History
Rajasthan is the abode of Maharajas and has rich cultural heritage. It is the largest state of the country. With uncountable forts, palaces and monuments, the history of Rajasthan attracts several history buffs.
Rajasthan was formerly known as Rajputana as it was ruled over by Rajputs. Rajputs refers to 'son of rulers'. They emerged in the beginning of 8th century and established their kingdom. Around 1200 AD, Muslim invaders entered in Rajasthan. A number of states fall into the hands of Mughal rulers. Mewar was the most powerful and impressive state of Rajasthan at the offset of 13th century. Never before the reign of Akbar, was Rajasthan united as one political unit. Mughal Empire started declining after 1707. In 1755, Marathas conquered Ajmer and marked their entry into Rajasthan. In 1817-18, Rajasthan witnessed the rule of the British with the conclusion of alliance treaties with the British government. After independence, Rajputana (now Rajasthan) consisted of 18 princely states, 2 chieftains and the province of Ajmer-Merwara. After the integration of all the princely states, Rajputana came to be known as Rajasthan in the year 1956.
There are myriad forts and havelis that tell the history of Rajasthan. The architectural splendor of yesteryear is still visible within the walls of these palaces, forts and havelis. Endowed with exceptional architecture and intricate carvings, these palatial manors remind of grandeur and elegance of bygone era.
Culture
With exceptionally good architecture, Rajasthan dance and song, delectable cuisine, vibrant fairs and festivals, your Rajasthan cultural tour allows you to get an insight of this land of valor and gallantry. This desert jewel of the country is blessed with rich and colorful cultural heritage. From folk music to handicrafts and from festivals to paintings, the culture of Rajasthan speaks high of vibrancy and richness.
Music and Dance of Rajasthan
A tour with About Rajasthan offers an opportunity to learn more about the folk dance and music of Rajasthan. The folk dance and song of Rajasthan represent an important part of the cultural heritage of the state. Gair Ghoomar, Geri, Raika and Jhoria are few folk dances of the state. Ghoomar dance is particularly performed by women and Gair is only performed by men on the occasion of Holi. Matka-bhawai, Kachhi Ghodi, Kalbeila and terah taali are other dance performances
Fairs and Festivals
Fairs and Festivals of Rajasthan bring life to the barren land. All fairs and festivals of Rajasthan are an important part of the culture and fill the colors in air. The people of Rajasthan celebrate every festival with great joy and enthusiasm. These festivals give a peek into the lifestyle of people. Be it Teej or Diwali, every festival has its own importance. Camel race and horse race are other traditional and local festivals that attract travelers.
Art and Craft of Rajasthan
Rajasthan boasts of its splendid art and craft. Paintings, pottery, woodcarving, jewellery making and fabric weaving have their own places in the growing tourism industry. Many travelers from the corners of the country are charmed by the handicraft of Rajasthan.
Climate of Rajasthan
Rajasthan falls located the northwestern region of India and falls in the Thar Desert region. The climate in Rajasthan fluctuates greatly. The western areas of Rajasthan are comparatively dry and the southwestern region is hilly and fertile. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are cold in the desert areas. Pre-Monsoons, Monsoon, Post-Monsoon and winter are four seasons of Rajasthan.
Pre Monsoon or summer season in Rajasthan stretches from April to June. Pre-monsoon season is the hottest season of Rajasthan and the average temperature ranges from 32°C to 45°C. The western region of Rajasthan some time experiences 48°C during the months of May and June. Mount Abu is the only place where the temperature is lowest during pre-monsoon season.
Monsoon season prevails from the month of July to September. Temperature at this season generally falls down but humidity remains on its peak. About 90% rain falls during monsoon season in Rajasthan.
Post-monsoon season extends from October to December. At this pre-monsoon period, the maximum temperature rises to 38°C and the minimum temperature fall down to 18°C. Winter season starts from January to March in Rajasthan. January is the coolest month and sometime temperature falls below 0°C. If you are planning a tour to Rajasthan then avoid summer and monsoon season. The best time to take a tour to Rajasthan is from January to March. |