Rajasthan, with a tourism slogan “Padharo mahare desh” attracts tourists for its historical forts, palaces, art, culture and culinary, making it a most desirable region to travel to in the country.
Although travelling is not something I would say I’m good at, It’s just something I always do, like breathing.
So here’s my novella of a road trip to the two of the most astounding cities in the western Rajasthan.
Travelling to the dry lands like these requires proper planning. And choosing the right time for this is crucial. Early winters in the month of October is when I made my mind for an adventure.
1. Jodhpur: The Blue city.
After the first day halt at Ajmer, On 2nd day of my trip I reached the mesmerising city of Jodhpur. Jodhpur, also known as the Sun City/Blue city, looks splendid in its bluish white hues when viewed from the ramparts of the Mehrangarh Fort.
Built in around 1459 by Rao Jodha, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the India’s largest forts which left me stun for its intricate carvings and expansive courtyards.The museum within the fort is one of the most well-stocked museums in Rajasthan which exhibits the heritage of the Rathores in arms, costumes, paintings and decorated period.
After exploring the fort and museum, I traversed the narrow yet beautiful alleys of the the old city before calling it for the day.
One must also visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, which i had to skip due to shortage of time. Umaid Bhavan is said to be one of the world's largest private residences. The palace has 347 rooms and is the principal residence of the former Jodhpur royal family. A part of the palace is a museum.
2. Jaisalmer: The Golden city.
To the further west, about 300 kms from Jodhpur lies another wondrous city, Jaisalmer. Also known as The Golden City is the very epitome of Rajasthan’s desert lifestyle, especially the peoples actually living within the fort, making the Jaisalmer Fort as one of the very few “Living Forts” of India.
About a quarter of the city’s population still residing within the Fort with preserved tradition and culture open to tourist with all the facilities like shops and cafes makes it a unique experience one must not miss.
Most of the houses & buildings were made of yellow sandstone which created a charisma of monochromatic effect. I tried and enjoyed few of quaint cafes for sumptuous local cuisine.
Later I visited the innumerable shops to checkout jewel’s, vibrant puppets, souvenirs, Rajasthani handicraft and much more.
After exploring the Jaisalmer fort, I started my journey towards the most rousing part of my trip “The Sam Sand Dunes”. About 40kms further west lies undeniably beautiful and the most picturesque landscape of sand. The place acquires something of a carnival atmosphere from late afternoon till the next morning, making it nowhere to avoid if you’re after a solitary desert experience.I booked my stay in one of the camps, which provided dinner with bonfire under the star-lit sky, accompanied by special music and Rajasthani cultural dance performance by local artists.
After Stargazing for next few late hours lying on the sand I ended the day all tired yet amused by the experience. Next day at around 4 a.m. early in the morning, I was off deep into the Thar-deserts on an adventures jeep safari.
The drive through the heaps and trenches of the vast stretches of sand deep inside the heart of the desert was an experience of the lifetime. I enjoyed every bit of Jeep Safari specially the midway halt on the desert to witness a spectacular view of The Rising Sun.
Amazed by all the experience of the culture rich and adventure packed western Rajasthan, I started my journey back.
On my way back I took 2 halts ,
“Jaisalmer-War museum”located 10 km from Jaisalmer city on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Highway which has been set up by the Indian Army to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers, specifically during the 1965 Indo-Pak War and the 1971 Longewala battle.
“Kuldhara village ” located 18 km from Jaisalmer city acquired reputation as a abandoned & haunted village.Established around the 13th century, it was once a prosperous village inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins. It was abandoned by the early 19th century for unknown reasons.
With a week full of Adventure and excitement of The Thar-Desert, I ended my another road trip trial .
You can shake the sand from your shoes, but not from your soul.
-Anonymous
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