Usta Kaam – Gesso Painting

The craft derives its name from its makers, the Usta, a community of craftsmen who migrated from Multan in Pakistan to the mughal court at Delhi and later, on being invited by Raja Rai singh, to Bikaner.

Gesso painting is also known as Nakashi art at its origination place. The technique was used to ornament the walls, pillars and ceilings of Bikaner’s Junagadh Fort and Anup Mahal with resplendent golden motifs of delicate floral and animal forms, often set against detailing in radiant colours. During the time of British in India, Nakashi work on camel leather became popular. Camel hide was light and unbreakable, and saddles and bags that were commonly used for transporting water became common bases for Nakashi work in this desert kingdom and adjoining areas. Leather work is an old craft in India that began as a cottage industry, and continues, in large parts, as such.Leather work as a cottage industry functioned with different groups performing different roles in the preparation of the leather, and in crafting products from leather. The fact that India has a very large livestock population has contributed in no mean way to the prolific output and continuity of this craft.

The craft process begins with the making of a clay mould on which a piece of previously cleaned and softened camel hide is stretched. The piece is dried in the sun for a maximum of 48hours before the mould is removed. Then begins the akbara, or design making process, wherein the pattern is embossed onto surface using a paste of powdered bricks mixed with jiggery and fenugreek seed powder. The coloured are first painted in, followed by gold detailing and thin black outlines that serve to define the motifs and background. Finally, the ground colour, usually red and green, is applied and the entire surface is coated with traditionally prepared varnish called chandras. The most popular gesso compositions at Bikaner is the taarabandi , a star studded sky and naqqashi, a pattern of minute flowers and motifs.

Contact Rajasthan travel agents to visit the incredibly beautiful state of Rajasthan. You can also extend your tour with a Golden triangle tour with the trip

Source: http://forhex.org/usta-kaam-%E2%80%93-gesso-painting

Sam Sand Dunes in Rajasthan

Sam Sand DunesAddress:Thar Desert, JaisalmerReport a map errorLatitude / Longitude: 26.91273, 70.79933This most picturesque spot around Jaisalmer has silken smooth sands look like a tale out of the Merchant of Venice and camel safaris are much in vogue. 3km long, 1km wide and as much as half a kilometer high, the dunes are as treacherous as they are scenic. If you opt for a camel ride stay very close to your raika (guide) as only he can maneuver you through the quicksand, which has sucked many an unwary goat to its gruesome death. There is no vegetation here and the swirling winds are almost as intense as the khamsins (sandstorms) in the Sahara.

The time comes to a grinding halt when you lie in the setting sun listening to the ballads of the legendary lovers Moomal and Mahendra (for details see- Moomal Ki Meri) on the Jew’s harp or the narh (a traditional musical instrument). Sleeping under the uncovered star-studded sky is an out of the world experience that makes one fall in love with the haunting beauty of the dunes.  

Open-air cultural extravaganzas, puppet shows, folk dance performances, camel races, competitions and general festivities organized amid these dunes every year, gives a spark of life to the desert, turning the place into a cultural hub. The old ruins and the various temples are again not to be missed. 

Specifically, trip to the Thar Desert is incomplete without visiting the Sam Sand Dunes- an aura of romance in solitude.

Book a Jaisalmer holiday package or a Golden Triangle trip with Rajasthan and enjoy the beauty of the Thar Desert

Source: http://www.mydestination.com/rajasthan/things-to-do/132755/sam-sand-dunes

Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

The Nahargarh Fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jaisingh II. As with the Jaigarh Fort, it was intended to provide additional protection for the Amber fort.

The fort's name has an interesting legend behind it. It is said that the original name of the fort was 'Sudarshangarh'. However, as work was on, excavating the area for the fort, the resting place of the saint Nahar Singhji Bhomia was disturbed, and his spirit began haunting the construction site. On advice from his spiritual preceptor, the king eventually changed the name of the fort to 'Nahargarh' after the saint, and also built a temple for him within the fort premises. It was only then that the haunting ceased and the work on the fort was able to continue! The fort might no longer be haunted, but this fort comes the closest to a haunted one in the area, as it was the only one which was completely deserted when we visited - as compared to the other forts which were packed with chattering tourists!

Nahargarh might not be among the more popular tourist destinations in Jaipur - there are too many with more interesting stories and monuments....We came here after our tour of Jaigarh, and Amber was planned for later in the day, so we didnt really have too much enthusiasm to explore this fort fully. However, what I did see of the fort was interesting enough to write about.. I would recommend a visit here if you are ever in Jaipur!

Book a tour package for Rajasthan or a Delhi Jaipur Agra trip and visit the exotic forts and palaces of Rajasthan. Another must visit Rajasthan forts is the Golden Fort of Jaisalmer

Source: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/

The City Palace, Home to Royalty

The City Palace, is located in Udaipur India, Rajasthan. The City Palace was constructed by the then Maharana Udai Singh. As at present the City Palace Udaipur is one of the major tourist attractions in the city of Udaipur. Initial construction of the City Palace Udaipur was done in 1559. Over the subsequent years numerous additions have taken place to the City Palace. The city Palace is in fact a collection of many other palaces built by the various residents of the palace. The City Palace in Udaipur resides on the eastern banks of the Lake Pichola. From the magnificent balconies of the City Palace one can gaze and gain a panoramic view of the world renowned Lake Palace or the "Jag Niwas" as it is called. One can also gain a view of the Udaipur city and on another side the Jag Mandir.

The major entrance point to the City Palace Udaipur is through a triple arched gate, the gate is given the name Tripolia. The Tripolia at the City Palace in Udaipur was built in the year 1725. From here one can gain access to the courtyards, the terraces, the gardens and corridors. The vivid glass mosaic decorations on the walls of the Mor-Chowk give it the name Peacock courtyard. At the Bhin Vilas one can see depictions of the Hindu god Krishna.

Some of the other palaces include the Dilkhush mahal, Moti mahal and Sheesh mahal. The Krishna vilas was made in remembrance of a beautiful princess who tried to stop a battle between adversary princes for her hand by poisoning herself.

You can book Golden Triangle Tours India along with a trip to Rajasthan from the best Rajasthan tour operators and visit these exotic Indian cities

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-city-palace-home-to-royalty-745380.html

Ranthambore, Rajasthan

A tiny village that derives its name from two hills - Ran and Thambor, Ranthambhore in the state of Rajasthan is endowed with a magnificient environment. Its deciduous forests are rich in flora and fauna that inhabits a wide span of all species. A land, which boasts of a legendary history, was the stronghold of the Yadavas in the 8th century. Later in the 10th century, it came under rule of the mighty Chauhans, which continued as such till the Mughals acquired its possession. 

Rathambore is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Famed for its avid wildlife, Rathambore proffers a picturesque ambiance with rocky smudges, lovely hills, pretty lakes, ponds and beautiful ravines. Its rugged terrain and strategic location in the midst of Vindhya and Aravalli ranges makes it a perfect asylum for those estranged and exotic breeds in the Animal Kingdom. 

Rathambhore is famous for the Wildlife Sanctuary by the same name where one can witness the juxtaposition of wildlife, history and nature. Dotted with so many structures of the past, Ranthambhore offers the fabulous mixture of a heritage site as well as the magical charm of a rich wild life. The ruins of yesteryears, which are spotted through out the length and breadth of the forests give Rathambhore a unique and invigorating appeal. 

A pictorial place with extensive range of dazzling landscapes, Rathambhore offers something unusual to its visitors. The mesmerizing ride through the undulating grasslands, gushing streams, open scrubs, densely wooded valleys, deep ravines flanked by steep peaks would definitely provide one with a rejuvenating vigor. 

Ranthambhore would be the best place to squander if the traveler in you is quite proud of the rich legacy of an ancient township. Its majestic relics like the ruined pavilions, crumbling walls, wells, and other glittering edifices of kingships quench your thirst to be in the midst of a glorious past.

You can book travel packages to Rajasthan from best Rajasthan travel agencies. You can also extend your tour with a Desert Safari in Jaisalmer

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/Ranthambore

Riding The Train Of Your Dreams

Indian tourism offers you a chance to live a royal life in a very different way. Luxury train rides have been introduced to give tourists a chance at traveling through to different places of interest, and while doing so, live the life, culture and dreams of the rich and grand. This is all about having your cake and eating it too.

There are two major trains which operate luxury tours in India. These include the Palace on Wheels and the Deccan Odyssey. The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train which has a tour that lasts about seven days. Nothing is left to chance, and there is no stone unturned to making sure that every traveler is treated like a king. The train itself has about fourteen suites. Each saloon or suite comes with four rooms which have twin bedding. The rooms are complete in themselves. They have attached bathrooms which are fully equipped. There are two restaurants on the train which offer delectable cuisine from all over the world. There is also a bar which houses the choicest spirits which are local and also international.

The interiors of the train are all fashioned in the same grand, regal style of palaces. There is great attention to detail, and everything is enhanced on a very large scale. The ambiance, the mood, festivities and facilities are all planned to give travelers a taste of the riches of Western India. As the train takes you through the state of rajasthan, Agra and New Delhi, you will get a real taste of how things can really be done in a manner which is larger than life.

The Deccan Odyssey is another such train which works through the tourist attractions in Maharashtra. It moves all the way to Goa, and then turns inwards before it returns to its starting point, the city of Mumbai. True to its name, the Deccan Odyssey is a sojourn that takes you through the best of the Deccan plateau, giving you a chance to sample it in real style.

The saloons on board are well designed, providing every luxury that can be imagined. There is a feeling of warmth and friendliness on the train, which makes it a very homely place to be. The train houses in it two restaurants, the facility to shop, and even a massage center and gymnasium. There are separate smoking and non smoking areas demarked in the train. The train makes you so comfortable, you are almost reluctant to leave and explore the cities outside.

Other luxury trains popular in India are Royal Rajasthan on Wheels and the historic Fairy Queen that includes a trip to Sariska Tiger Reserve in its itinerary. While the luxury train rides do take you to places which are very interesting and have lots of life, the train ride itself is not suited for traveling with children. It is very laid back, and has a relaxing feel. There is not enough for them to feel stimulated and occupied through the seven days. This is best explored by couples or with friends.

Visit website for booking Rajasthan package, Jaisalmer sightseeing and Golden Triangle Tours of India

Source: http://article-niche.com/launch/Luxury-Train-Rides-In-India-Riding-The-Train-Of-Yo.htm

Desert Safari in Jaisalmer

With record limits of temperature, rural life in its entire naturally colorful swagger and an eerie sense of the unknown deserts that mesmerize all travelers, the place brings a unique touch to the myriad of wonders of the Indian culture. 

Although an important constituent of the rich and historic sands of Rajasthan and more so the oriental Indian flavor, Jaisalmer continues to stand out and amuse generations on a strength of homegrown local culture. A desert safari in Jaisalmer is as essential on trips as paying homage to the Taj Mahal in Agra in person or a sumptuous ride of Shikaras in Srinagar’s Dal Lake.

Deserts in Jaisalmer have caught the flights of fascination of one and all. Withstanding the continuous pressures of high levels of heat hovering around an average of 50 degree C, they are far from easy. However the ‘highs’ derived from adventuring the naked and enterprising deserts in the true colors cannot be substituted by any other natural confinement. The raw dust of gold all over with only a camel for support is a lifetime experience in its own.

Times may have changed dramatically in the last millennium; however the camel in a desert safari in Jaisalmer continues to be perhaps the single most symbol of tradition in its youth. With limited water (as good as being breathless in deserts) and bumpy and uneasy rides, the camel-ride is still a popular experience and is looked forward to by anybody who has heard or read about Rajasthan.

Glimpses of Rajasthan through a Tourist’s Eyes

From foreign tourists who are not at all well-versed with the locally humid temperatures, to film makers of the class and stature of Satyajit Ray, Jaisalmer has successfully attracted the cream of tourism communities and is still widely sought after. The sprawling deserts along with the simple and hospitable breed of local inhabitants make any tourist’s time memorable.

A memorable experience can only be cultivated by spending some quality time with the local camel riders and their carefully crafted intuitions of time and weather simply by looking at the behavior of sands. The rich historic cities and monuments with ample anecdotes and timelines create a sense of continued chivalry and hallmark of sacrifice that came naturally to the warrior clans of this land. A desert safari in Jaisalmer is incomplete by itself if the city and its rich culture are not befriended on the way. 

Camel Rides and Beyond

Rajasthan along with all its towns, provinces, rural areas and cities is incomplete to relive without the distinct and satiating gourmet that is prepared on an out and out local flavor. High on calories and rich in taste, the local preparations have attained fame and pomposity across the world. 

Most of its age old forts and erstwhile palaces have been transformed into awesome sights of audacious touring and hoteling experiences. Making the most out of the growing industrial globalization in international tourism and the attached convenience that comes with it, an excursion in Rajasthan is much more than just a routine desert safari in Jaisalmer. Still famous for its desert culture are also the folk dances and musical songs that are sung by gypsies and rural womenfolk at nights in groups on deserts.

Jaisalmer Desert Safari is one of the most memorable travel experience while a tour of Rajasthan. Visit http://www.rajasthan-tourism-packages.com/ for booking Desert Safari in Jaisalmer

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/articles/desert-safari-in-jaisalmer/2550

City Palace, Udaipur

City Palace of Udaipur, the majestic white royal building towers itself on a hill and is surrounded by crenellated walls. The palace was completed in its present form by the contribution of many rulers. Originally started by Udai Singh, the later additions were so carefully planned and integrated with the original building that it becomes difficult to believe that the building was not conceived as a whole. The palace stands along the shores of Lake Pichola.

Approach to the palace is through the ‘Hati Pol’ or the ‘Elephant Gate’. The ‘Bara Pol’ or the ‘great gate’ leads to the first court, which joins Tripolia or the ‘triple gate’. Between the two gates are eight carved ‘toranas’ or arches, which mark the spot where the rulers were weighed against gold or silver, the equivalent value of which was then distributed among the poor. Beyond the Tripolia is the arena where the elephant fights were staged.

The path then leads to a series of courtyards, overlapping pavilions, terraces, corridors and hanging gardens – a harmonious profusion hard to describe.The soft cream coloured central ‘Chhatri’ has facing of blue coloured tiles with massive octagonal towers crowned with cupolas. The Sheesh Mahal has inlaid mirror work. The Krishna Vilas has a series of miniature paintings, which are witness to the royal processions, festivals and the game of ‘Chogan’.

The Raj Aangan or the royal courtyard is built by Maharana Uday Singh and it is the oldest part of the complex. The Mahals of the palace has been reformed as the Museum now. These mahals boast of beautiful glass works, paintings and antique furnitures. The City Palace has more to offer with the Suraj Gokhada or the balcony of sun and the Mor Chawk or the peacock square. Mere descriptions of such places will not suffice of their elegance. A visit to the City Palace Udaipur is a must and will be a life time experience. 

Book a Rajasthan package including Udaipur and Jaisalmer sightseeing tours from the reputed Rajasthan travel agencies.

Source: http://www.india-tourist-places.com/category/north-india/rajasthan/%20-%20Rajasthan/

Rejoice at the Elephant Festival

The Elephant Festival is celebrated in the month of February or March, and it attracts a lot of spectators from across the country and abroad. This royal festival is organized to showcase the pompous and majestic royalty of Jaipur during the Holi festival

In India, the elephant is considered as a majestic and holy animal since the prehistoric era. The supremacy of elephants is well illustrated throughout the Hindu mythology.  Elephants have been a huge force of strength in many wars. Legends say that during “Samudra Manthan” (churning of the ocean), the Gods were fortunate enough to receive “Airavata”, the elephant that later became the divine vehicle or “Vahana” of Lord Indra.

The festival is celebrated each year in February or March during Holi, which is the festival of colors. With Holi being celebrated throughout the country, the elephant festival adds spice to it. The classy attires and myriad colors on the elephants truly represent the festival of Holi.

The elephant has become a symbol of royalty in Indian tradition and culture, there are many festivals associated to it. The Jaipur elephant festival is one-of-its-kinds festival where the elephants are given utmost importance. The whole town of Jaipur comes alive with dancers, musicians and elephants that attract visitors from all over the globe. Only female elephants take part in the festival. They are magnificently decorated in the festival to give the spectators a majestic feel; their tusks and trunks are beautifully colored.

Elephant festival is celebrated in the famous Chaugan grounds in Jaipur. The festival commences with an enormous parade of all the decorated female elephants marching towards Chaugan grounds. Various competitions are organized so that the tourists and local people enjoy it to the full. The elephants are engaged in races, polo matches and a tug of war with men to enthrall the spectators. They are at their best during this festival and you can find them enjoying the attention and cheering from the crowd. The elephant keepers or mahouts decorate their elephants from head to toe for the “Best Decorated Elephant” contest, which is a major feature of this cultural fest.

Tourists witness special dance and talent shows by the elephants. Famous folk dancers and local musicians participate in this festival amidst colorful lightings that add to the overall entertainment of the spectators.  This festival also showcases the glorious royalty of Jaipur and allows the tourists be a part of it. Tourists can take elephant rides and play Holi sitting atop the elephants giving them a never-like-before experience.

To visit the Elephant festival book Golden triangle tours India, Golden Triangle Tour with Rajasthan or Rajasthan Tours in India

Amazing Luxury Train Travel and Golden Moments in Royal Rajasthan

Rajasthan is aptly called as the royal state of India because of its splendid history associated with the kings and queens. These royals, because of their high tastes, have contributed much to the construction of some of the magnificent palaces, havelis and forts in this state. This is the reason this beautiful state of India is also called royal Rajasthan because everything associated with this place has a rich feel whether it is the fort, the palace or the delicious cuisine. You can have a spectacular luxury trip across this magnificent state. You can have the royal feel in the trip by boarding the luxury train and it will be a wonderful experience of life. You will get many facilities in the train and these also include some high quality personalized services.

Generally the journeys for such trains are for a period of 7 days and eight days respectively but there are also 4 days journeys available and these cover the areas like Delhi, Jaipur, Agra and Bharatpur. When it comes to the trip in this luxury train for periods of 7 and 8 days respectively, you cover different destinations of the maharajas in the exotic Rajasthan as well as different parts of the eastern and central India. The train cuts across the beautiful destinations like Agra, Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Chittorgarh, Jodhpur, Varanasi, Khajurao and Bharatpur. When you visit these destinations in such a luxurious atmosphere, it will really give you a feel of Rajasthan royals. When you have a trip of royal Rajasthan in such a luxury train, it is really an amazing experience one loves to cherish. This luxury train is a fine alternative for the traveler and you get all the comforts of the present times in it. It is really an amazing feel.

There is a major hand of the tourism development corporation to make this train ply on the rails. By travelling in heritage express, you get the taste of Rajputana heritage and make this journey as one of the most memorable journeys of your life. The three important things that really make you feel on the top of the world while travelling in the royal Rajasthan train is the onboard service, exotic destinations and the classic décor. This train has 13 salons and all are luxury coaches with air conditioning facility. All these coaches have the complete carpeting along with the linen and silk furnishings. When you sit, sleep or relax in these coaches, it brings alive the opulence and royalty in you. You really feel like a royal and magnificent Maharaja.

The ambience and beauty of the inside decoration increases with period furniture and gorgeous paintings. When you travel in such a train, you can relax by having sips of sweet wine or some good hard drinks in the majestic restro bars like namely Swarn mahal and Sheesh mahal. You have the good food in the in house.

Visit website  for booking Rajasthan tours, Golden Triangle India and Golden Triangle Tour with Rajasthan travel packages

Jaisalmer Travel

Located in the heart of the Thar Desert (the Great Indian Desert), Jaisalmer is an historic city and wonderful tourist destination to visit in Rajasthan. Famed as the Golden City of India, it was once known as Jaisalmer State. Standing on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, this magnificent city is crowned by a majestic fort; the Jaisalmer Fort also called Sonar Kila or Golden Fort.

The Golden Fort (Sonar Kila) is the most important tourist attraction in the city. It is considered as one of seven wonders in India. The fort complex houses many exquisite Jain temples, Hindu temples, residential buildings and splendid havelis which are known for fine sculptures. There also many havelis in this city which are popular among tourists. Popular havelis of this city include Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Salem-Singh-Ki-Haveli, Nathmalji-Ki-Haveli, Shreenath Haveli, etc.

There are also some prosperous museums in this city, featuring Desert Culture Centre & Museum, Jaisalmer Folklore Museum, Government Museum, etc. Desert National Park, Sam Sand Dunes, Khuri Village, Gadsisar Lake, etc are other attractions in the city. Jaisalmer is also gateway to the Thar Desert. Tourists can enjoy best of desert tourism around by camel safari ride. Desert Festival also attracts tourists. The city is well-connected by road and train.

You can book a trip to Rajasthan by visiting India Travels Guide website

Chowki Dhani Flaunting the Spirit of Rajasthan

The most popular attraction of Rajasthan is Chowki Dhani. Claimed to be India’s most creative tourism project, Chowki Dhani is an artificially recreated village which is more on the lines of a premium resort. It is a five star quintessential village resort that boasts of excellent accommodation and host of leisure activities.

About Chowki Dhani

Established in the year 1989, Chowki Dhani has been representing the cultural face of Rajasthan to the tourists from all over the world. Chowki Dhani is located at Jaipur and is known for presenting the authentic symbol of ethnic village life of this most colorful state in the country. Sprawling on an area of 10 acres, Chowki Dhani is known for offering a different theme for each day. Folk dances, live music performances, magic shows and various other activities can be enjoyed here.

Tourist Attractions at Chowki Dhani

Chowki Dhani is a small world in its own and there are a variety of activities that tourists can enjoy here.

Rides - Tourists in Chowki Dhani can enjoy the pleasures of riding. Camel ride, Bullock cart ride, Tonga ride, elephant ride and boat ride at the ‘Tal Talaiya’  are a few great riding options in Chowki Dhani. These rides can be enjoyed at a very economical price.

Hang Outs - There are many other hang out options tourists can enjoy in Chowki Dhani. The Temple or Mandir Deva is ideal for those who are religiously inclined. The temple is hand painted and must be visited by all. The Panghat (place where the village women come to take water), Tel ki Ghani (ancient way of getting oil by moving bullock round and round a central mechanical system), Garadiya Luhar (shows working of Indian blacksmith) and Mevar Re Dhani and Registan Re Dhani you will find the special style village huts which represent the culture of Mewar and the cool huts which remain cool in hot summer even without any A.C.

Application of Mehndi, a visit to the Ajayabghar Museum (displaying artistic craftsmanship), the Photo Studio (have beautiful wall paintings and mirror work) and the Haat Bazaar are important attractions in Chowki Dhani.

Fun Zone - The Fun Zone includes various games and fun activities that tourists can enjoy during their tour to Chowki Dhani. The Sanp-Sidhi or Snakes and ladders, bhool bhulaiya or mazes are a few games you van enjoy playing.

Besides, the fun zone also includes astrologers, tarot card readers and fortune tellers as well. Tourists are advised to be a part of the Jungle Safari, that is a forest theme based area and animal sounds are created to thrill the visitors. An artificial waterfall in a cave, called Gufa Jharni, is also a popular attraction.

Live Entertainment - Chowki Dhani is a very popular as a day trip and tourists can enjoy various types of live performances at time of the day. To begin with is the Folk Dance and Music Show at Chaupal Nach Gan Re, where tourists can enjoy dance tems like Ghoomer, Potter Dance, Kalbeliya - the Snake Dance, Bhopa-Bhopi Dance etc.

Acrobats, locally known as Nat Ro Kartab is also a delight to watch. Puppet dance or Katputilyon Ro Naach, Magic shows or Jadu Ro Khel and Nagkanya (which is a living amalgamation of a snake a girl) are some of the most popular live entertainment performances one can enjoy at Chowki Dhani.

Dining at Chowki Dhani

Dining itself is a phenomenal experience while your visit to Chowki Dhani. The ‘dhani’ boasts of wonderful restaurants that serve authentic and succulent preparations of the exotic Rajasthani cuisine. Sangri is a great options for those looking for traditional Rajasthani cuisine served in the traditional way of Manuhaar, that is serving food on leaf platter.

The popular dishes that tourists should not miss feasting upon here includes Dal Batti, Lal Maas and lapsi ( dessert made from broken wheat).

An interesting place to enjoy the lip smacking Rajasthani food is at the Chaupad Jeeman Ghar. This restaurant is built in the shape of the ancient game of Chaupad, i.e. shaped like a ludo, four strips that are joint in the center. The restaurant has four straight rows and each row has a capacity of 20 persons.

Gorband is another restaurant that is an open air dining area and is shaped like the ‘Kalis in a ghaghra’ or crease in a skirt.

Royal Rajasthani, is the most famous restaurant in Chowki Dhani famous for its air conditioned halls and wonderful ambiance.

To visit Chowki Dhani, book holiday package for Rajasthan, Jaisalmer holidays or a Golden Triangle Trip

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/articles/chowki-dhani-flaunting-the-spirit-of-rajasthan/1459

Dining Shopping and Nightlife in Agra City

What are the sight seeing attractions that draw your attention at the very utterance of this city called 'Agra'? It is of course the Taj Mahal, as is known by all followed by Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Guru ka Tal, Mankameshwar Temple, Mariam's Tomb, Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra, Swami Bagh Samadhi, Mughal Heritage Walk, Jama Masjid, Ram Bagh, Keetham Lake, and the list goes on. Well, while vacationing to this tourist destination, it is not only sight seeing attractions but also restaurants for dining, centres of shopping, nightlife, and more that you will be a focus of attention. It will be wise on your part to collect all information right from restaurants in Agra, places of interests, shopping in Agra, weekend getaways, nightlife in Agra, and related paraphernalia. A planned itinerary and getting informed ensures a hassle-free and wonderful trip, well serving your vacationing purpose.

When we speak about restaurants in Agra, you will come across them in abundance. This is because tourists flock to Agra in huge numbers round the year. Restaurants are a source of survival for many. No matter whether it is the road leading to the gates of the Taj Mahal or just around this monument far and near, there is no dearth of restaurants. You will find all types of food served here. For a sophisticated milieu, you may consider dining at Jharokha-e-Taj Revolving Restaurant (for Indian cuisine), one of the most preferred restaurants in Agra located in the Hotel Deedar-e-Taj premises. Grand Buffet, Nauratna, Olive Garden, Capri, Nazara, Mughal Room are few of the other popular restaurants in Agra.

For shopping in Agra, you may consider visiting Sadar Bazar, Pratap Pura, Taj Ganj, Kinari Bazar, Munro Road, and Gwalior Road. These shopping centres are located not far from the monument. Tabletops, marble items, boxes, elephants, precious and semi-precious stones, jewellery, carpets, durries, textiles and sandalwood are the most selling items. Do not forget to buy these items while shopping in Agra.

You won't encounter a scintillating nightlife in Agra as witnessed in the metro cities. Yet optimum entertainment is provided at the various nightclubs, bars and pubs marked by spacious dance floors. The ambience is no doubt electrifying and sparkling. Mouth watering local delicacies, delectable dishes, finest beverages, innovative cocktails, etc. are offered at these centres. Mughal Bar, Downtown Club Bar, Le Bar and Downing Street Bar are few of the most visited centres of nightlife in Agra.

To visit this exquisite city, book a Golden Triangle Tour package. A Golden Triangle Trip takes your journey through three beautiful cities of North India - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

Jal Mahal

Jal Mahal which means "Water Palace" is located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur city, capital of the state of Rajasthan in India. Jal mahal was built to be a pleasure palace for the royal family of Jaipur, in 1799, and is an extremely romantic place with its red sandstone intricate architecture casting beautiful reflections in the calm waters of the Man Sagar Lake, full of hyacinths.

The palace is renowned for its majestic architecture, and intricate and sophisticated design. The structure is surrounded by the Nahargarh Hills and has also been home to one of the prime ministers of Jaipur estate. Lthough the palace is now abandoned but it is very well-preserved and provides a picturesque view from Nahargarh Fort. The first four floors of Jal Mahal are submerged under the water of the lake and only the top floor is visible above the water level.

The Nahargarh Fort offers a splendid view of the lake as well as the Jal Mahal. One can also get magnificent views of the palace from Mansagar Dam constructed on the eastern side of the lake.

You can book a golden triangle tour package to visit this beautiful piece of architecture. The package covers a trip to three exotic tourist destinations in India which are Delhi, Jaipur and Agra.