How to get there
Rajasthan is a key destination on the tourist map of india. Various places of tourist interest in the region have convenient links through rail and road with prominent locations in the country.
AIR : The most famous of Rajasthan ‘s Cities- Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur- lie on the Indian Airlines route that connects Delhi to Mumbai. In addition other private airlines connect different parts of the Sate.
Rail :- Most of Rajasthan is accessible by a network of rail services. An excellent connection to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan , from Delhi is the Pink City Express (5 hours run) which is a vestibule, chair-seating rail service. Other places too are linked by passenger and express trains. Since rail journeys are usually long because of the distance involved, it is advisable to carry light snacks and water bottles as most stations en route do not serve much by way of food.
The splendid Palace-on-Wheels promises and unparalleled experience to explore the wonders of the colourful Rajasthan. Rated amongst the ten best rail journeys in world by London Times, the Maharaja style 8 day package originates and Culminates at Delhi after covering jaipur , Chittaurgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Agra.
Road :- The most interesting mode of travel in Rajasthan is by road. For , it offers the visitor an unending panorama of movement and colour. Trains of camels move slowly across the yellow desert sands. Proud Rajput womenfolk with their skirts a swirl of colour and balancing brass pots for fetching water walk gracefully to the village well. Stark fortresses use like a dream on deserted hills. And doorways, painted gaily with elephants and peacocks, enchant the passer by.
Rajasthan State Roadway s Coaches link many tourist places and business centres in and around the state. Chauffeur- driven air-conditioned cars can be hired through the state Tourist offices and other approved operators.
Some important road distances from jaipur are agra 240 km, Delhi 261 km , Jodhpur 332 km, Alwar 142 Km, Bikaner 321 km, Jaisalmer 654 km and Bharatpur 176 km.
Where to say:- Rajasthan offers an expansive choice of accommodation featuring five-star de luxe Palace hotels to budget units. Besides, the paying guest concept has also been introduced in major cities. The state is studded with countless forts and palaces. Maganificent castles and romantic havelies. Of these a few have been convered into Heritage Hotels. They provide a unique and a never-before regal experience. To name a few Hotel Sariska Palace, Royal Castel Khimsar, Raj Mahal Place Hotel, Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel, Fort Neemrana , Rohet Garh, Ajit Bhawan, Hotel Narain Niwas Place , Hotel Samod Haveli, Samod Place, Sawai Madhopur Lodge, Ramgarh Lodge, Hotel Castle Mandawa.
Guests can also stay in RTDC hotels spanning the State. Circuit Houses, Dark Bungalows, Dharamshalas are also available offering simple and reasonably priced accommodation to suit every budget.
When to Go : -Rajasthan is an year-round destination but the best time to visit tis during the cooler months from October to March, when it is dry and pleasant. The region is equally enchanting during monsoon months of July, August and September as the desert hills are covered with a mantle of green.
What to Wear
Woollens during winter and cottons in summer months.
What to Buy
Rajasthan perhaps more than any other state in india. Is a treasure trove for the bargain hunters. Centuries-old skills in the traditional crafts continue to produce some of the most exciting wares in the world . Tie and dye fabrics in shimmering colours. Fine block printed muslins and silks. Wood and ivory carving. Lacquer and filigree work . Expertly cut precious stones. And exquisite enameled jewelry.
What to Eat
Rajasthan boasts of an array of sumptuous delicacies. For the vegetarian, there a number of chickpea flour gravies but the favourite is Dal- Baati Choorma – Made of little breads, Filled with clarified butter roasted among live coals ,cereals and sweetened bread pudding that is dry and flaky.
The non vegetarian dishes include Soola or bar-be-qued meats, Marinated with a local vegetable that lands it a piquancy. Most hotels have excellent restaurants that serve a selection of these and international favourites.