Many times I am asked by friends about my favorite place in India, and each time I invariably answer with Rajasthan. Usually, I would be met with a surprised reply: “What about the Taj Mahal in Agra? Or New Delhi?”
While my month-long initial trip to India took me to many breathtaking places that genuinely provided me with incredible cultural and spiritual widening experiences—such as Varanasi, Agra, Cochin, Mumbai, and Kolkata—the specific places I visited in the state of Rajasthan truly left a collection of fascinating images permanently etched in my mind: stunning desert landscapes, grandiose forts and palaces, colorful bazaars, friendly people, and absolutely delicious food.
Rajasthan On My Mind
A Place Fit for a Maharaja
The massive state of Rajasthan and its various cities were historically ruled by a long succession of Mahārājas (Sanskrit for “High King”). Throughout these turbulent centuries leading up to the 18th century, these prominent rulers who governed the many kingdoms across Rajasthan left behind a staggering number of forts and palaces that now proudly stand as fascinating, tangible reminders of that glorious past.
The grandness of these awe-inspiring structures, which up to now are impeccably conserved, heavily influenced many luxury hotels and boutique accommodations currently operating in Rajasthan. A vast number of premium places, such as the world-acclaimed Trident Gurgaon, consistently dish out a royal-like, opulent atmosphere to their guests, effectively making them feel like modern-day Maharajas when it comes to enjoying the fine comforts and kingly treatment these world-class hotels in Rajasthan successfully provide.
A Sense of History Everywhere
Whether casually walking along the crowded, chaotic streets of the different bustling cities in Rajasthan or deeply exploring every hidden corner of the many stellar forts and palaces in historical places like Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, and Jodhpur (all cities in Rajasthan which I personally visited), one never runs out of picking up newly found historical and cultural knowledge.
Accompanying all this rich information jamboree that quickly fills your curious mind are equally striking, unforgettable sceneries such as the famed blue city of Jodhpur and the majestic pink city of Jaipur, just to highlight these two—among the many stunning visual highlights I witnessed across the state of Rajasthan.
The Desert Landscape is a Charm
One of my fondest, most cherished memories of Rajasthan was when we successfully embarked on an exciting two-day desert camping trip in Jaisalmer. It was right here where I finally saw the finest rolling sand dunes stretching endlessly as far as my eyes could see.
Appearing incredibly golden under the warm afternoon sky, we physically slept right over the cool sands on a thin mattress. Under the vast ceiling of nighttime stars and the bright shine of the moon, I slept incredibly soundly—only to be gently awoken by the sharp hiss of the cold desert wind and the spectacular, life-affirming sight of the rising sun slowly inching upward over the glowing sands in the foreground.
I could honestly never think of any other way to successfully top this incredible desert jaunt than experiencing this highly memorable moment alongside a brand-new set of friends composed entirely of like-minded wanderers from various other parts of India.
I could easily enumerate a very long list of compelling reasons why I am deeply enamored by Rajasthan, even though I have barely scratched the surface of exploring its sheer entirety. This singular fact alone makes my burning desire to come back to India and thoroughly pass by Rajasthan again one of my main travel goals for the coming year. As I always say, ‘Rajasthan is always on my mind,’ and for an undeniably good cause, it is definitely there to stay.
