Heads Up is our new series of ‘What to Expect’ when you’re visiting India. It will give you a Heads Up on what to do to ensure your trip is hassle free! The list will also help you make the most of your time here.
Read on the find out ‘What To Know’ before visiting the Royal State of India– Rajasthan. Rajasthan is a big state with many cities in it to visit. It is also known as the Colourful state because of the abundance of colour in the various cities. Read on to find out what colour which city is famous for; pro tip- you could coordinate your outfits to match the city!
Jodhpur:
Jodhpur is blue.
You will find yourself in a sea of blue with blue tinted mirrors, blue architecture interspersed with whites and blue painted houses as well. You could call Jodhpur, India’s version of Santorini!
Udaipur:
Udaipur is white.
Udaipur is known to be one of India’s most beautiful destination weddings as it is full of havelis (palaces) that belonged to Kings and the architecture along with the pristine and pure Udaipur lake calls for an amazingly scenic view and atmosphere. All pretty related to the connotation of the colour white, isn’t it? Heads Up about Udaipur- it is said that the ego of the Maharaja’s in the pre-independence period is clearly visible in their so called subjects as well, who only treat foreigners with respect. So if you’re an Indian tourist, you may have to work a little harder to get your way around!
Jaipur:
Jaipur is Pink.
While all Rajasthani cities are known for their palaces, apart from the beautiful palaces in Jaipur, this city is known for its fabrics and prints with regarding to clothing. The city is coloured with Pink- all shades of it, and will definitely give you a feeling of being in a princess’ quarter!
Jaisalmer:
Jaisalmer is Golden.
Being a desert state, the sands signify the abundance of golden colour across the city. Jaisalmer is known for its camel safari’s, make sure you try them out on your visit here! Heads Up about Jaisalmer- Experience the desert, do a Camel Safari and end the day with a nice outdoor stay in one of the many outdoor tent hotels available!
Also Read: 7 Uncommon Reasons Why Mumbai is A City of Dreams
Now that you know which colour each city is associated with- here are a few pointers on what you should expect on your trip to Rajasthan.
1. The Weather
No surprises here, Rajasthan is a hot state. Most tourists do visit Rajasthan to enjoy the warm weather conditions, it also allows for them to stay out longer and make the most of their trips to this state. It is not always hot though. The coldest month in Rajasthan is January. Places like Churu, Sikar, Pilani and Bikaner enjoy a minimum temperature of -2°C at night, during winter.
HeadsUp!
The heat can become too much to bear. Thus, carrying hydrating beverages and cooling products can help keeping you from getting sun strokes or dehydrated.
2. Ranthambore
Rathambore National Park is a must visit for animal and wildlife lovers. Lush and exotic forests with remnants of forts from the bygone era, it has a totally different historic feel to it which no other forest in India can boast about. This place often doesn’t make it to every tourist’s itinerary as there is already so much to see and do in Rajasthan, but if you like animals this place should definitely find a spot on your itinerary!
HeadsUp!
Do find out the best times to visit and the activities available at the park before going. Plan your visit accordingly and make the most of it! Also, avoid travelling alone at night to Ranthambore or any remote area in Rajasthan. A tourist in Rajasthan should not trust the local transport such as cab and auto-rickshaw drivers, as they tend to exaggerate the actual fare to get more money from non-natives. Book your travel from a trustworthy cab service!
3. The Crowd
Rajasthan being the gorgeous state that it is, often attracts tourists all year round. So no matter when you choose to visit, chances are that you will find yourself being swamped with people all around. If you’re from India, you will probably be used to it, and if you’re not- give it two days and the crowd won’t bother you anymore!
HeadsUp!
Do not get offended with the tone of speech of the locals living in eastern Rajasthan. The natives, mainly comprising Gurjar and Jat community, speak in a heavy tone and that is their nature.
4. The Annual Fare
February is when Rajasthan conducts its annual fair which comprises of live Indian folk dances, performances by the Indian Defence forces and camel races. Pushkar is a place specifically known for its camel races. It is a must visit to get a glimpse into the culture of Rajasthan.
Heads Up!
If crowds and noise is not your thing, and you are looking for a visit to Rajasthan filled with palace visits and historical experiences, this may not be the best option for you. Try to find out more about the fair and what it encompasses before deciding to go.
5. Photographers Paradise
Well of course, Rajasthan is known for its palaces and hence if you are fond of photography, you are bound to get some amazing shots of the havelis, people, colours and culture.
HeadsUp!
There are many places which prohibit photography. Do let the rules of the places you’re visiting just to be sure, before you go off with your camera! Further, while it may seem tempting to click pictures of everything around, do take time out to physically see and enjoy the place. Take mental pictures too!
6. The Water Issue
Water scarcity is a problem in rural and under-privileged areas, not in cities. It cities too there are issues here and there but is not that you won’t find water around but with the temperature rising you may be in need of a lot of water which may not be readily available. Carry your own water from your hotel wherever you go and if water is not available try finding other options like tender coconut or refreshing juices to quench your thirst!
Heads Up!
Never waste water if you are in Rajasthan. And never ask any local if they get enough water to drink. The locals know the worth of water. So much so, in Jodhpur, the locals keep a pot of water in a separate room in their house and they worship it as well.
7. The Dress Code
Rajasthan is the place to put all your Indian and ethnic clothes to use. If you are non-native to India, Rajasthan is also the best place to buy some beautiful Indian clothes to take back home. As mentioned before, you will fit right in if you choose to match your outfits to the colour of the city!
Heads Up!
While the Rajasthani’s are not completely against jeans a tee’s; take extra care while visiting palaces and places of worship. Make sure you are appropriately dressed as the localites make take offense to skimpy dressing.
So looks like you have almost everything covered! Remember these little notes on What To Know while visiting Rajasthan and you will be just fine. There will always be some unexpected occurrences on your trip, embrace them too- everything becomes a memory in the end!
Hope the Rajasthan travel guide was helpful and would prepare you for the trip better. Read more Travel guides about other places in India on Yeh Hai India .
