Rajasthan

Rajasthan Travel Guide | Things to Know Before Travelling to Rajasthan

April 23, 2020 by sarita

Rajasthan is a universe of vibrance, culture, and heritage. Known as the Land of Kings, every nook and corner of Rajasthan embrace chivalry, grandeur, and regality. It is a land of surreal deserts, exotic wildlife, and luxurious living that tourists come flocking in great numbers.

Rajasthan Travel Guide

Before you set out exploring the mystical land, there are a few things that you must know about Rajasthan. Read on the travel tips and information to have a memorable Rajasthan Holiday.

Rajasthan Location

Rajasthan is the largest Indian state encompassing an area of 3,42,239 square kilometres. It nestles in the western part of the state, amid the mountains of Aravali Ranges and sand dunes of Thar Desert.

Rajasthan Highlights

Rajasthan is a place of abundance, giving your senses a delightful experience. From magnificent palaces to ethereal markets, from never-ending deserts to lush green forests, from a rich heritage to the modern lifestyle, the place has everything one can ask for. The unparalleled hospitality and comfort can make your Rajasthan Travel worthwhile.

Experiences Unique to Rajasthan

Rajasthan Experiences

1. Desert Safari / Dune Bashing

Being a desert state, Rajasthan can offer the best desert safari experience. The sand dunes of Jaisalmer offer the best experience where you can mount on a jeep to enjoy the adrenaline rush.

2. Hot Air Ballooning

To enjoy the panoramic views of the glorious deserts of Rajasthan, you can try the hot air balloon rides in Pushkar. The surreal views and peace, away from the busy life, can give you a magnificent experience.

3. Camel Safari

No trip to the desert is complete without a camel safari. Travel the never-ending desert on a camel’s back and live the lifestyle.

4. Desert Camping

Desert Camp in Rajasthan

While exploring the desert is a great experience, you can also camp there. Live under the starry sky in basic tents or even luxury camps for a serene camping experience.

5. Stay in a Palace

Rajasthan Suryagarh Palace

Living is a palace like the royalty is a dream for many, that can only come true in Rajasthan. There are many forts and Havelis which are converted into hotels, where you can enjoy a luxurious stay.

6. Shopping in Vibrant Markets

Shopping in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is full of markets that sell artefacts, local handicrafts, and even handlooms. You can explore the vibrant markets with colourful merchandise. The wide variety of silver jewellery and ‘jutti’ can leave you baffled.

7. Visiting the Forts

Rajasthan Forts to visit

Rajasthan is home to plenty of Forts, each speaking stories of the glorious past and rich heritage. Taking a walk through these old walls can transport you back in time and let you feel like royalty.

8.Exploring Rajasthan’s Rich and Vibrant Culture

Rajasthan Culture – dance & Music

The place is known for its deep-rooted heritage and culture that can regale the visitors. From delicious authentic Rajasthani food to ‘ghoomar’ dance, from mesmerizing folk music to intricate art and crafts, the vibrant culture is worth experiencing.

Rajasthan Vibrant Culture – Art & Craft

Languages Spoken

Primarily, Hindi is spoken in Rajasthan. But the locals also have five distinct dialects like Marwari, Dhundhari, Mewari, Mewati, and Harauti. English can be understood by the locals.

Climate in Rajasthan

The climate of Rajasthan varies throughout the state. While the desert areas are hot and dry majority of the time, the Aravali Range can be wet and humid.

Summers in Rajasthan start from April and go on till June.
Monsoon season is from July to September.
Winter season begins in October and ends in March.

Best Time to Visit Rajasthan

The ideal time to enjoy your Rajasthan holiday would be the winter season. The months of October to March offer pleasant weather conditions allowing you to explore the place. It is the peak season for tourists.

How to Reach Rajasthan

There are three ways to reach Rajasthan. They are:

1. Rajasthan By Air:

The easiest way for Rajasthan travel is by air. Rajasthan has three main airports with both international and domestic flights. While Jodhpur and Udaipur Airport only have domestic flights, the Jaipur Airport has both.

2. Rajasthan By Road:

Rajasthan has well-maintained roads that allow connectivity with the neighbouring states and cities. The roads make up a picturesque backdrop for a memorable road trip.

3. Rajasthan By Railways:

The state also has impeccable railway connectivity. There are direct trains from all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore.

Getting Around Rajasthan

Travelling in the state is very easy. You can avail buses, autorickshaw, cab, and even train to explore Rajasthan. You can easily book a taxi from outside the airport or through an app. While a taxi or cab is the fastest way to move around, it may also be heavier on the pocket. It can take around 5-6 hours to reach from one city to another.

Accommodation in Rajasthan

Rajasthan offers the ideal accommodation for every budget. Whether you are a backpacker looking for a hostel or yearning for luxury 5-star hotels and forts converted into stays, you can find the right accommodation here in these regions.

Palace Hotels Rajasthan

Jaipur: The busy ‘Pink City’ with plenty of hostels and hotels
Udaipur: Opulent palaces become the epitome of a luxurious stay
Jaisalmer: Magnificent Forts nestled in the lush green forests
Jodhpur: Intricate Havelis offering surreal views of the ‘Blue City’
Bikaner: Bikaner is home to top resorts and getaways

Rajasthan Top Cities to Visit:

1. Jaipur

Jaipur, also known as the ‘Pink City,’ is not only the capital but also the major hub of Rajasthan. It is home to many historical and religious sites like City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory and Birla Mandir.

2. Ajmer

The city of Ajmer is renowned all around the globe for the Dargah Sharif, the shrine of Saint Moinuddin Chishti. It lies in the foothills of the glorious Aravali Ranges and offers picturesque views.

3. Jodhpur

Jodhpur is an embodiment of royalty. It was the centre of Mewar rule and still contains several magnificent palaces like the Mehrangarh Fort, which bespoke their grandeur. Also known as the ‘Blue City’ or the ‘Sun City,’ it must be on traveller’s itinerary.

4. Jaisalmer

From serene Gadisar Lake to majestic Jaisalmer Fort, from expansive sand dunes to intricate temples, Jaisalmer has a lot to offer.

5. Udaipur

A Rajasthan Holiday is never complete without visiting Udaipur. The ‘City of Lakes’ can take you on a luxurious getaway amid peaceful Lake Pichola glorious and Kumbhalgarh Fort.

6. Pushkar

The city of Pushkar is more like God’s own canvas painted with all the beautiful colours. Apart from Pushkar Lake, the city is known for hosting the infamous Camel Fair each year.

7. Bikaner

The ones looking forward to getting the authentic experience of Rajasthan’s rich culture and heritage, they must head to Bikaner. It is home to an abundance of forts and temples, all embracing distinct artforms called Usta and Chadwa.

8. Mount Abu

Mount Abu is a quaint hill station amid the expansive deserts of Rajasthan. The lush green and serene ambience makes it a perfect getaway from the hustle of city life.

9. Alwar

With vibrant flora and fauna, Alwar also boasts of rich history. The city has seen various battles during the British Rule. You can visit the Karni Mata Temple, Sariska Tiger Reserve, and also the haunted Bhangarh Fort.

10. Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh is one of the oldest cities in the country. Situated on the banks of river Berach, the city has a lot to offer. One can visit the Chittorgarh Fort, Rani Padmini’s Palace, and Kalika Mata Temple.

Days Required to Explore Rajasthan

To experience the real essence of Rajasthan, you need to spend a minimum of 10 days in this mystic land. During this period you will be able to cover 5 cities and have an enjoyable experience.

Rajasthan Travel Guide

The Golden Triangle Tour

For people who are planning to travel for only 3-5 days can make the most of their vacation with the Golden Triangle Tour. It encompasses three major cities, Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, which form a triangle on the map. The three cities have distinct experiences to offer and can amount to a thrilling holiday.

How Expensive is Rajasthan?

Rajasthan travel isn’t too expensive. Food and moving around the place will not cost you much. The stay can be a little expensive, especially if you choose a luxurious haveli or 5-star hotel.

Rajasthan – Bikaner Travel Guide | Things to Do

January 18, 2018 by sarita

Namastey from team India Ghoomo, It’s Sarita & Kamal. Welcome to Rajasthan series. In this video/ post we will mention the Top Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Bikaner.

Bikaner Travel Guide – Rajasthan

Bikaner

Situated in the northern region of Rajasthan in India – Bikaner is one of the earlier established cities, founded by Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, in 1488. Bikaner is known for some of the world’s best riding camels and is correctly nicknamed ‘camel country’.

The city boasts of imposing palaces, forts and temples constructed out carving red and yellow sand stones. The intricate carvings display some of the finest creations of the Rajputs.

Bikaner Main Attractions are

The Karni Mata Temple

The Junagarh Fort

National Research Centre on Camel

Research Centre on Equines

The Lalgarh Palace

The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum &

Shree Laxmi Nath Temple

The Karni Mata Temple

Location

30 Kms from Bikaner, in the town of Deshnok

Visit Duration

1 to 2 hours

Timings

Temple opens at 4:00 am

Bikaner - Karni Mata Temple Bikaner – Karni Mata Temple

The Belief

The main deity in the temple is Goddess Karni Mata who is regarded as the incarnation of Maa Durga & The kabas are believed to be the manifestations of Karni Mata herself and her sons.

Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner, is the best place to visit if you want to observe fascinating religious customs and want to enjoy watching thousands of rats running around you and over your feet as you walk around in the temple and feel the presence of Karni Mata. Read more.

Rats at Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner Rajasthan

The Junagarh Fort

Location

Bikaner city

Visit Duration

1 to 2 hours

Timings

10:00 am – 4:30 pm

Fees

Entry fee & Camera fee

Guides

It’s recommended to hire a guide available for a fee.

Junagarh Fort – Bikaner Rajasthan

Main Attraction

Unlike other forts, the Junagarh fort is built in the plains of Bikaner and not on a hilltop. It’s one of the oldest forts with 7 fortified gates. The fort further has structures built within and includes a number of palaces, a couple of temples and huge pavilions – the walls made of marble and red sandstone and roof made of wood and glass.

These structures are preserved as museums providing insight into the luxurious lifestyle of the Rajput Kings.

Junagarh Fort in Bikaner Rajasthan

Junagarh Fort Bikaner Rajasthan

Bikaner Junagarh Fort

National Research Centre on Camel / Camel Breeding Farm

Location

8 kms from Bikaner city towards the Eastern side

Visit Duration

1 hour

Timings

2 PM – 6 PM

Entrance Fee

Rs.30 Per Person for Indians and Rs.100 Per Person for Foreign Tourists. Camera charges Rs. 50, and Camel rides Rs. 50 ( The prices are subject to change)

Guides

Available for a fee

National Research Centre on Camel Bikaner

Main Attraction

Camel interactions, camel safari & museum.

The National Research Centre on Camel also known as the Camel Breeding Farm was established in 1984 by the government, this place is popular among tourists who wish to learn more about Camels.

National Research Centre on Camel houses around 350 camels of 4 different species – The Bikaneri, The Jaisalmeri, The Mewar and Rann of Kutch.

National Research Centre on Camel Bikaner Rajasthan

Camel Species Identification & Usage

The Bikaneri Camel

These camels have distinct thick and long eyelashes. The Bikaneri camels are used in transportation.

The Jaisalmeri Camel

These camels are light brown in color and have short hair. The Jaisalmeri camels are fast runners and are used by BSF.

The Mewar Camel

These camels are white in color and have short hair. The Mewar Camels are known for producing milk.

Rann of Kutch Camel

These camels are short and dark in color. The Rann of Kutch camels are used for milk production.

Camel Average lifespan – 27 years

After enjoying a short Camel ride. Tourists can try Camel milk lassi, coffee, cream, and kulfi available at the milk parlour in the campus.

Camel breeding farm Bikaner Rajasthan

National Research Centre on Equines

Location

Adjacent to the Camel Research Centre

Timings

Evening: 2 PM – 6 PM

National Research Centre on Equines Bikaner

Main Attraction

Interaction with horses, museum & horse riding.

The National Research Centre on Equines that houses 6 different breeds of horses – namely the Marwari, Manipuri, Spiti, Kathiawari, Bhutia and Zanskari.

Horse riding can be done early morning. It will be a fun experience interacting with these horses and ponies at the farm. Make sure to visit the place if you have sufficient time.

National Research Centre on Equines Bikaner Rajasthan

Bikaner National Research Centre on Equines Rajasthan

National Research Centre on Equines Rajasthan Bikaner

National Research Centre on Equines in Rajasthan Bikaner

The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum

Located near Lalgarh Palace, the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum has collection of artifacts and objects from Royal Kingdom period.

Shri Laxmi Nath Temple

4 kms away from Junagarh Fort, Shri Laxmi Nath Temple is one of the oldest temples in Bikaner and is adobe to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

The Lalgarh Palace

Built in the beginning of the 19th century, The Lalgarh Palace displays the themes of modernity combined with the the historical times of the Rajput Maharajas. The palace today serves as a hotel.

Places to Eat in Bikaner

Around 3 kms from Junagarh Fort, at Panchshati circle is a decent restaurant named Ganapati Restaurant. Here, you can enjoy delicious meals at very reasonable rates.

Bikaner Cuisine

While in Bikaner, do try the local traditional Rajasthani Thali. It is an absolute delight to eat a little bit of everything from the best that a Rajasthani cuisine can offer.

Rajasthani Thali Cuisine

Shopping in Bikaner

Kote Gate, Station Road Market & Mahatma Gandhi road market, you can find a number of shops selling Bandhani sarees, dupattas, footwear, blankets, quilts and jewelry at a very reasonable price.

Shopping in Bikaner

Music, Dance & Festivals

The music of Bikaner is yet another amazing feature of the cultural heritage of the place.

The best way to enjoy the traditional dance & music is by booking an accommodation at a heritage hotel. These hotels organize evening cultural programmes which are included in the package.

Bikaner Music Dance Festivals

Bikaner Music

The Bikaner Camel Festival and Fair

It is one of the main festivals celebrated in the month of January. The main attraction of the festival is decorated camels on display, camel dances and camel races followed by folk dance and music.

Bikaner Camel Festival and Fair

So these were the Top Tourist Attractions in Bikaner that we could cover in 1 and half days.

Hope you found the post useful and enjoyed watching the video. Your response & feedback matters so give this video a big Thumbs up, leave us a comment and Subscribe our youtube channel “India Ghoomo” for more videos and we will see you soon in our next travel guide. Till then, take care byeeee….

Jaisalmer Desert Safari | Dune Bashing at Sam Sand Dunes

January 16, 2018 by sarita

Namastey from Team India Ghoomo, It’s Sarita & Kamal and welcome to Rajasthan series on our channel. In this post/video, we will share our dune bashing experience at Sam Sand Dunes at the Thar Desert.

Jaisalmer – Thar Desert Safari Dune Bashing at Sam Sand Dunes

Rajasthan in India is famous for its rich culture, traditions, majestic forts, decorated havelis, temples and Sand dunes that attracts tourists from around the world. 45 km west from the Golden City of India – Jaisalmer, is one of the most authentic desert dune site – The Sam Sand Dunes. Here, one can enjoy some dune bashing followed by camel ride and later enjoy the breathtaking views of the sunset.

WATCH THE VIDEO –

The Sam Sand Dunes

Location –

45 Kms from Jaisalmer

How to Reach –

Hire a 4X4 wheel drive either from Jaisalmer or book an accommodation at a desert camp. Most of the camps offer desert safari in their package ( plz confirm with them before booking)

Desert Safari / Dune Bashing Timings –

The safari starts at around 3:30 pm

Desert Safari Best Season –

From October to March is the best season to visit the Sam sand dunes of Jaisalmer.

Desert Camps near Sam Sand Dunes –

There are a number of desert camps on the way from Jaisalmer towards Sam Sand Dunes that need to be booked in advance. The price range varies from between 6k – 10k per night.

Jaisalmer Dune Bashing at Sam Sand Dunes

Things to Keep in Mind while Dune Bashing at Sam Sand Dunes

– The safari gets really tough over the dunes , so it’s important to get hold of your seats.

– People suffering from back problems, heart or lung ailments, pregnant women and small children should refrain from this activity.

– A number of local artists would be willing to perform for/with you. Enjoy the activity and don’t forget to offer them some tip for the same.

– At the dunes site, a number of vendors can be seen offering tea and snacks. You can have them or carry your own snacks / water bottle.

– After the jeep safari, you can go for a camel ride. At Sam sand dunes, you will find a number of locals with their camels offering camel rides. These rides are priced between Rs. 250 – 300 per head (Plz note prices are subject to change)

– Enjoy the views of the beautiful sunset and click lots of pictures.

Verdict!

Dune bashing experience at Sam Sand Dunes at Thar Desert is something one should definitely not miss. We at India Ghoomo highly recommend this activity.

Jaisalmer Dune Bashing Sam Sand Dunes

Hope you enjoyed watching the video and found the post useful. Subscribe our youtube channel India Ghoomo for more travel videos. Also follow us on Instagram & Facebook. Stay tuned for more Rajasthan Travel videos coming soon . Till then, take care bye!!!!

Jaisalmer Sam Sand Dunes

Jaisalmer Sam Sand Dunes Desert Safari

Jaisalmer Sand Dunes Desert Safari

Jaisalmer Dune Bashing

Jaisalmer Camel Ride

Mysterious Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner – Rajasthan | Rat Temple

January 10, 2018 by sarita

Bikaner in Rajasthan – India, is famous for its imposing palaces, forts and temples. 30 Kms from Bikaner, in the town of Deshnok is one of the strangest and unusual temples in the world – The Karni Mata Temple. The impressive architecture and the spiritual significance of Karni Mata temple makes it one of the most sought after tourist attractions in Bikaner.

Mysterious Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner – Rajasthan Rat Temple

The current temple was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner about 100 years ago. It is made of marble and stone, with silver doors at the entrance. Everyday, thousands of tourists, locals and pilgrims visit Karni Mata temple to seek blessings of the goddess and the rats that rule the temple – yes, you hear it right RATS.

The temple is home to over 20,000 rats also called “Kabas or “little children,”. These rats are treated sacred. Hence, are fed, protected and worshipped here.

WATCH THE VIDEO –

Namastey from team India Ghoomo, It’s Sarita & Kamal and welcome to Rajasthan series. In this post/video, we will take you to Karni Mata Temple and explore the uniqueness of this beautiful mystical temple

The Belief

The main deity in the temple is Goddess Karni Mata who is regarded as the incarnation of Maa Durga & The kabas are believed to be the manifestations of Karni Mata herself and her sons.

Rats at Karni Mata Temple Rajasthan

The Main Shrine at Karni Mata

The shrine has a beautiful 75 cms tall idol of Karni Mata holding a trident or trishul in her hand. She is adorned with a crown and a garland of flowers. It is popular belief that Goddess Durga in the form of Karni Mata lived at the place where the temple stands today and performed miracles during 14th century.

Rats Everywhere!

The moment you enter the temple courtyard you will see rats all over the place – popping out of holes in its marble walls, running around crossing the isle ,tumbling down the staircases and balancing on the frames of the cast-iron gates. You will also find a bunch of them lazing around.

Karni Mata Temple Bikaner – Rajasthan

These rats are very friendly and do not bite the barefooted pilgrims who enter the temple. Rather, you will find them running around and playing with the visitors. And if a kaba happens to run across you feet, consider it auspicious.

You will find the rats either nibbling on sweets and prasad that has been offered to them or slurping milk and water from huge metal bowls kept on the ground. Rats can also be seen inside the main shrine feeding on the prasad and milk offered to Karni Mata, while the pujari performs puja rituals.

The temple rats are different from the ones found in houses. House rats are known of spreading diseases such as plague and often bite people. But the temple rats are totally harmless. There are no recorded cases of humans contracting a disease from the temple rats. The temple has never had an outbreak of plague, unlike other areas of India. The rats are also not known to ever bite or attack humans in any way and they never leave the temple even though they are free to do so.

Yet another strange and astonishing fact about the rats in this temple is that no one has ever seen newborn Kabas and most of them are of a typical size and look replicates of each other. No one exactly knows anything about their mysterious life cycle. However, there is a legend associated with their life cycle that we have mentioned in our blog post. Link is in the description box below.

MUST VISIT!

Karni Mata Temple is the best place to visit if you want to observe fascinating religious customs and want to enjoy watching thousands of rats running around you and over your feet as you walk around in the temple and feel the presence of Karni Mata.

Things to Keep in Mind at Karni Mata Temple

– There is no entry fee

– Temple opens at 4:00 am

– Milk and prasad is easily available at various stalls just outside the temple. Carry some to offer to the deity and to feed the rats.

– Footwear is not allowed inside the temple. However, you are free to wear socks. On request, fabric shoe covers are available outside the temple. You can cover your feet with them before entering the temple.

– The rats are everywhere inside the temple. Hence, their chances of coming underfoot is very high. The temple rule says if anyone happens to crush a rat under his/her foot, they will have to offer a rat made of gold to the temple as punishment. Therefore, be extra careful.

– During Navratri the temple witnesses huge influx of locals to come to seek Karni Mata’s blessings.

Rats at Karni Mata Temple Bikaner Rajasthan

Rats at Karni Mata Temple Bikaner in Rajasthan

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