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City Palace |
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 City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Located in the heart of the city of Udaipur and towering over the Lake Pichola, the City Palace unfailingly infuses a sense of awe in the hearts of its onlookers. It is the standing testimony of Rajput passion for art and architecture despite the fact that the exterior is not as elegant as the interiors. |
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Hawa Mahal |
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 To the north of the Jaipur city's main road intersection, the Badi Chaupad, stands Hawa Mahal of Rajasthan - the world famous landmark of Jaipur in Rajasthan, the best known specimen of fanciful architecture. Jaipur's signature building, the Hawa Mahal of Rajasthan, a multi layered palace, was built by Sawai Pratap Singh (grand son of Sawai Jai Singh and son of Sawai Madhoo Singh) in 1799 AD and Mr. Lal Chand Usta was the architect. This pyramid shaped five storey building along the main street of the old city is in pink splendor with semi octagonal and delicately honey combed sandstone windows with arched roofs. Famous for it's beehive like structure, the Hawa Mahal of Rajasthan is interplay of red and pink sand stone, carefully and painstakingly outlined with white borders and motifs. The palaces and forts of yesteryears, which were witness to the royal processions and splendours are now living monuments, accepted quite naturally into the lifestyle of the people of the "Pink City" Jaipur of Rajasthan. |
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Jantar Mantar |
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 Jantar Mantar is a major tourist attraction in Jaipur that lures tourist from all over the world. The Jantar Mantar is a re-phrasal of the Sanskrit word yantra mantra which mean instruments and formulae.Jantar Mantar has a remarkable collection of architectural astronomical instruments. It portrays noteworthy attempt of the ancestors, who were interested in astronomy and knowledge of celestial bodies. Above all, this observatory still, provides accurate information, which can be compared with today's modern instruments undeniably. The compound instruments, whose settings and shapes are scientifically designed depicts the forte of Medieval Indian Astronomy.Jantar Mantar was carefully renovated in 1901 and was declared a national monument in 1948. Today, Jantar Mantar has become a major tourist attraction in Jaipur. |
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City Palace, Udaipur |
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 City Palace, the majestic white royal building towers itself on a hill and is surrounded by crenellated walls. The palace was completed in its present form by the contribution of many rulers. Originally started by Udai Singh, the later additions were so carefully planned and integrated with the original building that it becomes difficult to believe that the building was not conceived as a whole. The city palace stands along the shores of Lake Pichola. The palace is overwhelmed with balconies, towers and cupolas and there are fine views over the lake and the city from the upper terraces. The interiors of City Palace presents a graceful beauty due to lavish use of marble, mirror work, frescoes, wall paintings, colored glass, fluted columns, inlay work and silver doors. There are many relics and decorative items in the City Palace. There are beautiful examples of old porcelain, glass and tiles as well as the wonderful mosaic of silver leaves and precious stones that reflect images of the lake when looked at from the right angle. |
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Lake Pichola |
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 Lake Pichola has a masonry dam popularly known as the Badipol, which is 4 km long and 3 km wide. However, it is not very deep and it is not unusual that one can walk up to the island palaces from the shore during severe droughts. The City Palace titivates the east bank of the lake while an overabundance of marble temples, mansions and palaces and a number of bathing ghats envelope it from all around. Originally started by Udai Singh, additions have been done from time to tome to this building but in such an ingenious manner that it is inconceivable that the building was not planned as one whole structure. Standing on the shores of Lake Pichola, one can arrive at the palace through 'Hathi Pol' (translated as 'the Elephant Gate'), the 'Bara Pol' (translated as 'the Great Gate') and the Tripolia (translated as 'the Triple Gate'). Complete with magnificent pavilions, terraces, corridors and hanging gardens, the focal points of the place are Sheesh Mahal (The Mirror Palace), Krishna Vilas (The Abode of Lord Krishna), Chini Chitrashala (Chinese Art Gallery), Mor Chowk (Peacock Court) and the Amar Vilas (The Eernal Abode). Only a few lakes in the world can boast of so many beautiful structures all at one place and thus, Lake Pichola is certainly not worth a miss. |
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Lake Palace |
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 The Lake Palace at Udaipur can be said to be the best example of the Rajasthani achitecture. The white marble Palace stand amidst the lake Pichola. A picture perfect spot for any photographer, the Lake Palace looks amazing. The complete scene looks as if the fairytale has come alive. The Lake Palace is said to be one of the most beautiful palaces in world. It arises out of the Turquoise waters of the Pichola lake, like an elegant fantasy in white marble. The Lake palace was built in the 17th century on a natural foundation of 4 acers of rock.The Palace was built by Maharaja Jagat Singh and was earlier called as Jagniwas Palace, after his name. The lake was used by his successors as there summer resorts. In 1959, Maharana Bhagwat Singh, the then owner of palace renovated the palace and made it a tourist spot. Currently the Palace has been converted into a five-star hotel. It offers world class services to the visitors. There are more than 80 rooms in the Hotel Lake Palace. |
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Mehrangarh Fort |
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 Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. The fort has been a witness to the splendour of a bygone era. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrate a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. To enter the Mehrangarh fort, seven gates have to be crossed.Some of these gates still bear marks of many a siege that this fort has withstood. Its very hard to imagine how any invader even thought of conquering this fort, which at places has 17 feet thick and 68 feet high walls. The Mehrangarh Fort encloses many palaces, which are known for their intricate carvings and sprawling courtyards. Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace has a delicately carved stone screen and treasures the Sringar Chowki, royal throne of Jodhpur. Umaid Villas displays the Rajput miniature paintings and Ajit Villas exhibits musical instruments and the royal costumes. Both these villas are joined by a beautiful mirror room. |
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The Jaswant Thada |
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 Jaswant Thada, located half way up the interminably long road that climbs onwards to the fort, is the traditional cremation ground of the rulers of Jodhpur. Taking pride of place amongst the onrnamental gardens and chattris is the fabulous white marble memorial to Jaswant Singh II, built in 1899. The cenotaphs of other rulers , in the same neighbourhood , are relatively simplerThe Jaswant Thada is a peculiar monument to death. The son of the Maharaja Jaswant Singh II built this in memorial of his father. However, the son was unable to follow a family tradition of ever larger and more impressive memorials because inefficient and incapable administration (as we were told) of the kingdom had drained it of the financing necessary to build a more fantastic one. It was small, but still had features that were delicate and unique. Some stones are so thin and highly polished that the sunlight illuminates them, causing a warm glow inside. Also, the building has wonderful views over the city and of the fort. |
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Umaid Bhavan Palace |
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 The Umaid Bhavan Palace that is renowned for the sandstone used in its construction that does not weather is currently run as a Heritage Hotel by the family of Rathores the royals of the erstwhile state of Jodhpur. It is also referred to as the Chhittar Palace owing to the fact that the Chhittar sandstone was used in its construction.
It took 16 years to build this palace that is now segmented into the royal residence, the Heritage Hotel and the museum. The style of construction is typical of the Rajputs with the beautiful balconies, charming courtyards, terrific terraces, green gardens and royal rooms. All the rooms have been elegantly furnished with antique furniture pieces. The stupendous house of Maharaja Umaid is simply far above the other forts and palaces in Jodhpur. The magnificence and majesty commanded by the Heritage Hotel of Umaid Bhavan is unparalleled.This 20th century Heritage Hotel is quiet western in design. The ballroom in the palace reveals the western lifestyle being followed by the royal residents. You may realize your fantasies at the 94 regal rooms and suites with all the comforts befitting the royals. |
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Jaisalmer Fort |
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 Jaisalmer Fort, famous for its antiquity and repertory of architectural wealth is also known as Sonar Quila, which stands on a high hillock known as Trikuta Hill (80 meter high). There are two parallel walls around it, the lowest wall famous as "Peetha" had served as a base wall, at the time, when Aksaya Pol (Gate) was added to the fort, some part of Peetha wall near the above Pol was extended to the newly built gate. Two other parallel walls are made up of solid blocks of stone, without using mortar or clay was erected like a buttress and outer walls. The buttress wall was built by Maharawal Bhim in 16th century by linking the same with Suraj Pol Gate. These two walls appear to be fascinating in their yellowish stones. It is therefore called the golden fort. The fort, thus, has a chain of shield. |
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Gadsisar Sagar Lake |
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 Gadsisar Lake is one of the major tourist attractions of Jaisalmer. Just leave the madding crowd behind and venture towards the outskirts and you will find yourself next to the famous Gadsisar Lake. Contrary to the popular belief, it is not an oasis but a water conservation tank made around 1400 A.D. by the then maharaja of Jaisalmer, Maharwal Gadsi Singh. Can you believe this structure just outside the city walls once acted as a reservoir that controlled the entire supply of water to the arid city!
This place was selected because it had a certain amount of declivity already and it automatically retained some of the rainwater. If you are lucky and venture out in winters, you might get to see a variety of migratory birds. Due to its proximity to Bharatpur, some of the birds get attracted to this place also. Don't miss to carry a good pair of binoculars and SLR camera with a wide-angle lens if you want to take away some really mesmerizing snaps. |
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Salim Singh Ki Haveli |
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 Salim Singh Ji Ki Haveli is located in the heart of Jaisalmer and is easily assessable.Its foundation was laid on the remnants of an ancient haveli(built in the 17th century).The haveli was constructed in 1815 and was an abode of the Mehta family of Jaisalmer. The haveli was accredited by Salim Singh, the then Prime Minister of the kingdom when Jaisalmer was the capital. Its architecture is truly praise worthy. The roof has been delicately carved out in the form of peacock which makes it look amazing. As you walk through the balconies which are around 38 in number you will clearly notice that each balcony is has a different style. The front feature of the haveli appear like a ship's after part and thus the haveli is also sometimes called as Jahaz mahal. |
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Ajmer Sharif |
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 Ajmer Sharif is the burial place of the Muslim saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti. Every year hoards of Muslims as well as pilgrims of other faiths come to visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. However, at the time of "Urs", the death anniversary of Moinuddin Chishti, the number of visiting devotees goes up into lakhs. Urs lasts for three days attracting pilgrims not only from India, but from other countries also like Pakistan, Bangladesh, etc. It is said that whoever visits the Dargah Sharif in Rajasthan doesn't leave the place empty handed. The wishes of each and every visitor get fulfilled.A number of Mughal rulers got the dargah constructed over a period of time. Once a simple tomb in which in the saint was buried, the dargah has now grown to a huge complex housing several mosques, pavilions and gateways. The entry to the dargah is through the Dargah bazaar, leading up to the main inner courtyard. The silver doors of the Dargah are exquisitely carved. Covering the grave of the saint, is a silver railing and a partial marble screen. There is also a separate prayer room for women. |
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Pushkar Fair |
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 Pushkar, an important pilgrim centre in Rajasthan, is famous for world's largest camel fair -The Pushkar fair. This fair is one of the main cultural activities of Pushkar. It is held in the month of November every year. Pushkar fair is well-known for its camel trading and other religious activities. Villagers come from different parts of the state and bring their cattle with them. The festival is full of folk dance, and music. Colourful shops make this fair a very charming cultural event. Camel races are also held during this vibrant festival.Pushkar Fair is held at Pushkar town, 11 km from Ajmer in Rajasthan for twelve days annually during October- November. This cultural and trade cum religious fair is an attractive and lively spectacle with Rajasthani men and women in their colourful traditional attire, saffron-robed and ash smeared Sadhus (holy men) and thousands of bulls, cows, sheep, goats, horses and camels in richly decorated saddles. Perhaps the largest cattle fair in the world, it attracts more than one lakh people from all over Rajasthan as well as tourists from different parts of India and abroad. |
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Achalgarh Fort |
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 Achalgarh Fort was built in the year 1452 by Rana Kumbha. He was well known for his artistic tastes and this fort truly is a beauty to behold. Achalgarh Fort is situated atop a mountain peak. Its position makes it inaccessible to the foes. With massive walls and an imposing look it is worth a visit.Kantinath Jain Temple, Mount Abu , Rajasthan Within the fortified walls of the fort several interesting buildings are located. An interesting feature about this fort is the Jain Temples that have been constructed here. The Kantinath Jain Temple is one of them. The principle deity is gold plated. These little facts reflect the prosperity and devotion of the Rajput rulers. The Jain temple was built in the year 1513AD. Another inevitable temple in this fort is dedicated to lord Shiva. The Achleshwar Mahadev Temple is famous for the statue of Nandi. This massive statue weighs around 4 tonnes. It is said to be built with `panchdhaatu`-namely silver, gold, copper, bronze and zinc. |
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Dilwara Temple |
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 The Dilwara temple consists of 5 temples in total. Each of the temples has its own unique identity and thus offers a lot of attraction for the tourists. Let’s have detailed look at each of these temples:Vimal Vasahi (Shri Adi Nathji temple): Built in 1021 AD, this temple was built by Vimal Shah. The temple is dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara named Adi Nath. These temples posses a number of smaller idols of Jain Tirthankara and bears the name Adinath. By visiting this temple, you will also get to see the collection of nine rectangular designs called Navchowki. The beautiful design in the ceilings of the temple is also a great sight for the tourists. Luna Vasahi (Shri Nemi Nathji temple): This temple is also a worthy visit for the tourists. Dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankara Shri Nemi Nathji, the temple has history behind it. Two brothers, Vastupal and Tejpal built the temple. They dedicated the temple to their dead brother Luna. Such a historical significance of the temple makes it a great attraction for tourists. Mahaveer Swami (Shri Mahaveer Swamiji temple): This temple is smaller in comparison to the other shrines of the Dilwara temple. It was built in honor of Lord Mahaveer, the 24th Jain Tirthankara. The beautiful structure was built in 1582 A.D. |
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Junagarh Fort |
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 Junagarh Fort is situated in the Bikaner city of Rajasthan, quite near the public park. The fort is a splendid piece of architecture and is adorned with towers that seem to be soaring into the sky. Junagarh Fort was built under the aegis of Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The foundation of the fort was laid down in the year 1589 and it took approximately 5 years to complete the monument. Enclosing the Junagarh fort of India is a wall that is almost 986 meters in length.A series of thirty-seven pavilions festoon the fort, which comprises of a number of palaces inside its complex. Apart from that, there are also several public court buildings and intimate zenanas (women's quarters) inside it. The zenanas were meant to hide the women of the court from the vision of the courtiers. The interiors of the Junagarh fort have been ornamented with beautiful Rajput paintings, amazing mirror-work and awe-inspiring lacquer-work. Windows and balconies, arranged in a series, lend the fort a domestic character. |
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Lalgarh Palace |
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 Lalgarh palace belongs to the place Bikaner in the state of Rajasthan. The palace was constructed during the year 1902 and 1926. The architectural style of building the palace was according to the Mughal, Rajput and European. The controlled regency of the Britishers commissioned the palace for King Ganga Singh because he was still minor and the Britishers considered Junargarh Palace as not suitable for a modern rule. But the palace was named in the memory of Maharaja Lall Singh as decided by Maharaja Ganga Singh only. Mr. Samual Swinton Jacob, the British architect designed this building and the construction started in the year 1896 after a blessing ceremony. The Fort was set around the two courtyards,.the first and the most remarkable wing, called Laxmi Niwas accomplished in the year 1902. |
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