RAJASTHAN

JAIPUR – Timeless wonders drenched in salmon, Jaipur stands tall in its magnificence. The splendour of the City Palace, the intricate designs of the Hawa Mahal and the history attached to the Amer Fort Palace; the architectural finesse of the buildings of Jaipur stand testament to the great city. The elephant safari, the Jal Mahal, the Jantar Mantar—the city of Jaipur leaves you spoilt for choices with its multiple forts, gardens, wells and temples. Make a trip to Chokhi Dhani to get a taste of an authentic Rajasthani feast complete with food items such as sangri and dal-bati. Jaipur is a 230kms drive from Delhi.

LOHAGARH FORT – Among the numerous forts and palaces of Bharatpur, the Lohagarh Fort, or Iron Fort, is perhaps the most iconic. The fort is believed to be virtually impregnable with deep moats on each side; it stood its ground against the British when they laid a six-week siege on it. Along with the various palaces like the Mahal Khas and the Kamra Palace, the fort also holds a museum, the imposing towers of Jawahar and Fateh Burj, Ganga and Laxman Temples, an art gallery and the Nehru Park. The Bharatpur railway junction is the closest to Lohagarh fort. The nearest airport is Kheria Airport in Agra, 49kms away.

THAR DESERT – Colourful costumes, music, desert culture and sand as far as the eye can see, the Thar Desert vibrates with its beauty and traditions. Surrounded by the golden (Jaisalmer), pink (Jaipur) and blue (Jodhpur) cities and the city of lakes (Udaipur), the Thar Desert is bustling with activities for all travellers. From desert safaris to dune bashing, parasailing, quad biking to staying at royal palaces and experiencing the desert festivals, the grandeur of the Thar Desert can never fail to amaze. Jaisalmer airport, closest to the desert, has domestic flights coming in from cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

SHEKHAWATI – Nestled in northeast Rajasthan, the historical region of Shekhawati is a favourite for travellers. Visit Sikar to find multiple havelis such as those of Bansidhar Rathi, Kedia and Sawant Ram Chokhani.

The Khatu Shyamji village is known for its temple and the Khatu Shyamji fair. Places like Churu and Dundlod are known for their iconic forts and Fatehpur revels in its 15th century glory. Try the horse safaris or the Heritage on Wheels luxury train and attend some of the vibrant fairs and festivals in the area. The nearest railway station is Jhunjhunu which is connected to cities such as Jaipur, Delhi, Indore and Pune.