SUDIPTOSTHAN
Rajasthan Through eyes of Sudipto
SUDIPTO DE | Dec 25th, 2016
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Camel Research Centre
The ship of the desert is a wonderful animal indeed. The National Research Centre for Camels located in Bikaner gives you an insight into the life of this majestic creature. Behind enclosures and stables, we checked out the different species of camels including the double-humped Bactrian camel of the Nubra valley. Their calves are fun to spend time with, and a lick from their coarse tongues is something that you'll remember for the rest of your life. We also tried out the thick, creamy ice cream made from camelâ??s milk. Visiting hours are from 2 pm to 6.30 pm.
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Parasailing
The best way to check out the golden sand dunes of Rajasthan is from a bird's eye view. Parasailing high above the ground, we saw the sun glisten on the sand below. The best place to parasail is Jaisalmer, which offers a luxurious desert camping experience along with it. It is a truly exhilarating feeling, especially when the setting sun reflects off the sand and creates shadows around the camels as they return home.
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Desert National Park
Second to the camel, the Indian Bustard is the most important animal of the Thar Desert. This endangered bird calls the Desert National Park in Jaisalmer its home. Although preservation efforts are on, ours might be the last generation to see this majestic animal. We also found a plethora of migratory birds that visited the park. It is a riot of colours just before winter sets in and is the perfect place for bird watchers. The Gadsisar Sagar Tank is the perfect place for ornithologists to set up post, as most birds congregate here.
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Sonar Quila
The Sonar Quila in Jaisalmer holds a special place in the hearts of every Bengali. Satyajit Ray's iconic movie Sonar Quila was shot here. The Jaisalmer fort is a remnant of an era gone by. This 12th century fort has been a part of the ancient silk route and pays homage to Rajputana architecture. The ornate houses made out of sandstone offers us an insight into the royal heritage of our country. The Jain temples in the complex are something that mesmerized us. The fort also offers ample opportunities for photographers to click themselves a piece of history.
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Lac Jewellery
If you are going with the missus and not buying her the famous lac jewellery, your trip to Rajasthan isn't complete. This brightly colored jewellery is made of glass and the bangles are famous the world over. The Johari Bazaar at Jaipur offered us the best place to bargain and buy some of the most blingy jewellery that you can possibly imagine. We went into the deep reaches of the twisted alleyways to find the cheapest deals. Do not bog down from getting friendly with the locals but do enjoy the bargaining.