
The
Maharajas once ruled Rajasthan with bejewelled fists, these passionate
monarchs also had a great love of all things exquisite. The splendour and
extravagance of these erstwhile rulers still lives on in this fabled land.
The first interaction a visitor has with the power and prestige that the
royalty commanded is by witnessing the magnificent forts, ethereal palaces ,
intricate havelies, splendid temples, elaborate wells, handsome mansions and
memorials that dot the landscape.
Built of burnished sandstone and
marble, these architectural marvels contain intricate carvings on walls,
elegant facades, elaborate balconies and majestic domes and turrets. What is
more, step into the interiors of these mansions and be transported back in
time to an age where hundreds of attendants served the monarchy, walk along
the corridors where heavily veiled princesses treaded lightly and ride up
the ramparts on the back of beautifully decorated Elephants like any worthy
visitor to the King.
Delightfully Delicious
A
cuisine specific to a land has to be experienced for one to truly understand
its culture. The royal kitchens of Rajasthan have not ever disappointed
their kings and you are sure to love these preparations as much. The cuisine
culled from the few ingredients such as millets, beans and pulses , the only
crops to grow in such an arid climate, will leave you astounded by the
inventiveness of their preparations. High on the list of must-sample dishes
would be the sumptuous daal-bati-choorma, crisp makki ki roti, savoury
gatte-ka-saag, a lapsi for dessert and perhaps a glass of lassi at the end
of the meal. If you are fond of your meats be sure to try the the local
non-vegetarian delicacy, the kebabs popularly known as sula. Bon voyage and
Bon Apetite.
Festivals and FanfareImmerse
yourself in the spirit of this land by visiting some of the many fairs and
festivals it has to offer. Celebrations range from the religious to the
popular. Music and dance play an important role in these festivals, troupes
of tribal musicians and dancers can hypnotise you with their enchanting
rythms and nimble movements. The Chari , the Ghoomar and the Fire dance are
some of the more popular and stirring performances. The Maand is the
traditional form of court music that narrates tales of the ruler-patrons.
The fairgrounds are also a melting pot of the different clans and tribes
within Rajasthan , each one displaying their decorative handicrafts and
jewellery, trading camels, racing elephants and indulging in some good old
fashioned revelry. Ask for Details