Rajasthan, Land of the Kings
An Empire, frozen in time.
Spring Gate at City Palace, Jaipur
The word Rajasthan literally means “King Land” or “Land of Kings”, and it is so aptly named! If you decide to add to your travel itinerary a visit to any part of this vast state, I highly recommend hiring a tour guide. It’s not a museum and you don’t need to be a history buff, but you may be surprised to understand what you’re looking at and the meaning behind it. These gorgeous vestiges make for fabulous Instagram shots but they have been standing since long before the camera was ever invented. Let’s see some of the most photographed and most impactful spaces in Rajasthan!
Rajasthan has a uniquely unified culture, despite not becoming a unified state until 1949. Before that, the conquests of clans, emperors and kings had divided the state into fragmented cities and districts. These kingdoms were briefly taken over and ruled as one province under Emperor Akbar of the Mughals. It is from this period in time that we still see a great influence over the blending of cultures in this region of India. Language, food, architecture, clothing and manners all seem to stem from the era of the Mughal empire. As you travel this vast and populous state, look for connections and symbols woven through the textile of the peoples and places you visit.
Things to do…
Speaking of these incredibly historically rich places, here are a few you must visit while your in Rajasthan!
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Mehrangarh Fort
Blue City Galli
Jaswant Thadi
Bone Inlay Artisans
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The Lake Palace
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Jaisalmer Fort
Gadisar Lake
Haveli
Thar Desert Camel Safari
Antique Shops