Rajasthan

Rajasthan constitutes most of the area known as The Golden Triangle and is one of the most colourful and picturesque regions of India. Most of the state comprises the magnificent Thar Desert – part of the sand belt which encircles the world. The arid landscape, dominated by the jagged skyline of the Aravalli Mountains, contrasts with the tranquillity of placid blue lakes and cool, shady gardens.

The vivid turbans of the Rajputs, a group of warrior clans who controlled this area for a thousand years, the vibrant saris of the women and the intricately painted temple elephants combine into a kaleidoscope of colour. The area is steeped in the history of the martial Rajputs and tales of treachery and courage abound, witnessed by the multitude of majestic palaces and forts. Many of these have since been converted into luxurious hotels, some still owned and managed by the descendant families. Such magnificent fortresses, painted havelis (merchants’ houses) and the astounding beauty of its legendary monuments rightly make Rajasthan one of India’s most visited areas.