monumental things like Kundas. 

5. Jaisalamer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is situated in the city of Jaisalmer, in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is believed to be one of the very few "living forts" in the world, as nearly one fourth of the old city's population still resides within the fort. For the better part of its 800-year history, the fort was the city of Jaisalmer. It really looks like gold when rays of the sun shatter on the fort. Sunset from here is just mesmerizing.

6. City Palace, Udaipur

        City Palace, Udaipur is a palace complex situated in the city of Udaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was built over a period of nearly 400 years, with contributions from several rulers of the Mewar dynasty. Its construction began in 1553, started by Maharana Udai Singh the Sisodia Rajput family as he shifted his capital from the erstwhile Chittor to the new found city of Udaipur. The palace is located on the east bank of Lake Pichola and has several palaces built within its complex.

So, these are my top forts after visiting all the forts in Rajasthan. So, if you are planning your visit to Rajasthan you must have to visit this forts for a lifelong memory.

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