Ranakpur tourism

Ranakpur Tourism - The City Of Temples

Ranakpur, City Of Temples Is A Jain Pilgrimage Center. A Serene Destination With No Jostling Crowds, Famous For The Marble Jain Temple And Sun Temple, Ranakpur In Rajasthan Is A Favored Tourist Destination.
Ranakpur is among the five holiest places of the Jain religion. Situated on the banks of River Maghai, the Ranakpur Temple is five hundred year old. It has a unique design and style. The main temple of the Ranakpur temple complex is called the Chaumukha Temple (four faced temple) and is dedicated to Adinathji, the first Jain tirthankara.
The stone carvings of this temple are stunning and have to be seen to be believed. It has 29 halls and intricately carved 1,444 columns, with no two columns looking alike. The assembly hall has two massive bells, each weighing a 108 kgs. Their sound echoes in the entire complex. The temple is in extremely good condition. The Ranakpur temple was nominated as one of the top 77 wonders in a contest for the new seven wonders of the world.
Also well worth a visit here is the Sun Temple. Built with Amber stone, its polygonal walls have remarkable carvings of warriors, horses & massive chariots.
The Ranakpur town has a beautiful ambience that is enhanced by its isolation. Situated in a verdant valley in the Aravali mountain range, its climate and serenity make for a relaxing holiday destination. The Royal retreat of Ranakpur is now a heritage hotel. Located just 98 Km away from Udaipur, it can easily be included in travel plans for Udaipur, as well as a destination by itself.

Shopping In Ranakpur

Being a small village, Ranakpur does not offer much for shopping. However, you can go for shopping in Udaipur, which is located around 98 km from Ranakpur. A wide variety of handicrafts such as jewelry, paintings, wood craft, leather craft, blue pottery, semi-precious gems etc are available in the bustling bazaars of Udaipur.
Accommodation In Ranakpur
If you are tilted towards luxury, then stay at the heritage hotel Maharani Bagh in Ranakpur. Offering luxuriously appointed rooms with best of facilities, the hotel was once the abode of the Maharani of Jodhpur. Falling into different categories, there are several other hotels in Ranakpur.

How To Reach

By Air: Dabok airport located near Udaipur is the nearest airport from Ranakpur.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is also at Udaipur, which is well linked to the other major cities of Rajasthan.
By Road:Ranakpur is well connected to Udaipur(90 km from Ranakpur) by road, which in turn is connected to the other major cities of Rajasthan.

Mount Abu Tourism

Mount Abu Tourism

Mount Abu, Home To Dilwara Jain Temples, Beauty In White Marble, The Only Hill Station In Rajasthan, Has A National Park And Is Also A Pilgrimage Centre. Mount Abu In Rajasthan Travel Is Also Known For Brahma Kumaris.
Mount Abu, the only hill station not just in the desert state of Rajasthan, but also in entire North- West India, even finds a mention in the 'Puranas', as an abode of the Rishi Vashishtha. Mount Abu is famous the world over, for its Dilwara Jain temple complex. It also houses the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, spread over an area of 290 square kilometers in the Aravali mountain range.
At an elevation of 1220 meters, Mount Abu is an excellent holiday spot, offering natural beauty for a peaceful sojourn away from the big cities. Enjoy a boat ride in the beautiful Nakki Lake surrounded by the Aravali mountains when in Mount Abu. Other place to visit are the Gurushikar (a 1722 meters high mountain peak), Toad Rock and the Sunset Point. Or else, just stay put in your hotel and bask in the sunshine and the glorious weather. Mount Abu has a selection of heritage hotels as well as budget hotels.
Mount Abu used to be a pilgrimage centre for followers of Vaishnava and Shaiva sects of Hinduism till the 11th century and has many famous temples dedicated to these. Today however, it is renowned for the Dilwara Jain temples, carved poetry in marble. Mount Abu is also the world headquarter of the Brahma Kumaris, an order of lady renunciates.
Dilwara is not a single temple but a complex of temples with breathtaking carvings and pillars. These temples were built between 11th and 13th centuries. In the central temple of this complex built in the Solanki style of architecture, the most striking feature is the marble pendant in the dome of the porch. It drops from the ceiling like a cluster of half-open lotuses with cups so finely carved that they appear to be transparent.
Shopping In Mount Abu
On your trip to Mount Abu you can take back home some arresting souvenirs such as marble crafts, sandalwood items, sandstone items, leather ware, fabrics,jewelry, metal crafts, Rajasthani bangles and gem stones. There is a Rajasthan Government Handicrafts Center in Mount Abu where you can get these handicrafts at reasonable prices.

Accommodation In Mount Abu

Developed and decorated on royal theme, the heritage hotels in Mount Abu beckon tourists to have a regal experience. A few heritage hotels to be mentioned are Hotel Palanpur Palace, Cama Rajputana Club Resort and Hotel Rising Sun Retreat. A variety of other hotels such as budget hotels are also available.

How To Reach
By Air: Udaipur is the nearest airport located 185 km from Mount Abu.
By Rail: Abu Road is the nearest railway station, which is 28 km from Mount Abu.
By Road: Mount Abu is well connected to the major cities of India by road.

Osian Tourism

Osian Tourism

Travel To Osian (Osiyan) Rajasthan Near Jodhpur, A Religious Centre In Marwar, A Major Jain Pilgrimage Centre, An Oasis In Thar Desert, For The Beautiful Cluster Of Ancient Jain Temples, Camping And Camel Rides.
Osian near Jodhpur is an ancient town and used to be a trading centre of renown from 8th to 12th centuries. An oasis in the Thar desert of Rajasthan, it has a cluster of Hindu and Jain temples built around the 8th century, lending it the status of an important Jain pilgrimage centre. Some of the temples have inscriptions going back to 783 AD. It is believed that the earlier inhabitants of Osian were of Naga extraction, i.e. snake worshippers and were later converted to Jain religion.
The temple complex includes a Sun Temple, a Kali Temple, and the main Jain temple. These temples stand on high terraces. The temples are made of red sandstone and as is typical of the region, have exquisite carvings and beautifully decorated walls. The Sun temple is the oldest in this cluster and its impressive doorway is considered to be among the finest temple doorways in India. Among other temples of note are the Harihara I and III temples and the Vishnu temples III, IV and V.
For the tourists, Osian is an opportunity to not just view some exquisite temple architecture but also experience the desert in utmost comfort with a stay in a luxurious camel camp. Guest can also experience camel rides and enjoy the performing arts of Rajasthan. Osian is easily accessible from Jodhpur, Khimsar and Nagaur and also makes an ideal base camp for safaris towards Jaisalmer. If starting your travel into Rajasthan first with Jaisalmer, then the reverse plan for safaris can be followed.

Pokhran Tourism

Pokharan Near Jaisalmer Is Called The The Place Of Five Mirages. Fort Pokharan Is Made Of Red Sand Stone And Is A Heritage Hotel.

Pokharan houses a fourteenth century fort made of red sand stone, lying equidistant from Bikaner and Jodhpur on the way to Jaisalmer. The fort has now been converted into a heritage hotel and is a charming place for a relaxing break.

Pokharan means 'The Place Of Five Mirages'. It gets its name from the five salt ranges surrounding the town. The terrain is rocky and sandy. Pokharan once was an important trade hub that exported salt, silk and spices to Persia and other places.

Mughal Emperors Humanyun, Akbar and Aurangzeb have been hosted at the Fort Pokharan that is now a prestigious heritage hotel. A holiday at the Fort Pokharan presents the opportunity to enjoy the hospitality of the current Thakur Nagendra Singh Pokharan and his wife Thakurani Yashwant Kumari Pokharan. The Fort also has a museum that houses the family's collection of armoury, handicrafts, miniature paintings and garments. There is also a Grand Library with several classic and valuable books.

Pokharan finds favour with Damsel Cranes, Houbara Bustard, a rare bird; The Great Indian Bustard, Migratory Bird the Imperial Sand Grouse that travels from Siberia to the desert, the Indian Gazelle and the 'Chinkara' (deer). Take a jeep safari in the dried salt ranges to view the birds and animals. Excursions are also available to view the local terracotta artists at work and also weavers of carpets, blankets and shawls.

A vibrant ten day fair dedicated to Lord Ramdeoji (said to be an incarnation of Lord Krishna) is also a popular occasion with tourists. This fair is held every year in the month of September.

Shopping In Pokharan

Tourists can buy amazing handicrafts from the bazaars of Pokharan such as interior crafts and furniture. The interior crafts available here reflect the royal beauty of Rajasthan. Adorn your house with such rafts to give a new and traditional look to it.

Accommodation In Pokharan

The most talked about accommodation option in Pokharan is the Pokharan Fort, which has been superbly converted into a heritage hotel. Attracting tourists who are inclined towards luxury, they must plan a stay at this heritage hotel while on their tour to Pokharan.

How To Reach

By Air: Jaisalmer(112 km) and Jodhpur(175km) are the nearest airports from Pokharan.

By Rail: There is a railway station at Pokharan.

By Road: Pokharan is easily accessible from all the cities of Rajasthan by road.

Mandawa Tourism

Mandawa Tourism

Mandawa, An Open Art Gallery, Prime Example Of The Art And Architecture Of Rajasthan, Beautifully Painted Fort And Havelis. Mandawa, Located In The Shekhawati Region, Is Main Tourism Destination In Rajasthan And India.
Mandawa, first established as a remote feudal principality, is a fort town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The entire Shekhawati region, and Mandawa in particular, are famous for Frescoes and painted Havelis (mansions), chhatris (cenotaphs) and temples. An extravagant architectural and visual delight, these frescoes depict themes from mythology, history and animal life. The Havelis are living art, as people still reside in them and several have been converted into exquisite hotels and guest houses.
Like other parts of Rajasthan, Mandawa is also replete in history. Mandawa was a trading outpost on the caravan route connecting india with China and the Middle East. The The Mandawa fort was constructed in 1755. The battlements of the fort overlook the entire town and have an enchanting view.
Havelis of Mandawa are magnificent mansions that were built by prosperous merchants of that era. The painting style includes decoration with gold or silver leaf and small mirror. Travel to Mandawa is extremely rewarding for any art lover. Several excursions and sightseeing destinations in the region all make for a satisfying holiday.
Shopping In Mandawa
Mandawa is well known for its rich art and paintings, which are a hit with tourists coming here from far and wide. The royal paintings of Mandawa are made on cloth or paper. Take back home of the handicrafts from Mandawa to create a royal ambiance in your home. Other fabulous handicrafts available here are carved wooden furniture, beautifully decorated chairs, cradles, low tables, utensils, bangles and tie and dye fabric.

Accommodation In Mandawa

Treat yourself with a fascinating accommodation experience at the heritage hotels in Mandawa, which were once the royal abodes of the erstwhile Raja-Maharajas. Castle Mandawa, Desert Resort, Hotel Heritage Mandawa, Jai Niwas Resort, Hotel Rath Mandawa and Welcome Heritage Singhasan Haveli are some of the best accommodation options in Mandawa. Other hotels falling into budget category are also available here.

How To Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is at Jaipur, which is 168 km from Mandawa.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Jhunjhunu, which is well connected to the main cities of India like Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner etc.
By Road: Mandawa is easily accessible from all parts of Rajasthan by road.

Khimsar Tourism

Khimsar Tourism

Khimsar Near Jodhpur Has A Unique Fort With A Rich History. The Fort Is Now A Heritage Hotel. Khimsar Is A Must Visit Destination Also Because Of The Nagaur Cattle Fair.
Khimsar, a stunning fort constructed in 1523 has a wing still occupied by Thakur Onkar Singh, the 17th direct descendant of Rao Karamsi. Live the royal life and interact with royalty, an exhilarating experience at this beautiful property being managed by the family that owns it for nearly five hundred years now.
Tourists to Khimsar can also look forward to experiencing a living testimony to the glorious past of Rajasthan. The walls and turrets of this fort are battle scarred. A must visit destination if you want to sample the Royal India and Rajasthan, Khimsar is located on the edge of the Thar Desert in Nagaur, halfway between Jodhpur and Bikaner.
Khimsar tourism is a great opportunity to view the rural life in Rajasthan, the Nagaur Cattle Fair that is a major cultural event in the region and feast on the traditional Rajasthan cuisine. Also easily available for an enjoyable holiday are Jeep, Horse and Camel Safaris.

Shopping In Khimsar

The handicrafts available in Khimsar have their own unique feel and charm. Apart from the local shops, there are Government Emporiums where a wide variety of colorful handicrafts are available at reasonable prise. Bargaining is a trend in Khimsar, so hone your bargaining skills before you go for shopping in Khimsar. Carpets, gold and silver jewelery, bandhini textiles, embroidered jutis are the most famous handicrafts available here. If you are interested in antiques, then before  buying them you need permission of the archaeological survey of India. 
Accommodation In Khimsar
Giving a real taste of the rural life of Rajasthan, Khimsar village offers amazing accommodation options. The most famous hotel here is Khimsar Fort, the heritage hotel. Located ideally on a picturesque location at the edge of the Thar Desert, this heritage hotel is simply stunning and so are its facilities and services.
And if you want to feel the fascinating beauty of the desert, then the Sand Dune Resort is the best option. The resort has well furnished huts with sand dunes in the background. How interesting!

How To Reach

By Air: Jodhpur is the nearest airport located 92 km from Khimsar.
By Rail: Jodhpur is the nearest railway station.
By Road: Khimsar is well connected with the other cities of Rajasthan by road.

Bharatpur Tourism

Bharatpur Tourism

Bharatpur, Reputed For It Keoladeo Ghana National Park Or The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Is A Favoured Haunt Of The Siberian Crane, A World Heritage Site Of UNESCO, And Is Very Popular For Bird Watching
Bharatpur, once a well armed princely city with an impregnable fort, lies just 50 km from Agra, the city of Taj Mahal. Now Bharatpur is a bird watchers paradise, known the world over for Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a World Heritage Site of UNESCO and also home to nearly 364 species of birds including the rare Siberian Crane. Noted ornithologist Salim Ali is credited with having brought Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary to the notice of the world.
Bharatpur is named after Bharat, the younger brother of Lord Rama and has recorded history since early 17th century. A majestic state and a force to be reckoned with, Bharatpur under British Rule enjoyed a salute of 17 guns. The name Keoladeo of the National Park is derived from an ancient Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva, at the park’s centre. 'Ghana' is Hindi for dense, referring to the thick forest.
Spread over 29 square kilometres, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is inhabited by indigenous water- birds, migratory water birds and waterside birds, as well as by Sambar, Chital, Nilgai and Boar. It also had one of the best duck - shooting wetlands in the world. Hunting is now banned. Pythons, Spotted Deer, Blue Bull, Jackals, Black Buck, Otters, Fishing Cats and Monitor Lizards are also in abundance.
The sanctuary has forest trails that can be accessed on foot, cycles or covered on cycle rickshaw. The rickshaw pullers are trained by the park management and are very knowledgeable about the birds. There are boat trips also available for bird watching as well as jeep safaris. Remember to bring binoculars with you for bird watching.
There are various other travel attractions as well including the Bharatpur Palace, Bharatpur Government Museum, Lohagarh Fort and Deeg Palace. The Palace on Wheels also covers Bharatpur on its travel through the Rajput State.

Accommodation

Good accommodation options are available in and around Bharatpur. Almost all tourists come to Bharatpur city to visit Bharatpur National Park, which is known the world over for its huge population of birds. There are several wildlife resorts,hotels, forest lodges and cottages in and around the Bharatpur National Park. Some of the best accommodation options are the Bharatpur Forest Lodge, Forest Guest house, Circuit House, Hotel Gol Bagh Palace, Shanti Kutir and Tourist Lodge.

How To Reach Bharatpur

By Air: Agra is the nearest airport located 54 km from Bharatpur. Regular flights from Agra connect it to the major cities of India like Delhi, Bombay, Varanasi, Lucknow etc.
By Rail: The railway station at Bharatpur link it to the other major cities of Rajasthan and to the cities like Delhi, Bombay and Ahmedabad.
By Road: Bharatpur is easily reachable from Agra, Mathura, Delhi, Jaipur etc by road. 
Tourists can move around in the Bharatpur city by auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and tongas. They can also hire bicycles to explore the city.