Mahindra Homestays » Rajasthan

The Marwar festival in Jodhpur

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 20:00:25 +0000

Fairs and Festivals in Rajasthan are colourful and lively affairs. Normally mythological in nature the celebrations relate to Gods and Goddesses, while others are celebrated to commemorate the brave deeds of medieval heroes. The Marwar Festival, held in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan is one such example.

History of the Marwar Festival
The festival is celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashwin (Sept-Oct) in Jodhpur, the former capital of Marwar Province. It is a festival devoted to the music and dance of Marwar region. The festival was originally known as “Maand” Festival. During these two days the folk artists bring to life the myths, legend and folklore of the area.

Why Jodhpur is the best location for the Festival
Jodhpur celebrates the die-hard courage of the heroes of the land, the Rajputs, who are the sons of royal houses. The massive Meharangarh fort and the impressive Umaid Bhawan Palace which are symbols of might and valour of the Rajputs, make Jodhpur an ideal location for the festival. The humongous fort is an apt place to enjoy the beauty of the beautiful blue city.

What to expect at the Festival
Bringing to life the legendary folklores of the area, the folk artists do complete justice to it. Listening to the folk musicians singing praises of the bygone heroes may not be completely understood by all but the fierce intensity can be strongly felt in these songs whatever language you speak. Being in the audience to the buoyant and spirited performers of the folk dances is an immerse experience. Watching the folk dancers, who accurately balance the earthen pots on their heads and dance to the rhythm of the songs sung by the singers, leaves the spectators in awe.

The typical Kalbeliya dance has made a mark internationally and you can witness it here in its own land with the true Indian spirit.

Bringing alive the competitive spirit of Rajasthan
Other attractions of the festival include horse riding and horse polo. Various other competitions are also organized during the festival. Women participate in henna competition, which involves the art of making intricate designs on palms with henna. Rajasthani men take immense pride in their moustache. A turban-tying and moustache competition for men is one of the highlights of the day.

The concept of valour and courage is woven intricately in almost every historical epic of a country. The harshness of the so called fighters is part of their personality. Their stamina to endure any given situation is remarkable. The Rajputs have set a milestone and created a rich history and celebrating these heroic tales allows participants to recognise the toughness of these fighters and the richness of the past.

Souvenirs to bring back home
A small fete is organized by the state tourism and cultural board wherein a number of craftsmen display their skills, you can buy numerous craft items and souvenirs displayed at the stalls set up here, known as “Haats”.

Dates for the Festival
For 2012 the festival is being held on the 28th and 29th of October.In 2013 the festival will take place on the 17th and 18th October

It is only by witnessing a festival such as the Marwar that you can really appreciate the magnificent historical past of Rajasthan!

Thanks to the photographers who shared their images under Creative Commons licence. All images link back to the original source by way of credit.

Sightseeing in Udiapur

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 20:00:50 +0000

City of Lakes, Venice of the East, Kashmir of Rajasthan, Most Romantic city of India are merely some of the names given to the lovely city of Udaipur. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur city of Rajasthan state is a fascinating blend of sights, sounds and experiences; an inspiration for the imagination of the poets, painters and writers.

Udaipur’s kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomizing valour and chivalry.

There are numerous sightseeing options in Udaipur. Some of the must visit places of Udaipur are the Bagore Ki haveli, the splendid palaces and of course the beautiful and pristine lakes.

SIGHTSEEING IN UDAIPUR

Bagore Ki Haveli
Bagore Ki Haveli is an ancient building that stands on the platform of Gangori Ghat in the vicinity of Pichola Lake. The splendid architecture of the mansion boasts of delicate carved work and excellent glass work.
Timings : 1000 hrs to 1730 hrs
Entry Fee : For Indians Rs.15/- Foreign Nationals Rs 25, For Child Rs. 7
Camera : Rs. 10/-
Video Camera : Rs. 50/-

City Palace Udaipur

Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan, located on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur and often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan.
Timings: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Entry fee: Rs.50 for City Palace Museum; Rs.500 for Crystal Gallery & Durbar Hall
Camera charges: Rs.200

Lake Palace Udaipur

Udaipur Lake Palace is one of the most romantic places on this earth. The Palace situated amidst the scenic Pichola Lake offers a heavenly view to the onlooker. The imposing Aravalli Hills on one side and soaring palaces on the other, make the perfect background to this beautiful Lake Palace.

Jag Mandir Palace
Jag Mandir Palace is a beautiful palace located on the southern island of Lake Pichola. The three-storied Palace is a palatial structure made in yellow sandstone and marble. Built in early years of 17th century, Jag Mandir Palace was raised by Maharana Karan Singh to serve as a hiding place for Prince Khurram (popularly known as Shah Jahan).
Timings: The palace is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Maharana Pratap Memorial
Maharana Pratap Memorial is a historic site that is dedicated to the gallant Maharana Pratap. Situated at the top of Moti Margi or Pearl Hill, the memorial overlooks the Fateh Sagar Lake.
Timings: 9am to 6pm

Saheliyon-Ki-Bari
This is one of the most beautiful and leisure places in Udaipur, which a Rajput king made for the 48 maids of his queen. The attractions of this place are beautiful floral gardens, marble structures and floorings, carved structures and amazing fountains.
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Rs.5

Jagdish Temple

It was built by Maharana Jagat Singh Ist in 1651 A.D. It is a good example of Indo – Aryan architecture. Raised on a tall terrace and completed in 1651, it is a tribute alike to the tenacity of its builders and the resilence of the art – tradition it represents.
Timings: 5 am to 2 pm & 4 pm to 10:30 pm

Udaipur Lakes
Lakes are lifeline and future of the Udaipur city. The lakes of Udaipur are spectacular; brimmed with steel-blue water, splashing the feet of the lofty and green hills on the west, reflected by the massive white palaces and revered temples on the east, studded with enamouring island-palaces.

Indeed, these lovely lakes at sunset or in moonlight impart Udaipur an appearance illustrated from the “Arabian Nights.”

Lake Pichola
Boating Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Boat ride: Charges vary depending on the operator.

Shilpgram Crafts Fair
Shilpgram Mela is held annually sometime during the months of November/December. Shilpgram Crafts Fair is organized to promote art and craft of Rajasthan. Since, Rajasthan has always been famous for its handicrafts and artwork; this fair is a perfect destination to try out the hand woven clothes, embroideries, mirror works and handicrafts.
Timings: 11 am to 7 pm
Entry fee: Rs.25

Rudyard Kipling, the famous English poet has said “No tour of India is complete without seeing Udaipur”. And that could not be more true. Udaipur offers a glimpse into the lovely and rich history of the Mewar kingdom and offers a slice of royalty like no other. Mark this as a must visit destination on your itinerary. You won’t regret it.

Royal Rajasthan Itinerary

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 20:00:06 +0000

This package is available from Rs. 54,320 total price per person on twin sharing. Price is valid until March 2013.

Delhi – Jaipur – Pushkar – Udaipur – Pali – Jodhpur

Rajasthan is one of India’s most mesmerising states. The colourful cities rise from the barren desert like a vibrant oasis where historical monuments, ancient temples and royal palaces fight for attention. Narrow streets reveal bustling bazaars packed with colourful fruit, spices and saris. Step away from the cities and rural Rajasthan offers fantastic wildlife spotting opportunities; take a night safari to track down leopards in their natural habitat.

This 12 day itinerary offers you a chance to see the best of Rajasthan, from city life to wildlife.

Contact us to get the latest offers on this tour and to have it tailored to your requirements

Day One: Delhi
On your arrival in Delhi you will be transferred to the Banyan Tree homestay where you will enjoy the warm hospitality of your host Mamta Sharma. The homestay is an oasis of calm with the whole city bustling close by. Suggested activities for the day include discovering the Indian art of Henna application*, participating in an Indian cooking class* or shopping in the local art and craft shops**.

Day Two: Delhi
Spend your second day in Delhi exploring and discovering some of its most famous sites. Visit the Lotus Temple**, Qutub Minar**, Lodhi Garden** and the Red Fort**. Your own private driver will be available all day to take you directly to the sites you choose to visit. When you have had your fill of Delhi’s historic sites come back home to relax in the garden or enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool, sweat it out in the gym or play a game of croquet.

Day Three: Jaipur
Today is an early start to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s famous ‘Pink City’. You will reach Jaipur by late afternoon where you will check into your next homestay, Madhu Pushp Bhawan. This majestic Rajasthani house is full of history and heirlooms, with a large lawn, fountain and pagoda where you can relax. Spend the rest of the day with a walk around the colourful bazaars of Jaipur and the City Palace complex with the delicate Palace of Winds and an interesting medieval observatory**. Evening is free to roam the markets of the old city or see a bollywood movie at the art deco cinema hall of Raj Mandir**.

Day Four: Jaipur
You can start your day with an early morning yoga session***. After breakfast head out to the magnificent Amber Fort** where you can have the experience of traveling on elephant back to the top of the hill where the fort is situated. Spend the afternoon can be spent visiting the battle fort of Jaigarh** and Tiger fort**. Have an evening of entertainment and elaborate dinner at Choki Dhani**.

Day 5: Pushkar / Udaipur
Start early for Udaipur, stopping en-route in Pushkar. In Pushkar visit the Brahma Temple** which has the only shrine dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. See the sacred Pushkar Lake with it’s 52 ghats and array of temples along its banks. Pushkar Camel rides** are also possible.

Travel on to Udaipur and for an evening check in to your beautiful and award winning homestay Pahuna Haveli where your hostess will be ready to greet you. Watch a video of this homestay. She will help you plan your itinerary for the next few days in Udaipur.

Day 6: Udaipur
After Breakfast, spend visit the Sahelion Ki Bari, Jagdish Temple, a great example of architecture and art and also a great spot for souvenir shopping. Especially popular purchases are jewellery, clothing and paintings. Also see the Rana Pratap Memorial & Bharatiya Lok mandal before enjoying lunch at a restaurant recommended by your hostess. In the afternoon enjoy the spectacular City Palace complex, visit a crystal gallery and watch the sunset on a boat ride on Lake Pichola where you can visit the Jag Mandir. End the day with the sound and light show in the City Palace**

Day 7: Pali
Today is an early start as you leave the cities for rural Rajasthan, reaching your next homestay early afternoon. Castle Bera is a beautiful heritage Haveli. The cream white walls of the castle gives a beautiful panoramic view of the village and rocky hills around and your carved wooden bed in a royal Haveli roomwill allow you to relive the charm of age old Indian royalty.

After you have relaxed and settled in head out for an evening safari on a 4WD*** where you have great chance of spotting a leopard. Have an enjoyable dinner with a cultural program by local musician***.

Day 8: Pali
Leave for an early morning wildlife safari where you stand a good chance of seeing crocodiles and migratory birds. Enjoy morning tea at the Jawai Dam, where you will have a picnic*** overlooking the dam and the chance to visit the village and local temples. The evening calls for a vigorous ‘Tel Malish’*** a massage done by a local of the region. You will have the opportunity to take another safari to spot leopards and other animals like Blue Bulls before enjoying a relaxed dinner.

Day 9: Jodhpur
This morning is an start to Jodhpur arriving early afternoon.Check into your next homestay Surya Kunj. This lovely homestay has a roof terrace where you can sit and enjoy the views of Jodhpur from all directions, from the fort to the Umaid Bhawan Palace. When you are settled in your host will take you to the Bishnoi village where you can enjoy lunch. In the evening explore the Mandore Gardens, Balsamand Lake and busy local markets.**

Day 10: Jodhpur
Today is a Full day sightseeing including a half day at the Camel camp* and the afternoon at the impressive Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace and Jaswant Thada.**

Day 11: Delhi
Today you will return to Delhi ready for your journey home tomorrow. Take the opportunity to visit any sights you missed at the start of your trip such as Delhi Haat, Chattarpur Mandir, Purana Qila and the Bahai temple. Spend a relaxed evening at homestay where you may wish to enjoy the spa treatments* they have available for you.

Day 12: Delhi
Your journey through Royal Rajasthan ends today as you return home, hopefully with many memories, souvenirs and photos from your trip.

Your Rajasthan holiday tour includes:
Eleven days accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, with your choice of a delicious home cooked Indian meal at either lunch or dinner time daily. A private driver will be available for all ground transfers which includes airport pick up and drop off, inner city travel and sight seeing throughout the day. You will also be able to enjoy complimentary internet access, laundry services and tea or coffee anytime during the day as part of the package. Complimentary activities in homestays include the use of pool and croquet facilities in Delhi, the yoga session in Jaipur and the wildlife safaris, village walk and Tel Malish in Pali.

Royal Rajasthan – A 12 Day Itinerary
This package is available from Rs. 54,320 INR total price per person on twin sharing. Prices is valid until March 2013.

You may want to add on:

2 nights in Agra to visit the Taj Mahal and many other Mughal monuments.
2 nights in Nainital for some trekking and mountains
2 nights in Corbett National Park for wildlife safaris

ABOUT: Mahindra Homestays have prepared this special nine day itinerary, which can be tailored to suit your requirements. Instead of sharing your experience with a large group of tourists you will be able to enjoy your own private tour using local drivers and staying with Indian families in their beautiful homestays. Enjoy their warm hospitality and delicious home cooked cuisine as they share local highlights that you won’t find in any guidebook. This itinerary combines fantastic value with responsible tourism.

KEY
*Suggested activities within homestay – on chargeable basis. Will need prior booking.
**Suggested activities or sightseeing in destination – not included in package price. Subject to timings and availability and weather. Mahindra Homestays is not responsible for any changes or uncontrollable factors
***Complimentary activities in the homestays that are part of the package.

Click here to make an online enquiry about this Royal Rajasthan Itinerary
The package can be customized according to your needs and interests.

Bagore ki Haveli, Udaipur

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:00:12 +0000

Located in the city of Udaipur, Bagore ki Haveli is a beautiful mansion built during the 18th century. It has now been converted into a Museum. Its splendid architecture, delicate carvings, and excellent glass work make it one of India’s most beautiful museums.

History
Bagore ki Haveli has been built by Amir Chand Badwa who used to be the Chief Minister at Mewar Royal Court. After his demise it came into possession of the Mewar State. In the year 1878 the Haveli was made residenc e of Maharana Shakti Singh of Bagore and that is how it derives its name. Unfortunately, as the years passed, the mansion was left vacant for a period of 50 years and during this period it started to dilapidate. In 1986, the building was handed over to the West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC). The WZCC in consultation with the members of the Royal Family and some experts has managed to restore the mansion in its former glory.

About the Haveli
The Haveli houses 138 rooms and has numerous corridors & balconies, courtyards and terraces. A visit to this Haveli gives a glimpse of the lives of the royalty. One can view the private quarters of the royal ladies : their bedrooms, living rooms, worship and recreation rooms. Also put up for display are jewellery boxes, dice games, rose water sprinklers, copper vessels amongst other knick knacks native to the Royalty.

Not to Miss
Every evening between 7 and 8 pm the Haveli stages a beautiful and traditional performance known an “Dharohar” It is a musical concert combining 7 traditional Rajasthani folk dances. Its a great experience to enjoy the live dances and puppetry shows. Commentary for the show is in both English as well as Hindi.

This museum also houses the biggest turban in Asia having a length of 451 metres and a width of 82 inches.

Entry Fee & Opening Times
Bagore ki Haveli is open to visitors from 9 : 30am to 7pm. The entry fee is Rs 25. However, please check the rates before entering as they may be subject to change.

Best Season to visit
The best months to visit Udaipur are between September and March, as it gets rather hot during the Summer months.

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Sightseeing in Jaipur

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 20:00:44 +0000

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan captivates visitors. This beautiful pink city springing from the desert offers a wealth of sightseeing opportunities from hilltop forts, regal palaces, well organised museums and colourful bazaars.

Our sightseeing in Japiur guide will help you plan your itinerary.

Jantar Mantar

A key attraction of Jaipur is the Jantar Mantar. Between 1727 and 1734 Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur constructed five astronomical observatories in west central India. The observatories, or “Jantar Mantars” as they are commonly known, incorporate multiple buildings of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement. These structures with their striking combinations of geometric forms at large scale have captivated the attention of architects, artists, and art historians world wide. Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Timings 9.00 A.M. – 5.00 P.M.
Entry Fee Indian Rs. 20 / Foreigner Rs. 100 / Child Rs. 20

Amber Fort

Amber Fort located in Amber, 11kms away from Jaipur, used to be the capital of the Kachhwaha clan, untill Jaipur was made the official capital in 1727. The Amber Fort looks stunning, built in white marble and red sandstone. To add to its charm, Maotha Lake makes a beautiful foreground. This beautiful fort is one of the very few well preserved military structures of medieval India.
Timings 7.00 A.M.- 6.30 P.M.
Entry Fee Indian Rs. 25 / Foreigner Rs. 150 / Child Rs. 25

City Palace

The City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture. The beautifully carved marble interiors, magnificent pillars, jali or lattice work and inlaid ornamentations are exceptional and a highlight for visitors. Jaleb Chowk and Tripolia Gate are the two main entrances to the City Palace Jaipur. The City Palace is actually a palace complex comprising of “Chandra mahal” and “Mubarak Mahal” amongst other palaces and buildings.
Timings 9.30 A.M.- 5.00 P.M.
Entry Fee Indian Rs. 35 / Foreigner Rs. 150 / Child Rs. 25

Gaitore
Another interesting visit would be to Gaitore, situated about 15kms from Jaipur on the Jaipur – Amber Road. Gaitore is a royal cremation site of the majestic rulers of Jaipur. There is a cenotaph for each Maharaja, built in his honour. These royal cenotaphs of the Maharajas are commonly known as ‘Chhatris’.
Timings 9.00 A.M.- 5.00 P.M.
Entry Fee Indian Rs. 20 / Foreigner Rs. 30

Hawa Mahal

One of the most popular attractions of Jaipur is the Hawa Mahal, it stands upright as the entrance to the City Palace. Hawa Mahal is an epitome of the Rajputana architecture. Its unique five-storey exterior is also akin to the honeycomb of the beehive with its 953 small windows called jharokhas that are decorated with intricate latticework. The original intention of the lattice was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen, since they had to observe strict “purdah” (face cover) It is particularly striking when viewed early in the morning, lit with the golden light of sunrise.
Timings 9.00 A.M.- 4.30 P.M.
Entry Fee Indian Rs. 10 / Foreigner Rs. 50

Jaigarh Fort

Jaigarh Fort which is located immediately above the Amber Fort on the Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles). It provides an excellent view of Aravalli hills and the Amber Fort sitting 400m below. Similar in design to the Amber Fort the fort features a cannon named “Jaivana”, which at the time of manufacture was the world’s largest cannon on wheels.
Timings 9.00 A.M.- 5.00 P.M.
Entry Fee Indian Rs. 25 / Foreigner Rs. 75

Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort is situated atop a picturesque hill. It is the first of the three forts built by Maharaja Jai Sawai Singh of Jaipur. The Fort stands at the top of rugged point of the Aravalis and offers a spectacular view of the City. The fort has nine absolutely identical suites each delightfully decorated with motifs.
Timings 9.30 A.M.- 4.30 P.M.
Entry Fee Indian Rs. 10 / Foreigner Rs. 50

Composite Ticket
The Rajasthan Tourism Office has introduced the tourist friendly concept of a “Composite Ticket” This ticket costs Rs.50 for an Indian and Rs.300 for a foreigner and allows the ticket holder to visit five tourist spots namely Hawa mahal, Jantar Mantar, Albert hall, Amber Fort and Nahargarh Fort.

It is recommended to check timings and entry fees for all attractions before setting out as these are subject to change. The entry fee for foreigners in many places is different from that for India nationals.

Sightseeing in Ajmer

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 01:14:24 +0000

Ajmer in Rajasthan is a popular pilgrimage centre in India and has many fine monuments and temples for visitors to discover.

The ancient city of Ajmer has passed through many hands and this lineage is reflected in the many ancient monuments that dot the city. The presence of the shrine of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is what makes Ajmer such an important pilgrimage centres.

Our sightseeing in Ajmer guide gives you details on the must see sights along with opening times and entry fees.

Dargah Sharif of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti
Situated at the foot of the Taragarh hill, the mausoleum of the famous Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti is one of the most popular pilgrimage spots in India. The complex is richly adorned with silver and gold ornamentation. Legend has it that the Mughal emperor Akbar came here in the 16th century asking to be blessed by an heir. The saint obliged and Akbar continued to come every year on pilgrimage. The best time to visit is in May during the Urs or death anniversary of the saint.
Timings: In winters between 5am to 9pm; summers between 4am to 10pm.
Website: www.dargahajmer.com

Taragarh Fort
With six gates and 3 km-long walls, this giant fort sits on a steep hill (a one-and-half hour climb on foot) and guards the city of Ajmer. One of the oldest hill forts in Asia, Taragarh was the seat of the Chauhan rulers. The British converted the fort into a sanatorium for their troops. There are no entry fees or timings for the fort.

Adhai Din Ka Jhonpda
Situated on the lower slope of the Taragarh hill, this mosque was originally a Vaishnava Hindu temple built in 1153. It was converted into a mosque by Mughal ruler Quṭbuddin Aybak in 1193. Of special interest is the double-depth calligraphy inscriptions in Naskh and Kufic scripts and the intricately carved Jali Screen donated by Sultan Altamush in 1230. Noted for its exceptional architecture, the structure has forty columns that support the roof, but no two are alike. The name (‘adai din’ literally means ‘two and a half days’) comes from the fact that it took just 2 and a 1/2 days to build. Another theory says it was named after a festival that lasted for that duration. The monument has no entry fees or fixed timings.

The Government Museum
The museum, also known as Magazine, is situated inside the premises of Akbar’s fort. It was built by Akbar in 1570 AD and served as a residence when he came to for his pilgrimages. It was also the residence of Akbar’s son Salim. This is the place where Salīm, as the Emperor Jahangir, read out the firman (royal decree) permitting the British East India Company to trade with India. This trade decree lead to a chain of historical events that resulted in colonisation of India by the British. The museum has a collection of stone sculptures, Mughal and Rajput armor and weaponry, miniature paintings, and antique idols dating to the 6th and 7th century AD.
Timings: The museum remains open every day from 10am to 4.30pm, except Fridays and public holidays.
Fee: Entry fee is Rs5 (free on Mondays).

The Lakes
Ajmer has two beautiful man-made lakes – the Anasagar Lake, a reservoir made by Maharaja Anaji in 1150 AD. Jehangir added to its beauty with the Daulat Bagh gardens and later, Shah Jahan constructed the dazzling marble pavilions of Baradari in 1673 AD. The lake has boating facilities and an island in the centre. During winter, a host of migratory birds including pelicans, flamingos and varieties of ducks visit the lake.The second water body is the flat-pancake shaped Foy Sagar Lake, considered to be a marvel among artificial lakes. The name is in honor of the English engineer Mr Foy who constructed this water reservoir in 1892 AD under the famine relief project. There are no entry fees for the lakes.

Nasiyan (Red) Temple
Made of red sandstone, this is an intricate Digambara Jain temple built in the late 19th century. The main hall is known as Swarna Nagri or City of Gold due to the gold-plated wooden figures depicting legends from Jain mythology.
Timings: The temple is open from 8:30am to 4:30pm
Fees: Entry fee is Rs10.

Nimbark Peeth
This giant temple spread over 40 thousand square feet, is known for its pillars of ornamental marble and exceptional architecture. The sanctum sanctorum has been built in such a way that the light from the full moon touches the feet of the idol at exactly 12pm.
Timimgs: Timings are from 5:30am to 12 noon and from 5pm to 8:30pm every day.
Fees: There’s no entry fee.

Pushkar
Ajmer is the base for visiting the neighbouring ancient pilgrimage city of Pushkar. It is famous for its lake with 52 holy bathing ghats and many temples. Pushkar also has a 14th century Brahma Temple. And of course, the epic and world-famous camel fair when more than 300,000 people and 20,000 camels, as well as cattle and horses, descend on the sand dunes. The almost fortnight-long fair takes place around Kartik Poornima, the auspicious full moon night of November. Check the state tourism website for fair dates.
Website: rajasthantourism.gov.in

Mehrangarh fort in Jodhpur

Mahindra Homestays — Sun, 12 Aug 2012 23:24:39 +0000

Mehrangarh fort in Jodhpur is a beautiful monument giving a sneak peek into India’s rich cultural history. Easily one of India’s most beautiful forts, it is tall and imposing in an almost invincible manner. So colossal are its proportions that Rudyard Kipling called it “the work of giants”. Today it has the distinction of being acknowledged as the finest living example of a Hindu fortress.

Our visitor guide gives you a run down of it’s history and all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

History
The foundation of the majestic Mehrangarh fort was laid down by the Rajput Ruler, Rao Jodha in 1459. History has it that at the time of foundation of the fort on the hill named “Bahuchera” there was only one single inhabitant, a loner named Cheeria Nathji. Upset at being forced to move Cheeria Nathji cursed the Rajput Ruler “Jodha! May your citadel ever suffer a scarcity of water!”. Rao Jodha managed to appease the hermit by building a house and a temple in the fort very near to the cave that the hermit had used for meditation. However even to this date the area suffers from a draught every 3-4 years. Although the Fort was made by King Rao Jodha, it has major contributions by successive rulers of Jodhpur .More information about the history of the fort can be found in books such as “The house of Marwar” by Dhananajaya Singh.

About the Fort
The Mehrangarh Fort has several gates, which had observed the many battles fought in ancient times. One of the gates is “Jayapol”, put up by Maharaja Man Singh to mark his triumphs over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. Another gate, “Fattehpol”, was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh as a festivity for conquering the Mughals.

The “Lohapol” located near the area where the wives of war martyrs observed ‘Jauhar’, by throwing themselves in the holy fire of their husband’s pyre, and the “Surajpol” which leads to the museum, are some of the attractive gates inside the Mehrangarh Fort.

Other attractions of Mehrangarh Fort include beautiful palaces and large open courtyards inside the fort. One of the palaces is the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), which holds the imperial throne, the Sringar Chowki. It is the place where the royal ladies held gatherings. The Phool Mahal was the palace where royal dances took place. The stained glasses not only preserve the glitter of the gold plated ceiling but also enhances the regal beauty of it.

The Sheesh Mahal has intricate mirror-works with dazzling mosaic of mirrors on its walls and ceilings. The palaces inside the Mehrangarh Fort with their undeniable lure, and the fort, with its mighty and imposing structure, is the finest example of the hard work and skills of the Jodhpuri sculptors.

The Mehrangarh Fort also has a museum. This museum exhibits fine galleries and exquisite rooms with a wide display of lavish royal elephant carriages, palanquins, small canons, thrones, paintings, and even a giant tent. It also has an enthralling but very lethal weapons gallery.

Best Time to visit
The best time to visit the Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur is between October and March when the weather is cold and dry, with temperatures going down to 12 degrees Celsius.

Mehrangarh Fort Timings
The Mehrangarh Fort is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and is open to the public all 365 days of the year.

Mehrangarh Fort Entry Fees
Ticket costs are Rs. 220 for Indians and Rs. 250 for foreigners including admission, camera and audio guide. Please check the rates before entering as they may be subject to change. Taking the audio tour or hiring a guide is highly recommended to make the most of this experience. For further details visit www.mehrangarh.org

While you are visiting …
When in Jodhpur you should also visit the Balsammand Palace which was the summer pavilion of Maharaja Sur Singh of Jodhpur. Another interesting stop would be Mandore a town 9kms from Jodhpur. It used to be the ancient capital of the Mewar and makes for a good excursion.

Temples of Osian, Jodhpur

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 01:06:37 +0000

The Jain centric temple town of Osian (Osiyan) is located in the Jodhpur District of Rajasthan, situated about 60 kms from Jodhpur. An oasis in the Thar Desert, the town is celebrated for its Brahamanical and Jain temples from the 8th to 11th century.

Despite getting a steady supply of tourists through the year the temple town is not on the usual travel circuitbut is an easy detour from Jodhpur.

The cluster of 16 temples is an impressive one, some are particularly exquisite in architecture and grandeur; Sun Temple, Kali Temple, Sachiya Mata Temple and the main Jain temple dedicated to Lord Mahavir.

Largely a pilgrim centre for Jains, you can also see other visitors interested in the history. The main Mahavir temple dates back to 783 A.D. This temple is dedicated to the last Jain prophets. The exterior carvings on the temple wall are a little uncharacteristic from the otherwise austere Jain architecture. The rest of the sand-stone structure comprises of ornate pillars, mandapa and balconied windows.

The Sachiya Mata temple is reached by traversing large arches which are intensely carved. It is said that the shrine was constructed in 1178 A.D. There are two more temples in the complex: Chandi Ka Mandir and the Amba Mata Mandir.

The third most important temple is the Surya temple, dedicated to the Sun God. The inner complex houses statues of Ganesh and Durga as well.

The 9th century Pippala Devi temple and the Vishnu temple also present great workmanship and devotion. Look out for the meaningful stories displayed in the carvings as you see all the temples. It’s recommended to get a guide for better understanding and contextualisation of visual presentations.

The fact that this little hamlet is such a hot-spot for history makes it a great addition to the itinerary. You can see the evolution of the temples over the centuries. The golden sand dunes provide a particularly dramatic backdrop to the temples of Osian.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Entry: Free
Opening times: Dawn to Dusk
How to get there: Osian is just off the highway from Jodhpur to Bikaner. It also has easy access from Jaisalmer and Khimsar.
Where to stay: There is very little accommodation in Osian itself and most visitors choose to stay in Jodhpur and visit as part of a day trip. See accommodation in Jodhpur.
When to go: Due to the heat of the summer November to March is the most comfortable time to visit Osian
While you are there: Take a camel safari into the desert

Our Top Three in Jaipur, Rajasthan

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 22:52:04 +0000

Dutch bloggers Claudia and Freek share their highlights of Jaipur in Rajasthan with us.

We are Claudia and Freek from the Netherlands. We are on a around the world trip with since September 2011 and we’re not thinking about going home yet. After travelling in Asia and New Zealand for over nine months, we landed in India.

We started our India trip in New Delhi and on the next day we took the train to Jaipur, Rajasthan. We could not stop looking out of the windows. Everything was so new to us and we quietly watched the scenery passing by.

After five hours we arrived in Jaipur. We quickly dropped our bags in our hotel and we took a tuktuk to the city centre.

We immediately fell in love with the Pink City. We walked around the beautiful buildings, had great food en simply enjoyed the chaos in the centre. Today we’d love to share our Top 3 in and around this city.

1. Amber Fort

This imposing fort is situated just outside the city. The outside looks amazing and you can easily spend an hour just looking at the great fort. After that, we went inside and enjoyed the different parts of the fort. The views are great and it’s great fun to wander around the small corridors.

2. City Palace

The highlight of walking around in the old city was the City Palace. We simply loved wandering around the beautiful buildings and gardens.

3. Raj Mandir Cinema

Jaipur is more than forts and palaces. After three days of sightseeing we needed a bit of relaxation. We have always loved Bollywood movies and therefore we decided to escape the afternoon heath in the huge pink cinema: Raj Mandir Cinema. This cinema looks like a big pink cake and that makes it a great place to see a Hindi movie. This was our first experience with seeing a Hindi movie in India and we had a great time.

Getting to know Jaipur was a great experience. What is your favourite part of the Pink City?

About the guest bloggers: Claudia and Freek are two Dutch world travellers and bloggers for www.backpackgek.nl (meaning crazy about backpacking in Dutch). They quit their jobs and left their apartment in Amsterdam for the big dream: a world trip crossing the seven continents.

If you would like to write a guest post for the India Travel blog sharing your travel experiences and photos please get in touch.

What to see in Jodhpur

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:02:31 +0000

Whether it’s the scenic view of the sprawling blue city scape from the fort or the busting markets of Jodhpur, the erstwhile royal city of Marwar in Rajasthan still has it’s grandeur intact. Couple your stay in a majestic ‘haveli’ with a robust sightseeing itinerary to absorb the culture and history of Jodhpur. Here are some suggestions of what to see in Jodhpur

1. Mehrangarh Fort – An imposing landmark that can be seen from the entire city and is one of the most popular sights to see in Jodhpur. The Mehrangarh Fort is situated on a hill outside the city. It was built by the 15th century King, Rao Jodha but the construction was completed in the 17th century by one of his successors. A mammoth cannon peeps down from the high walls of the Fort from where you can view the city. The Fort also has a cafe and a zip-line adventure.
Opening Times: The Fort is open from 9.00 a.m to 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Rs 250/- (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

2. Umaid Bhavan – One of the few living palaces of the country, a part of Umaid Bhavan is retained by the now King, Jai Sigh Ji and part of it has been converted into a luxury hotel. The palace reflects the taste of grandeur that the royalty was so fond of. You can visit here to see the extensive gardens and coffee shop, if you are not staying here.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m, Closed on Gazetted Holidays.
Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals Rs 50/-, Indian Nationals – Rs 15/- (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

3. Jaswant Thada – Four kilometres from the city, on the way to the Mehrangarh Fort, a cenotaph in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, is an architectural marvel. Visit here for the excellence in architecture and a good example of preserving history.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals Rs 20/-, Indian Nationals – Rs 10/-. Additional charges for cameras. (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

4. Zanana Deodi – The women’s building close to the Mehrangarh Fort is was said to be guarded by eunuchs and where the Queens spent most of their time.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Rs 250/- Inclusive of camera charge and an audio guide. (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

5. Balsamand Lake – An artificial lake built as a reservoir for the city now serves as a picnic spot in Jodhpur. Though it might be too hot to spread out a picnic basket, visit the nearby Balsamand Lake Palace for a quiet dinner in the gardens. Also try the ‘kesar’ liquor, indigenous to the city.

6. Mandore Gardens and the Million Gods’ Shrine – Only 10 kilometres away from the city, visit the shrine dedicated to a large amount of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Probably one of the few places in India where one can orient themselves towards the colossal variety of divine presence in the country.
Opening Times: 09.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m
Entry Fee: Foreign Nationals Rs 20/-, Indian Nationals – Rs 10/-. Additional charges for cameras. (Recommended to check for latest updates before going)

7. Markets of Jodhpur – Textiles, silver jewellery, cotton filled blankets & local shoes are some of the popular souvenirs you can find for sale. Explore the bustling markets of Clock Tower, Sojati Gate, Tripolia Bazaar, Sarafa Bazaar. Lac bangles and leather goods are also make light and interesting gifts for folks back home. Apart from the thrill of bargain filled shopping, these are also great places to photograph and see local life at an intimate perspective.

Homestays are a great place from which to explore the city and your hosts can advise you with further details on what to see in Jodhpur. Check out our Jodhpur homestay collection. If you would like to visit Jodhpur contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.