RUCHIKASTHAN
Rajasthan through eyes of Ruchika
RUCHIKA | 25th Dec, 2016
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Cycling at Kumbhalgarh
Nestled In the hills of the Aravallis, the fort of Kumbhalgarh is a 15th century World Heritage Site built by the Mewar King Rana Khumba. It is the birthplace of the great king and legendary warrior Maharana Pratap. Dazzling lights light up the fort every evening. The 38-km wall is the second largest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. A great way to explore the little town of Kumbalgarh is by cycle, up and downhill on the picturesque terrain. Stop along the way to see ancient Jain and Hindu temples, there are over 300 of them in nooks and corners, and also catch stunning views of the hills.
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People of Rajasthan
The people of the majestic State of Rajasthan are as varied as its landscape; Rajputs, Aryans, forest dwellers of Bhil, Muslims and Hindu craftsmen, and more. Rajasthan is also home to many tribes, steeped in culture and history, which have inhabited the state for years. Their colourful costumes, heavy silver jewelry, flamboyant fairs and festivals are unparalleled. Women wear long colourful skirts with beads and mirror work in rich hues of their surroundings like orange, red and yellow, and some even with intricately woven gold thread, making them stand out in their stark landscape. They cover their face with a scarf or odhni?? which protects them from the harsh sun and winds. The men wear kurtas and turbans in vibrant fabric and have huge, well-groomed moustaches that they take pride in.The people have a zest for life and love to entertain guests with rich tradition woven into their unique cuisine, music and dance.
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The Fairy Queen
The majestic Fairy Queen is the steam locomotive that runs between New Delhi and Alwar. This heritage locomotive has made it to the Guinness Book of Records in 1998 as being the world's oldest in regular operation. It began its journey in Calcutta in 1855. A ride on the Fairy Queen will treat you to a glimpse of gorgeous, rustic countryside of Rajasthan, the Sariska tiger reserve, and royal treatment aboard the train. Enjoy a journey back in time with a slice of heritage, thrill of wildlife and romance of trains!
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Bhangarh
The village of Bhangarh, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, on the border of the Sariska tiger reserve, is famous for its historical ruins, particularly the fort of Bhangarh. The town is deserted as legend has it that this town and the fort is haunted. During the day time, do make sure there are beautiful ruins to explore.
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Ajmer Shariff Dargah
The Dargah of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chisthi at Ajmer, which houses his tomb, is an important place of worship for Hindus and Muslims alike. There is an old saying that people who visit Ajmer Sharif and pray faithfully will attain freedom for their soul. It contains daalaans and courtyards of Mughal architecture, a massive gate donated by the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Akbari Mosque, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Akbar and his queen used to come here by foot from Agra every year on a pilgrimage to pray for a son. The Akbar Mosque inside Ajmer Sharif was built by the emperor as a token of his gratitude following the birth of his son, Jahangir.