‘Rajasthan’, the name itself evokes images of Maharajas decked up in all their fineries riding ornamented elephants, spectacular forts, grand palaces, and stories of valor, romance and chivalry. Rajasthan’s rich culture and diversity make it one of the most popular destinations for international and domestic travelers. A luxury tour of Rajasthan offers its visitors a chance to explore the harsh terrain of the Aravalli Hills, the arid Great Indian Desert, the wildlife of Ranthambore National Park, might forts and grand palaces and more.
A traveler for a luxury tour of Rajasthan needs to try out the following experiences:
Desert Safari in Jaisalmer
It is no surprise that the desert state of Rajasthan offers its travelers with several opportunities to opt for desert safaris. The best place to try an exhilarating desert safari is Jaisalmer, the golden city that boasts of stunning sand dunes and barren lands. A traveler can explore the rustic and royal side of the state in a way like no other and experience the desert lifestyle at the beautiful, Sam Village that is located about 40 km from Jaisalmer, where they can choose for a traditional camel or a Jeep Safari. There are several tented accommodations that offer packages that includes camping, dune bashing, delectable food, bonfires with colorful Rajasthan folk dances and mesmerizing musical performances. Travelers can pick the best option of the lot for a fabulous desert experience.
Hot-air balloon ride
A hot-air balloon safari is a must-try experience during a luxury tour of Rajasthan. Travelers can opt for a hot-air balloon ride in the ancient town of Pushkar, Ranthambore and Jaipur. As they embark on the hot air balloon ride, they can enjoy the bird’s eye view of the city will be treated to spectacular sights of sand dunes, expansive jungles palaces, forts, lakes, temples and hills. A balloon ride during the sunrise is a must-try for the adventure lovers.
Wildlife safaris
Wildlife safari is another activity to be done while on a luxury tour of Rajasthan. The state of Rajasthan is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks scattered around the state namely the Keoladeo National Park, Ranthambore National Park and Sariska Tiger Reserve. A jungle safari will allow the traveler to observe the region’s varied wildlife in their natural habitat. Tiger, leopards, sloth bears, nilgai, wild boars, sambars, chitals and several species of birds can be spotted.
Boating in picturesque lakes
Another must-try activity to be enjoyed during a luxury tour to Rajasthan is boating amidst the many breathtaking lakes scattered across the state. Some of the most popular lakes in the state include Lake Pichola & Fateh Sagar Lake in Udaipur, Ana Sagar Lake in Ajmer and Nakki Lake in Mount Abu. Travelers can enjoy scenic views of beautiful ghats, grand palaces and ancient temples along the lake shores.
Stay in a palace
The state of Rajasthan is scattered with historic palaces, some of which still houses royal families and most of these palaces have been converted into world-class luxury hotels that are rated the best in the world. The royal family in Jodhpur still lives in the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the city’s most luxurious hotel. The Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in the 1700s in the middle of Lake Pichola also appeared in appearing in the James Bond movie, ‘Octopussy’.
Visit historic forts
Another highlight of luxury tours of Rajasthan is the countless fortresses, built to protect royal residences against invaders. Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort towers over the city and is widely known for its beautiful murals and intricate carvings work. The fort also served as the royal residence until 1943. Amer Fort in Jaipur overlooks the Maota Lake just outside the city center. Chittaurgarh is one of the largest forts in Rajasthan covering over 700 acres and has been passed down through several dynasties over its 1,300-year history.
Savor the regional cooking
Rajasthani region cooking is deeply influenced by the availability of ingredients in the region. The traditional cuisine consists of cooked vegetables, heavy curries, flatbreads, and spices that dominate the cuisine in northern India. Baati is the most common type of bread in Rajasthan, often served with dal (lentil curry). Meat is not traditionally a part of the diet in this region; beef, goat, and boar are also used in curries, laal maas being the most popular in Rajasthan. Saffron rice and raita are usually served during the meal thus helping to balance the spiciness of many dishes. Among desserts, the doughnut-like balushahi or guija, a sweet fried dumpling filled with nuts and coconut are considered the most important.
Take a stroll the beautiful gardens
Maharana Sangam Singh of Udaipur received 48 ladies-in-waiting as dowry, thus he built Sahelion Ki Bari also known as the Garden of Maidens. The garden’s elaborate fountains do not have hand pumps and utilize ancient technology that leverages gravity and the water pressure from the lakes, and among the beautiful flowers and enormous bougainvillea trees. Most palaces are accompanied by large gardens and elaborate architecture.
Explore rural Rajasthan
Rajasthan is home to over 73.5 million people and most of them do not live near the city centers. They live in villages far from the urban bustle, allowing them to witness an India that is largely untouched by outsiders. These places are unrivaled in comparison to urban metros in India. One can interact with the village residents and help them in performing their daily activities. The warm hospitality of the people is sure to touch your heart and soul. If you want to explore the rough and tough life of villagers then you must choose to visit this city.
So, there you go… the luxury tour to Rajasthan is not just about valor and chivalry but it is more. A trip to Rajasthan will leave the traveler with distinctive experiences that will change your perspective about the Land of the Kings.