If you are looking for a royal and romantic getaway in India, look no further than Jodhpur and Udaipur, two of the most enchanting cities in Rajasthan. These cities are steeped in history, culture, and beauty, and offer a glimpse into the glorious past of the Rajput kings and queens. Whether you want to explore the majestic forts and palaces, enjoy the scenic lakes and gardens, or indulge in the local cuisine and handicrafts, Jodhpur and Udaipur have something for everyone.
What is the history of Jodhpur and Udaipur?
The history of Jodhpur and Udaipur is very rich and fascinating, as both cities were once the capitals of powerful Rajput kingdoms. Jodhpur was founded by Rao Jodha, the chief of the Rathore clan, in 1459. He built the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, which overlooks the blue-hued houses of the city. Jodhpur was also a major trade center, as it was located on the route from Delhi to Gujarat. Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II, the ruler of the Sisodia clan, in 1559. He built the beautiful City Palace, which is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Udaipur is also known for its romantic lakes and palaces, such as the Lake Palace and the Jag Mandir.
Why Visit Jodhpur
Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City, is famous for its stunning Mehrangarh Fort, which towers over the city and offers a panoramic view of the blue-hued houses below. The fort is a marvel of architecture and art, with intricate carvings, paintings, and museums. You can also visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the largest and most luxurious residences in the world, where you can experience the royal lifestyle of the current Maharaja. Jodhpur is also a paradise for shoppers, as you can find a variety of items such as leather goods, silver jewelry, bandhani fabrics, and spices in the bustling markets.
Why Visit Udaipur
Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes, is renowned for its romantic and picturesque setting, surrounded by the Aravalli hills and dotted with lakes and palaces. The most iconic attraction is the Lake Palace, a white marble wonder that floats on Lake Pichola and was featured in the James Bond film Octopussy. You can also visit the City Palace, a complex of several palaces and courtyards, where you can admire the exquisite craftsmanship and artifacts. Udaipur is also a cultural hub, where you can witness the folk dances, puppet shows, and music of Rajasthan.
Why Visit Jodhpur and Udaipur In One Trip?
Jodhpur and Udaipur are not only rich in heritage and beauty, but also in hospitality and warmth. You can stay in some of the finest hotels and resorts, where you can pamper yourself with spa treatments, poolside lounges, and candlelit dinners. You can also mingle with the locals and learn about their traditions and customs, or join them in their festivals and celebrations. Jodhpur and Udaipur are truly the best-kept secret of royale marvels in north India, and a destination that you will never forget.
How to plan your trip to Jodhpur and Udaipur
If you are interested in visiting Jodhpur and Udaipur, here are some tips on how to plan your trip:
– The best time to visit Jodhpur and Udaipur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the festivals are in full swing. You can avoid the scorching heat of summer and the monsoon rains of July and August.
– You can reach Jodhpur and Udaipur by air, rail, or road. Jodhpur and Udaipur have their airports, which are well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. You can also take a train or a bus from Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, or Mumbai.
– You can book your accommodation in advance, as Jodhpur and Udaipur are popular tourist destinations and tend to get crowded during peak season. You can choose from a range of options, from budget hotels and guesthouses to heritage havelis and luxury palaces.
– You can explore Jodhpur and Udaipur by hiring a taxi, a rickshaw, or a bicycle. You can also take a guided tour or a hop-on hop-off bus to see the main attractions. You can also enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola or a camel safari in the Thar desert.
– You can spend at least two days in each city, to fully experience their charm and culture. You can also visit some nearby places, such as Ranakpur, Kumbhalgarh, Osian, Chittorgarh, or Mount Abu if you have more time.
– You can savor the delicious cuisine of Rajasthan, which is famous for its spicy and flavorful dishes. You can try some of the local specialties, such as dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, ker sangri, laal maas, and mirchi bada. You can also relish the sweets, such as ghevar, mawa kachori, and malpua.
– You can shop for some unique souvenirs, such as bandhani sarees, leheriya dupattas, mojari shoes, lac bangles, silver jewelry, blue pottery, miniature paintings, and puppets. You can bargain for the best prices in the colorful bazaars, or visit some of the government emporiums and cooperatives for quality products.
– You can respect the local customs and traditions, and dress modestly and conservatively. You can also learn some basic phrases in Hindi or Rajasthani, such as namaste (hello), shukriya (thank you), and kaise ho (how are you). You can also ask for permission before taking photos of people or places of worship.
How much does it cost to visit Jodhpur and Udaipur?
The cost of visiting Jodhpur and Udaipur depends on various factors, such as the season, the duration, the accommodation, the transportation, and the activities. According to some web sources, the average daily cost per person in Jodhpur is $35 (₹ 2,906.58), while the average daily cost per person in Udaipur is $34 (₹ 2,823.53). These costs include accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. However, these costs may vary depending on your preferences and budget.
Can you recommend some books or movies about Rajasthan?
Some many books and movies explore the vibrant culture and heritage of Rajasthan. Some of the books that you can read are The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, The Last Queen of India by Michelle Moran, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel by Deborah Moggach, and The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga. Some of the movies that you can watch are Jodhaa Akbar, Highway, and Aarya.
Happy visiting the royal and majestic cities of Rajasthan!
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