As the temperatures dip, Indians get bitten by the travel bug and how! Long vacations, short trips or adventure trails are all chalked out. There are plenty of places to mark your vacation spot this winter but the first one that springs to mind is the princely state of Rajasthan.

Showing its best side in winter Rajasthan charms with its royal attractions, Mughlai food and soft silks. A few among the best are:

Jaipur: As the capital city, Jaipur draws more crowds. You can have a brush with royalty at the royal Amer Fort and City Palace, gorge on some local delicacies and binge on shopping. Add some elephant rides at the fort and the Jaipur Literary festival held in winter and Jaipur becomes a sought out destination; one you definitely won’t want to miss.

Udaipur: It is love at first sight for this lake city of Rajasthan. The reflection of the Lake Palace on the waters of Lake Pichola is perhaps the most romantic sight in the world. The City Palace and the Jain Temple are spectacular. You will not want to miss the evening shows at the Bagore-ki-Haveli and the vintage car collection of the Maharaja of Udaipur when in the town.

Jodhpur: The blue city of Rajasthan with the backdrop of Mehrangarh Fort is best viewed from the turrets of the city’s imposing fortress. Have gem stone shopping on your agenda and you are sure to come back pleased. You will not want to miss out on tasting some of Jodhpur’s delicious kachoris and samosas.

Jaisalmer: At Jaisalmer you are at the threshold of the Thar Desert. Get the authentic desert experience with camel rides, ethnic havelis and the sand coloured Jaisalmer Fort. A camping trip in the desert at winter is a magical experience with the bright and starry night skies, invigorating desert air and cosy bonfires.

Ajmer and Pushkar: The tour of Rajasthan will be incomplete without seeking blessings of the Almighty at the Dargah Sharif in Ajmer and the Pushkar temple with the Pushkar Lake. History says that Akbar would walk from Agra to the Durgah in Ajmer to pray. Mythology reveals that the Pushkar temple is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma and was created when Brahma dropped a lotus on earth.

The winter season is magical in India. Add to the magic by a visit to Rajasthan.

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