Jaisalmer:The Golden City

The golden city was founded by Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of the Yadav, a Bhati Rajput in 1156 A.D. It was on the advice of a hermit Eesul, that he also shifted his capital from Lodurva. A legend goes that once when Lord Krishna had visited this place, had predicted that a Yadav would build his capital over here which would be formidable for centuries. Jaisalmer was well protected due to the hostile landscape and Bhati Rajputs, who are known for their valor and chivalry. They levied taxes on the caravans that traveled the ancient spice route on their way to Delhi and went on rampage over the nearby fortress acquiring huge wealth for the city. Thus not only the royalties but also the merchants benefited and they displayed their wealth in their havelis. The glory of Jaisalmer got affected with the advent of the sea trade. Today this desert city is famous for its intricately carved havelis and old Jain temples. The sand dunes make it one of the most important tourist destinations in the country.

The perfect time to visit is during the desert festival in January / February, when the city dances to the melodious rhythms.

Location: Jaisalmer a beautiful city with harsh climatic conditions is located in the heart of the Thar Desert. Rightly called the museum city Jaisalmer involves vivid visions of valor, chivalry and love.

Languages Spoken:Rajasthani, Hindi, English

Long Distance Code +91-2991

Importance: Famous for the Golden fort

Area :5.1 sq.kms.

Best Time To Visit: September To March

Jaisalmer Attractions:

Havelis

Intricately carved beautiful havelis are strewn all over Jaisalmer. Each has its own characteristics. Some of the important are:

NATHMALJI KI HAVELI: Carved by two brothers in the 19th century, the intricate architecture in stone is the epitome of beauty. The interior walls are adorned by the paintings in miniature style.

PATWON KI HAVELI: One of the most exquisite buildings in the walled city, which truly exemplifies the architectural style typical of erstwhile Rajputana. It is five storeyed and the extensive corridors and chambers are supported by intricately carved pillars.

SALIM SINGH KI HAVELI: Distinctive for its blue cupola roof, this extraordinary mansion in yellow stone is covered entirely with intricate carvings and has an elaborate projecting balcony on the top floor

Gadsisar Lake

This rain water lake was once upon a time a major supplier of water to the city. Today it has become favorite picnic spots. Sacred shrines and gardens flank the lake and a varied collection of birds can be spotted. Boating facility is also available.

Tazia Tower

From the Badal Vilas rises the delicate pagoda like structure of the Tazia tower. It is a gift to the city from the Muslim craftsmen, 'silvats' of Jaisalmer before they permanently migrated to Pakistan in 1947. This beautiful Tazia is ornately decorated and carried in a procession during Moharram.

Jaisalmer Fort

Housing in the entire township in its ramparts this huge golden fort gives a scenic view of the desertscape from its 80 meters high perch on the hill. It has a cobweb of narrow lanes with havelis, five interconnected palaces and three beautiful Jain temples dating back to the 12th to the 15th centuries.The golden fort built of sandstone on the Trikuta hill, seems like a majestic structure standing out of the sea of sand. The fort is protected by the rugged high walls and approachable only through four gates, namely the Akhaiy pol, the Ganesh pol, the Suraj pol and the Hava pol. The palaces built atop the main entrance form an imposing edifice crowned by a huge umbrella of metal mounted on a stone shaft.The fort also houses many old Hindu and Jain temples, beautifully carved havelis and the entire living area is well protected within the ramparts of the fort.

Desert National Park

The park set in the backdrop of rugged terrain with shifting sand dunes and scrub covered hills, it is an excellent example of desert eco system. Sand dunes constitute about 20% of the total park area, while the rocks and the salt lake form an appropriate dwelling for the Black buck and the Chinkara. The other animals found in this area are the desert fox, the Bengal fox and the desert cat.Sudhashri forest post is ideal place for watching the wildlife in the park. Birds like the Sand grouse, partridges, bee-eaters, larks and shrikes are also fund here. Demosille cranes also visit the park in winters, but the most important occupant is the great Indian Bustard, a tall and heavy bird with confidence and grace!

Jaisalmer Hotels:

DEOKI NIWAS PALACE

Total Rooms : 40

Star Category : 3

Hotel Deoki Niwas Palace is designed like castle and is built from Jurassic yellow sand-stone . It offers world class facilities and services, in order to make your holiday even more adventurous and luxurious.Deoki Niwas Palace is one of the finest Luxury Boutique hotel of Jaisalmer. With its well appointed guest rooms Deoki Niwas is the perfect setting for a memorable vacation in the Desert city of Jaisalmer. Here next to the walled city entry point, you will quickly discover the allure of the only " LIVING FORT" of Jaisalmer. Our location places us just minutes away from the host of attractions that continue to make Jaisalmer one of the nation's popular tourist destination.

FORT RAJWADA

Total Rooms : 91

Star Category : 3

Located in 6 acres of land, this princely home has an interior decor created by the genius of renowned opera designer Ms. Stephanie Engeln. Located in peaceful countryside just out side the golden city is this oasis of serenity & comfort.

THE GATEWAY HOTEL RAWAL KOT

Total Rooms : 31

Star Category : 4

Overlooking the town of Jaisalmer, Hotel Rawal-Kot is the perfect combination of modern comfort and fairytale medieval charm. Perched above the town and seemingly rising out of the rocks, the hotel offers postcard-perfect views of the 12th century Jaisalmer Fort as well as the setting sun. Inspired by the havelis of yore, the hotel's design offers a palette of local colors, materials, and fabrics.

GORBANDH PALACE

Total Rooms : 83

Star Category : 3

The very name of this hotel is inspired by the influence of the desert. Gorbandh is a harness, which the desert women decorate for their husband's camel with any material they can find: cowry shells, beads, sequins, couloured threads and even buttons. The architecture of this Royal Retreat has been inspired by traditional Indian homes. The hotel organises desert camps with Rajasthan's celebrated folk music and dance around a campfire on starlit evenings at the sand dunes.

HERITAGE INN JAISALMER

Total Rooms : 59

Star Category : 3

A modern hotel with a ethnic touch - a resort redefined, away from the clamous of the city - yet only ten minutes away from it all - Heritage Inn helps relax and get the maximum out of your vacation - while you are here enjoy sunbathing by the pool or live in rustic luxury of our air conditioned cottages, all of which opens up in the garden - a multi cuisine restaurant, bar and rajasthani folk music & dance by the camp fire under the clear desert sky at night completes a dream vacation.

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Udaipur : The Lake City

The city of lakes,Udaipur, is perhaps one of the most beautiful and romantic cities of India. In contrast with its desert neighbourhood, it stands out with its enchanting image of white marble palaces, placid blue lakes, gardens, temples surrounded by hills and mountains. It is an oasis of colour in the stark arid region and so indeed is the Venice of east.Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar, a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 years. It is said that this city was founded by Maharaja Udai Singh at the advice of a hermit whom he met at the lake Pichhola during a hunting expedition. The city was built in 1559 A.D. and was named after Udai Singh. He died in 1572 A.D. He was succeeded by his son Maharana Pratap (1572 - 97), who defended the city from many attacks of the Mughals. After the Mughals it was the Marathas attacked the city. Rana Pratap as he is known, was a great warrior and lived in troubled times.An end to the bloody battles came with the British intervention in the early 19th century, when a treaty was signed to protect the city from any further attacks. Later, after independence, like all other princely states, Udaipur too became a part of the United India.

Location: Located in the Aravali ranges of Rajasthan, the city of Udaipur is situated at a distance of about405kms from the state capital of Jaipur. The city is well connected by air, rail and road to other important cities of India like Jaipur,Mumbai and Delhi.If Jaipur is study in pink, then Udaipur is vision in white. The city of dawn, surrounded by the ancient Aravali mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, is a brilliant Kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples.

Languages Spoken: Rajasthani, Hindi, English

Long Distance Code:+91-7833

Importance: Known as the city of Lakes

Area 37 sq.kms.

Best Time To Visit: September To March

Udaipur Attractions:

City Palace

City palace is a complete white structure, standing majestically on a hill and the largest palace complex of Rajasthan. This enormous structure is 30.4 meters in height and 244 meters in length and was started by Udai Singh and subsequently built by later rulers. The entrance to this palace is through Hathi pol or the Elephant gate, along the main street of the old city. The Bara pol or the big gate opens into the first court which leads to the Tripolia gate which has eight carved marble arches.Then there are series of courtyards overlapping pavilion of terraces, corridors and hanging gardens. There is the Suraj Gokhada, the balcony of the Sun, where the Suryawanshi (sons of the Sun God); Maharanas of Mewar, presented themselves in times of trouble to the people to restore their confidence. The Mor chowk or the peacock courtyard gets its name form the glass decoration it has. The chini chitrashala is noteworthy for its blue and white ceramics, while a series of wall paintings on Lord Krishna are on display in the Bhim Vilas palace.

Jagadish Temple:

Built in1651 A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh, this Indo - Aryan temple is the largest and the most beautiful temple of Udaipur with noteworthy sculpted images. Alligators, Elephants, horsemen and celestial musicians are seen on the exterior. It is a gigantic construction and is just like a Hindu iconography school. Temples of Eklingji and Nathdwara are known as the most sacred pilgrims in Mewar.

Lake Palace:

The most enchanting tourist attraction of Udaipur, the Lake Palace (also known as Jag Niwas) is a beautiful island palace built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1754. Situated on picturesque Lake Pichola, the white marble structure appears like emerging out of the shimmering blue waters on the lake, creating a spellbound effect on visitors.

Jag Mandir

Jag Mandir is another beautiful island palace on Lake Pichola, built by Maharaja Karan Singh in 1615 AD. The palace once sheltered the Mughal prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jehan, who built the world-famous Taj Mahal) who rebelled against his father Jehangir in the 1620's. The Palace has a giant stone sculpture of elephants and an impressive chattri (cenotaphs) that add to its beauty.

Saheliyon-Ki- Bari:

The Saheliyon-ki-Bari Garden was built in early 18th century AD as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure. The enchantingly beautiful Garden is famous for its lotus pool, fountains (in the shape of birds), lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions, offering a breathtaking view to visitors.

Hotels in Udaipu:

THE LALIT LAXMI VILAS PALACE

Total Rooms : 55

Star Category : 2.5

The Lalit Laxmi Vilas PalaceLaxmi Vilas Palace Hotel located at the bank of Fateh Sagar lake enjoys a picturesque view of the lakes, Aravalli Hills and Sajjangarh Palace. The hotel was built by Maharana Bhupal Singh originally in 1911 as a residence of Mr. Winn Gate political agent at that time and in 1945 Mr. Winngate was shifted to Hathi Pole and the Laxmi Vilas Palace was rebuilt as a royal guest house to house the dignitaries, visiting princes and British officers. In 1966 the Laxmi Vilas Palace was transferred to DOT and in 1969 it was handed over to ITDC. Ever since Laxmi Vilas Palace was run under the banner of Ashok Group of Hotels. The hotel Laxmi Niwas Palace expanded in two phases, firstly in 1977, 23 rooms were added to the existing 11 and in 1984, 20 more were added, thus taking total number of rooms to 55 (44 regular rooms and 11 suites) the banquet hall was also added during this period.

TAJ LAKE PALACE

Total Rooms : 83

Star Category : 5

The Taj Lake Palace is a marble fantasy that floats magically on the still blue waters of Lake Pichola. The hotel has 83 rooms including 17 suites, some of which are breathtakingly beautiful. The Taj Lake Palace is located 26 km from the Udaipur airport and a kilometre from the city centre.

TRIDENT HILTON UDAIPUR

Total Rooms : 143

Star Category : 5

Trident Hilton Udaipur is located on the banks of the picturesque Pichola Lake and is ten minutes drive from the city center. Forty three acres of land with lush green landscaping surrounds the hotel.The hotel provides a perfect base to explore the fabled city of Udaipur, acclaimed worldwide for its beautiful lakes, medieval palaces and colourful bazaars. All rooms are furnished in shades of indigo blue and gold. The architecture reflects the ancient heritage of Udaipur city.

THE OBEROI UDAI VILAS

Total Rooms : 87

Star Category : 5

The Oberoi Udaivilas stands on the banks of Lake Pichola facing Udaipur, with views across the water to the 17th Century palaces of Jagmandir and Jagniwas. Udaivilas took ten years to build.A fabulous resort hotel set among thirty acres of former hunting grounds, Udaivilas itself is nothing short of palatial. A pristine version of an original Rajasthani Mewari moated palace, Udaivilas incorporates every conceivable modern comfort.Visual treats include open-air colonnades flanked by 450 hand-carved stone columns. Domes covered in gold leaf. Hand-painted murals, arches and fountains. Landscaped terraces and acres of white marble. A decorative pool of giant marble lotus flowers. And, a treat for all the senses, a superb banyan Tree Spa.

SHIV NIWAS PALACE

Total Rooms : 36

Star Category : 3

A crescent adorning the southern end of the Palace complex, the Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel Udaipur was originally Maharana Fateh Singhji's residence. The rooms around this awe-inspiring courtyard were used as a place for entertaining personal guests. Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel Udaipur was the vision of the His Late Highness Maharana Bhagwat Singhji Mewar, which led to its conversion into a luxury hotel. Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel Udaipur is now categorised as a Grand Heritage Palace as it has been restored to its original pristine glory.

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Jodhpur

Amidst the sand dunes and thorny vegetation, towers a 120 mtr high fort above the plain. It overlooks the city. The old city is surrounded by a wall with 8 gates for the entrance. The new city is settled around this walled area. The Maruthal or land of death came to life when Rathores of Kanauj moved in, but the city was actually founded by Rao Jodhaji in 1459 A.D. He was the chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be the descendant of Rama, the epic hero of Ramayana.

Location: Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan. It is situated on the western border of India, on the edge of the Thar desert.

Languages Spoken: Marwari, Rajasthani, Hindi.

Long Distance Code: +91-291

Importance: Famous for the Mehrangarh fort and known as the blue city.

Area :78.6 sq.kms.

Best Time To Visit :November To March

Jodhpur Attractions:

Meharangarh Fort

In the heart of city of Jodhpur, stands the 125 mtrs high Meherangarh fort spread over 5 sq. km. This once invincible fort has 4 gates. The Jay pol, the Fateh pol and the Loha pol. Within the fort are magnificent palaces with marvelously carved panels, and latticed windows. They are the Moti mahal, the Sheesh mahal, the Phool mahal, the Sileh khana and the Daulat khana. These have collections of palanquins, elephant's howdas, miniature paintings, instruments, costumes, and furniture.

Jaswant Thada

A cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in 1899 A.D. in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh -II. Within the main cenotaph are the portraits of the Jodhpur rulers. A story goes that Maharaja Jaswant Singh succumbed to injuries while fighting in a battle against the Mughal king Jehangir at this very place.

Umaid Bhavan Palace

Also known as the Chhittar place, because of the particular sand stone used, this palace was built by Umaid Singh. This is the only 20th century palace built under the famine relief project that gave employment to famine struck population. It was built in 16 years. A part of the palace has been converted into hotel, one part is the museum and the remaining is still occupied by the royal family.

Mandore Gardens

The ancient capital of Marwars has cenotaphs of the Jodhpur rulers. The highlight of this place is the Hall of Heroes which houses 16 gigantic figures chiseled out of single rock. The statues are either of popular Hindu deities or famous folk deities. Devals or the royal cenotaphs in the form of temples were built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh and Ajit Singh. They reflect the glory of Marwar.The beautiful gardens with high rock terraces make it popular. The garden has a gate known as the Ajit pol which is decorated with figures of Gods and Goddesses from Indian mythology.

Osian

It lies 58 kms away from Jodhpur on the Bikaner highway. It is an ancient town of Thar desert with 16 ruined brahmanical and Jain temples dating back to the 8th to the 11th century. The temples have sculptural elegance and the vase and flower motifs carved on the pillars can be seen here. The most important temples are the Surya temple and the Sachiya mata temple. Images of Vishnu, Narasimha and Durga also can be seen here.

Hotels in Jodhpur:

GATEWAY HOTEL THE UMMEID JODHPUR

Total Rooms : 88

Star Category : 5

Nestled in the city of Jodhpur, The Ummed Jodhpur, is set amidst 28 acres of landscape gardens. The hotel is constructed around a central courtyard in the true Rajasthani style. Build on the concept of a palace, the design bears true testimony to the architectural heritage of Jodhpur. Located 12 Km from the airport and 8 Km from the Railway station, the Ummed Jodhpur offers a perfect setting to experience the rich culture and traditions of Rajasthan.

 

UMAID BHAWAN PALACE

Total Rooms : 64

Star Category : 5

Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace is the last of the great palaces of India and one of the largest residences in the world - set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens.Umaid Bhawan offers a wide range of personalized services and facilities to help make your stay in Jaipur a memorable one. The Swimming Pool Enjoy a rejuvenating swim in the azure depths of our swimming pool. Or you could just choose to sit by the pool and read a book. See more pictures of our pool in the picture gallery. Business Center / Internet Cafe Stay in touch with the world even as you lose yourself in the fantasy that is Rajasthan. You always have the option of connecting with friends and family, wherever they may be. Our modern business center has everything you need. While you may choose to stay in your room to make long distance calls, we also have an Internet Cafe where you can surf the net, chat with friends, and exchange email while enjoying a quite cup of coffee. Roof top Restaurant A section of the lounge Dining at the Umaid Bhawan Umaid Bhawan has a delectable range of Indian cuisine on offer. Enjoy the food prepared for you by our traditional cooks and supervised by the lady of the house while absorbing the traditional ambience of our cosy and private dining room. You could also choose to sit outside and eat while enjoying a puppet show.

TAJ HARI MAHAL

Total Rooms : 93

Star Category : 5

Set amidst six acres of landscaped gardens, the hotel makes lavish use of exquisite marble in an architectural style, which harmoniously bends an Old World charm with contemporary elegance.

SHREE RAM INTERNATIONAL

Total Rooms : 54

Star Category : 4

We are proud to introduce ourselves as True hospitality Ambassador and specialize in all aspects of hospitality.Shree Ram International is located in the desert city of Jodhpur. Its tranquil gardens provide guests quiet elegance in the heart of the city. Shree Ram International comprises of 50 well appointed centrally air-conditioned rooms with four elegant suites,"Padharo Sa"- A 92 covers vegetarian multicuisine restaurant offers Indian, Chinese,Continental food in true Rajasthani decor and hospitality,a boutique swimming pool and lush green lawn for a gathering of 500 to 5000 people.

APEX INTERNATIONAL

Total Rooms : 42

Star Category : 3

Hotel Apex International is situated closed to historical sights and entertainment centers in Jodhpur. Guests at the hotel can pamper themselves at the health center with spa, sauna, gym and game room. Hotel Apex International is an ideal and perfect place for vacations. The hotel offers all the comforts expected from a modern hotel

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