Rajsthan

Introduction: Rajsthan is located in northwestern part of India and is the largest state of the country. Endowed with magnificent forts and palaces, colorful fairs and festivals, vibrant culture, varied topography and thick forests, Rajsthan is the majestic place to visit. No other state in India exudes so much of Royalty, history and culture as Rajasthan. This northern state of India has been the home to affluent and ostentatious Rajahs, who constructed awe-inspiring and wonder monuments and forts that still adorn the state and give an insight into the royal lives of yesteryear kings and queens. From dessert villages to commercialized towns, Rajasthan has every arrangement to make your stay memorable.

History: Rich history of Rajsthan attracts several history buffs. Rajsthan was formerly known as Rajputana, as it was ruled over by Rajputs. Rajput refers to 'son of rulers' who emerged in the beginning of 8th century and established their kingdom. Around 1200 AD, Muslim invaders entered in Rajasthan. A number of states fall into the hands of Mughal rulers. Never before the reign of Akbar, Rajasthan was united as one political unit. In 1755, Marathas conquered Ajmer and marked their entry into Rajasthan. In 1817-18, Rajasthan witnessed the rule of the British with the conclusion of alliance treaties with the British government. After independence, all the princely states of Rajputana integrated and Rajputana came to be known as Rajasthan in the year 1956.

Places of interest: The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur was built by Raja Swai Jai Singh. Previously known as the Pink city, Jaipur has a plethora of architectural wonders in forts, monuments, palaces and gardens. Ajmer is widely famous for the Dargah Sharif of Khwaja Muinddin Chisty. The city is amongst one of the holiest place for devotees, not only for the Muslim community but also for the people of other religion. It is considered as an ornament of the state and has remarkable historical importance. Chittorgarh has been witness to some of the bloodiest battle fought on Indian soil. It still reverberates with the tales of its glorious and turbulent past.

Travel information: Rajasthan experiences extreme climate conditions but still is a year round destination. The summers in Rajasthan are dry and hot. During winters, the days are sunny but the night can be chilly. The three-day Desert festival is held during the month of February at Jaisalmer so interested visitors can plan their trip during this time as the festival brings to the fore the cultural and ethnic richness of the place. The best time to visit Rajasthan is from October to March.