Ajmer: Akbar's fort to gain a new look

AJMER: The fort of Akbar in Ajmer from where Jahangir granted permission to East India Company to trade in the country would get a new look from Monday. A museum situated in the fort was closed for last four months. Archaeological department has tried to give an original look to the walls of the fort and to the craft work on the walls. The audience hall will be thrown open to tourists from Monday.

It was Akbar the Great who built the fort here to suppress the Rajput rulers of the state. "The fort was used by Akbar to plan the war strategy for the battle of Haldhghati against Maharana Partap of Udaipur" said a historian According to him, Swai Mansingh of Jaipur leaded the battle of haldighati against Maharana Partap. The fort is important for turist as they come to witness the architecture and craft importance of Rajput Mugal collaboration.

Beside the fort the museum in the fort also attracts the tourists. "Mainly tourists want to know the place from where the permission was granted to Sir Tomas of East India Company and we show them the window of the fort" said Manak Kumar, a tourist guide. He said that even domestic tourists are interested to know the history of this fort as it played important role in the history of India.

"We are going to open the audience hall of the fort from 22 December" said Sayed Ajam Hussein, deputy director of archeological department and executive curator of Museum. He said that work of innovation would continue in other part of the fort.

The museum has the treasure of ancient statues belonging to Jain and Bodh scriptures. "There are the statues dating long back to 2 century BC" said sources. There are also written scriptures and in scripts found from the Pushkar region. "The importance of this museum is also signifies the development of Ghandar, Mugal and Rajasthani sculpture in different period of time" said Hussein. The statues also show the great work and development of stone to metal and copper in the sculpture.
Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Jaipur

Forts that surrounds the city - Jaipur

The capital city of Rajasthan - Jaipur built on a dry lakebed is surrounded by hills crowned by invincible fortress and observation posts. Of them the Nahargarh Fort (Tiger Fort) in the northeast of Jaipur was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh II as a retreat for his wives in 1734. It has an unusual design with the queens’ apartments arranged around a central courtyard. It also provides a bird’s eye view of the city.

This fort is crowned on the Nahargarh Hills at a height of 600ft with massive walls and bastions. It is 15 km. from the center of Jaipur. The fort encloses some magnificent structure as Hawa Mandir and Madhvendra Bhawan also. Some beautiful views of Man Sagar Lake and the city below can also be viewed from the fort. Hills of Gaitor lie at the foot of the fort where the cenotaphs of Raja Jai Singh and other kings can be seen. A palatial duck blind lies in the midst of the lake that was used by royal family for shooting.

Another formidable fort is Jaigarh that is also crowned on a hill and is within walking distance from Amber fort. Jaigarh fort is also known by the name ‘Fort of Victory’. It lies at Hill of Eagles (Chil ka Tola) and 400 feet above the Amber fort. The fort gives a wonderful view of Amber fort below. It is surrounded by water on all sides. It commands a view unrivalled in the whole of Rajasthan. Its immense canon on wheel ‘Jaivan’– the largest in Asia- is made of eight metals including gold and silver. A hundred kilos of gun-powdered is needed by it for one shot and it could send the ball 30 km away. Sixteen elephants were needed to tow this because of its weight.

Amber fort is the fort built along with Jaigarh and Nahargarh fort in 1592 by Raja Man Singh. It is also built on hills at the entrance of Jaipur. The high arches and towers of the fort interrupt the hills that surround Jaipur. Its wall has seven gates that protect the invading armies and wild animals from entering in the city. Now the city has expanded beyond the walls. This fort is a superb example of the old Rajput architecture along with Mughal style. Diwan-e-khas, Diwan-e-Am, latticed opening, beautiful little gardens with fountains capture the attention easily. The view over a deep narrow valley and wider plains beyond adds to its beauty.
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Royal Rajasthan on Wheels to roll in January

Riding on the stupendous success of Palace on Wheels, one of the top ten luxury trains in the world, Rajasthan will be launching a second super luxury train in January.

The tourist train -- Royal Rajasthan on Wheels -- will be operated jointly by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Railways. The train will be run from January 11.

"Our Palace on Wheels is a great success story and we expect the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels to be better than the former as there are more onboard facilities in the latter," RTDC chairperson Mira Mehrishi told PTI.

The itinerary of the train is almost the same as Palace on Wheels except that it will go to Bikaner instead of Sawai Madhopur.

The train starting from New Delhi will travel to Jaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Bharatpur and Agra before coming back to the capital during its eight-day long journey.

"This train is more luxurious than Palace on Wheels as it has facilities like spa, retro lounges, wi-fi connectivity and spacious super deluxe saloon," she said.

However, unlike Palace on Wheels, RTDC has to pay haulage charges as per the new policy formulated by Railways for tourist trains.

"We will be paying about Rs 30 lakhs per trip to Railways as per the new policy," she said and added "Palace on Wheels is being run on revenue sharing basis with Railways."

While Railways get 56 % of the revenue, Rajasthan's share is 44 % in Palace on Wheels.
Source: http://www.business-standard.com/

Rajasthan Tour: An experience to treasure

WELCOME TO Rajasthan, India Tour. Rajasthan – the largest state of India – is one of the most visited and popular travel destinations of India. It presents lots of options for tourism to its visitors. Rich culture and traditions, ancient & medieval forts & palaces, rich flora and fauna, incredible shopping, lip-smacking cuisine are prime features of boom in Rajasthan tourism. The state enjoys a large gathering of tourists coming here for wonderful holidays and tourism options.

There are several world famous travel destinations in this vibrant and colorful state of Rajasthan. Some popular travel destinations of the state are Jaipur – the Capital City, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Ajmer, Pushkar, Jaisalmer, Mount Abu, Ranthambhore, Sariska, Mandawa, Samode, Bharatpur and Chittorgarh. All these destinations are very popular among tourists from all over the world. When you explore these exotic travel destinations, you surely have wonderful experience of life time.

The prime attraction of Rajasthan India tours, is rich culture and tradition of the state that can be seen in its various monuments like forts, palaces, havelis, temples, etc. Whatever part of the state you travel, you find several magnificent forts, stunning havelis and elegant palaces. While exploring forts and palaces of the state, you will be amazed by watching beautiful architecture of Rajasthan. Rightly, the state is described as the Land of Monuments.

City Palace Complex at Jaipur and Udaipur, invincible forts at Kumbhalgarh & Chittorgarh, elegant Lake Palace at Udaipur, mammoth Meharngarh Fort at Jodhpur, royal cenotaph of Jaswant Thad at Jodhpur, Golden Fort at Jaisalmer, Temples at Pushkar, Dilwara Jain Temples at Mount Abu, Ranakpur Jain Temples, grand Umaid Bhawan Palace & Museum at Jodhpur, stunning havelis of Jaisalmer & Mandawa are worth visiting. These are the unforgettable attractions of tour in Rajasthan, India.

Apart from monuments, there are several other attractions in this state of Rajasthan.
There are wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, adventure & sports destinations, lakes, trekking trails etc. Ranthambhore National Park & Tiger Reserve, Sariska Tiger Reserve & National Park, Bharatpur National Park & Bird Sanctuary are worth exploring. Hotels of Rajasthan and sand dunes are also very popular attractions. Rajasthan tour is incomplete without exploring rippling and glistering sand dunes of the state. One of the best and suitable ways to explore sand dunes is Camel Safari.

If you want to beat the heat of this desert state of Rajasthan, a visit to Mount Abu (the only hill station of Rajasthan) can be delightful and memorable experience. Cool and delightful ambiance, exceptional scenic beauty and picturesque landscapes make it perfect destination for holiday.
Source: http://www.merinews.com/

Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore & Puskhar

Day 1: Delhi (Arrival)
Fly from your country to Delhi - The Political and Cultural Capital of Incredible India. Upon arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Our airport representative or your leader will be waiting for you in the arrival hall located after passing out of the customs area and beyond the airport travel desks and exchange counters. Look out for the Peregrine signboard. The drive from the airport to the hotel is around 45 minutes. Most flights arrive in Delhi in the late evening so the rest of the day is at leisure. If you have arrived early your leader will brief you with sightseeing options. You may also explore some of the busy markets of Delhi. Overnight stay is at the hotel.

Day 2: Old & New Delhi
After breakfast in the morning at the hotel leave for full day sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. Drive into the heart of India's Capital to explore Old Delhi visiting the famous Jamia Mazjid, walk through the Chandini Chowk and India's oldest and busiest market, Sish Ganj gurudwara, Enjoy rickshaw ride in narrow alleys of old Delhi through Kinari Bazaar and the 400 years old Chandni Chowk, Red Fort, stop for photos at the colorful market before finishing the Victorian Cannaught Place - One of the most prominent architectural remnants of British Rule. Later visit Birla Temple, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple (Lakshminarayan Temple), Humanyu Tomb, Crematory of Mahatma Gandhi, Parliament House, Presidential House, India Gate, Government buildings & Qutab Minar and other countless monuments. In the evening you will have time for shopping activities. Return to the Hotel for overnight stay.

Day 3: Delhi - Pushkar / Ajmer (280 Kms - 6.5 hrs)
After breakfast in the morning you have time for leisure activities. Later check out and drive to Ajmer. The 14 kms onward drive through the Snake Mountains will reach you to Pushkar. Pushkar is one of the places with highly prestigious sites for both Hindu and Muslim Religions in the world. While Pushkar is known for the only temple in the world of Lord Brahma- the god of creation, Ajmer is globally known for the Mazaar of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty. People come to pray to the lords for the fulfillment of their desires, it is said whoever visit these places in their lifetimes their desires gets fulfilled soon. It is also known as Tirth Raj- the Raj (king) of pilgrim center. No pilgrimages of Hindu or Muslims are considered to be complete until the pilgrim bathes in the sacred waters of Pushkar Lake or he presents a holy sheet at the Dargaah (Muslim shrine). Indeed Pushkar is so sacred that no eggs, meat or alcohols are allowed within the city.

Arrive and check into the hotel / dessert resort, enjoy the traditional Rajasthani Folk Music, Dance, Puppet shows. Later take Camel ride on the nearby sand dunes Pushkar also hold biggest annual Camel & Craft Fair, which is known all over the world. In the evening visit the Lake, Temple or the Mazaar or carry on with the leisure activities. Overnight stay is at the Hotel / Desert resort.

Day 4: Pushkar - Jaipur (130 Kms 2.5 hrs)
After breakfast in the morning at the hotel you have time for leisure activities. Later check out and drive to Jaipur. This historic city was founded by Maharaja Swai Jai Singh in 1727 AD after shifting his capital from Amber valley to newly formed and planned city of its time after consulting so many maps of the world and finally organized own religious map Shilpa Shastra with the help of a young Bengali architect Vidyadhar Batacharya. Maharaja Swai Jai Singh was a builder, astronomer, astrologer, soldier, and philosopher. Presently, Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan & is world famous as the Pink City. Wide-avenued Jaipur is one of the most important heritage cities in India, and home to India's second most visited site. Arrive and check into the hotel. After change, wash and rest go for half day sightseeing of Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort from where at the foothills of the fort Elephants will carry you to the famous Amber Fort top, the elephant ride gives you the experience and impression of how Maharajas & royal family members were using the services of elephants. Visit the Amber Fort. Later in the evening explore the colorful busy markets of the pink city or for leisure activities. Return back to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 5: Jaipur
After breakfast in the morning at the hotel go for a full day sightseeing of the beautiful historic Pink City. You will visit the marvelous City Palace - the current generation of the Maharajas (King) still live here, Museum, Astrological Observatory, Hawa Mahal (wind palace) where from royal ladies were watching daily processions and daily life. Constructed of red and pink sandstone highlighted with white lime, the five-storied facade is peppered with 953 small windows. The breeze (hawa) that comes through the windows keeps it cool even in hot months, and gives the palace its name. Evening is for shopping in the busy streets and some excellent souvenir shops. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 6: Jaipur - Ranthambore (170 kms - 3 hrs)
After breakfast in the morning at the hotel you have time for leisure activities. Later check out and drive to Ranthambore National Park - the tiger sanctuary is known for the place where you can catch the tiger by its tail. Upon arrival you will be welcomed in a traditional manner. Arrive and check into your Jungle Resort. Later in the day after change wash and some rest go for Jungle Canter Safari. to watch different varieties of animals especially The Tiger. You can also watch here leopard, panther, spotted deer, antelopes & many varieties of birds. Return back to the Jungle Resort in the evening. Rest of the day is free for leisure activities in and around the jungle resort. Enjoy the dinner over bonfire and traditional folk dance and musical show in the deep forests. Overnight stay is at the jungle resort.

Day 7: Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (250 Kms - 5 hrs)
Early in the morning tea / coffee will be served. Go inside the Tiger Sanctuary on an exclusive Jeep Safari to spot Tiger and wildlife. Return to the resort for breakfast and check out to drive to Agra. Enroute visit one of the most important places of Mughal Era - The Fatehpur Sikri - the abandoned Mughal Kingdom, founded by Akbar in 1569 AD as a ceremonial capital. But unfortunately this magnificent city was abandoned due to scarcity of drinking water and Akbar went back to Agra. Walk the aisles of the Jama Masjid mosque, entered by way of the impressive Victory Gate, and lose yourself in the throngs of pilgrims at the tomb of the Sufi saint Salim Chisti, his white marble-encased tomb enclosed within the Jama mosque's central courtyard. Considered the crowning architectural legacy of Akbar (who also built the Red Fort) and still almost perfectly preserved, today the site is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Continue your drive to Agra. Arrive in the city of Love and commitment. Check into the hotel. After change, wash and some rest visit one of the wonders of the world, Taj Mahal (monument of love), built by 5th great Mughal Emperor Shahi Jahan in the memory as mausoleum of his beloved queen Anjuman Bano Begum ( with love emperor called her Mumtaz ). After her death in 1627 AD, in her memory emperor started to built Taj Mahal ( Taj means crown & Mahal means Palace, so it is Crown Palace ) from 1631 to 1653 AD with 22000 labors working since sun rise to sun set in 22 years. It is the romantic origin of Taj as much as its architectural splendor that has led to its fame worldwide. Actually an integrated complex of many structures The Taj Mahal is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, itself a combination of Islamic, Hindu, Persian and Turkish elements. Built in pure white marble which was transported from Makrana in Rajasthan by the help of animals Taj Mahal is one of the man made wonder's of the world.

Later in the day visit Agra Fort which was built by three emperors, Akbar & Jahangir in red sand stone & Shahi Jahan in white marble. The Fort is 2.5 Km long and during Mughal rule 1/3rd of the Fort was occupied by the army. When British ruled India, they repeated same tradition and now traditionally Indian army has occupied the same. Afterwards visit Itma-ud-ullha the Baby Taj and Sikandra. You will have spare time in the evening for shopping and leisure activities at some of the best souvenirs shops to take back some of the memories from India for your friends and family. Return back to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8: Agra - Delhi (230 Kms - 4 hrs) - Onward Journey / Fly Back to your country
After breakfast in the morning at the hotel you have spare time for leisure activities or last visit to some of the souvenir shops for the last minute shopping. Later check out and drive back to Delhi. Arrive Delhi, depending upon your flight timings you will have time to explore the city and local markets. Later in the day depending upon your onwards tour program transfer to the international airport to board connecting flight and fly back to your country with the everlasting memories of the magnificent glimpses of Incredible India.

Rajasthan is the wonder full palace for visits in India

Rajasthan is the land of the Maharajas, an exotic and colourful home to the legendary warriors of yore, famous for their gallantry, chivalry, revelry and romance. Its kingdoms redolent with imposing forts, ethereal palaces, boisterous bazaars, vibrant people, timeless traditions and centuries of art and culture. Each of its cities has a unique character and a different colour, its capital Jaipur has the ditinction of being pink, also considered the colour of hospitality.

Capital of Rajasthan
The Pink City of India, the royal capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727 AD. The ancient heart of this regal city still beats in its fairy tale palaces, its magnificent fortresses perched on barren hills, and in the broad avenues that provide a superb transport network throughtout the city.

Soak in the medieval flavour of this city by exploring its many monuments, go on a camel safari to explore unending stretches of the Thar desert , enjoy the cool evenings boating at the Ramgarh lake or linger in its boisterous bazaars, laden with handicrafts, handloom, jewelery, bandhani, block print, blankets and trinkets.


History of Rajasthan
The panoramic landscape of Rajasthan has been a silent witness to some of the most intense battles in history, tragic seiges, astounding victories, the unearthly valour of fine-cheeked Rajputs, charging to their deaths in ash and saffron. Dedicated Maharanis committing jauhar by the thousands and its forts and palaces that have lived on to tell the tale.

Once ruled by the Mauryan empire, Rajasthan became the stronghold of the Rajput clans in 700 B.C. Around the 12th century parts of Rajasthan were occupied by Muslim rulers but it was only in the early18th century under Mughal emperor Akbar's rule that all of Rajasthan was united into one province. After the decline of the Mughal rulers the Marathas penetrated into Rajasthan. As a legacy of this back-and-forth rulership of the province it has a rich culture and architectural heritage blending toghether Mughal, Hindu and Jain influences.


The People :
Rajasthan is the region of the proud Rajputs, their valour and chivalry now a part of legend. They are of Scythian descent- a stock which moved out from the Caucasus in Central Asia towards the Indus Valley on the one side and the Germanic parts of Europe on the other.

What meets the eye when travelling through Rajasthan though are dusky, lissom Rajasthani women with sparkling, kohl-limned eyes, adorned with silver jewellery and thick, bone bangles worn way above the elbows. They sport backless cholis, generously pleated long skirts rich in mirror work and embroidery. A long odhni or head covering flowing gaily behind them completes the picture of ethnic allure. They smile with a winsome charm as they sway past with several terracotta pots casually poised on their heads. The men, without exception, sport colourful, flamboyantly styled turbans. Their swarthy faces flaunt large mustachios, displaying careful grooming and obvious pride. In rural Rajasthan, a moustache is an indication of manhood, virility and macho power.

Along with the Rajputs this land is also inhabited by Muslims and Brahmins. The Bhils and Meenas are two of the biggest tribes to be found here. The official language is Hindi.
http://www.topindiatour.com

Rajasthan Travel : Rajasthan is the largest state of India

Covering an area of 342,239 square kilometers, Rajasthan is the largest state of India. It shares its political borders with the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Harayana and Punjab. It also shares international boundaries with Pakistan. Rajasthan has a rich cultural heritage that flourishes in tales and legends that speak volumes about the rich history of Rajasthan. The state is an example of unity in diversity. While traveling to Rajasthan you may come across many forts and palaces that speak volumes about the rich legacy of this once princely state. Rajasthan tourism offers you a variety of destinations to explore and so many exciting things to do on your holidays.

The state of Rajasthan is famous for its palaces and forts and the imposing structures that never fail to amuse the onlookers. The culture of Rajasthan is absolutely colorful and the music and dances of the state are a delight to hear and watch. On your tour to Rajasthan you will find that the state is largely desert but the way people treat their guests and visitors will overwhelm you. They are known to be extremely warm and hospitable and treat guests like Gods.

Rajasthan is also famous for its wildlife sanctuaries. The sanctuaries offer a wide range of flora and fauna. Though the state looks arid because of the desert, you will be amazed to see the variety of life that thrives over here. There are many safaris that let you explore the wildlife of Rajasthan. You will be accompanied by experienced guides who know exactly where to look for wild animals.

The cuisines are absolutely lip-smacking and must be tried by anyone who comes here. The great heritage and culture of Rajasthan coupled with the Thar Desert in the background makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Remember, your tour of India is incomplete without a look at Rajasthan - the land of Rajput warriors. So come and experience the magic of Rajasthan, one that is sure to blow you over and keep you coming back again.

How the Ajmer famous by Urs Festival:

Urs Festival: Time: October – November Urs Festival of Ajmer Sharif is held in the holy town of Ajmer in Rajasthan, India. The Urs Festival in Ajmer, Rajasthan is marked with quwwallis - sung at night. The celebrations the unite people of all faiths, and the complete town is decorated with buntings and wears the spirit of festivity.

Urs Festival is an occasion for thousands of devout to congregate at the shrine and offer their prayers. All of Ajmer seems to be in a festive mood and several programmes are organised to mark the festivals.

Low-cost air travel no more an option

JAIPUR: The fantasy of cheap air travel for the great middle class has come to an end! The rising rates of air tickets, followed by complete withdrawal of two low-cost airlines from Sanganer airport, has forced the middle class passengers to look for cheaper means like trains. The air travel, which became quite popular in the recent past, especially after the advent of low-cost airlines in 1998, has completed a full circle in a decade.

The number of low-cost airlines operating from the Jaipur airport was four, which catered to nearly 12 destinations across India.

These airlines catered to the needs of over 50% of the domestic passengers till recently, despite the fact that the aircraft movement of these low cost airlines is just 40% of the over all touchdown figure. "The occupancy level of low-cost airlines is much higher than the premier class airlines," said an airport official.

"The Spice Jet, which operates to premium sectors like Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Banglore and Chennai from Jaipur had to shut down its operation followed by the rise in air fare," said the terminal manager, Sanganer airport.

He said that another low-cost airline, Go Air, which operates on a premium sector—Mumbai — too had to close down its operations from Jaipur. However, when contacted, airline officials said "This has to do with operations." This sudden withdrawal has put in trouble hundreds of passengers who had booked their tickets in advance. However, the airlines claim that passengers were informed weeks prior to their flight and they had been granted full refund.

Rakesh Goyal, a resident of Ajmer and a chartered accountant with a private bank, Mumbai, had booked an airticket almost a month ago for his scheduled trip to Mumbai on July 13। "I was informed that the airlines had shut down its operations. Thereafter, I tried with other premium airlines and found that fares were very high. At last, I decided to travel by rail, of which the fare is almost one-third of the premier airlines." On an average, there were about 21-odd flights taking off daily from Jaipur, of which nearly 15 were low cost airlines.

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/

Tour to Ajmer

Ajmer founded by Rajput Ruler Ajayadeva, on 11th-century, Thr city of Ajmer houses the tomb of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chisti, the popular thirteenth century Sufi Saint and The Ajmr city also famous for Mayo College, a prestigious school here, founded by British in 1875.

Ajmer located in the state of Rajasthan, 130 km southwest of Jaipur, The south west side of Ajmer is washed by Luni River and the east side of Ajmer is washed by Banas River. Aravalis's Barren hills overlook the city from one side and the Ana Sagar Lake on the other side. There are traditional handicrafts In the Ajmer which are world famous.