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• Hawa Mahal • Jantar Mantar • City Palace • Lake Palace • City Palace • Lake Pichola • Mehrangarh Fort                                 • The Jaswant Thada • Umaid Bhavan Palace • Jaisalmer Fort • Gadsisar Sagar Lake • Salim Singh Ki Haveli • Junagarh Fort • Lalgarh Palace                                 • Dilwara Temple • Achalgarh Fort • Ajmer Sharif • Pushkar Fair

Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal, or the "Palace of Winds", is a palace in Jaipur, India. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, and designed by Lal Chand Usta. It forms part of the City Palace and extends the Zenana or women's chambers, the chambers of the harem. Its original intention was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen. It has five stories and is constructed of red and pink sandstone, highlighted with white quick lime. The side facing the street outside the palace complex has 953 small windows, and the breeze (hawa) which circulates through these windows gives the palace its name, and keeps it cool even in hot months.
Jantar Mantar	Top^
Jantar Mantar, built between 1728 and 1734, literally means the 'instruments for measuring the harmony of the heavens'. Jai Singh, the brain behind the grand project, chose stone with marble facing. This was the biggest of all his observatories and the only one built of stone. He used it daily, often with his astronomy gurus Pandit Jagannath and Kewal Ram. In all there are 17 instruments in the Jantar Mantar complex. The function of each instrument is rather complex but serves a particular function where time plays the main theme. Sawai Jai Singh sent his colleagues to all parts of the world before starting the construction of this observatory. They all returned with many manuals on astronomy containing cutting-edge technological information. One of these manuals was a copy of La Hire's "Tables". The king ordered the observatory to be built according to the details contained in this manual.
City Palace	Top^
City Palace is one of the major tourist attraction in Jaipur. The palace was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of the Kacchawaha clan of Rajput and later on completed by his successors. It also houses a museum that showcases the grand collection of 2000 weapons that date back to 1580. It has a good collection of various types of Rajasthani dresses a fascinating armoury of Mughal and Rajput weapons. The palace showcases an impressive blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Built in the capital city of Rajasthan, city palace is segregated into series of courtyard, gardens and buildings. It houses several palatial structures like the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Badal Mahal, Sri Govind Dev Temple and the City palace museum.
Lake Palace	Top^
The Lake Palace located in the middle of the picturesque Pichola Lake covering 1.43 hectares of the Jag Nivas island. The Lake Palace with its beautiful fountains and lovely gardens, attracts all with its tasteful architecture and intricate craftsmanship. It is one of those places to see in Udaipur which looks like a virtual heaven on earth and is a part of the tourist attractions in and around Udaipur. Today this erstwhile summer residence of the Mewar rulers has transformed into a luxury hotel. On Lake Pichola there is another grand palace named Jag Mandir Palace, which is a three-storied majestic palace made of yellow sandstone and marble. Gul Mahal is the main attraction of this beautiful island palace. The lake palace is beautifully crafted in pure white marble. The palace adorn itself with slender carved columns, fountains, filigreed screens, domed chattris and swimming pool that were created for royal princes. It is a three storeyed palace embellished in yellow sandstone and marble slabs. The interior of the palace is decorated with coloured stones.
Mehrangarh Fort	Top^
Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur is the most impressive as well as the biggest fort of Rajasthan. Infact, the fort is famous for being one of the largest forts in the whole of India. One of the most popular tourist destinations of Rajasthan, Mehrangarh Fort is perched at a height of approximately 400 feet above the city. It is bounded by imposing thick walls and comprises of a number of structures inside its complex, including several palaces with sprawling courtyards. The fort was built under the patronage of Rao Jodha, the fifteenth Rathore ruler. Rao Jodha acceded the throne in the year 1458 and one year after his accession, laid down the foundation of the Mehrangarh Fort. The main reason for the establishment of the fort was that Mandore fort was no longer considered as secure and there was a need to move to a safer place. There is a very interesting story behind the establishment of the Mehrangarh Fort. The construction work for the fort was started on a hill, known as Bhaurcheeria, the mountain of birds. At that time, it was occupied by a hermit, known as Cheeria Nathji, the lord of birds.
The Jaswant Thada	Top^
The Jaswant Thada, located half way up the interminably long road that climbs onwards to the fort, is the traditional cremation ground of the rulers of Jodhpur. Taking pride of place amongst the ornamental gardens and chattris is the fabulous white marble memorial to Jaswant Singh II, built in 1899. The cenotaphs of other rulers , in the same neighborhood , are relatively simpler. Jaswant Thada is about four kilometres away from Jodhpur city. It is situated on the left side of Fort Mehrangarh, in fact between the fort and the city. It is a royal cenotaph built in 1899 in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, who was the 33rd king of Jodhpur. The cenotaph was built by his son, Maharaja Sardar Singh. In the cenotaph, portraits and photographs of other kings of Jodhpur are displayed. Jaswant Thada is an architectural marvel, built with expertly carved sheets of white marble. The marbles are very thin and polished and carved in such a way that the outside surface emits a glow during day time.
Umaid Bhavan Palace	Top^
A splendid example of Indo-colonial and the art-deco style of the thirties, Umaid Bhawan is one of the largest and grandest private residences in the world. The palace was built between 1929 and 1943 and over 3000 artisans worked over 14 years to create this magnificent edifice. Umaid Bhawan palace, built by the late Maharaja Umaid Singhji, is one of the world's Largest and Grandest Royal Residences. Over three thousand artisans from the region worked every day for thirteen years to transform the British architect, H.V. Lanchester's master plan into this magnificent marble and sandstone edifice. The majority of the 'fine buildings' was actually one single complex ! An architectural extravaganza called the Umaid Bhawan Palace - among the biggest private residences in the world. A colossal 347 room structure with two monumental wings separated by a central dome soaring to a height of 185 feet.
City Palace, Udaipur	Top^
City Palace is the largest complex that stands magnificently in Udaipur guarded by the strong fort walls. Initially, the building was started by Maharana Jai Singh II, the city founder and later on additions were made by his successors. The palace is embellished by balconies, tower and cupolas. It is beautifully crafted and settled overlooking the Lake Pichola. The complex houses 4 main palaces and several minor palaces. The palace complex is segregated into - Moti Mahal, Dilkusha Mahal, Baari Mahal, the suraj or the Gokhunda of the sun balcony, the Mor chowk. The Chini chitrashala houses a rich collection of Chinese porcelain and Laxmi Vilas Chowk is an art gallery, which houses a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings. The entrance to the palace is through the northern end of the Tripolia gate with its eight carved marble arches. 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 villas has a series of miniature paintings which are witness to the Royal processions, festivals and the game of 'Chogan'.
Lake Pichola	Top^
Lake Pichola is the most celebrated Lake of all that are there in Udaipur. In the backdrop of overlooking city palace, this shimmering body of crystal clear blue water is a treat for eyes and captivates the imagination of the visitors in the first glimpse itself. Maharana Udai Singhji built Udaipur in this lovely valley surrounded by the Aravalli's simply because of this massive water body. The City Palace complex was constructed on the bustling banks of the placid waters of Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. A man made lake, Lake Pichola is one of the prime attractions of Udaipur. The lake is known for the palace build amidst the lake. The lake was built basically for defence purpose. Cradled amongst hills, gardens, havelis, temples and ghats, Lake Pichola is the picturesque spotlight of Udaipur. The lake sports two islands palaces- Jagniwas (Lake Palace) and Jagmandir. The beauty of the lake and its surroundings can only be felt by seeing it, which increases many folds during sunrise and sunset.
Jaisalmer Fort	Top^
Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 and is the second oldest in the state of Rajasthan. Two hundred and fifty feet tall and reinforced by an imposing crenellated sandstone wall 30 feet high, the fort has 99 bastion, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647. Wells within the fort still provide a regular source of water. The fort, built by Rawal Jaisal, which crowns the 80m highTrikuta hill, has its outer wall of palaces, houses and temples of soft yellow sandstone. It has narrow winding lanes and four huge gateways, the last one leading to main chowk dominated by the old palace of the Maharwal. Almost one quarter of the town's population resides inside the fort. It is approached through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. Also, within it are many beautiful havelies and a group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries. The five story edifice adorns itself with balconies and windows that displays some of the finest masonry work, while the interior is painted and tiled in typical Rajput style. The main attractions within the fort are a group of beautifully carved Jain temples built between the 12th and 15th century.
Gadsisar Sagar Lake	Top^
About 1km south of the city walls, there is a famous rain water lake known as Gadsisar. It was built by Maharawal Gadsi in 1367 A.D. A natural low-land was dammed to catch every drop of rain water. This lake played a vital role in the life of the people of Jaisalmer in the past as it was the main source of water supply for the city. The beautiful gateway which arched across the road down to the lake is known as Teelon-ki prol or the Gate of Teelon which was constructed in 19th century by a very famous courtesan named Teelon. There is a small temple of Lord Vishnu on the top of the gate. The carvings of the window and archway are remarkable and delicate. The carving looks like it has been done on sandalwood not on yellow sandstone. Festooned all around the lake are many small shrines and temples mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu and a wonderful plumage of birds can be seen here in winter. A famous picnic spot in the sandy city, Gadsisar Sagar Lake is among the most beautiful tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. It attracts hundreds of migratory birds during the winter season. Bara Bagh: Located on the bank of Gadsisar Sagar Lake, Bara Bagh is an oasis in the desert. The lush green garden provides much-needed relief to the local people. A rainwater lake, now a picnic spot - ideal for boating. This is one of the best hangouts in Jaisalmer.
Achalgarh Fort	Top^
Achalgarh fort is situated eleven km north of Mount Abu, a hill station in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The fort was built by Maharana Kumbha in 1452 CE. It was one of the several forts built during the reign of Maharana Kumbha.The fort is not in good condition now. There are some features of historical and religious importance in and around the fort. Achaleshwar Mahadeva temple is just outside the fort; the toe of Lord Shiva is worshipped there and a brass Nandi is also located there. Near the temple there are three stone buffaloes standing around a pond. There are Jain temples in the fort . These were built in 1513 CE.There are fine views from there.
Ajmer Sharif	Top^
The final resting place for 'Gharib-Nawaz', Moinuddin Chishti is located in Ajmer. People of all religions visit the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The Khwaja left for heavenly abode in 1256 AD after a six day prayer in seclusion. These six days are celebrated every year as the annual Urs, which is attended by innumerable pilgrims irrespective of their faith. The shrine is considered to be a place of wish fulfillment for those who pray with devout and pure hearts. It is said that Emperor Akbar sought blessings for his son at the Dargah. The entry to the Dargah is through the Dargah Bazar that leads to the inner courtyard. The high gateway has beautifully carved silver doors. In the courtyard are kept two huge cauldrons with capacity of 2240 kg and 4480 kg. On special occasions, 'Kheer' cooked in these cauldrons is distributed among the pilgrims.
Pushkar Fair	Top^
Pushkar in general is a quiet place. However, if you visit Pushkar during the time of the fair then you will hardly recognize it. It bustles with activities. The flurry of colors imparts a great look to the place. Another factor about the fair that will surely draw your attention is the huge participation of people in the fair. Though it more of a camel fair but once you visit the fair, you will realize that it has much more to offer. The fair is right reflection of the sanctity and richness of the place. Visiting the fair will be a unique experience for you. Pushkar Fair enjoys the status of being the largest camel fair in the world. This extravagant fair continues for 12 days. According to the Hindu calendar, it usually falls in the month of Kartika. This usually falls in the month of October or November of the English calender.
Junagarh Fort	Top^
Junagarh Fort of Bikaner was built by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most able and trusted generals of Akbar, in 1587. The fort is surrounded by a high wall and deep moats. There are 37 bastions guarding the fort with only two gates as the entrance pathway to the fort, the main one being the Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate. The Junagarh Fort has yet been unconquered excepting the brief victory of Kamaran, which he could not retain for more than 24 hours. Just like the 37 bastions, there are 37 red sandstone marvels inside the premises of the fort, which include palaces with intricately carved windoes, delicate balconies, towers and kiosks, temples and pavilions.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli	Top^
Salim Singh ki Haveli was built by Salim Singh Mohta in the 1600s. Perhaps a little bit of history is relevant here, for Salim Singh was no ordinary man. His father was murdered by the courtiers at the Jaisalmer kingdom. Salim Singh nursed a lifelong ambition to get even, which he did when he managed to kill off the courtiers through sheer cunning and careful planning. His courage and ambition ensured that he was appointed prime minister to the king. Salim Singh, true to form, took half a dozen wives, and set about building a lovely structure that we know as the Salim Singh ki Haveli. The haveli, with beautiful pillars, ornate porches, and wide open courtyards, is one of the marvels of Rajasthani architecture. The walls are carved with little peacocks, a symbol of the romance that Rajasthan holds. For the peacock, with all its plumes and pageantry, prefers to live in the more arid regions of northern and western India.
Lalgarh Palace	Top^
Situated 3km north of the city center this palace which built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father, Maharaja Lal Singh The Shri Sadul museum covers entire first floor of the palace. The museum was established in 1076 and there's a reasonable collection of artifacts and personal possessions of the Bikaner Maharajas and a brass vessel known as a Tokan used to collect revenue which was transported by camel to the Bikaner state treasury. Adorning the palace is some fascinating latticework and filigree work. The palace has now been converted into a hotel. Adding to the magnificence of the palace are its terraced lawns the Bougainvillea bushes. If lucky, you may also spot peacocks roaming around the palace. The Palace also houses a rich collection of well-preserved paintings, hunting trophies and old photographs.
Dilwara Temple	Top^
Mount Abu is a famous and only hill station of Rajasthan located in the southwest part of Rajasthan. It is a part of the Aravali range. Mount Abu is separated from Aravali by a narrow valley and Guru Shikhar is the highest point towards the northern end. According to legend, Hindus revere this place because once Nandini, the cow of the sage Vashisht was trapped in a deep gorge and could not free itself. The sage asked for Lord Shiva's assistance. Shiva sent Saraswati, the divine stream, to help flood the gorge so that the cow could float up. Sage Vashisht then decided to ensure that such mishaps would not occur in future and asked the youngest son of Himalaya to fill the gorge permanently. He took the help of the snake, Arbud. This spot came to be known as Mount Arbud since then and was later reduced to its present form Mount Abu.