Rajasthan

Rajasthan is one of the most colourful and exotic states in India. Much of it is desert. There are beautiful palaces and huge stone forts all over the state built by the Rajputs who held power here for a thousand years. Rajput means "son of a prince", and the Rajputs were fierce and brave warrior clans who had a sense of honour and chivalry like that of the Knights of Old England. This led to many feuds and battles over the centuries, and because the Rajputs would rather die than surrender, many many lost their lives this way. Later the Rajput rulers became very friendly with the British and began going to Europe, often with the entire family, spending huge amounts of money shopping and staying in the fanciest hotels. In the meantime, they lost control of a lot of their lands in Rajasthan to the British.

Rajasthan is the second largest province in the country. It is the driest part of India and contains geographical features from deserts. Semi-desert areas, hill ranges and forests. The state also boasts or rich flora and fauna. Adorned by the majestic Aravalli mountain range, this is the land of the legendary Rajput rulers whose tales of valour, loyality and love have been woven into ballets and folklore. Be it arts Rajasthani creative genius is unparalleled. Rajasthan is the ultimate destination of most tourists as it offers glimpses into its rich heritage and friendly people.

From tigers to yellow sand to ethnic architecture - no wonder Rajasthan is considered the hottest travel destination in India. Spot tigers at the Ranthambore National Park, and if you wish to look skyward, then head for Bharatpur to see over 350 species of birds, step back in time at the mountain fortress at Kumabalgarh, or step into pure luxury at the Siliserh Lake Palace, hear Rajasthani folk songs at the Jaisalmer Fort and see the intricacies of the Rajasthani havelis.

Rajasthan is the modern state covering most of the old Rajputana, the home of themartial Rajputs. Much of the state is given over to the Thar Desert, reclamation being made difficult by the salt which irrigation brings to the surface. As in so many other desert lands, the people of Rajasthan are colourful and friendly, the women wearing lots of jewellery and swirling skirts in bright colours, and the men with intricately wound invaders, and every town and fort can tell a story of heroism and chivalry. The Mughals paid tribute to the Rajputs by employing them as generals and taking Rajput princesses as wives. Many Mughal emperors had Hindu mothers. Rajasthan is a many splendoured fairy land of fairs and festivals, opulence, architecture and royalty.