Seniors' Special Rajasthan Marwad

Today we explore Ummaid Bhavan Palace Musuem – almost 75 years old architectural marvel now turned into museum showcasing artistic murals, opulent miniature paintings, vintage clocks and unusual household paraphernalia. In the afternoon, we visit the Mehrangarh Fort – which stands four hundred feet above the skyline of Jodhpur. The fort is burnished in Red Sandstone and its colossal structure is surely impressive in all manner. Here we will see Moti Mahal – largest room in fort whose ceiling is decorated with Gold Leaves, Sea Shells and Mirrors, Phool Mahal – Pleasure dome of the Maharajas, Sheesh Mahal – Decorative mirror palace with brightly coloured paintings, Silah Khana – place where weapons were stored, Daulat Khana – treasure vault and Rang Mahal. Later we visit Jaswant Thada – a royal cenotaph built in the white marble also known as Taj Mahal of Marwar. We then see the Sanganeri Block Prints Demonstration – a hand-block printing technique originating from Sanganer. In the evening we have free time for shopping.

Today we proceed to Jaisalmer – Golden City of desert famed for its yellow sandstone architecture. Upon arrival we take blissful boat ride in Gadisar Lake surrounded by many temples, shrines and Ghats. Later we enjoy delightful puppet show – a preserved ancient folk art of Rajasthan.

Today we explore Jaisalmer City. We visit Golden Fort – a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the very few living forts in the world, as nearly one fourth the population of the city still resides within the Fort followed by visit to Jain Mandir – craved in yellow sandstones dedicated to Jain hermits known as Tirthankars. Later we visit Patwon ki Haweli Museum – Palace built in early 1800s, now a museum featuring intricate carvings, furniture and artwork and see Nathmalji ki haveli. It’s time to visit Kuldhara – an abandoned village believed to be cursed. We then proceed to famous Sam Sand Dunes. Upon arrival we experience thrilling Dune Bashing over the golden sands of Jaisalmer. In the evening we get an opportunity to witness the spectacular beauty of sandy terrain by taking joyful Camel Ride and view Red Orange colour splash of sunset on horizon of desert. Later we enjoy a traditional Rajasthani Folk Dance with dinner.

Today we proceed to Bikaner – former capital of princely state of Bikaner and known worldwide for its savoury snacks Bikaneri Bhujia. En route we visit the Jaisalmer War Museum – established in the military station in order to honour the soldiers of the 'Battle of Longewala' that was fought in the year 1971. It embraces the bravery and sacrifices of the Indian Army. Upon arrival we visit Asia's biggest Camel Research Farm to get up close with the different camel breeds and baby camels.

Today morning we visit Karani Mata Temple – a Hindu temple dedicated to Karani Mata and famous for the approximately 25,000 black rats that live and are revered in the temple. Later we explore the Junagarh Fort – an impressive fort standing with all its regal glory as an epitome of architectural brilliance. The dazzling and exquisite structures of this fort, balconies, gardens and kiosks etc. depicts a composite architectural style influenced by cultural differences of Indian and foreign inspirations. Here we see Anup Mahal, Gaj Mandir, Sheesh Mahal, and Prachina Museum and Sadual Museum. We proceed to Mandawa – a quaint little town in a heart of Shekhavati region popularly known as Open Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan. The town is replete with paved Archways, Magnificent Havelis and Fortresses.

Today we visit Mandawa fort, decorated with paintings of Lord Krishna and also adorned with artistic carvings and amazing mirror work. We then have free time to relax and explore the surroundings.