Jodhpur - Tours and Excursions
Immerse your senses with an Indian vacation package
The striking blue buildings in Jodhpur contrast sharply and beautifully with the Thar Desert. Jodhpur is a colorful city and it throbs with the romance, beauty, glory and warmth of a populous desert city which has stood testimony to civil wars, love affairs, intrigues and display of power and wealth.
Jaipur -The Pink City
India’s Official Pink City, there is much more to Rajasthan’s capital city than its pink red tinged buildings and historic grandeur. Jaipur is worldwide famous for unique architecture, vastu, astrology, forts, monuments, palaces, arts and craft, culture and not to miss the delicious food. It was founded by Maharaja Sawai Singh II in November 1727. The city was painted this shade way back in 1876, to welcome Prince Albert Edward- the eldest son of Queen Victoria- to town, and it’s remained that color ever since. There is so much to see from cultural show at Chowki Dhani to the world’s largest sundial at Jantar Mantar, Amer Fort and the Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal overlooking Johari Bazaar.
Tourist places in and around Jaipur:
Hawa Mahal: Palace of Breeze
The Hawa Mahal is dedicated to Lord Krishna and the shape of the building resembles the crown of Krishna. More than a palace, the Hawa Mahal is also a cultural and architectural marvel that reflects a truly harmonious amalgamation of the Hindu Rajput and Islamic Mughal architectural styles. The Rajput style can be seen in the domes canopies and the fluted pillars, while the stone inlay filigree work an dthe arches are the perfect depictions of the Mughal style of architecture.
Each of the floor has a temple in it. Shard Mandir is on the first floor, Ratan Mandir with colorful glass work is on the second floor while Vichitra Mandir, Prakash Mandir and Hawa Mandir is on the third floor. There are no stairs to reach the upper floors of the palace.
The best time to visit Hawa Mahal is in the early morning when the sun enters the rooms from the windows. The Mahal is illuminated with the golden sun lights.
Open time- 9am-4:30 pm
Entrance fees:
Indian Rs 10
Foreigners: Rs 50
The Glory of Amer Fort: Amer ka Kila
There are a lot of attractions for one to see at the Amer Fort, including the Diwan-e-aam, and the Sheesh Mahal. Amer Fort is also home to some underground tunnels that connect Amer Fort to Jaigarh Fort. Another interesting fact about Amer Fort is that it is located parallel to Jaigarh Fort. A part of these tunnels have been restored, and is open to public also. The Amer Fort is a perfect example of Rajasthani architecture which is a must visit.
Getting an elephant ride up the stairs to the Amer Fort is also popular tourist activity. The Fort sees over 5000 visitors daily and rightfully, the Amer Fort was included in UNESCO World Heritage Site list as part of the ‘Hill Forts of Rajasthan’ along with five other forts. The essence of Amer Fort is encapsulated by the beautiful light and sound show within the fort, where visitors get to see an astounding spectacle about the history of the fort.
Interesting Facts about Amer Fort:
- Amer Fort’s Sheesh Mahal Is one of the famous shoot location for Bollywood movies.
- Sheesh Mahal’s Hall of mirrors could be illuminated with a single candle.
- Amer Fort was the residence of Rajput Maharaja’s as well as their families.
- Elephant ride is a popular attraction at Amer/ Amber Fort.
- You can get the glimpse of this heavenly Fort in the floating water of Maota Lake.
- It took 100 years to complete this Fort.
- Amer Fort got its name from the goddess of fertility.
- Light and Sound show
Timings: 6:30 pm English, 7:30 pm Hindi.
Entry fee: Indian Rs 295, Foreign Nationals: Rs 200
Duration: 50 mins.
Elephant ride at Fort Rs 900 for 2 pax.
City Palace:
City gate has three gates leading to it, Tripolia Gate, Virendra Pol and Udia Pol. The main palace also has four smaller gates in the courtyard named Pritam Niwas Chowk which leads to the Chandra Mahal.
Inside City Palace:
Chandra Mahal
Mubarak Mahal
Pritam Niwas chowk
Diwan-I-Aam
Diwan-I- Khas
Chokhi Dhani:
Chowki Dhani village is situated on Ajmer- Jaipur highway, 20 km from the main city of Jaipur. The village is located away from the hustle bustle of the city and imparts peace and serenity to the travelers. The resort was started in 1989 and is spread across 10 acres of land, with unique architecture that reflects the grandeur of Rajasthani culture and tradition. The architecture is heavily influenced by the Indo-Saracenic style.
Reasons to visit Chokhi Dhani:
- Relive the Haldighati Battle- ( Reliving the glorious Rajput Past)
- The battle fought between the Mewars of Kumbhalgarh, led by Maharana Pratap and the Mughals, led by Maharaja Man Singh I od Amer is enacted by the artist here at Chokhi Dhani. The battle where Rajputs emerged to be victorious takes the tourist on nostalgic and emotional ride.
Enjoy the Traditional Folk dance-
Chokhi Dhani is famous for music and dance performances by the locals. Some popular dance performed here are Kalbeliya, Ghoomar and the classic Chari dance. Out of all the dances, the most exquisite dance performance is Chari dance, where the performers dance while balancing pots on their heads.
Puppet Show and Magic show-
Chokhi Dhani conducts puppet shpw and magic show in its vincinity. This usually held in the evenings before the fair begins. If you have never seen the puppet show before, you will be amazed by the artistry and storytelling at Chokhi Dhani.
There is an astrologer who sits with his cards spread out at one place, there are bioscope films that showcases the history of Rajasthan.
Rath Khana-
The Rath Khana displays the chariots used by the Rajput Royalty since ancient times. All chariots used throughout Rajasthan across the Royal houses counts for a unique experience for the visitors.
Shopping at Chokhi Dhani-
Chokhi Dhani is set up to promote everything local. It also promotes local artisans by displaying their arts and art crafts such as handicrafts, home décor pieces, accessories and paintings.
Food at Chokhi Dhani-
Chokhi Dhani is the place for authentic and local Rajasthani Food. The offerings at Chokhi Dhani include typical Rajasthani food with multi cuisines platter.
Timings: 5pm to 11 pm
Entry fees: Rs 750-1200 per person
Best time to visit- Mid October to March
Must Know Before You Visit Jaipur
- Jaipur is home to one of the most helping and friendly people. Most of the people will help you out with directions, suggestions while you are here.
- Jaipur being a tourist destination and tourism being source of revenue for many, they respect people coming to visit the city.
- A great place to shop local goods like mojri(a type of shoe/sandal), rajai(comforter), handicraft etc.
- You can take heritage walks in the old city on your own or guided by experts.
- A lot of places to explore nearby and within Jaipur like Amer fort, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh, Jaigarh, etc.
- Take note of emergency contact numbers, although people are friendly and nice, its always nice to take services from established shops related to tourism.
- Street food is good, but not everywhere its hygienic, so care while selection is advised.