Best Place for Winter Sun Destination in India

Being a tropical country spread over a large area, India has the advantage of diverse weather conditions and it is always a good season to travel somewhere in India.

For many European and North American travellers looking to escape the often cold winter back home, the sandy coastal stretches of Southern India beckon. While Northern India shivers through the months of December and January, the southern states offer pleasant weather to bask in; the sun is at its brightest and perfect for those who like a good dose of it.

Here are some great places to head for some guaranteed sunshine this winter:

Goa

The smallest state of India needs little introduction to travellers. More than 80 kms of coast to boast about, this is India’s premier destination to catch some sun. The destination well equipped to warmly receive incoming travellers so there are plenty of places to stay and eat. During the winter months from October to March, the beaches are dotted with sunning travellers under bright umbrellas. 

GOA

Varkala 

An unexpected destination amidst the more traditional ones that Kerala has to offer, Varkala lies close to the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). The sandy white beach below a large drop from a high cliff, makes for a dramatic setting. Becoming increasingly popular with travellers over the last few years combine your dosage of sun with some fresh juices from the shacks on the cliff. A fantastic beach destination that can easily be combined with a few days in the iconic Keralan backwaters.

Varkala Beach in Kerala

Pondicherry 

This French colony of Tamil Nadu is a quaint little town with cobble stone streets and convenient proximity to the sea. While you can hop on a bicycle and explore the town on a sunny day, it is also a perfect getaway with quiet isolated sandy stretches of beach for sunbathing. Pondicherry is a much loved destination among the travellers who venture here to discover its idyllic colonial houses and aesthetically beautiful restaurants as well. 

Pondicherry Beach

Rajasthan

While the nights might be cold, the warm sun during the day offers perfect temperatures for exploring the many historical sights or glittering palaces of India’s desert state Rajasthan. Old havelis and well manicured gardens are great to sprawl in and catch up on a good book while planning an action packed itinerary with plenty of history and shopping to take in. Don’t miss the awe inspiring sights of Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur and Jodhpur.

Handcraft seller in Rajasthan

Things To Do In Rajasthan’s Sun City - Jodhpur

With its colourful history, imposing fort and sun drenched streets, Jodhpur pulls you in. Once there you find a fascinating city that mesmerises as quickly as a snakecharmer tames his snake.

These are our favourite things to do in Jodhpur. What are yours? Add your memories and recommendations below.

1. Explore Mehrangarh Fort

Give yourself a whole day to wander around what many say is India’s most impressive fort. Looming over Jodhpur and soaked in legend, Mehrangarh is an almost intimidating presence. It was built in the mid 15th century under the orders of clan ruler Rao Jodha who wanted a safer alternative to his ancient base in Mandore. Inside its deep walls are seven ornate palaces and courtyards. The museum here is highly recommended.

Meherangarh Fort in Jodhpur 

2. …then see the place that Rao Jodha abandoned

To add some back-story to your fort trip, why not take a journey just five miles north to Mandore. This was the original Rathore (Rajput clan) capital until Rao Jodha moved everyone south. You’ll now find a fort in ruins – but wow, these are some beautiful ruins, and the trip is made worthwhile by the genteel atmosphere of the green surrounds.

Late Shri Sher Singh ji Gehlot Jodhpur

3. Capture the blues

Keen photographers will be inspired by Jodhpur. The strong sunlight and rich palette of colours offer great potential for dazzling images. A trip around the old town is a must. Houses here are mainly painted in shades of blue. Strangely, no-one really knows why. Some say it is a way that members of the Brahmin caste have traditionally distinguished themselves; others say it’s all about protecting buildings from irritating insects. What’s certain is that it creates an impressive visual effect. This is also a great place to be nosey – homeowners often leave their doors open, providing the curious traveller with some sneaky views of Rajasthan family life (though if you are staying in a homestay, you’ll get a brilliant insight anyway).

Blue City - Jodhpur

4. Set out on a desert safari

Jodhpur is the starting point for the well-regarded Bishnoi village safari, an alternative trip through the sands of Rajasthan to the settlements of the Bishnoi community. These are people who treasure nature and live in isolated hut villages. Though founded in the 1400s, their aged principles seem pertinent to modern times: they forbid the destruction of the natural environment, including the felling of trees, and champion good health. Smoking is frowned upon. The journey there takes in wildlife such as black bucks, foxes, partridges and nilgai (known as blue bulls).

Bishnoi House

5. Enjoy a sugary high

Jodhpur is renowned for its sweets. It’s common in this city to begin a meal with a ‘sweetmeat’ dish, a tradition known as ‘mithi manuhar’. And the Jodhpur streets are blessed with countless sweet shops, often packed with sweet-toothed customers. The local speciality foods to ask for are Mave ki Kachori, Besan ki Chaaki and Maakhan Vade. Some dishes even include unusual desert roots that are believed to have medicinal properties.

Jodhpur Mistan Bhandar

6. Browse the buzzing bazaars

Shopping is a favourite pastime for many Jodhpur visitors, mainly because of the sheer quality and range of handicrafts found here. Fabrics, carpets, jewellery, leatherware, art and, famously, antiques are all in abundance. Sardar Market is a whirlwind of trade that centres on the city’s clocktower, but you will no doubt stumble upon smaller bazaars as you walk the streets. Kapra is popular for fabrics

Jodhpur Bazar 

7. Get royally pampered

This one is for homestay guests only. Your homestay host will be able to arrange for Jodhpur’s best beauticians, hairdressers, masseurs and henna artists to call in at your convenience and deliver an indulgent treatment session of your own design. Speak to them about your requirements. Other unique experiences you can get staying in a homestay include bespoke cooking lessons and personal guided tours.

Mehandi Waale haath

8. See the gypsy snake dance

Kalbeliya is an entrancing Rajasthan folk dance performed by the women of the Kalbeliya gypsy community. Where once they were on hand to entertain the Maharajah, now they are commonly found in hotels and at festivities, where they mesmerise to a percussive beat. Known as the ‘snakecharmer tribe’, the story of these proud nomadic people is fascinating and troubled.  Take a chance to see their Flamenco-esque twirls while you are in Jodhpur; in other spots in Rajasthan, including Pushkar, they have been moved on by authorities.

gypsy snake dance 

9. Follow in Lord Mountbatten’s hoof tracks

It’s not something many of us get to see on a regular basis. But as Jodhpur is home to a popular polo ground and gave its name to those infamous riding trousers, what better way to end your trip then with some horseplay? The season has a narrow timeframe, taking place in December only. Your homestay host will be able to advise on attending a match. But if you know how to ride a horse, it’s even possible to take a short course and play the game yourself at most other times of the year.

polo in Jodhpur

Things To Do In Ajmer

Ajmer is not just a tourist destination. It’s an experience that stays with you, long after you leave.

These Ajmer things to do will leave you feeling compelled to return to this hallowed city.

1. Make a wish

There are many things about Ajmer that keeps people coming back. But the premier landmark of the city is the hallowed Dargah Sharif, tomb of Saint Muinnudin Chisti. People of all kinds, from different parts of the world, come together at the Saint’s shrine to offer their respects and ask for his blessings. The shrine is particularly crowded on Fridays and during the annual festival of Urs.

Camel resting during fair

2. See the ‘Kingdom of God’

A lesser-known but absolutely divine contribution to the Ajmer offering is Soni ji ki Nasiyan, also known as Nasiyan ji mandir. This complex houses a mesmerizing gold-plated creation which is an attempt to recreate the “Kingdom of God” conceived in the Jain fables. The intricate work and detailing in this “Golden City” are simply astonishing.

Moinuddin Chishti Dargah

3. Head for the hills

The Taragarh Fort is one of the oldest forts in India and sits atop the Aravali range. The imposing fort offers an enchanting view of the city below and makes for a peaceful sunset point. Besides the landscape, the fort is also an attraction because it homes Miran Saheb ki Dargah, the final resting place of Miran Saheb, drawing followers in large numbers.

Taragarh Fort

4. Laze by the lake

Ajmer’s Anasāgar Lake is a popular spot. The languid lake is frequented in the evenings by locals and visitors alike, who can be seen enjoying an evening stroll and munching on the local street food.

Pushkar lake

5. Push off to Pushkar

Just up the road from Ajmer is the place famous for its annual fair and bohemian spirit, Pushkar. The 11 kms distance can be covered in just 30 minutes by car. One can opt for an overnight stay or just go there for a few hours to visit the Brahma temple, saunter through the streets and feast on mouthwatering vegetarian dishes served in its trendy cafes.

pushkar

6. Rummage in the shops

Although big brand names can be seen sporadically around the city, the real steals are vibrant curios sold on street corners and in makeshift shops. From ornaments for your home to gorgeous costume jewelry, there’s a plethora of inexpensive products, which can be yours without any real bargaining.

bazar in pushkar ajmer

7. Walk the alleys

As you maneuver your way through Ajmer’s bustling and spirited alleys you’ll come across hidden gems that aren’t found in most travel brochures. Between a kulfi-seller’s stall and a bangle-makers shop will be a music school resonating with the sounds of the sitar.

streets of pushkar-ajmer

8. See fine Islamic architecture

As you walk through the alleys next to the Dargah Sharif, you’ll find your way to Dhai din ka Jhopra. It is believed that the monument was originally a Hindu university, which was demolished once the Mughal came to power. And, in just two and a half days (dhai din) it was replaced by the Mughals with the creation that stands here today. The monument is one of the few places in Ajmer, where one can see architecture with Mughal influence.

mughal architecture in ajmer

Practical information

• There is no airport in Ajmer, but it is extremely well-connected by trains and highways to all major cities. The nearest airport is in Jaipur.

With the exception of Tarahgarh Fort, most tourist destinations are located close to one another. Being well-informed about the distances helps when using auto-rickshaws or taxis.

Tourists should avoid visiting the Dargah Sharif on Fridays and Sundays. Beware of pickpockets, touts and con artists. Cover your head before entering the shrine.

If possible, leave your mobile phones and bags in your homestay, because they are not allowed inside many places.

Traveling to Ajmer between late March and July is extremely ill-advised as the summers are harsh and unforgiving.

Ajmer is 138 kms from Jaipur, 392 kms from Delhi and 233 kms from Bikaner.

Udaipur is a 5-hour drive away.

Rajasthan Expedition

Travel to the sand dunes of Rajasthan, stay at the Royal Palaces and feel like a King.

Rajasthan, The land of Kings is the largest state of India located in north western India. The Land of Royalty was ruled by Rajputs for a long time even today they are regarded in very high esteem. The Royal Rajputs of Rajasthan were the descendants of the Kshatriyas or warriors of vedic India. One of the world’s first and oldest civilizations, The Indus Valley Civilization was located in Rajasthan. Prime attractions of Rajasthan are its unique culture,Thar desert, great forts, palaces, temples and big fair & festivals. Rajasthan host one of the major desert area of world known as the Great Thar Desert of India. Apart from big mountains, blue sea, green forest and white land of Kashmir, Thar desert “Ocean of Sand” is one of the major tourist attraction in India. The royal state also host one of biggest desert fair, camel safari and wide range of desert wild animals. The best way to explore the royal Rajasthan is only by the luxurious trains like Place on Wheel and Royal Rajasthan on Wheel.

Best Attractions of Rajasthan:

Thar Desert: 

The Rajasthan desert also known as Great Indian Desert is located at western Rajasthan. Thar Desert of Rajasthan or the “ocean of sands” is the world’s seventh largest desert. The Great desert of India is surrounded by the Aravalli Ranges on the east,on south by Rann of Kutch and on the west by the Indus River. Due to the diversified habitat the Indian desert is very rich in flora and fauna, About 23 species of lizard and 25 species of snakes are found here and several of them are endemic to the region. The fauna of wild desert includes wild cat, blackbuck and Indian wild ass. A camel safari into the Thar desert is an experience not to be missed.

The Great Thar Desert - Rajasthan - INDIA

Forts: 

Rajasthan is well famous for its majestic forts, magnificent palaces and historic havelis built by the Great Maharajas of Rajasthan. There are around 14 forts in Rajasthan, out of them Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort in India and the grandest in the state of Rajasthan. The Jaisalmer Fort also known as “Golden fort” is one of the largest forts in the world, Situated in the Jaisalmer city. Other big forts of Rajasthan are Mehrangarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Amber Fort, desert forts of Jodhpur and the beautiful Jaigarh Fort called as Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) situated at the Aravalli hill ranges.

Jaiselmer Fort - Rajasthan

Palaces: 

The land of maharajas is famous for well laid gardens, gorgeous temples and beautiful palaces. Some of these are Alsisar Haveli, City Palaces, Hawa Mahal,Lake palace,Umaid Bhavan and Jai Mahal. Umaid Bhawan Palace situated at Chittar Hill, the highest point in Jodhpur is one of the world’s largest private residences. The Water Palace is located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in pink city Jaipur. These palaces are stunning example of Rajput artistry made of red and pink sand stones.

Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur Rajasthan

Culture: 

Rajasthan is the most colorful states in India, It is famous for its vibrant and diverse culture, dances, customs and music. Highly cultivated classical music and dance with its own distinct style is part of the cultural tradition of Rajasthan. The Ghoomar dance from Udaipur and Kalbeliya dance of Jaisalmer are world famous. Rajasthani clothes have a lot of mirror work and embroidery, the traditional dress for females is chaniya choli. Due to the desert region Rajasthan economy is primarily agricultural and pastoral.

Famous Ghoomer Dance - Rajasthan

Cuisines: 

The cuisine of Rajasthan is very rich and has a very unique flavor. Rajasthani cuisine offers an amazing variety of dishes included dal bati churma, traditional Rajasthani thali and rajasthani sweets. The best known Rajasthani food is the combination of dal, bati and churma.  Other famous food items are Mawa Kachori from jodhpur, Alwar ka mawa, Malpauas from Pushkar Ghevar from Jaipur and Rassgollas from Bikaner. The Chokhi Dhani is the best place to enjoy the Rajasthani culture, tradition and delicious foods.

Daal Bati , Choorma - Rajasthani traditional Cuisine 

Fair and Festivals: 

Rajasthan is known for its colorful Fairs and Festivals, There are many exotic Fairs and Festivals such as Teej and the Desert Festival. The famous Pushkar Fair a annual five-day camel and livestock fair is the largest Camel Fair in the world. Pushkar, the oldest city if also famous for its magnificent lake,ghats and The brahma temple. Bharatpur Brij Festival also known as Brij Mahotsava is one of the important fairs and festivals of Rajasthan, Celebrate before Holi, It is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The great Thar Desert host one of the most popular festival of India, Desert Festival Of Jaisalmer also known as Rajasthan Desert Festival. Desert Festival was initiated to celebrated to display the glory of the desert land, its rich culture and tradition.

Camel Fair - Pushkar - Rajasthan

Shopping: 

The desert land is haven for shoppers and traditionally rich in making handicrafts and hand looms. The Pink city of India Jaipur is the best city in Rajasthan for shopping jewelry to clothes to footwear, almost everything is available. The well known markets are Jauhari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, Nehru Bazaar, MI Road and Tripolia Bazaar. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is well famous for its jewellery,gems and stone available in various designs, styles and colors. Famous items are Puppets of Jaisalmer, Pottery from Jaipur and handicrafts from Bikaner.

Shopping in "Pink City of India" Jaipur 

Wild Life: 

The Royal state host a wide ranges of desert wild animals and wild life. It has 6 national parks named as Ranthambore, Sariska, Desert National Park, and 21 Wildlife Sanctuaries along with Keoladeo or Bharatpur bird sanctuary. The famous Ranthambore National Park is situated on the border of Thar Desert and surrounded by the Vindhya Hills and the Aravali Hills. Some wildlife species, which are fast vanishing in other parts of India, are found in the desert in large numbers such as the Great Indian Bustard, Blackbuck, Indian Wild Ass, and the caracal a wild cat and other native desert wild animals like insects, lizards and snakes.

Ranthambore National Park

Major Cities:

Jaipur: The Pink City, is the capital and largest city of the state of Rajasthan, famous for Gold, Diamond and Stone Jewellery. Jaipur is one of the finest planned and green cities of India.

Pushkar: The pilgrimage sites is one of the oldest cities of India and is one of the five sacred dhams associates to Lord Brahma. The city is lies on the shore of Pushkar Lake and well famous for its annual Pushkar Camel Fair.

Udaipur: The City of Lakes has most beautiful lakes in the state named as Pichola Lake, Fatah Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar and Swaroop Sagar.

Alwar: The most gorgeous city of Rajasthan,famous for its scenic landscapes, beautiful lake and Sariska Tiger Reserve in the Aravalli hills.

Jaisalmer: The golden city is famous for its alluring magnificent forts, haveli, Palaces and the best Camel Safari.

Jodhpur: The Sun City is the second largest city in Rajasthan,famous for Handicrafts.

Bikaner: The Desert city is situated in the middle of the Great Thar desert, famous for sweets and snacks.

Mount Abu: The only Hill station in the Rajasthan,famous for Dilwara Temples.

An Adventurers Travel Checklist

The following is a List that I have gathered through years of experience and research. They don't necessarily apply to an Outdoor Adventurer. You Pick and choose your priorities according to your destination and the length of your stay. Visit An Adventures Travel Checklist for more information and the necessary gear for your trip.

Adventure Travel

Gear Essentials 

• Day Pack 
• Flashlight 
• Compact Binoculars 
• First Aid Kit 
• Sunglasses 
• Multi-tool 
• Watch 
• Sunscreen 
• Water bottle (with built-in filter) 
• Hat 
• Whistle 
• Map or Travel Guide 
• Compass or GPS receiver

Pre-Departure 

• Passport 
• Visa if needed 
• Health Documentation 
• Transportation Tickets 
• Frequent Flyer Cards 
• Emergency Information 
• Insurance 
• Hotel Reservations 
• Traveler’s Checks 
• Currency (both local and American) 
• Credit Cards 
• Guide Books and Maps 
• Trip Cancellation/ Medical 

Information 

• Copies of Passport, ID and Documents 
• Special Event Reservations 

Travel Gear 

• Main Travel Bag (Duffle/Luggage, etc.) 
• Packing Accessories (clothes, small stuff and toiletries) 
• Security (Passport carrier, luggage locks/ tags) 
• Document Organizer 
• Everyday Bag 

Everyday Basics 

• Travel Clothing 
• Raincoat/ Umbrella 
• Travel Footwear 
• Visor or Brimmed Hat 
• Camera. Lenses and Film 
• Radiation Shield for Film 
• Video Camera, Tapes 
• CD/ Cassette Player 
• Electric/ Phone Converters 
• Travel Alarms 
• Language Books 
• Reading Materials 
• Address Book 
• Travel Journal 
• Pen/ Pencil 
• Scarf/ Bandana 
• Games/ Playing Cards 
• Snacks 
• Hand Sanitizer/ Towlettes 
• Travel Neck Pillow 
• Eye Shade/ Ear Plugs 
• Portable Door Lock 
• Tissues/ Toilet Paper 
• Keys 

Maintenance Items 

• Flashlight Batteries/ Bulbs 
• Matches or Lighter 
• Extra Batteries 
• Sewing/ Repair Kit 
• Duct Tape 
• Travel Iron or Steamer 
• Sink Stopper for Hotel Sinks 
• Zip-Close Plastic Bags 

Travel Health 

• Travel Health Booklet 
• Pain Reliever/ Aspirin 
• Cold Medicine 
• Contact Lens Items 
• Diarrhea Medicine 
• Motion Sickness Medicine 
• Laxative 
• Insect Protection 
• Sun Protection 
• Antibiotic Cream 
• Malaria Medication 
• Personal Hygiene Items 
• Personal Prescriptions

Adventureeeeeeee

Visit An Adventurers Travel Checklist for more information and the necessary gear for your trip.

Colourful Rajasthan tour

If any body wants to shaken up the senses then there is not a second option like to visit Rajasthan. There is so much variety in the state that people get overwhelmed by its culture, co lour, people, architecture and history. Not only the Indians but tourists all over the world longs to explore the land of rajas. A trip to this land of Royal Rajas give the life a new experience.

Kathputli Dance - Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a fascinating state in the north of India. The vast desert, majestic Aravalli, Forts and palaces, lush green and varied wild life and lots of fairs and festivals have made the state an unique one. The different cities of the state display different back ground. The famous cities of the state are Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Ajmer, Pushkar and a few more. 

Rajasthan is full of festivals. And the different festivals show the different aspect of Rajasthan. Infact the different festivals of Rajasthan are the splendid opportunity to acquire an insight in to the life of Rajasthasn. The various colourful festivals of Rajasthan are Pushkar Fair, Pushkar, Desert Festival, Jaisalmer, Elephant Festival, Jaipur, Gangaur Festival, Marwar Festival, Jodhpur, Camel Festival, Bikaner, Teej Festival, Jaipur, Nagaur Fair, Nagau, Baneshwar Fair, Baneshwar, Mewar Festival, Udaipur, Urs Ajmer Sharif, Ajmer, Summer Festival, Mount Abu. And these signifies the rich culture of Rajasthan. The different festivals of Rajasthan display different colour and beliefs of life.

Music, dance, puppet show of Rajasthan are world famous. A trip to the any of the cities of Rajasthan shows their love of music. Every where in the evening the favourite pastime is music. Since the inception it has been observed that the people of Rajasthan has great love for music even in the famous palaces and forts of Rajasthan had great arrangements for them. Speaking about the forts and palaces, these are majestic. The famous forts and palaces of Rajasthan are - Amber Fort, Junagarh Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jaisalmer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort. Palaces are - Jai Mahal Palace - Jaipur, Lake Palace Udaipur, Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel Jodhpur, Lalgarh Palace Bikaner. All the forts and Palaces spell the saga of Rajput and Mughal. 

A tour to Rajasthan includes so many things that tourists never get boared. One such never miss activity in Rajasthan is camel safari in Thar Desert. It is an amaizing experience. People get spell bound after such safari. Rajasthan is also known as shoper's delight. The handi crafts, artificial jewelery, fabrics everything are very unique and colourful.There is no denying the fact that in a trip to the Rajasthan people can taste every colour of life along with the mouth watering dishes of that region.