Along

Along
the north-western edge of India
on the border of Pakistan,
Rajasthan
is often referred to as “the land of kings”. The country’s largest
state, it’s a vivid fuchsia and marigold-tinged jewellery box,
scattered with romantic remnants of epic sandcastle forts,
crumbling havelis, fairy-tale palaces and throbbing pastel-coloured
cities. Set against an evocative backdrop of wild desert scenery
and jungles, where leopards and tigers still roam free, it is not
surprising that this must-visit destination has earned a place on
most travellers’ wish lists.

In the midst of the great Thar Desert on the westernmost edge of
Rajasthan, Jaisalmer – also called The Golden City for its span of
sandstone buildings that become the colour of honey as the sun sets
– is known for its enchantingly ornate havelis, vibrant bazaars and
a looming fort that rises magnificently from the sandy plains.
Inside, its still-inhabited warren of narrow streets are lined with
beautifully carved Jain temples and crumbling medieval buildings
that house charming B&Bs, shops swathed in colourful textiles,
fragrant restaurants and the private homes of about 4,000
residents.

While 4AM might seem like a ridiculous hour to wake up when
you’re on holiday, getting to Jaisalmer in time for the sunrise is
worth it. Similarly, a romantic camel ride along the rolling sand
dunes at sunset is just as evocative.

Rajasthan’s second-largest city, Jodhpur is presided over by the
mighty Mehrangarh, an imposing, muscular fort and architectural
masterpiece built in 1460. Head to the top for a bird’s eye-view of
the Brahmin-blue city that begins at the base of the fort and
sprawls out to the 16th-century city wall. Inside, a tangle of
medieval streets are a chaotic cacophony of blaring motorbike
horns, heady fragrances and throngs of people.

Thought to be one of the oldest settlements in India, Pushkar is
a Hindu pilgrimage town that unfolds from a central holy lake and
also has one of the world’s few Brahma temples. Away from the
humming soundtrack of prayers, chanting and drums, the town is also
famous for its annual camel fair, a colourful event where 200,000
or so visitors descend on the region for a riotous festival of
camel trading, carnival rides and holy rituals.

Explore the holy town and the surrounding region on camel back
by booking a safari, which can be anything from an hour to a full
day’s excursion.

Udaipur is a former royal capital and arguably one of the most
romantic destinations in the world. Magnificent palaces, temples,
havelis and lively bazaars jostle against the sacred ghats that
line the shimmering lake front, all backed by the rugged folds of
the Aravalli Hills. One of the best ways to view Udaipur’s glassy
lakes is from above. Sign up for a hot air balloon ride for a
thrilling and unique perspective.

Rajasthan’s capital city is an intoxicating mix of old and new,
where wide streets are colourfully chaotic thanks to mopeds, buses,
rickshaws, people and camels. At the city’s heart, the City Palace
is still home to the former royal family and, away from the mayhem,
on the outskirts, is the magnificent Amber Fort – the Pink City’s
crown jewel.

A walking tour through the old city is the best way to discover
Jaipur’s gems, such as the Palace of the Winds and the City
Palace.

Once a hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur, today
Ranthambore National Park is the best place to spot wild tigers.
Set over 1334 sq km of jungle, bordered by hefty ridges, the park
features the central 10th-century Ranthambore Fort with ancient
temples, mosques and crumbling hunting pavilions scattered around
it. Take the time to visit the fortification – now a UNESCO World
Heritage site – worth it for the sweeping widespread vistas of the
park.