Visit To Rajasthan

Rajasthan experiences extreme climatic conditions. While it is a year round destination, from the comfort level, the period between October to March is by far the most salubrious and thus the best time to visit Rajasthan, India.

Summer in Rajasthan is hot and dry. Tourists visiting Rajasthan in summer should protect themselves from the sun by wearing loose comfortable cotton clothes, and using sunglasses and sunscreen lotion. Remember to drink lots of water or fruit juice etc, to avoid dehydration.

In winter the days are sunny and pleasant while nights can be chilly. Some light warm clothing is required in the evenings and early in the morning. The warm and bright days of October to March are thus ideal for sightseeing and traveling in Rajasthan and are the best time to visit Rajasthan.

How To Reach Rajasthan

By Air :
Rajasthan is well connected by air with almost all the major cities of India. A number of airlines both, government as well as private have regular flights connecting the state with rest of the country. The four airports of the state are, Jaipur Sanganer Airport, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, and Kota.

By Train/Rail :
Rajasthan is well connected by a good network of railway lines to almost all the places of interest in the country. The best option is obviously, Palace On Wheels, one of the most luxurious trains in the world. The Palace On Wheels connects Delhi with Bharatpur, Jaipur, Kota, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Alwar, Sirohi, Kishangarh, Bundi, Dungarpur, Jhalwar, and Dholpur, apart from Agra.

By Road :
The best way to visit Rajasthan is by road. A good number of Government and private buses ply to the state connecting it with nearby places of interest. Moreover, taxis and other vehicles are also available on hire from many places to the state.

Call Center Services In Jaipur

Jaipur is one of the growing cities in India where call centers offers new hope for educated and trained graduates and undergraduates. Rajasthan occupies predominant place in India's call center map with the presence of some best call center companies.

Some of Jaipur's best call centers offer excellent career opportunities to those trained in call centre skills. Most call centres in Jaipur, in general, offer position of Associates, angens or Executives. As you become experienced by 1 to 2 years you may be considered for positions like Team Leaders or Process Managers depending on your performance and interest shown in the job. The best Call Centers in Jaipur ensure to provide its employees with ample growth opportunities and in-house training sessions.

There Are Some Major Call Center In Jaipur :-

Cyber Futuristics India Private Limited
D-61, Shiv Heera Path, C-Scheme
Jaipur-302001
Ph: 91-141-2366498/2368166/2363604
Fax:91-141-2363604
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Website : www.go4customer.com

Akiko Callnet
C-84, Janpath,Lal Kothi
Jaipur - 302015
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Phone : 5100751

Data Infocom Limited
Tonk Road,
Jaipur-302018
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Phone : +91 141 2702311, 2702312
Fax : +91 141 2703712

Ge Capital Call Centre
E-145-146 Sitapura Indl Area
Jaipur - 302902
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Phone : 5103419

Graphite Call Connect & Webtec Academy
F-1 Govindam S C Rd
Jaipur - 302001
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Phone : 2365681

Kisan Call Centre
National Institute of Agricultural Marketing,
Kota Road, Bambala, Near Sangener,
Jaipur - 303906
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Tourist Attraction in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort: The 12th century Jaisalmer Fort has been regarded as one of the most magnificent and invincible forts in Rajasthan. Built over the Trikuta hill, Jaisalmer Fort is 250 ft tall structure surrounded by a 30 ft high sandstone wall with 99 bastions. The Fort houses the famous Jain Temple, a place worth visiting on your Jaisalmer tour.

Jaisalmer Havelis: Built by the wealthy merchants, the havelis (mansions) of Jaisalmer are famous for their exclusive cutwork, yellow and red stone treatment and the bracket-shaped decoration of peacocks. The splendid havelis like the Patwon-ki-Haveli, Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli and Nathmalji ki haveli are major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.

Gadsisar Sagar Tank: Gadsisar Sagar Tank is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. A famous picnic spot, the Tank attracts hundreds of migratory birds during the winter season.

Desert Cultural Center : Jaisalmer tours are near incomplete without a trip to this fascinating museum that showcases the culture of Rajasthan in an interesting and delightful manner.

Bara Bagh: Baba Bagh is an oasis on the bank of Gadsisar Sagar Tank. It has greenery all around to give a much-needed relief to the local people.

Tazia Tower: The Pagoda like Tazia Tower rises from the Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds). Each storey of this five-tiered tower has a beautifully carved balcony.

Gadsisar Lake : Gadsisar lake is a must visit site in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. This Lake is one of the major tourist attractions of Jaisalmer.

Desert National Park: Situated near Jaisalmer, The Desert National Park is one of the largest national parks in India, covering an area of 3,100 sq km. The Park is known for its fragile ecosystem and unique flora and fauna.

Sam Sand Dunes: Situated at the edge of the Thar Desert, Sam Sand Dunes are major tourist attractions near Jaisalmer. Enjoying Camel safaris on the sand dunes are truly an unforgettable experience. Sam Sand Dunes is also famous for its breathtakingly beautiful sunset.

How to Reach Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, popularly referred as the "golden city of India", is one of the most alluring tourist destinations in Rajasthan, India. Founded by a Rajput king, Rawal Jaisal, in 1156 A.D Jaisalmer is also known as "the Jewel of the Desert," as the yellow sandstone city is located deep in the heart of the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is popular for its centuries old magnificent forts, palaces havelis (mansions) and amber-hued houses. Jaisalmer is also known for its exotic sand dunes, offering exciting and unforgettable camel safaris. Jaisalmer is also famous for its rich cultural heritage and its vivid and colorful festivals are major attractions for tourists visiting the city. Visit and discover this fascinating city of Rajasthan on your Palace on Wheels Tour and get enchanted with its unique charm.

By Air: Jaisalmer is well linked by air with New Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur. The Jaisalmer Airport, located at 5 km from the city center, is managed by the Indian Air Force and is operational only from September to March.

By Rail: Jaisalmer is well connected by rail with Jodhpur, which is well connected to many major cities of India including Agra, Jaipur, New Delhi and Mumbai.

By Road: Jaisalmer has a good network of roads and is well connected to major cities of Rajasthan including Jaipur, Jodhpur and Bikaner.

Mobile Phone Service Provider In Rajasthan

Bharati Cellular Limited (Airtel)
Bharti Airtel, that has been rated among the best performing companies in the world in the BusinessWeek IT 100 list 2007, will invest approximately USD 200 million in setting up and expanding its operation in the country over the next five years.

BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited)
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited is India's oldest and largest Communication Service Provider. Currently BSNL has a customer base of 65.3 million. It has footprints throughout India except for the metropolitan cities of Mumbai and New Delhi which are managed by MTNL.

Escotel (Idea Cellular)
IDEA Cellular Ltd has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement for the acquisition of 100 per cent stake in both Escotel Mobile Communications Ltd and Escorts Telecommunications Ltd.

Reliance India Mobile
Reliance Communication president (application, solution and content group) Mahesh Prasad said: 'Our mobile phone has become an entertainment station in itself.

Tata Indicom
The Conference Call Service from Tata Indicom enables you to initiate audio conferencing by using your telephone in the comfort of your office or home.

Shyam Tele Link India Limited
Rainbow proposes to offer broadband wired and wireless services using state-of-the-art technology.

Jaipur Jewellery

Jewelry Jaipur are a leading manufacturer and exporter of Gemstone beads & Silver Jewelry. From gem stone beads to sterling silver Jewelry, we create and craft beauty with perfection. Indian Beads Jewelry, since it's establishment has been striving hard to acquire a distinguished place in the global market place of fashion jewelry.

Beads have been valued, since time immemorial these have been fashioned from materials considered to hold protective properties. Blue stones were prized above all others. Lapis lazuli, believed to protect the wearer's health, held religious significance and during certain periods only royalty were allowed to own it. Carnelian, feldspar, amethyst, jasper and ivory were also fashioned into beads and amulets.

Indian Beads Jewelry believes in providing quality at attractive prices. It exports flawlessly crafted handcraft items that are made as per the buyer requirements.No effort is spared in order to ensure that our valued customers are provided with top grade quality products & services at competitive prices, along with the assurance of timely delivery of consignments. We have a wonderful crew of designers, artisans and entrepreneurs who take care of every intricacy of the manufacturing process.

We welcome new business proposals, ventures and bulk orders. We assure of quality products and humble services to all customers. Our client base includes both domestic and international clients.

Places To Visit In Jaipur

Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City. It is also the capital of the state of Rajasthan. It is one of the most visited tourist places of India. The old city of Jaipur is partially encircled with seven gates - the major gates are Chandpol, Sanganeri, and Ajmeri.The Capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificient forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the Maharajas. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, Famous for Rajasthani jewellery, fabric and shoes, possess a timeless quality and are surely a treasure trove for the shoppers.

Amber Fort In Jaipur

Amber is located at a distance of 11 kilometers from Jaipur and was the old fort of the Kachhwaha clan of Amber, which used to be the capital, till it was moved to Jaipur.

Birla Temple In Jaipur

Birla Temple forms one of the major attractions of Jaipur. Birla Temple of Jaipur looks stunning, when it is brightly lit in the night. Birla Mandir, in pure white marble, dominates the skyline of southern part of Jaipur

City Palace In Jaipur

The City Palace is an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal art and architecture. The City Palace complex houses several palatial structures.

Central Museum In Jaipur

Amidst the beautiful Ram Niwas Garden, surrounded by pools, fountains and rows of flowerbeds stands the exquisite Albert Hall, built on 1886 A.D.

Hawa Mahal In Jaipur

Hawa Mahal is a major landmark and a famous tourist attraction of Jaipur. The Palace offers a beautiful sight to behold. The splendid Rajputana architecture of Hawa Mahal, still speaks the glory of the royal family.

Jal Mahal In Jaipur

Jal Mahal of Jaipur is a pleasure palace built in the 18th century. Situated amidst the picturesque Mansagar Lake, the palace has the Nahargarh hills forming its backdrop.

Jaigarh Fort In Jaipur

Jaigarh Fort is located on the top of the hill, by the name of Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles). Jaigarh Fort is also known as the 'Victory Fort', located at a comfortable distance of 15kms from Jaipur

Kanak Vrindavan Garden In Jaipur

Kanak Vrindavan Valley is an exotic place in the desert lands of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Kanak Vrindavan is situated in the bottom of Nahargarh hills adjoining the Amber Fort, on Jaipur-Amber Road.

Nahargarh Fort In Jaipur

Nahargarh Fort is the first of the three forts built by Maharaja Jai Sawai Singh of Jaipur. The Fort stands at the top of rugged point of the Aravalis and offers a spectacular view of the City.

Govind Devji Temple In Jaipur

Govind Dev Ji Temple is one amongst the major tourist attractions of Jaipur. The Temple represents the royal past of Jaipur. The Temple is dedicated to Govind Dev Ji (Other name of Lord Krishna).

Jantar Mantar In Jaipur
Jantar Mantar at Jaipur is the largest stone observatory in the World and this feature makes it, a special destination for a traveler.

Laxmi Narayan Temple In Jaipur

The Laxmi Narayan Temple in Jaipur is located at the foot of the Moti Dungar Hill is known for its architectural beauty and is very popular amongst the tourists. It is a marble structure and glows in the night.

Moti Doongri Temple In Jaipur

Moti Dungri is a small hill, centrally located in the city of Jaipur. The term Moti Dungri means Hill of Pearls or Pearl Hill.

Galta Ji Temple In Jaipur

Galtaji is a holy pilgrimage of India, located 10 kms away from Jaipur in Rajasthan. The vast complex of Galta Ji has several temples in it.

Ram Niwas Garden In Jaipur

Ram Niwas Garden was constructed by Maharaja Swai Ram Singh in 1868 and designed by Surgeon Major De-Faback, located in the center of modern Jaipur which covers an area of 33 acres.

Jaipur Ramgarh Lake
Ramgarh is located at a distance of 25kms from the city of Jaipur. In the present day, this primeval spot is eminent for its huge art

Royal Cenotaphs Of Jaipur

Just opposite the Man Sagar Lake, Gaitor lies in a narrow valleywith its marble and sandstone chhattris (cenotaphs) of the rulers of Jaipur.This was the site where the Kachhwaha royalty ended their stay on earth.

Statue Circle In Jaipur

Statue Circle forms a major landmark of Jaipur. It is situated on a busy crossing of the city. Statue Circle has got its name from the statue, which it portrays. Statue Circle comprises the statue of King Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur.

Vidyadhar Garden In Jaipur

Vidyadhar Garden is a beautiful garden that was derived by the Rajputs of Jaipur from the Mughals' definition of Garden. Vidhyadhar Ka Bagh was made in order to bring a sense of relief in the scorched scenery of the desert land.

Zoological Park & Garden In Jaipur

Zoological Park is situated in the ram Niws garden. It is a century old and is among the oldest in the country. Set in a landscaped garden, it has a good number of birds and animals and also houses a famous crocodile breeding ground.

Palace On Wheels

A tour of Jaipur by the Palace on Wheels is a journey worthy of kings. No wonder the experience is labeled as the Palace on Wheels. The Palace on Wheels sojourn covers Jaipur (the Pink city), Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ramthambhor National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur (the city of Lakes), the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the epitome of love and romance, Agra, before returning to Delhi, the capital of India. There are 14 coaches in the Palace on Wheels and each one of them is named after former Rajput states. The names of coaches are romantic and mesmerizing... Kota, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Sirohi, Kishangarh, Bundi, Dungarpur, Bharatpur, Jhalawar and Dholpur.

The Palace on Wheels has been rated as one of the ten best luxurious train journeys in the world. Once on board you get to feel the Royalty all over the train. The services and facilities offered on board befit kings and emperors. On board the Palace on Wheels are a series of restaurants, library, bar, lounges, individually designed saloons with en-suite bathrooms, personal attendants and lots more. At the top of it all, the passengers are greeted with traditional Royal welcome at every station.

Rajasthan is one of the most colorful, historical and culturally rich states of India. The history of Rajasthan is all about valiant and chivalrous Rajputs. It is, therefore, not surprising that the Rajput rulers had greatest influence on history and culture of Rajasthan. The Rajput rulers and noblemen were known for their valor, chivalry and elaborate code of honor. Their passion for architecture can be seen in the numerous magnificent monuments, palaces, "Havelis", temples and forts that speak volumes about history of the region.

The Palace on Wheels tour makes you experience all the luxuries, worthy of the affluent Maharajas of the past. On board the Palace on Wheels, exuberance and extravagance are the keywords. The Royal journey, by Palace on Wheels, is a first-hand experience of the lavish lifestyles of the former Indian kings and rulers. The décor, food and hospitality inside the Palace on Wheels speak volumes about the luxury and opulence. Get ready to feel the Royalty as you embark on an unforgettable and cherished journey on board the Palace on Wheels!

Wildlife in Kerala

Just like green pastures, beaches and backwaters, Kerala is also a wilderness beauty. There are numerous wildlife reserves situated within the state, but the major part is that even if they are wild reserves they present a unique travel experience to every visitor who visit them.

One of the major reasons of a varied wildlife is the breathtakingly beautifully hill range of the Nilgiris. So if you ever get bored of exploring the wilds, there's always an option of touring the hill resorts and destinations as well as tea estates of Kerala. More of all while exploring the wilds you can always go for a trek or a hike towards the tea estate regions that usually surround the hill stations of Kerala.

Kerela's wildlife sanctuaries, are home to some of the highly endangered species of flora and fauna. The main wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala include Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary and Thekkady Bird Sanctuary. The well maintained wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of Kerala are teeming with exotic wildlife.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary :

Access :Nearest Airport - Coimbatore and Cochin.
Nearest Railway Station - Pollachi (60 Km) And Aluva (200 Kms).

Area : Total - 90.422 Sq.Km.

Climate :Rainfall - 100 Mm. Unlike Other Regions In Kerala, Chinnar Gets Only 48 Days Of Rain ( Northeast Monsoon : October - November) Annually.

Located in the rain shadow region of the western ghats, the sanctary occupies the forested region on either side of the Marayoor - Udumalped road. This is the second habitat of the endangered giant grizzled squirrel of india. The location of sanctuary offers the unique advantage of watching its fascinating wildlife at close quarters from the road without venturing deep into the jungle. The Marayoor sandal forest and the beautiful Thoovanam waterfalls are located here.

Vegetation :Forest Types - Thorny Scrub Forest With Xerophytic Species. Dry Deciduous Forests, High Sholas And Wetlands.

Wildlife Population :Mammals - Elephant, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Panther, Sambar, The Endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel, Hanuman Langur, Rabbit Etc

Eravikulam National Park :

Access : Nearest Airport - Cochin (155 Kms)
Nearest Railway Station - Aluva (114 Kms) From Munnar.

Area :Total - 97 Sq.Km. Core: 350 Sq.Km. Periyar Lake 26 Sq. Km, Forest Cover : 360 Sq.K.M.

Climate :This is one of the wettest regions of the world. Rainfall : 4500 mm. Frost is common in the winter months - december to february. 15 Km North Of Munnar. Established In 1975 To Protect The Nilgiri Tahr, The Eravikulam Sanctuary Was Declared A National Park In 1978 Considering Its Ecological, Faunal, Floral, Geomorphological And Zoological Significance. The Park Is Breathtakingly Beautiful And Comparable To The Alpine Ranges. This Land Of The Neelakurinji Is 7 Km From The Rajamalai Hills.

Vegetation :Forest Types - Rolling Grasslands and on a Higher Level, Shola Forest.

Wildlife Population :Mammals - Tigers , Panther, Wild Dog, Civet Cats, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Langur, Wild Boar, Nilgiri Tahr etc

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary :

Access :Nearest Airport - Madurai (143 Kms)
Nearest Railway Station - Kumarakom (114 Kms).
Nearest Town - Kumily (4km), the entry point to the Reserve is Thekkady, Which is Accessible by Good Roads from Madurai, Cochin & Thiruvananthapuram.

Area :Total - 77 Sq.Km.

Climate :Monsoon : June - November
Rainfall : 2200 Mm. 40 kms from Thodupuzha town. Spread over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of Idukki district, the sanctuary was formed in 1976. The Idukki arch dam, the first major hydroelectric project in Kerala, is situated here. The 33 sq.km scenic lake around the santruary - the Idukki reservoir - is formed by the three dams Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamavu.

Vegetation :Tropical Dense Evergreen Forest : White Pine, Kuntherekka Pine, Punnappa, Bhadraksham, Palai, Vediplavu, Maravuri, Vayana Etc.

Wildlife Population : Reptiles - Elephant, Deer , Bear, Leopard Tiger, Wild Pig Etc.
Mammals - Cobra, Viper, Python, Rat Snake, Etc.
Reptiles - Hornbill, Kingfisher, Woodpecker.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary :

Located on the banks of the vembanad lake, the kumarakom bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots can also be spotted here. A cruise along the vembabad lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary. Pathiramanal, an enchanting island on the lake, can be accessed by boat from here.

Best Time :Between June And August. (Migratory Birds : November - February)

Pathiramanal :This 10 acre island on the backwaters is home to may rare varieties of migratory birds from different parts of the world.

Kerala Travel Tips

The ancient land founded by the legendary mythological figure Rishi Parashuram, blessed with emerald backwaters and gold and silver beaches is Kerala- God's own country. With the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on its east, Kerala is a treasure trove of indigenous cultural practices and art forms that have mesmerized people all over the world.

Be it the age old Kathakali or the newly rediscovered Mohiniattyam or the knowledge of Ayurveda . Basking in the generosity of the sun and rain the climate of Kerala supports a lush vegetation and a wide array of wildlife unlike anywhere else in the country. This miraculously unspoiled serene wilderness is all nature lovers' paradise and rapidly gaining momentum as a popular tourist hub in and around the country.

Traveling to Kerala is always a rewarding and unique experience. But traveling to Kerala can top the chart of your holiday experiences if you keep a few things in mind. Here is some of the travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip to Kerala.

Travel Tips for Kerala :

Visa
Carry your visa for entry to India/Kerala Travel Tips on your holiday. For further clarifications, contact the Indian High Commission.

Money
There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that visitors can bring.

Banks
Banks are open for transaction from 10.00 to 14.00 hrs on all days except Sundays (10.00 to 12.00 hrs).

Travel Wear
Cotton outfits, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion etc....

Credit Cards
Main hotels, restaurants and shopping centres honour major credit cards in Tips for Kerala Travel.

Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)

Drugs
Heavy punishments including imprisonment are imposed for possession of narcotic drugs.

Emergency Numbers
» Police control room: 100
» Fire station: 101
» Ambulance: 101

Time
(Hours fast (+), slow (-) on IST)
» USA: -10.30, Germany: -4.30, Canada: -10.30, France: -4.30,
» Australia: +4.30, Spain: -4.30, UAE: -1.30

Water
Tap water is purified and quite safe to drink. It is not advisable to drink water from slow moving streams, lakes or dams. Mineral water is available in sealed bottles.

Temple Codes
Footwear inside the temple and entry into the sanctum sanctorum is banned in all the temples Kerala Travel Places.

Other customs and codes of conduct and dress in temples across the State vary from each other.

Some temples do not permit entry to non-Hindus, while some do. Shirts for men and pants are banned from some temples and allowed in some others. Where they are banned, men have to be in mundus and women, in saris, half-saris or long skirts.

Nudity
Nudity is not allowed in any Kerala Travel Destination beach.

Ayurvedic Treatment
If you wish to undergo Ayurvedic treatment, it is very important to ensure that you go to an authorised centre.

Wildlife Sanctuaries
To visit a wildlife sanctuary, prior permission has to be taken from the concerned authority of the sanctuary Kerala India Travel Tips.

Fairs and Festivals in Jaipur

Elephant Festival, Jaipur: The elephant festival gets underway in the month of Phalgun (March) on the eve of Holi, the festival of colours. The festival begins with a procession of elephants, camels, horses and folk dancers. The sight of mighty jumbos striding majestically is a treat to watch. The mahavats or owners proudly decorate their elephants with bright colours, jhools (saddle cloth) and heavy jewellery. Female elephants are made to wear payals or anklets which tinkle as they walk. Prizes are given for the most beautifully decorated elephant. Even more exciting is the Polo match, the Elephant race, the tug-of-war between elephant and 19 men and women. The most colourful being the playing of Holi on Elephant back.

Kaila Devi Fair : The annual fair of Kaila Devi, (Mahalakshmi or the goddess of wealth), is held at the village Kaila (24 kms to the south west) in Karauli district in the month of Chaitra (Mar-Apr), lasting for a fortnight. The temple of Kaila Devi is located on the banks of the Kalisil river in the hills of Trikut, 2 Kms. to the north-west of Kaila village. Another attraction is the small temple dedicated to Bhairon, situated in the courtyard and facing the shrine of Kaila Devi is a temple of Hanuman locally called 'Languriya'.

Gangaur Festival: The Gangaur festival is the most important local festival of Rajasthan and is observed throughout the state with great fervour and devotion by womenfolk who worship Gauri, the consort of lord Shiva. Gan is a synonym for Shiva and Gauri which stands for Gauri or Parvati who symbolizes saubhagya (Marital Bliss). Gauri is the embodiment of perfection and conjugal love which is why the unmarried women worship her for being blessed with good husbands, while married women do so for welfare, health and long life of their spouses and a happy married life.

The festival commences on the first day of Chaitra, the day following Holi and continues for 18 days. For a newly-wedded girl, it is binding to observe the full course of 18 days of the festival that succeeds her marriage. Even unmarried girls fast for the fully period of 18days and eat only one meal a day.

Images of Isar & Gauri are made of clay for the festival. In some families, permanent wooden images are painted afresh every year by reputed painters called Matherans on the eve of the festival. A distinct difference between the idols of Teej and Gangaur is that the idol will have a canopy during the Teej festival while the Gangaur idol would not a canopy.

The ladies decorate their hands and feet by drawing design with Mehendi (myrtle Paste). The figures drawn range from the sun, Moon and the stars to simple flowers or geometrical designs.

Teej Festival: Teej is the festival of swings. It marks the advent of the monsoon month of Sharvan (August). The monsoon rains fall on the parched land and the pleasing scent of the wet soil rises into the air. Swings are hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Young girls and women dressed in green clothes sing songs in celebration of the advent of the monsoon. This festival is dedicated to the Goddess Parvati, commemorating her union with Lord Shiva. Goddess Parvati is worshipped by seekers of conjugal bliss and happiness. An elaborate procession is taken out in Jaipur for two consecutive days on the festive occasion which is watched by people in large numbers. The Teej idol is covered with a canopy whereas the Gangaur idol is open.

Museums In Jaipur

Museums are the reflection of ancient culture, customs and traditions of a place. At the same time, they offer amusement to the visitors.

There are a quite a few museums in Jaipur. The Albert Hall Museum, for instance, is surrounded by flowerbeds, and fountains. This museum is also sometimes referred to as the Government Central Museum. The museum has an exquisite collection of paintings, which are in deed a marvel to watch. It also has some priceless jewelry, earthenware, pottery, natural stones, articles of ivory, metal works, finely carved brassware and other exhibits. There is a special section in the museum which Egyptian mummy and another section displays toys of various countries.

The one next in the line of Jaipur museums is the City Palace Museum. The Diwan-i-Aam section of this museum has great sights to offer. It has a host of collections, which include original ancient manuscripts of the Hindus. The miniature form of the Bhagwat Gita is another interesting object. This was specifically made to hide from the cruel reach of Aurangzeb who was a religious fanatic and destroyed almost everything he found at hand. The ceilings are beautifully decorated and deserve special admiration for the tradional Rajput architechture. Also, there is a special section known as the Diwan-i- Khas, which is meant for private audience. The chandeliers are a beauty to watch.

Jaipur museums also include The Dolls Museum, which is only meant for collection of dolls form various parts of the country and also from abroad. The regional dolls add an extra flavor to the local customs. The dolls in bridal attire are very beautiful to watch.

Hawa Mahal Museum is yet another one of the category of Jaipur museums. Centred on the historical Hawa Mahal, the museum gives you a clear insight of the splendid structure.

Albert Hall Museum
Located just outside the walled city is the sprawling Ram Niwas garden, which has always been a place for recreational activities since the reign of Sawai Ram Singh ji . This exquisitely designed garden with forcentry doors and a huge complex with small pools and fountains, flourishing lawns and beautiful flower beds all around was basically a famine relief project. It mostly attracted the British families where they entertained their guest and families quite often with the lavish gowns of the Men and formal colourful attires of the nobels and the high society club members, this park would come alive with the setting sun.

Their individual 'BAGGIS' were parked outside in a line and the attendants served around as helpers. The children basically had a gala timely playing around in 'JHULAS'(swing) etc. During day time it was opened for the common public and by the evening it was opened for common public and by the evening it was available for exclusive lots. Situated in the middle of the garden as a centre attraction was the exquisitely built structure of Albert Hall, which was designed by sir Swinton Jacob, a British architect who designed many palaces in Rajasthan.

Combining the elements of English and north Indian architecture known as the pride of the New Jaipur opened in 1887 AD, it is a very well maintained and impressive building displaying a rich collection of Art- de- fact like paintings, carpet, ivory, stone and metal sculptures and colourful crystal works etc. Just opposite the Albert Hall is one of the oldest ZOO in the country, harbouring different species of birds and animals. Another piece of attraction near the Albert Hall, is the Ravindra Rang Manch (theatre) with a modern art gallery and an performing art theatre both indoor and open air. Recently added joints of interest are streets dotted with food stalls which promises a delicious variety of Indian fast food certainly relished by the tourists.

Hawa Mahal Museum
The Hawa Mahal, a multi layered palace, was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Famous for it's beehive like structure, the Mahal is an built by red and pink sand stone, carefully and painstakingly outlined with white borders and motifs. The palaces and forts , which is witness to the royal processions and splendours are now living monuments, accepted quite naturally into the lifestyle of the people of the "Pink City".There is, also, a small archaeological museum on the same site.

Behind the beautiful Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) in the adjoining Partap Mandir, a museum was set up in the year 1983. Preserved here, is the sculptural heritage collected from Ganeshwar, Virat Nagar, Raid, Sambhar and Museum of Indology, Jaipur Nagar.Exhibits include items of terracotta, antiquities, fish hooks, arrow heads, swords, helmets and belongings of the Maharajas of Jaipur. A big storage vessel of 2nd century AD obtained during archaeology at Naliasar (Sambhar) draws the attention of visitors.

Dolls Museum
Dolls Museum in Jaipur is perhaps the most famous among all other museums of 'Pink City' and is largely visited by tourists from all over the globe. The museum is home to a large number of lovely dolls representing different cultures across the world. One is sure to be mesmerized with the striking beauty of these dolls clad in the traditional attires of various countries at the Dolls Museum in Jaipur.

Situated about 4 km from the city center, Dolls Museum was built in 1974 with the purpose of providing an insight into the different cultures that are present all over the world. There are a large number of Indian dolls depicting the traditional costumes of different states across India. One can see the local attire of Gujarat, Bengal, Assam, Kashmir, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Punjab and several other Indian states at the Dolls Museum in Jaipur. The most striking are bridal dresses of different states like Mysore, Kerala, Gujarat, Bengal and Punjab. The particular costumes of different classical dance forms in India like Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Odissi and Kuchipudi have also been beautifully put on display at the Dolls Museum of Jaipur.

There is an equally splendid variety of dolls portraying the culture of both developed nations as well as the Third World. The national dresses of USA, Britain, Mexico, Spain, Sweden, Germany, Ghana, Uganda, Lebanon and Afghanistan are particularly striking. Beautiful dolls dressed up in the bridal wear of Japan, Malaysia, Burma, China and New Zealand look absolutely stunning and add to the beauty of the already magnificent costumes. The Dolls Museum in Jaipur creates a small fairytale world of its own. The way in which dolls have been used to present the varied cultures across the globe is indeed commendable.

City Palace Museum
Walking into the city palace museum of Diwan-I-Am, the hall for the public, one is enthralled by its vast collection of displays. Interesting are the original parchments and ancient manuscripts of Hindu scriptures. The miniature copies of Bhagwat Gita, the holy book of the Hindus, were written to be saved from Emperor Aurangazeb’s intolerance towards other religions, are also found in this museum. Besides the miniature paintings of Rajasthan grace the halls. Paintings on Mughal art and Persian school of art are also on display. The themes on which these paintings have been done are varied and it includes the epic story, Ramayana that is very engrossing. The ceilings of the museum are also painted and are preserved well. T

he elephant saddles known as “haudha” are also displayed. There is a hall for private audience known as the Diwan-I-Khas which displays world’s greatest silver objects, two huge silver vessels. This marble paved hall also has magnificent well-preserved chandeliers. A part of the Palace is still occupied by the royal family but it is worth visiting the ground floor since you can spot the majestic peacock in the courtyard. It is a well-preserved museum maintaining century old legacies with great care.

Tourist Attractions in Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is a tourist's paradise. Initiated nearly 300 years ago, the city was designed, conforming to traditional architecture, by a famous Bengal architect. Renowned as the Pink City for its distinctly coloured buildings, Jaipur, over the years, has lured many tourists and locals alike, to witness its grandeur. Located about 258 kilometres from Delhi, the capital of India, Jaipur, along with Delhi and Agra, forms the well-known Golden Triangle tourist circuit. The city's magnificent monuments, impressive infrastructure and colourful shops are complemented by some of the best hotels in India.

Today, the city unfolds a proud story of the rich architecture and the cultural heritage of Rajasthan and Mughal Empire. Apart from the fascinating buildings, Jaipur is also home to beautiful works of art, handcrafted items, which are perfect for souvenirs, and semi-precious gems. Those who visit during the festive season can also witness some of the colourful carnivals of Jaipur.

Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is one of the most common and popular tourist attractions in Jaipur. Hawa Mahal was basically used as a veil by the royal women folk to watch the proceedings on the road below. Today it is the one of most visited monuments in Jaipur. The City Palace is another beautiful landmark that was built by Kachchwah Rajput rulers of Jaipur. The City Palace is a classic example of Mughal and Rajput architecture. A part of the palace today is museum that houses a collection of rare manuscripts, weapons, Mughal carpets and costumes, and Mughal and Rajasthani miniatures.

Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar makes another wonderful sight to visit. Built in 1718 by Sawai Jai Singh, Jantar Mantar Observatory is one of the five observatories that were built by the king. The observatory was built to study the movement of stars. The observatory is built in stone and marble. Amber Fort Built on the hilltop outside Jaipur, Amber Fort is another famous tourist attraction in Jaipur. The Amber Fort was built by Raja Man Singh in the 16th century and was completed by Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. The fort offers magnificent views of the surrounding area. The fort is a mix of Mughal and Rajput architecture and is built in red stone and white marble.

City Palace
A classic example of Mughal and architecture, the City Palace stands majestically in the heart of the city. One of the most important architectural landmarks in Jaipur, the palace boasts a museum named after Maharaja Sawai Man Singh, a 7-storey facade 'Chandra Mahal' ('moon palace), Mubarak Mahal, the Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas (the Hall of Private Audience). The erstwhile royal family still lives in one section of the Chandra Mahal. The museum has on display a rich collection of rare manuscripts, weapons, Mughal carpets and costumes, and Mughal and Rajasthani miniatures. The most impressive of all collections are the rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit acquired by Sawai Jai Singh II.

Amber Fort
Jaipur tour can never be considered complete without a visit to the majestic Amber Fort. Built on the hilltop outside Jaipur, the construction of the Fort was started by Raja Man Singh in the 16th century and was completed by Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. Set in a picturesque background, the splendid Amber Fort offers magnificent views of the surrounding area. Built in red stone and white marble, the Fort is a represents a fine blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture.

Ram Niwas Bagh
Built as a famine relief project by Sawai Ram Singh II in 1868 AD, it houses a well-kept spacious garden with a zoo, an aviary, a greenhouse, a herbarium, a museum and a sport ground.

Laxmi Narayan Temple
Also known as the Birla Mandir, the Laxmi Narayan Temple is one of the religious tourist attractions of Jaipur. Beautiful idols of Hindu gods and goddesses adorn the temple, which looks amazing in the night.

Jaigarh Fort
Known as the Fort of Victory, Jaigarh Fort is the most imposing tourist attraction in Jaipur. At a distance of about 15 kilometers from the city, perched in the midst of thorny hills, the Jaigarh Fort offers a panoramic view of the city below. The fort houses the world's largest cannon on wheels. Known as Jaivana, it was built in 1720. It is believed, out of the three underground tanks in the fort, one could store up to 60,00,000 gallons of water. The museum and armory inside Jaigarh Fort are must-sees.

Nahargarh Fort
The Nahargarh Fort, also known as Tiger Fort, was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh in 1734, to strengthen the defence of Amer. Additional construction on the fort was done by Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II in the 19th century. Although some of the older sections of the fort have deteriorated, the sections added later, make it a must-see attraction in Jaipur.

Rambagh Palace
This palace was built in 1835 by the Queen of Jaipur. In the year 1972, the Rambagh Palace was converted into a heritage hotel and is now one of the premier attractions on your Rajputana Splendour itinerary.

Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh
The terraced Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh (the Garden of Sisodia Queen) is situated on the Jaipur-Agra road at a distance of 6 km from Jaipur. The garden was created by the queen of Jai Singh II as an escape from the court intrigues.

Kanak Valley
The picturesque Kanak Valley, formed by the Aravalli ranges, stretches from Amber town to Jaipur. Further down the valley, sightseers are treated to cascading waterfalls, creeks and lush foliage. Surrounded by this scenic landscape is the 300-year-old temple complex, which houses a shrine dedicated to Govind deoji and Natawarji, and the Kanak Bagh garden.

Statue Circle,
The full length exquisitely carved statue of Sawai Jai Singh in white marble in the centre of the circle is a landmark in a newly planned residential area to pay homage to the founder of Jaipur. The big circle attracts large crowds in the evenings.

Ram Niwas Garden
Was built in 1868 by Swai Ram Singh. It is located in the center of modern Jaipur, it spreads over 33 acres of land. It houses the Albert Hall Museum, the state Zoo, Ravindra Manch Theatre and several cafes and picnic spots in its premises.
Timings : 1000 - 1630 hrs.

Albert Hall Museum
It is erected in the middle of Ram Niwas Garden of Jaipur. It was built in 1876 to mark the visit of Prince of Wales to the city. The building is made of sandstone and marble in Indo- saracenic style. It contains a fine collection of sculptures, paintings, decorative art objects, natural history specimens, an Egyptian mummy and a celebrated Persian Garden Carpet.
Timings : 10.30 - 16.30 hrs.

Govinddev Ji ka Mandir
The presiding deity of Jaipur is Govindeoji, Lord Krishna. The temple is located between the Chandra Mahal and the Badal Mahal in the city palace complex, so that the rulers of the state could view the temple from their residences. The temple attracts large number of devotes specially on the 'Janmashtmi', the day of Lord Krishna’s birth.

Galtaji Temple
An ancient pilgrimage centre lying beyond the gardens amidst low hills. Temples pavilions and holy kunds (natural spring and water tanks) along with lush landscape make it a delightful spot. The small temple of the sun god built by Diwan Kriparam on the top of the highest peak is visible from all parts of the city.

Ramgarh
25 Kms from Jaipur. An ancient site now famous for its huge artificial lake created by constructing a high bund amidst tree converted hills where the citizens throng in a large number for picnic in the rainy season.

BIRLA PLANETARIUM
It offers unique audio-visual education about stars and entertainment with its modern computerised projection system. Entry fee As. 20.00 show timings: 11.00, 13.00, 15.00, 17.00, 18.00, 19.00 hrs. Phone: 2381594

Samode
This small town is situated on the way to Shekhawati from Jaipur, at a distance of about 42 kilometers. The Samode palace, now a heritage hotel, is the main tourist attraction here. There are many beautiful havelis in the town as well.

Sambhar
Located about 40 kilometers away from Jaipur, the small town of Sambhar is famous for the salt lake situated just outside the town. The vast lake stretches over a length of 22.5 kilometers, and varies between 3 to 11 kilometers in width.

Sanganer
It is a small town near Jaipur, famous for its cottage industry. The hand made paper and hand printed textiles are particularly noteworthy. Sanganer print is a famous type of textile available in the markets of Jaipur. The digamber Jain temple of Sanganer is a famous Jain religious structure. The idol of Paraswanath with seven serpent hoods is the main deity worshipped here. The interior décor of the temple is comparable to the temple sat Dilwara. Sanganer is also home to a fort, many important temples, and old palaces. The town is located at a distance of 16 kilometers from Jaipur on the Tonk road.

Pink City Of Rajasthan

Renowned as the Pink City Of Rajasthan, the royal capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727 AD. The ancient forts and palaces have now been converted into the heritage hotels to provide the luxurious accommodation to the tourists in Jaipur. These ages-old palacious structures attract the travelers from all over India and the world. While your Jaipur tour in Rajasthan, you can go for a camel, desert and jeep safari to explore the unending stretches of the Thar Desert.

The tourists can also enjoy the cool evenings during boating in the Ramgarh Lake. Go for a movie, camel ride, stroll in the beautifully laid gardens, tour a zoo or spend your time in shopping some exclusive memoirs of Jaipur. One can purchase the Rajasthani handlooms, bandhani, block Print, blankets and trinkets.

Tourist Places in Jaipur

The City Palace of Jaipur: The City Palace is an architectural marvel that presents a perfect blend of Rajasthani and Mughal art and architecture. The City Palace has projecting balconies, arches and the entrances. The palace covers one-seventh of the area in Jaipur. The City Palace also has a museum with an exclusive collection of Rajasthani costumes, miniature paintings, carpets and royal paraphernalia.

Jantar Mantar: Sawai Jai Singh who also built the five observatories in India built the largest stone observatory in the world, Jantar Mantar. Its complex instruments are excellent for predicting the figures related to the Indian astronomy.

Hawa Mahal Museum: The Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds is the major landmark in Jaipur, which was built in 1799 AD. This five-storey building hued in pink has the well-arched semi-octagonal windows.

How to Reach Jaipur :-

By Air
Jaipur Sanganer Airport is located near Sanganer at a distance of 13 kms from the city of Jaipur. Many domestic airlines connect the city to all the major cities of India including Udaipur and Jodhpur as well. Flights for Delhi and Mumbai run on a regular basis. The airport has been granted the status of an international airport and connects to the foreign cities like Sharjaha and Muscat too.

By Rail
Jaipur Railway Station is a central main station of the state of Rajasthan. The vast rail track of Indian Railways connects Jaipur station with all other cities of India. There are numerous trains which run on a regular basis to and from Jaipur.

By Road
Jaipur is well connected by road to major cities in India. Excellent road network serves people to enjoy a comfortable journey to and from Jaipur. This mode of traveling is quite easy and comparatively cheap. Regular bus services from nearby cities connect Jaipur to the other cities. Deluxe Buses, AC coaches and Government buses are available for the convenience of the passengers.

Jaipur Travel Guide

Jaipur Tourism - Jaipur is known as pink city of India and is famous for its majestic forts and splendid palaces. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727 AD , Tour to Jaipur has been the perfect example of royal splendor and grace, it is indeed royal capital of Rajasthan. It is easily accessible with well developed air ,rail and road network.

The Tour to Jaipur conducted by includes visit to important tourist destinations like the Hawa Mahal , which was the palace with innumerable windows built specially for the ladies of royal household to have a view of everyday life. City Palace ,which is the finest example of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Jantar Mantar, an observatory to find the harmony in nature, various instruments and sun dials etc present a fascinating tour. Or the fun filled journey on back of an elephant through a winding road to reach Amber Fort , nestled atop a hill. Or just revel the picturesque Kanak Valley encircled by the Aravallis , with cascading waterfalls, lotus ponds and flowers in full bloom.

Jaipur Tours are truly an insight into the vibrant culture of Rajasthan and special attractions are the camel rides ,boating in Ramgarh Lake or indulging in shopping. Jaipur can be called shopper's paradise with its exquisite handicrafts, bandhani dress materials , block prints , blankets and not to forget stunning ornaments.Jaipur is an ideal choice for the honeymoon couples as well.

The hotels in Jaipur Tourism are fine example of luxury and elegance , here you have many palaces which have been transformed into heritage hotels like the Narain Niwas Palace ,Raj Mahal Palace ,Samode Haveli ,Hotel Alsisar Haveli . You also have five star deluxe hotels here like :- Rajputana Palace Sheraton , Jai Mahal Palace , The Rambagh Palace Hotel, Rajvilas - An Oberoi Hotel . There are apart from these, five star , four star, three star and other budget hotels in Jaipur.

General Information on Jaipur
In 1743, 16 years after Jaipur was founded, Jesuit Father Jose Tieffenthalar visited the city and was charmed by what he saw. He wrote: “The city, while it is new, is assuredly the most beautiful among the ancient cities of India, because in the latter everything is old, the streets are unequal and narrow. This on the contrary has the splendour of the modern, with equal wide and long streets.”

Three centuries later, its reputation as a beautiful, well-planned city is something that Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh II’s beloved creation, has to constantly live up to. Rajasthan’s capital does this without difficulty for the most part: its enchanting bazaars wear 200 years on their sleeves with pride, its perfectly laid-out streets are easily navigated and the uniform pink that the city sports inspires and enthralls visitors in equal measure.

Tourist Attractions in Jaipur :

Abhaneri
Abhaneri is a small town village, situated at a distance of 95 km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by the King Raja Chand.

Bagru
Bagru is a small village, located at a distance of 30 kms from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Ajmer Road. The village town of Bagru is not popular for any palace or fort, but for its typical wooden prints. These prints of Bagru are acclaimed all over India and are particularly known as Bagru prints.

Bairath
Bairath is a place of historical significance, located at a distance of 86 kms from Jaipur, on Shahpura-Alwar Road. Bairath is said to have existed from the times of Mahabharata. In that period, Bairath was known as Virata Nagar. It used to be the capital of Abhimanyu's (Arjuna's son) father-in-law.

Karauli
Karauli is a small village, situated at a distance of 182 km from Jaipur. Founded in 1348, Karauli is well-known for its Madan Mohanji Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Initially, the town was known as Kalyanpuri, which was named after the local deity Kalyanji.

Ramgarh
Ramgarh is located at a distance of 25kms from the city of Jaipur. In the present day, this primeval spot is eminent for its huge artificial lake. This lake has been shaped by raising a high bund amidst the hills covered with trees.

Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is located in the eastern part of Rajasthan at a comfortable distance of 130kms from Jaipur. Nestled between the Aravali and Vindhya mountain ranges, Ranthambore National Park used to be the hunting ground of Maharajas of Jaipur. The Park is an eye treat for the lovers of wild-life. Various natural rivers and man-made lakes flow through the National Park of Ranthambore.

Sanganer
Sanganer is located at a distance of 16 kms from Jaipur on the Tonk road. Sanganer is renowned for its crafts and hand-printed textiles. Sanganer forms a major part of excursion from Jaipur.

Samode
Samode is a great place of tourist interest, located at a distance of 42kms from Jaipur, on the way to Shekhawati in Rajasthan. Samode is renowned for its stunning havelis and forts. Samod makes a perfect destination to enjoy one's holidays.

Sambhar
Sambhar is a small town, located at a distance of 60kms in the west of Jaipur, on Jaipur-Ajmer Highway. Sambhar is famous for the largest saline lake in India. Due to this fact, Sambhar is also known as Salt Lake City. Literally, Sambhar means salt and the lake has been providing salt for over a thousand years.

Sariska National Park
Sariska National Park is a wildlife sanctuary, located at a distance of 107 km from Jaipur. The Park possesses historic monuments and temples, which depicts the legacy of the Maharajas of Alwar. The Park is bigger than Ranthambore but has a similar topography.

Tonk
Tonk is a small town, located at a distance of 96 kms from Jaipur. This little town of Tonk is also known as the "Lucknow of Rajasthan" due to its elegance. Tonk is popular among tourists for its magnificent mosques, mansions and havelis.

Museums in Jaipur :

Albert Hall
Amidst the beautiful Ram Niwas Garden, surrounded by pools, fountains and rows of flowerbeds stands the exquisite Albert Hall, built on 1886 A.D. Designed by Colonel Sir Swinton Jacob who has crafted other Palaces of Rajasthan, built the Albert hall in honor of the King Edward VII visit to Jaipur, in Indo-Saracenic style. The majestic edifice houses a collection of paintings a few hundred years old, exquisite jewelry, chiselled brasswares, pottery and natural stones, ivory goods, metal sculptures and crystal works.

City Palace Museum
Walking into the city palace museum of Diwan-I-Am, the hall for the public, one is enthralled by its vast collection of displays. Interesting are the original parchments and ancient manuscripts of Hindu scriptures. The miniature copies of Bhagwat Gita, the holy book of the Hindus, were written to be saved from Emperor Aurangazeb’s intolerance towards other religions, are also found in this museum.

Shopping in Jaipur :

Block-printed and tie-and-dye textiles, quilts, ethnic silver and traditional gold jewellery will top your list of buys here. Gopalji ka Raasta in Johari Bazaar is a good place for jewellery; quilts are available opposite Hawa Mahal. Go to Sanganer for hand block-printed fabric.

Festival in Jaipur :-

Elephant Festival
The Elephant Festival is one of the most popular festivals of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Elephant festival has its own charm and is celebrated every year in March on the occasion of Holi, the festival of colors. The festival has a unique concept of its own kind. The colorful festival of Holi is celebrated throughout India, but the festival gets some more spice added to it, when it combines with the Elephant festival of Jaipur, Rajasthan. The Elephants become the major attraction of this festival in their classy attires.

Gangaur Festival
Gangaur is a significant festival of Jaipur, especially meant for the women. Gangaur festival is widely acclaimed and celebrated throughout the state of Rajasthan. The word Gangaur is derived from two words, 'Gan' and 'Gauri' which are synonyms of 'Siva' and his consort 'Parvati' respectively.

Kite Festival
Kite Festival is a popular festival of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Kite flying is enjoyed by people of all age-groups. However, 14 January, the day of Makar Sankranti, makes the official day for flying kites in Jaipur. People make most out of the festival by flying kites for the whole day.

Teej Festival
Teej Festival is one of the most popular festivals of India. Festival of Teej is widely celebrated, but its real charm can be found only in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Teej celebrates the arrival of monsoon, after the scorching sun of summers. Teej is celebrated in the month of 'Shravan' (July-August), according to the Hindu calendar.

How to reach Jaipur :

By air
Jaipur is an important centre on Indian Airlines north India network, and is connected with daily flights from Delhi, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Aurangabad and Mumbai. Jaipur Airport, 13 km from city centre (M.I. Road), is quite a small airport with all facilities housed in a single building. Taxis are available at the airport for transfer to the city. The other flights that connect Jaipur with important cities in India are Air India, Modiluft, Archana Airways, UP Air etc.

By rail
Jaipur, on Western Railway's meter gauge and broad gauge network, is very well connected with train services from many parts of the country. It is also, an important junction with direct services to most places of tourist interest. Jaipur Railway station is located only half a kilometer from city centre. Taxis, auto and cycle-rickshaws are available at the station for transfer to places in the city.

By bus
Jaipur is one of the best connected cities in the region with very frequent bus services. From Delhi deluxe and ordinary buses ply at a half-hour frequency and take less than six hours. Rajasthan Roadways, Haryana Roadways, Delhi Transport Corporation and UP State Road Transport Corporation provide services from virtually every major centre in the region. Deluxe bus services of Rajasthan Roadways also connect Jaipur with many important tourist centres in the state, like Kota, Jodhpur, etc.

Temples of Jaipur

The cultural roots of Jaipur are reflected in the temples of Jaipur. The city houses several temples, which depict the religious nature of the pink city dwellers. The royalty of Jaipur always encouraged the spirituality and aesthetic sense of admiration in the foundation of the city. It doesn't mean that people are conservative or orthodox in their approach. Here, all religions are equally appreciated, but as Hindus dominate the city, you will find a number of temples in Jaipur.

The artistic temples of Jaipur provide an enthralling view to the visitors. Amongst the others, temples like Birla Mandir, Moti Dungri, Galta ji and Govind Deo Ji are worth mentioning. Birla Mandir gets the limelight of this trip with its wonderful carvings and brilliant architecture. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Temple of Moti Dungri lies on the peak of a hill. Govind Deo ji temple is situated in the beautiful City Palace complex of Jaipur.

Galta Ji Temple is dedicated to sun god and gives a panoramic view of the city of Jaipur. All these temples are known for their architectural styles and craftsmanship of their designers. The spiritual aura, which these temples create, attracts tourists and devotees from both far and near. In this section, you will get to know more about temples of Jaipur.

Jagat Shiromani Temple The beautifully carved Jagat Shiromani Temple houses the idol of Lord Krishna and is popularly associated with the celebrated saint-poetess Mira Bai. The old temple of Narsinghji and a step well Panna Main-ki-Baodi, which still bears witness to its past glory are also located

Kalki Temple

The Kalki Temple at Jaipur is the only temple in India dedicated to the incarnation of God not yet born. According to Hindu mythology, Kalki is the tenth and the last incarnation of the Lord Vishnu who is yet to born. Kalki literally means 'Born of Time'. Lord Kalki is believed to come on a white horse with a shinning sword in his hand and protect the mankind from prevailing chaos and confusion in Kal Yuga.

Galtaji Temple In Jaipur

Galtaji is a holy pilgrimage of India, located 10 kms away from Jaipur in Rajasthan. The vast complex of Galta Ji has several temples in it. The Temple of Galtaji is famous for its natural water springs. Set amidst the beautiful landscape, Galtaji Temple offers a picturesque view of the city.

Birla Mandir In Jaipur

Birla Mandir or the Lakshmi - Narayan Temple, situated just below the Moti Dungari. This is a modern temple built of white marble on top of a hill, dominating the skyline of south Jaipur. The Birlas (industrialists who have also built several temples in India) built this temple. The temple has been constructed in white marble and has three domes, each portraying the different approaches to religion.

Moti Dungri (Ganesh Temple) In Jaipur In the middle of Jaipur rises a small hill Moti Dungri meaning pearl hill, because it looks hill a drop of pearl. An exotic palace is parched which is a replica of Scottish castle once occupied by Maharaja Madho Singh's son. From There on remained as a private property of the ruling family. In the recent past it served as a home for Rajmata Gaytri Devi and her estranged son Jagat Singh.

Govind Dev Ji Temple

Govind Dev Ji temple is situated in the City Palace complex. Well preserved by the erstwhile royal family, the image of the chief deity Govind Deo Ji (Lord Krishna) is said to have been brought from Vrindavan and was installed here by Raja Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur.

Abhaneri Temple

Abhaneri is a small town village, situated at a distance of 95 km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by the King Raja Chand. Originally Abhaneri was named as Abha Nagri, which means the city of brightness, but due to mispronunciation of the term, it is changed to the present name.

Temples in Rajasthan

Temples of Rajasthan are known for their great architectural magnificence. The temples of Rajasthan reflect the artistic excellence of the sculptors of yester years. Some of the prominent temples of Rajasthan are Eklingiji temple, Dilwara Temples, Ranakpur Jain temples and the Mahavira Temple. The most common feature of the temples of Rajasthan, located in the western part, is single sikhara and intricately carved outer chamber known as mandap.

Brahma Temple, Pushkar
Though he may have no other temple sacred to his memory, Brahma Temple to have take full advantage of the only one where prayers are offered to him. Not only did he perform a yagya or ritual fire ceremony here, he also dropped a lotus from his hands to create the lake where people bathe before offering him prayers. A silver turtle at the entrance of the marble temple is a symbol of his means of transport (the gods had various animals on which they moved along their heavenly paths).

Pushkar is best known for its Brahma temple, though it is by no means the only temple here, with as many as four hundred temples lining the banks of the lake. Spires form a skyline that, when the vesper bells ring, are worthy of the kingdom of haaven itself. Though it is visited throughout the year, Pushkar in November, during the time of its annual fair, is a colourful mass of people and celebrations coinciding with the largest camel fair held in the world.

Eklingji Temple, Udaipur
The founder of the Mewar dynasty that ruled from Chittaurgarh, Bappa Rawal had a miraculous dream in which he prayed before an image of Shiva which resulted in the removal of problem that had been troubling him in his waking hours. He resolved then to build a temple to Shiva, and so the complex had its genesis, 24 km north of Udaipur. Edlingji, this particular manifestation of Shiva, has ever since been regarded as the true ruler of the kingdom in whose name the maharanas governed Mewar, and has been the tutelary deity of the Sisodia clan.

Eklingji consists of a complex of 108 temples, coinciding with the number of beads in the rudraksh necklace that sadhus use for meditation. The temple dedicated to Eklingji is the tallest of them all, its black stone idol a representation of the linga with four faces that have four images in the cardinal directions of Surya, Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra. The complex also has a life-size image of Bappa Rawal, and its numerous temples have carved images of Ganesh, Ambamata, Kalika, as well as other Shivalings, and brackets with images of celestial nymphs.

Govind Devji Temple, Jaipur
The family temple for the Kachchwahas of Jaipur, and open to the public, the idols in the temple, brought here from Vrindavan, are believed to have been carved by Vajranath, one of the freatest sculptors of the time, and grandson of Krishna. No wonder, the Krishna image has such a bewitching countenance.

The temple was consecrated as part of the City palace complex by Sawai Jai Singh II. A simple temple, with an open pavilion surrounded by columns, and with a tiered courtyard, obeisance and ritual worship at the temple is deemed high on the scale of merit. Mounted on a silver throne, and ornamented with gold jewellery, the idols are particularly venerated during janamashatmi, the monsoon celebrations coinciding with Krishna's birth anniversary.

Shrinathji Temple, Nathwara
A Krishna temple with an image carved from a single block of black marble, Nathdwara has a history that is only a few centuries ago. Faced by Aurangzeb's persecution, Goswami Dev carried this particular idol from Mathura in a chariot seeking to bring it to Udaipur. However, a wheel of the chariot got stuck in the sand and toil as they would, the people could not pull it out. Seeing it as an act of divine will, it was decided that the image of the lord would be consecrated on the very spot, and so the temple of Shrinathji came to be.

At the temple, glimpses of the idol are permitted for short intervals at fixed times of the day, and it is believed that the faithful see him in different moods associated with his life. The curtain cloths behind the idol have also given rise to one of the better known are forms of Rajasthan, its famous cloth paintings or pichwais. The ruling house of Udaipur has always come to pray at the temple, and as the head of his clan, it is not surprising that the maharana is also popularly known as Shriji among his people. Nathdwara is 48 km from Udaipur.

Dilwara Temple, Mt Abu
For many visitors, this is reason enough to visit Mt Abu. Located within an ancient mango grove, the Dilwara temples are profusely carved, and are open between noon and six in the evening. During the morning, the priests perform several ritual ceremonies that are not open for public viewing. The Jains house images of their tirthan-karas (those who impart knowledge) within the sanctums, and the two main shrines, those of Adinath and Neminath, are elaborately carved, from doorways and lintels to ceilings, pillars, walls and arches. The sculptor's art is as much a dedication to the gods as it is a repository of the stone-carver's skill, enshrined here forever. A separate hall, dedicated to the donors who worked towards the building of these magnificent temples, houses their lifesize images including the delicate tracery of their garments captured in exquisite detail on marble.

Parsvanath Temple, Nakoda
Situated in a valley ringed by hills, on the Jodhpur-Barmer highway, the temple dedicated to the tirthankara Parsvanath is carved in black stone. Beside it are other Jain tem-ples, including Shantinath with its steep flight of stairs, as well as some ancient Hindu temples.

Ranakpur
Since the Jains held important positions in Rajput courts, made their money through trading, and were influential money-lenders to the royal house, it was hardly surprising that the Ranas, in turn, were patrons of the Jains and their quiet religious ways. In fact, the tract of land on which the Ranakpur temples have been laid was a gift of the Ranas to the Jains in the 15th century. The Chaumukha is its principal deity in the main temple with its impressive dimensions: 29 halls spread over 40,000sq ft, and consisting of 1,444 pillars, not one of which is alike in its carving. Cupolas surround the five spires. Three entrances lead to the temples via doublestoried portals and pillared courts. Halls and courtyards radiate around the main shrine. Also in the valley are a polygonal sun temple, and two 14th century Jain temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath.

Shri Mahavirji Temple
Located 90 km from Ranthambhor, it is believed that the spot was converted into a pilgrimage spot following the unearthing of a statue of Mahavira by a cowherd. The temple is a vast complex that has been constructed with white sandstone, and has cupolas of red sandstone. Its chhatris and spires are visible from all around. The walls are painted with religious scenes, and facing the temple is a tower where the footsteps of Mahavira have been consecrated.

Parshvanath Temple, Nakoda
On the road from Jodhpur to Barmer, the Nakoda Parshvanath temple is situated in a valley surrounded by hills as high as 1,500 feet. Among the statues here, there is an image of the Jain saint (tirthankara) Parshvanath in black stone.