Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Ajmer is one of the most holiest destination in India, popular for Ajmer Sharif Dargah. It the final resting place of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The holy shrine is visited by thousands of pilgrims of all the religions. People have a strong belief that their wishes are fulfilled if they pray with pure heart.

Famous Attractions of Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Urs Fair

Taragarh Fort

Get the best Rajasthan tour packages to pay a visit to Dargah in Ajmer.

Rajasthan Organizes Summer Festival 2010

Location: Area- 328 Sq. Km

Altitude- 1220 meters above the sea-level

Best Time To Visit: February to June; September to December.

Rajasthan, the incredible State of India are dream destinations to fantasy lovers. It is dotted with enthralling travel areas, which just keeps alluring travelers time and again. Mount Abu in the state is an oasis in the barren desert land. Quite many a time we have seen this hill-station in Bollywood big screen and at times in the silver screen. But a real watch worth more than wandering around through the Idiot box.

Mount Abu nestled in the midst of the green loft hills and is a summer retreat for weary travelers. The mesmerizing place is blessed with exquisite rocky mountains and century-old temples. Summer Festival , held every year in the month of May/June pulls greatest number of crowds from different parts of the world.

This 2010, Summer Festival in Rajasthan, India will begin on 26th May and will wind up on 28th May. A visit to this hill-station offers a close glimpse of tribal tradition in the state. In additions, the festive aura is rejoiced with cultural programmes, which are worth watching. Ballad singing, Ghomar dance, puppet shows, Sham-e-Qawwali and display of fire works are special attractions.

Apart from the fun-filled cultural activities, tourist delight lies in enjoying the adventure boat race on the Nakki Lake. Roller Skating Race are also organized in the jazzing ambiance.

The joyful celebration of Summer Festival pave the way to have more at one go. Mount Abu hill-station has lot in store for visitors. Some worth-visiting places are enlisted below:

View Points: Sunset Point, Honeymoon Point, the Crags and the Shanti shikhar are popular hang out zone.

Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary: This oldest part of the is home to 110 plant species and 250 bird species

Dilwara Jain Temple: Dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras, this group of divine shrines was built between the years of 11th and 13th century

Kaila Devi Fair 2010

Festival Date: 18th March 2010- 19th March 2010
Significance: Religious fair dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi
Venue: Kaila Village, Karauli, Rajasthan
Attractions: Kaila Devi Temple

Rajasthan in India is a land of mystique euphoria. The state of royalty is well-known for its vibrant culture, greatly enjoyed in the form of fairs and festivals. Kaila Devi Fair is among the many occasions, that presents the fusion of mythic legend with celebration. According to the Hindu festival calendar, the jazzing fair falls in the 12th day of Chaitra Budi, in month of Chaitra. The auspicious occasion attracts tourist from every corner of the country.

Kaila Devi Fair is organized in the premises of Kaila Devi Temple, one of the revered destinations in Rajasthan. It is dedicated to the worship of Mahalakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth. Devotees take delight to decorate the temple and its surrounding, a week prior to the fair. The courtyard of the temple is dotted with small shrines devoted to Lord Bhairon and Lord Hanuman, respectively. Rituals are observed and the festive atmosphere turns lively with performances by Rajasthani folks and Mina tribesmen.

Rituals in Kaila Devi Fair

The two-day festival pulls countless pilgrims from places like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh etc. Coconuts, Kajal(Kohl), Tikka(vermillion), bangles, sweets, flowers and cash are main offering to the deities. 'Kanak-Dandoti' is an interesting ritual, performed by the descendant of Goli Bhagat, who was once the great devotee of Goddess Kaila Devi. They visit the festival ground from Agra. Accordingly, observers cover a distance of about 15 to 20 Kms, just lying prostrate and marking lines with their hands. While some refresh themselves on the way, many dare to complete their faithful journey with eating nothing.

Apart from enjoying the rituals, song and dance programmes, tourist can take the pleasure of shopping at the make-shift shops. The beeline local stores exhibits antique accessories, which are worth buying.

How to reach

Kaila Devi Temple is positioned atop the Trikut hill, on the bank of Kalisil river. It is situated 2kms from Kaila village, 24 kms from Karauli district headquarters in Rajasthan.

Dance forms of Rajasthan

The first impression that the word 'Rajasthan' brings to our psyche is either the majestic forts and palaces or the vast boiling deserts that spell some kind of magic to the on-looker as well as the ones who has just heard about it. Tourists flood this western state of the India union every year to feel at home with the royal ways of the days gone and to wonder at the extreme craftsmanship of the past kings of Rajasthan. Being one of those millions who has visited Rajasthan, I myself confess that, walking down the wide corridors of these forts standing tall and spread across hills gives you goosebumps and a repertoire of memories that is there to stay.

However, amidst all these charismatic monuments, there exists the rich and diverse folk culture of Rajasthan. Rajasthani folk music, in recent times, has got some exposure which has increased its popularity and acceptance. We hear the sound of a Sarangi; thats Rajasthan mate!

The folk dance of Rajasthan is equally enchanting as its music. One of the most famous and popular forms is the Bhavai. The slender and articulate dancers with some six to seven pitchers balanced on their heads perform this dance. The elegance with which they move is something to be appreciated.

This one is perhaps the most well heard of, yes, I am talking about Ghoomar. Its association with the Rajput community makes its charm more enigmatic. Basically, it is performed by the women in the house circle and according to a legend, a bride is supposed to do it on being welcomed to her in-law's home. It is marked by the gracious swaying movements along with the traditionally woven dress. Performed in tandem with the beats of the music, it can blow your mind.

A treat to the connoisseurs of sensual art, Kalbeliya is one dance form that has its origin in the snake charmer community of Rajasthan. Drapped in black costume with silver ribbons, the dancers swing in circle and with progressing beat it catches pace and elegance.

An unisex dance form, Gair owes its inception to the celebration of Holy in Rajasthan. The dancers first move clockwise and later anti-clockwise with creating a harmonious sound by clashing their sticks that they hold in their hands.

In the conclusion it can be easily stated that these dance varsities add to the cultural plethora of Rajasthan in many ways. The need of the hour is to preserve these beautiful creations of art and let the feet moving to the rhythm.

Choki Dhani

Situated on the suburbs of pink city Jaipur, Chokhi Dhani village resort offers luxury in a unique style. Started on the line of traditional ethnic Rajasthani village, this resort truly represents the Rajasthani culture and tradition. The rich heritage and lifestyle of this colourful state is showcased through this resort. Fusion of tradition and hospitality gives you unique experience at Choki Dhani. This resort which started functioning in the year 1989, over the year has evolved as an important tourist attraction of Jaipur.

The best thing about Choki Dhani village is that for each day a theme is selected and there's a festive atmosphere through out the year. Fun, entertainment, games, thrill, Rajasthani diet, traditional dance and music, shopping and many more activities await you at Choki Dhani. The architecture and atmosphere of this resort give you a feeling of real Rajasthani village. This five star luxury resort is besotted with all the basic modern facilities like banquet hall, recreational activities, health club, swimming pool, spa, gym,etc. The most attractive part of Choki Dhani is the delicious Rajasthani cuisines.

Attractions of Choki Dhani

Sargahsulli Shopping Arcade: The architecture of this building characterize the historical clock tower. Numerous traditional items filled this shopping arcade.

Kotri: This is the reception cum lobby of Choki Dhani resort. It is adorned with mud-plastered floor, bamboo net ceiling and Rajasthani paintings and murals adoring the wall which will sure captivate the visitors.

Village Huts: There are 31 village huts and 34 executive huts. These spacious huts offer you complete peace and tranquil atmosphere. They are blended with modern comfort and amenities.

Shekhawati Haveli Suites: There are 8 royal suites which is tailored made for quite, intimate moments and restful time.

Bindola: This dining hall is quite grandeur in nature. Various types of dishes like Indian, Chinese and Continental are served here. A sprawling lawn which is located within its yard are capable of hosting up to 2000 people at a time in pure village ambience.

Restaurant and Bar: Sangri Restaurant is specially popular for delicious Rajasthani cuisines. Chandi Mahal Bar is the proud of Choka Dhani resort. The ceiling of this bar is fitted with more than 1,00,000 mirrors. The magnificently manufactured furniture will remind you the bygone era of former Maharajas.

Besides these Choki Dhani offer everything which a visitor could dream of. Experiencing urban lifestyle in a rural setting can only be done at Choki Dhani.

Mount Abu-Desert Hill Station

In the midst of barren desert land, Mount Abu arise from nowhere like a green oasis. The only hill station of desert state Rajasthan , this beautiful place is located in the southern edge of Aravali hill. Mount Abu experience cool climatic condition due to rich flora which encircles the area. Beside being an important summer destination, this place house large number of Dilwara Jain temples, which were built between 11th -13th century. This town is very important in terms of religious value too and has welcomed many sages and saints.

According to popular legend, many gods and goddess of Hindu visited the mountain of this picturesque town. The most popular among all the sage is Vashistha who is believed to have created four agnikula Rajput clan by performing Yagna . Mount Abu for long period of history was part of the Chauhan kingdom and for years served as summer shelter of Rajput kings of the Rajasthan. In the later year, this town became popular getaway for the British officers during summer. Even today Mount Abu is a very important hill station of India. Even for the scientist and conservationist, flora of this exceptionally beautiful town is quite intriguing to study.

Main Attractions

Nakki Lake: It is the most famous tourist attraction of Mount Abu. Crystal clear water and green surrounding make this lake a beautiful romantic getaway for the tourists. Nearby the lake, Raghunath Temple and Maharaja Jaipur Palace is also located and add to the beauty of lake.
Gaumukh Temple: Its is believed that famous 'Yagna' of sage Vashishtha was performed in this temple. There is a natural spring which flows from carved cow's head which gave this name to the shrine. There is also a majestic image of Nandi near the temple.
Adhar Devi Temple: Favourite among the tourists this temple has been chiseled out from a huge rock and can be reached by climbing 360 number of steps.

Dilwara Jain Temple: These magnificently curved group of temple was built around 11th to 13th century AD. Built using marble, this temple is dedicated to Jain Tirthankara. Of all these, Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest dedicated to Jain Tirthankara and was built in 1031 AD by Vimal Shah a merchant.
Parks and Sanctuaries: Mount Abu Wild life sanctuary established in 1960 is a popular attraction. It covers area of around 290 km and is home to many interesting wild animals. There are also many beautiful gardens and lakes which adorned the entire hill. Ashok Vatika,Gandhi park, Municipal Park,Shaitan Singh Park and Terrace Garden are some of the popular gardens of Mount Abu.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Bharatpur bird sanctuary is a very famous bird sighting place. Located in the Rajasthan state of India, this bird sanctuary welcome large number of migratory birds from all over the world. Many aquatic birds from China, Afghanistan, Siberia and Turkmenistan often visit this place during winter. Among all, Siberian crane is the most popular. More than 370 species of birds are found in this sanctuary. UNESCO declared it as world heritage site in the year 1985 for being home to many endangered and beautiful bird species.

This sanctuary is believed to be more than 250 year old and is also known as Keoladeo national park. During colonial era this area was used as hunting ground by the British officers and former Maharajas. After independence, till 1972 shooting were allowed for the former rulers. This park is spread around the area of 29 sq-km, out of which 11 sq-km are marshes and rest comprises of grassland and scrubland. Even though this sanctuary is open through out the year, the best time to visit is from August to November for resident birds and November-March for the migratory birds.

Attractions

Bharatpur bird sanctuary is home to more than 370 species of birds. Some of them reside permanently while others are migratory birds. Some of the popular species of birds found here are Cranes, Pelicans, Geese, Ducks, Eagles, Hawks, Shanks, Stints, Wagtails, Warblers, Wheatears, Flycatchers, Buntings, Larks, Pipits, etc. Most of the migratory birds arrive just before the onset of winter and leave in the month of February to their respective destinations. The famous migratory birds are Coot Snipes, Spanish Sparrow, Red Crested Porhard, Rosy Pelican, Famingo and most popular of all is Siberian Crane.

This bird sanctuary is also home to many wild animals like Jackal, Hyena, Fishing Cat, Jungle cat, Nilgai, Sambar, Blackbuck and Wild Boar. This place is considered to be the Asia's best birding areas. Many bird lovers from across the world visit this sanctuary to have a close look at these beautiful creatures. Apart from this bird sanctuary, there are some fantastic locations around Bharatpur which are worth visiting. Bharatpur government museum is good place to revisit the royal past of state. Remains from the time of former Rajput rulers can be found in this museum. Nearby this museum there is Bharatpur Palace, whose architecture is wonderful mixture of Mughal and Rajput style. Another famous attraction around Bharatpur is Lohagarh fort.