Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur

Next morning, we started our journey to Jodhpur. This colourful city of Rajasthan is famous for its magnificent forts, places, temples and landscapes. Founded by Rao Jodha in 1459, it was once the capital of Marwar. Jodhpur is popularly referred as the Sun City. We got an opportunity to visit the famous Mehrangarh Fort during our trip to Rajasthan. It is a fabulous place and is among the largest forts of the country. Located on a steep 125 m high hillock, it is overlooking the city. There are seven splendid gates to enter the fort. We came across various wonderful palaces like the Phool Mahal, the Moti Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal.

Pooja asked us to go to Museum which was a great experience. We also visited Umaid Bhawan Palace, the major landmark of Jodhpur. One could imagine the royal splendor of bygone era after visiting the magnificent place. Built out of the impressive red sandstone and marble, the palace has become a heritage hotel now, housing a museum.

Sakshi and I bought embroidered jutis from the local market. On being asked about the famous attractions of Jodhpur, we came to known as Marwar Festival, which is held in October every year. During the festival, the city becomes more vibrant with colourful crafts, bejeweled women and turbaned men. Other popular festivals include Desert Kite Festival and Nagaur Fair.

Udaipur, the land of architectural marvel, was our next destination. Here we visited City Palace, which is a wonderful place and an assortment of courtyards, terraces, pavilions, rooms, corridors and hanging gardens.

The other tourist attraction of Udaipur, where we went was, Saheliyon-ki-Bari. It is a small ornamental garden which used to be a famous relaxing spot for royal women. It’s beautiful fountains and marble elephants still attract tourists from far and wide.

We three were so delighted to visit the beautiful places that we felt like exploring the more. Our guide told us about Ahmedabad and we went to explore the place as well. Situated on the bank of Sabarmati river, it is the capital city of Guajrat.

There we enjoyed afternoon local sightseeing. We also went to Gandhi Ashram, which is on the banks of Sabarmati river. It is a tranquil place where Mahatma Gandhi spent most of his time during freedom struggle.

Our Rajasthan Desert Tour ended with lots of pleasurable memories that still revive in our mind

Rajasthan Desert Tour-Part 1

Rajasthan is a pulsating destination, which is known as the land of royal kings. It has so many attractions that simply draw my attention towards this beautiful desert land. Recently, I planned to visit this princely state with my two friends, Sakshi and Pooja. We all managed to take leave for around 18 days and left for a relaxing break.

We decided to go for a Rajasthan Desert Tour and started from New Delhi, we left for Mandawa. We were transported to our Hotel Castle Mandawa which was already booked by our tour operator. Then, we relaxed in the hotel for sometime and left for Bikaner.

The beautiful city of Bikaner is in the northwestern part of Rajasthan. We all were excited to visit the most famous tourist attractions here and finally we were there only to admire the architectural beauty of Junagarh Fort, which is also known as Bikaner Fort.

The Camel Breeding Farm is also another major tourist attraction here where we went. Sakshi was very excited  when she saw the baby camels . She also clicked some pictures of young camels.

We also visited Lalgarh Palace and visiting the palace is like a learning experience about the royal family. This huge palace is built of red sandstones and is beautifully embellished with exquisite filigree work. Pooja has a great interest in exploring arts and crafts so she insisted us to visit the museum as well. We got to know the timings of the museum which was from 10 am to 4:30 pm, but it remains closed on Fridays. As it was just 2 o’clock by then, we had ample time to explore the Lalgarh Museum, which was right across from the palace.

We came across some marvelous miniature paintings of Bikaner school, terracotta wares, armors, manuscripts and armaments in the museum. I am a passionate reader felt great to see the largest collection of original Sanskrit manuscripts on copper, parchments and gold or silver plaque in the library of the palace. We came back and stayed overnight at hotel.

Next morning, after having delicious breakfast in our hotel, we left for next destination of Rajasthan Desert Tour, which was Jaisalmer.

This exhilarating destination of desert land is known as the Golden City. When we reached there, we felt delighted to view the sand dunes, magnificent forts, beautiful temples and majestic havelis. In our morning sightseeing of Fort and Jain Temples, we could catch the glimpses of whole Jaisalmer city from the top of the Fort. Then, we left to explore the famous havelis of the city like Patwon Ki Haveli and Nath Ji Mal Ki Haveli. Outstanding work of architecture, exquisite craftsmanship and the royal feeling … this is what I could say about the marvelous havelis of Jaisalmer.

After this wonderful experience, we were all set to experience the Camel Safari, another popular tourist attraction of Rajasthan. Based on my experience, I must say that safari is the best way to explore the rippling sand dunes of the desert land. This fun-filled adventure allowed us to see the rural desert life.

We came back to the hotel and had a sound sleep.

To be continued……

Jaipur City Tour

Rajasthan is one such place that has always been my center of attraction. The land of raja-maharajas takes me to the memories of royal past. Assailed by my desire to explore this wonderful destination, we, a group of four friends, embarked on Rajasthan Heritage Tour.

The peaceful destination of India with rippling sand dunes, vibrant culture, majestic forts, heritage palace and varied wild life make Rajasthan altogether a place to visit. As we were moving ahead to visit some magnificent palaces of Rajasthan, we felt ourselves going back in time of Kings.

The wonderful architecture, the beautiful interior of the massive forts reflect the great architectural heritage. Different types of carving, paintings and inscriptions are the real wealth of this princely state. Our Rajasthan Heritage Tour took us to explore the ruins of the desert land of Rajasthan. All the regions have several magnificent forts and palaces.

During my tour, following forts and palaces became a part of my exploration in Rajasthan:

Amber Fort (Jaipur):

This sprawling fort in Jaipur is a classic example of Rajput architecture style. The stern exterior, mighty gates, huge ornate halls, well-built pavilions and beautiful gardens, this is what Amber Fort is all about. The most exciting thing that we enjoyed there was, Elephant Ride.

Hawa Mahal (Jaipur):

This pyramid-shaped monument is popularly known as ‘Palace of Winds.’ There are 953 small windows in which the gentle wind circulates and that is the reason behind it is given the name. Climbing to the top of Hawa Mahal offers an excellent view of the city.

City Palace (Udaipur):

Built by Maharaja Udai Singh, City Palace is situated in Udaipur. There are varied massive gates to lead the palace through elephant gate or hathi pol. From the balcony of this fort, Jag Niwas can be seen. Owing to its cultural and natural beauty, this palace is famous across the country.

Umaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur):

Located on Chittar hill, this palace has been constructed with sandstone. Some part of Umaid Bhawan has also changed into museum and hotels. The influence of western and eastern architecture can be seen in the architecture of this palace.

Chittorgarh Fort (Chittorgarh):

Located on a high hill near the Gambheri river, this massive fort covers an area of 700 acres. Its well-built palaces, huge towers and majestic cenotaphs add to the beauty of this palace. Having a colossal structure, the fort boasts a long story of courage, chivalry, romance and sacrifice.

Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur):

It is one of the largest forts of India, boasting of its imposing structure with massive walls which still stand undeterred. Located at a staggering height of 400 feet on a high hill, this amazing fort is really an architectural wonder.

The unmatched beauty, elegance and royal structures of these monuments of Rajasthan make it a place worth to visit.

Rajasthan is a land suitable for all types of tour prorgarmme. If you wish to go for adventure tour and wildlife, it has options like Ranthambhore National Park and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.

Enriched with historical palaces, Rajasthan has too many options to go for a historic Rajasthan tour.

Last but not the least, Romantic Rajasthan Tour takes you to the most exotic destinations for a truly romantic experience. You can visit Chokhi Dhani which is an ethnic village resort offers you to stay in a traditional Rajasthani style amidst all the modern amenities. Staying in heritage hotels and spending the whole day with your beloved amidst luxury and comfort will be a unique experience.

At last, we decided to go for a camel safari. It’s the best way to explore Rajasthan. After spending quality time in the wonderful Rajasthan, we came back to Delhi with delightful memories of the tour.

Jaisalmer Fort

Day 5 – Jaisalmer, A Sandy Desert

Our next halt was in Jaisalmer, which lies in the heart of  Thar desert. It was founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD. Traveling by palace-on-wheels enabled us to admire the majestic forts, the  ancient havelis and the rich culture of Jaisalmer.

Our first stoppage was made at the massive Jaisalmer fort. This fort is  renowned for being the second largest fort in Rajasthan. Beautifully adorned with exquisite architecture, the fort offers a spectacular view of the desert below.

After that, we got to see some of the finest examples of stone architecture through The Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Salim Singh-ki-haveli and Patwon-ki-haveli. All of them showcase the outstanding craftsmanship of the skilled stone carvers.

Nearby there is a Government-run emporium where we stopped for some shopping. This emporium has something for everyone. We had our lunch and rest for sometime, while some tourists enjoyed shopping. The popular shopping items include pattu shawls, wooden boxes, trinkets, silver jewellery, mirror work and embroidered articles.

After lunch, we decided to go for camel ride on the sand dunes of amazing Sam. It was really exciting and enjoyable too. We enjoyed the dinner with the cultural porgramme and at night, the train left for Jodhpur.

Day 6 – Jodhpur, the second largest city of Rajasthan

Jodhpur City

Next morning, we were in Jodhpur, the sun city of Rajasthan. We were amazed to see the mesmerizing landscapes and magnificent monuments. As we entered the Mehrangarh Fort, we could realize how rich India was in its architecture. The guide told us that it was founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. We visited the palaces, museum and galleries of this majestic fort. Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are some remarkable examples of architectural excellence.

Near the fort, Jaswant Thada lies with a group of royal cenotaphs, carved out of white marble.

We relished our lunch at Palace hotel and then planned for shopping. While shopping in Jodhpur, we come across some exquisite handicraft items such as metal curios, silverware, paintings, embroidered shoes and tie and dye fabrics. Thinking of the marvel of architecture that we saw in Jodhpur, we returned to the train.

Day 7 – Bharatpur / Agra

Bharatpur – A Beautiful City

After bidding good-bye to Jodhpur,  the Palace on Wheels arrived at Bharatpur in the morning. The city is an avian paradise. We heard a lot about the bird sanctuary in Bharatpur and after breakfast, we were there. Known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the sanctuary is a nesting place for thousands of Egrets, migratory Water Fowl, Siberian Cranes and many other species of birds.

We also had enjoyed there the park trails by walk and then left for Bharatpur Palace.

Bharatpur Palace is the another attraction of the city. This palace is a fusion of the Mughal and Rajput art which has now become a museum presenting collections dating back to the second century AD. We had our lunch and headed towards Agra.

Agra- The City of Architectural Marvel

Upon arrival, we left for the famous Agra Fort. We all were eagerly waiting to visit  Taj Mahal which is known as one of the seven wonders of the world. It was as marvellous as we had heard. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, Taj Mahal is truly an architectural wonder. Agra is also known for its outstanding marble inlay work such as the Pietra Dura work on the Taj, leather goods and jewellery items.

Day 8: Back to Delhi

In the late evening we left for Delhi. Upon arrival at Safdarjung Railway station, we had breakfast on board. Collecting the pleasant memories of the wonderful week, we came back. It was indeed a lifetime experience.

India, the kaleidoscopic land is known throughout the world for its unique cultural, natural, regional, religious and geographical diversities. I always dreamed to explore incredible beauty of India in a royal manner. I have heard and read about this mesmerizing land several times which inflamed my curiosity of India visit. Basically I belong from Australia so I have planned my India tour during vacations and fortnight Christmas vacation was the most ideal time.

After lot of internet surfing I decided that Palace on Wheel Train Tour is the most royal and regal way to explore enchanting and heritage destinations of India. This train tour is the best way to feel the glory of Indian royalty and experience the interwoven charm of India scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

While booking Palace on Wheel train tour I contacted several India tour operators but the most affordable rate was provided to me by the Caper Travel Company Pvt. Ltd. I with my wife arrived Delhi a night before our luxurious journey was to begin. On the morning via complementary taxis courtesy of the Taj we reached the Delhi cantonment station where we have to embark our journey.

When we arrived the station we were received by the attendants of Palace of Wheel (POW). They garland us and apply the large red mark on our foreheads. This is a way in Indian culture to welcome guests.

Palace on Wheels is the epitome of luxury and comfort which beckons you to travel back in time to the era of raja-maharajas. It is one of the most luxurious trains in the world reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. This train was once the personal railway coaches of the Maharajas of the princely states of Rajasthan, Gujrat and the Nizam of Hyderabad.

Every Wednesday, from September to April, 14 carriages Palace on Wheel leave New Delhi and make their way westwards into the deserted land of Rajasthan. The enchanting journey of 7 nights/ 8 days covers Jaipur (the Pink city), Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ramthambhor National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur (the city of Lakes), the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the symbol of love and romance, Agra, before returning to Delhi, the capital of India.

The 14 air-conditioned saloons of this train are equipped with all the facilities to ensure a comfortable time in the train. The elegant furnishings are specially created to appease the travellers with an imperial feel. I like everything at the first glance. The lounge is nice and cozy, and the cabin too. Here we met our cabin stewards Hari Nath and Sambhu. These guys will be at our service for the entire 7 days. Sambhu provides us all the basic information about this train and its time table. He narrated it so nicely that we don’t required to ask again regarding anything.

The Maharaja and the Maharani are the two restaurant where you can gorge on a variety of Rajasthani, Indian, Continental and Chinese dishes. There is a bar too where you can taste several Indian and International alcohol brands.

Day 2 – Jaipur
The highlight of today is the sprawling Amber fort and palace complex which is reached by a twenty minute elephant ride through a cobblestones and snaky pathways. It was the thrilling ride which gave us a majestic feeling of royalty. The fort is the architectural splendor made up of white marble and red sandstone. Maharaja Man Singh constructed this fort by combining the Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture. This fort is known worldwide for its architectural beauty, exterior as well as interior decorations, frescoes, paintings and murals based on various themes. Intricate carvings, mosaic work and minute mirror work are the most charismatic features of this imposing structure. The other captivating chambers of this fort are Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam and Ganesh Pol which will surely leaves you spellbound.

Other such arresting historic establishments which I visited in Jaipur were:

City Palace

Once the abode of the erstwhile rulers, City Palace is an outstanding architectural piece reflecting a perfect blend of the traditional Rajasthani and Mughal style of architecture. Done to perfection, the interiors of the palace are adorned with mesmerizing mirror work and beautiful paintings. The courtyards, gardens and structures of the Palace have their own unique charm. Nakkarkhana-ka-Darwaza is the fabulous gateway of the palace which is adorned with stone elephants. The other well known attractions of this fort are Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-I-Khas, Diwan-I-Aam, Chandra Mahal, Chavi Nivas, Badal Maha Shobha Nivas.

Jantar Mantar

This is among the five astronomical observatories of India which was constructed by Maharajah Jai Singh II in between 1727 to 1734. It was used for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars in their orbits and determining the celestial altitudes of various heavenly bodies. The grand construction of this structure will surely a true feast for visitors eye.
Soon I will share my Day 3: Sawai Madhopur …

A trip to Jaipur was tantamount to a journey back in time to the era of raja-maharajas. This princely city is one of the most famous tourist destinations of Rajasthan. It boasts of rich history and culture which beautifully reflects in its attractions. It is frequented by many tourists throughout the year. Most of the city is painted in pink which gives this city the title ‘Pink City’. This city boasts of amazing attractions like stunning palaces, majestic forts, monuments, heritage hotels, gardens, handicrafts, cuisine and precious and semi-precious stone.

One of the striking features about Jaipur is that it was constructed on the principles of Vastu Shastra. Which is a traditional Hindu system of design based on directional alignments. This royal destination is also a part of the famous Golden Triangle Tour of India. The other two destinations covered under this tour are Agra and Delhi. Jaipur was established in the year 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II. He built this city in the form of a nine-part Mandala known as the Pithapada. Here nine signifies the nine planets of the ancient astrological zodiac.

Attractions of Jaipur

Jaipur Palaces

The palace of Jaipur are renowned the world over for their architectural beauty, stunning interiors and glorious history. Most of the palaces of the city have been converted into heritage hotels to offer royalty to tourists. The palaces house the museums where a wide variety of royal belongings are on display. The City palace and Hawa Mahal are the most famous palaces of Jaipur.

Jaipur Forts

Testimony to the glorious history of the city, the forts are amazing attractions. Amber Fort is a must-visit destination of jaipur. Built in 1592, this fort boasts of exquisite carvings, huge courtyards, beautiful mosaic work and mirror work. The fort is located on a hill and can be reached by an elephant ride.

Jaipur Wildlife

Located just a few kilometres from Jaipur is the famous Ranthambore National Park. This park is famous for its tigers and a wide variety of other wildlife. Several bird species are also spotted here. The park also has a historic fort called Ranthambore Fort.

Jaipur tour is incomplete without going on a shopping spree in its colourful markets. The famous handicrafts of Jaipur are blue pottery, embroidered juttis, tie and dye fabric, precious and semi-precious stones, silver jewellery, miniature paintings and leather crafts.

The incredible country like India can be best described by the phrase ‘Unity in Diversity’. India is a land of rich cultural heritage which beautifully reflects in its various attractions. The various states of India have their own unique culture. Although there is so much diversity in culture of India but still there is unity among Indians. Fairs and festivals are among the most colorful part of Indian culture. They are also the perfect means of getting acquainted with the culture of India.

It would be no exaggeration to say that India is a land of fairs and festivals as its calender is full of various fairs and festivals commemorating various occasions. Fairs and festivals of India attract tourists from across the globe.

Some of the most famous fairs and festivals of India are:

Diwali
It is the festival of lights which is celebrated with great flavor

Diwali

throughout India. Symbolizing the victory of good over evil, this festival commemorates Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom after 14 years of exile. On this festival people illuminate their houses with earthen lamps and lights, distribute sweets, burn crackers and worship Goddess Lakshmi. This festival falls in the month of October or November.

Navratri
This festival is celebrated for nine days in honour of the goddess. The goddess symbolizes power. During these nine days nine forms of the goddess are worshipped and devotees observe fast for nine days. The goddess is known by several names like Durga, Laxmi, Bhavani, Kali, chandika, Maha gauri, Ashtabhuja and Siddhiratri. All the nine forms signify various traits that the goddess influences us with.

Holi

It is a festival of colours which is celebrated with great enthusiasm

HOli

especiallyin North India. During this festival people play with powdered colours and water. Huge bonfires are lit on the evening of Holi. This festival also symbolizes the victory of good over evil. There is an interesting legend associated with it.

Pushkar Fair
It is the largest cattle fair in the world. Held in Pushkar City of Rajasthan it is marked with several cultural activities like dance, music, competitions and many more. It is celebrated in October/November.

Pongal
It is an important festival of South India which is celebrated for four days. It is a harvest festival. During the festival cattle, Sun god and Rain god are worshiped.

Eid-ul-Fittr
It is an important festival of Muslims which marks the end of Ramzan, the Muslim month of fasting. During the festival people exchange greeting and sweets and offer prayer in mosques. Feasting is the main feature of this festival.

Desert Festival
This is a famous festival of Rajasthan which is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the city of Jaisalmer. During the celebration the desert comes alive with cultural activities. Folk dance, puppet shows, turban-tying competition, camel race etc are the main highlights of the festival.

River Rafting

Adventure means different things to different people. For me exploring any part of this world is in itself an adventure and for my best friend Shivani adventure is synonymous with adventure sports like river rafting, trekking, biking and much more. So we decided to take an adventure tour of India to enjoy the beauty and adventure of several tourist destinations of India. We enjoyed river rafting, trekking, skiing and many more activities. We were rejuvenated to the hilt.

India is an incredible land offering a slew of adventure sports facilities for adventure lovers who come here from across the globe. Some of the famous adventure sports of India are:

Rock climbing
This interesting adventure activity can be best enjoyed at Manali in Himachal Pradesh, Mysore, Ramanagram in Karnataka, Bangalore, Mount Abu in Rajasthan, Panchmarhi in Madhya Pradesh and Gangotri gorge in Uttar Pradesh.

Mountaineering
This challenging activity is meant only for the brave hearts and physically fit people. The Himalayan range of India is perfect for this sport and several other adventure sports. Kamet and Dunagiri (7088) and Nanda Devi (7800 m) are the most popular destinations for mountaineering in India.

White water rafting
Full of thrill and adventure this adventure sport can be best experienced at the following destinations- River Ganges,tons, Bhilangana, Yamuna, Mandakani, Kalisor, Zanskar, Beas, Alaknanda and Mandakani.

Trekking
This is one adventure activity which can be enjoyed by almost all tourists. Some of the best places for trekking are Kullu, Kinnaur, Ladakh, Spiti, Lahaul, Garhwal, Kumaon and Sikkim.

Angling and Fishing
The lakes of Kashmir, streams of Kerala and the lakes of the upper Himalayas offer great opportunities for fishing and angling.

Safaris
Travel to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan for enthralling camel safari on the unfathomable sand dunes. And if you wish to enjoy elephant safari, Kerala is the best place. The wildlife destinations of India also provide facilities for elephant safari.

Paragliding
For enjoying the thrill of paragliding visit the places such as Darjeeling, Solang valley, Auli, Gangtok, Sansar and Goa.

Skiing
A big hit with tourists skiing can be best enjoyed at Gulmarg, Kufri, Manali and Mundali.

Motor biking
It is an interesting way of exploring some tourist destination of India like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner and Mandawa.

There are several more adventure sports and activities which India offer. Adventure sports options galore here!

Red Fort, Delhi

One of my friends from New York had come to India for her cousin sister’s marriage. I was so delighted to see her after almost 20 years. She is an Indian but went to New York when she was only 10. She has always been fascinated by the cultural heritage of India and wanted to explore its attractions, especially its forts and palaces. The day after the wedding ceremony I and my friend set out on the Indian Forts and Palaces tour. Visiting all the forts and palaces of India was not feasible in such a short span of time so we visited the famous forts and palaces of North India and South India.

The forts and palaces of India which we covered in North India are:

Red Fort in Delhi
It is a major attraction of Delhi steeped in glorious history. Built in red sandstone by great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, the fort is a marvelous architectural piece. The fort boasts of huge audience halls, stunning marble palace once studded with precious stones, a bustling bazaar where the royal ladies used to shop, a mosque and refreshing gardens with fountains and flowers.

Red Fort in Agra
A wonderful attraction of Agra, this fort houses amazing structures such as Jahangir Palace, Khas Mahal, Diwan-e-aam, Diwan-e-Khas and two beautiful mosques. This magnificent fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar as a stronghold of the Mughal Empire. This majestic red sandstone structure has 2.5 km long enclosure walls. Located at a close distance from this fort is the world famous Taj Mahal. We also visited Taj Mahal which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This stupendous white marble structure is a mausoleum built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal in the 17th century. Representing the perfect combination of different architectural styles, it mesmerizes the onlookers with its architectural beauty.

City Palace in Jaipur
This splendid palace, the landmark of Jaipur, is located in the capital city of Rajasthan. Rajasthan is the most colorful and culturally rich destination of India. One must visit Rajasthan to get the real taste of India. Aptly called the land of raja-maharajas, this destination boasts of the best palaces and forts in the country. The City Palace is a fine blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Located on a hill it is famous for its architecture, lavish use of marble and mirror work, frescoes, wall paintings, silver doors and crystal gallery.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
It is the famous landmark of Jaipur known for its unique architectural design. Built in 1799 in red sand stone it is pierced with more than 900 small windows. Representing a honeycomb structure it was especially built to allow the royal ladies to see the street processions through the windows without themselves being seen.

Lake Palace, Udaipur
Udaipur is an enchanting city of Rajasthan and Lake Palace is the most enchanting attraction of Udaipur. Located amidst the Lake Pichola, this palace is built in white marble boasting of several royal apartments inside it. It is one of the finest heritage hotels of India.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Once the largest royal residence in the world, Umaid Bhawan Palace is now a famous heritage hotel. Its stunning architectural beauty will surely sweep you off your feet. Sprawling across acres of land, it is a magnificent structure. It has 98 rooms offering royal facilities and services. Once can see period furniture here. There is a museum here which displays a variety of articles belonging to the erstwhile royal families.

TajMahal

Agra has always fascinated tourists from across the world with its extraordinary ‘Taj Mahal’ and I am no exception. In fact, it is one place in India where I can go millions of times. The beauty and aura of Taj Mahal and other places of interest near this Mughal city have something special about them which bring me here time and again. This time I had come to this world famous city with my colleagues. They were visiting Agra for the first time and I for the fifth time.

After an easy train journey of two and a half hours we reached Agra from Delhi in the late evening. Agra is the most visited tourist destination of India and is also a part of the Golden Triangle Tour (the most famous tour of India). The Golden Triangle Tour is very famous among international tourists. We were booked in the Mansingh Palace Hotel which is one of the finest hotels here. This hotel got its name from the Rajput Emperor Sawai Mansingh who was a very close associate of Mughal Emperor Akbar. We visited Taj Mahal in the early morning to catch the glimpses of this incredible monument in the first gleam of morning rays.

Taj Mahal is considered the finest masterpiece of Mughal architecture and is recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is also a World Heritage Site. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is a mausoleum located on the west bank of river Yamuna. This grand edifice was completed in 20 years and around 20,000 workers worked day and night to make it what it is today.

The interiors of this majestic monument were studded with more than 28 types of precious and semi-precious stones. The architecture of Taj Mahal is a fabulous synthesis of Indian and Persian styles. Its lattice work, inlay decorations, calligraphic representations and incised painting deserve special mention. The calligraphy of this monument mainly consists of the verses and passages from the holy book of Kuran.

After admiring the beauty of Taj Mahal we sat in the garden surrounding the monument for some time. It was truly such a refreshing experience to visit Taj Mahal. We enjoyed eating at the local shops in the market. We also bought petha, the famous sweet of this city. And then we shopped for leather ware, marble statues, carpets and artificial jewelry at bargained rates from the bazaar. It was such a delight!