Rajasthan, an ancient land of princes, palaces and preening peacocks, is renowned for its great monuments, exquisite art and culture, that date back to several centuries. There is a haunting air of romance, about the state, which is palpable in its every nook and corner. The state represents an unusual diversity in all its forms - people, culture, customs, costumes, cuisine, dialects and music. Rajasthan is a destination that defies definition.

You begin your journey from the capital city, Jaipur. Known as the Pink City because of the colour of the stone used exclusively in the walled city, Jaipur’s bazaars are a shopper’s delight. Travel to Bikaner, which too has echoes of the past in its sandstone palace, temples and cenotaphs. Next you visit Jaisalmer, in the heart of the desert, surrounded by sand dunes, which rendered the sand coloured fort impregnable. Today it is an inhabited city whose chief attraction is lacy filigree of pierced stonework facades of private houses, and a series of ornately carved Jain temples. Finally visit Jodhpur’s exquisitely lovely fort, now a museum; art deco royal palace converted into a hotel, and quaint markets, all vividly testifying to the history of the princely state.

There is no place in Rajasthan, which appeals more to the imagination of poets and painters, travellers and writers than Udaipur. Spend 2 nights in the romantic city of Udaipur to have a perfect ending to your trip of Rajasthan.