As we made our way through the vast Rajasthan desert from Jaipur and Jodhpur, the golden-colored terrain seemed as familiar as the blue skies above. The contrast of colors in this part of India added an extra layer of visual interest to our journey. We had also developed a routine which included bazaar hopping, street food exploration, and stepping inside centuries-old palaces and giant forts.

Sprawled all over India are remnants of its mercurial past filled with stories of conquest, domination and repulsion of enemies. The massive thick walls still standing today represents the saving grace of kingdoms past - led mainly by the many Maharajas, whose mighty grip as rulers transcends and echoes still today, endlessly symbolized by these artistic ruins yet proudly erected Forts - a few of which we conquered on our 25-day jaunt around India.