With palaces that still evoke the grandeur of their regal past, in literally every hamlet, and the Thar desert’s never-ending sand dunes that appear like golden-hued paintings, there’s no shortage of places to visit in Rajasthan that provide an ideal backdrop to a romantic escape. The Land of Kings—Rajasthan—is well known for its stunning heritage sites, luxurious hotels, scenic lakes and picture-postcard desert stretches that look straight out of Arabian Nights. Hop on a camel to explore Jaisalmer’s fabled dunes, explore the exquisite Jal Mahal in Jaipur, sail on Mount Abu’s Nakki Lake on a paddleboat or have a candlelit dinner in Udaipur’s City Palace—Rajasthan’s palette of romantic experiences is kaleidoscopic. Here’s your guide to some of the most enchanting destinations in India‘s largest state, for an unforgettable outing with your significant other.
JAISALMER
A magnificent fort looming over the city, picture-postcard vistas of sand dunes and an array of illuminated sandstone buildings—Jaisalmer is nothing short of a scene straight out of Arabian Nights. It attracts many couples, honeymooners and families with its erstwhile royal splendour. The Jaisalmer Fort (also known as the Golden Fort of Rajasthan) is the most splendid attraction of the city, perched on an elevated patch looking over the city. Surrounded by numerous golden-hued shrines, Gadsisar Lake is ideal for an evening picnic or a short paddleboat ride. The city’s most popular activity is taking a camel ride over the desert sands; best enjoyed at sunrise and sunset, the ride gives an insight into Rajasthan’s rural life and stunning vistas of the horizon. Jaisalmer’s winding alleys are home to vibrant markets from where you can pick up quintessential Rajasthani souvenirs. Rajasthani cuisine, famous for its spicy veg curries, mouth-watering meat dishes and delectable sweets is the icing on the cake.
JODHPUR
The second largest city (after Jaipur) in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is an architecture-lover’s feast for sore eyes. The older historic section of the city of Jodhpur is located around the grand Mehrangarh Fort which is bounded by a wall and several gates. Winding streets and unending bazaars run throughout the city that are littered with shops and thronged by visitors throughout the year. Also referred to as the Blue City, Jodhpur is home to the magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace. A five-hour-drive from the hill-station of Mount Abu, Jodhpur makes for a perfect getaway once the hill station’s charms stop making an impression on you.
UDAIPUR
Take a walk to any place in this picturesque city and you will spot historic structures which ooze regal splendour. Home to the most intricately designed palaces, havelis, buzzing streets, and beautiful lakes, the city of Udaipur is also called the ‘Venice of the East’ and ‘City of Lakes’. To accommodate the large influx of travellers each year, the city is well-equipped with a wide variety of hotels and lodging options that suit every pocket, bazaars that are popular for their handicrafts and restaurants that offer lip-smacking Rajasthani dishes. If you’re going by road then the drive takes no more than four hours making it possible to make a hectic day trip. Make sure you include Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, City Palace, Jag Mandir and Udaipur Ghat in your Udaipur itinerary.
JAIPUR
The majestic courtyard of City Palace, the intricately-carved walls of Hawa Mahal, the striking beauty of Jantar Mantar and the magnificently built mahals of Amber Fort—Jaipur is an evocative showcase of regal Rajasthani architecture. Home to historic structures, world-class hotels and an array of multi-cuisine eateries, the Pink City is a great escape for couples, families and history-buffs. The exquisite water palace located on the Man Sagar Lake—Jal Mahal—is another spectacular example of Rajasthani architecture, seemingly floating in the middle of the lake. When you’ve had your fill of exploring these fascinating monuments, explore Jaipur’s bustling markets that sell everything from spices, jewellery to household bric-a-brac. From gorgeous views of sunset, entertaining folk dance and music, and thoroughly enjoyable elephant and camel rides, the capital of India’s largest state, Rajasthan, will court you like royalty, and make you feel like one too.
MOUNT ABU
While you’ve had your fill of the magnificent cities Rajasthan is home to, a romantic escape to the state’s only hill station might not prove as a bad idea. Offering an eclectic mix of experiences, Mount Abu lures you with the serene Nakki Lake, magnificent Dilwara Temples and numerous hilltop points that offer panoramic views. Best visited at dusk, Sunset Point offers a spectacular sight of the colour-changing skyline against the Aravalli Hills. The Achalgarh Fort transports you to the 15th century with its intricately-carved buildings and temples, and offers stunning vistas of the hill station from its highest point. From small eateries that serve delicious street food to fine-dining multi-cuisine restaurants, Mount Abu has something for every kind of foodie. Go on a boat ride, carry your own hamper for a lakeside picnic, or walk up the cobblestone pathways along Nakki Lake, Mount Abu is a picturesque oasis amidst the desert plains of Rajasthan and is a pleasant retreat for couples, honeymooners and families.
Source: HappyTrips
Rajasthan: The Land of Kings
