Art & Crafts Of Rajasthan !
As lavish patrons of the arts the rulers of Rajasthan's princely state reinforced a
strong craft tradition which persists today. This patronage, the presence of minerals and
gems, the cultivation of cotton and silk, together with the isolation of the region and
the inherent artistry of the people have made Rajasthan a craft fanciers Mecca. Centuries
of imperial pomp and princely splendour encouraged the arts. Indian Maharajas embellished
their palaces and their person with sumptuous fabrics, jewellery, pottery and metalware.
Skilled craftspeople were, and still are, highly valued so that any visit to India is
enriched by exploring the crafts available. Down narrow lanes in every village craftsmen
and women still practice ancient arts handed down from generation to generation.
Jewelry
Rajasthan's jewelry is reputed world over for its fine quality and reliability. Kundan
(gem-setting) jewelry in which uncut diamonds are set into gold hollows to create the
pattern of jewelry is a connoisseur's delight among the admirers of premium quality
jewelry. Thew-work is a special type of quasi-enameling, which consists of delicate gold
leaf work embedded in glass or enamel, and framed with silver or gold to make pendants and
boxes. Costume jewelry too is a natural byproduct, which is sure to add a touch of
elegance to one's personality
Textiles
The colorfully decorated textiles of Rajasthan include a wide range of hand block
prints, tie-dyed fabrics and embroideries. Bandhana technique that is used for decorating
fabric with dyes with designs wrought by a combination of tiny dot like patterns is a hit
in today's fashion world. Lehariya is an additional design of the tie-and-dye technique
that conveys the effect of waves or stripes by twisting the entire length of cloth and
tying it at intervals. Bandhej dying has gained recognition and admiration world wide. It
is a tradition that dates back to five centuries and is reputed for its pila, pomcha,
chunari and sarees. It uses finely detailed and complex patterns of creepers, vines,
paisleys and bird & animal figures. In addition to this countless embroidery styles
including kasooti, kharak, soof and sujani are in practice to add to the beauty of fabric.
Terracotta
The terracotta craft enjoys a distinct place in Rajasthan due to its exceptional
importance for utility as well as votive items. Matkas (water pots) with small mouths are
primary to life in the desert are specially made from a special quality clay which is
known for its exceptional cooling quality. Food cooked in terracotta cooking utensils is
valued for its special aroma. Inexpensive and nature friendly, these typify the basic
characteristics of the most utilitarian crafts in Rajasthan. Rajasthan also offers
beautiful terracotta horses used for religious offerings. These range from two to six feet
in height and are made in large numbers. Terracotta toys are popular among the children
and use three techniques- the wheel, the mould and the hand- a tradition that dates back
to ancient time
Handloom & Handicraft
Rajasthan abounds in different handloom weaving centers that offer a whole array of
utility items including table and kitchen linen, Turkish towels, jacquard tapestry, shirt
material, bed covers, hospital blankets, fabrics from different fibers and weaves in
vegetable dyes.
Cloth animals and dolls have a vivacity and simplicity that engages a child's mind.
Made of old cloth, dyed afresh and stuffed with waste material, they are gaily colored
with bright shades of paper and tinsel. Dolls made from jute fiber and attractive folk
toys in lacquered wood carry a unique appeal that makes them truly an object d' art. Other
traditional artefacts which are made and used all over Rajasthan include bajot (a low
table), the toran (a symbolic piece of carved wood) and choalas (a peacock shaped box in
bright colors). In addition to this stone carving, wood carving and metal crafts are also
popular in Rajasthan.
Day 1. Arrival/Delhi
Late Night arrival. Namaste! & Greetings ! as our representatives welcome you
aboard your Deluxe coach.
Upon arrival at the hotel, a traditional Indian Welcome awaits you. The warmth of
Indian hospitality and the custom of welcoming guests is as old as time itself. As you
step into the hotel, ladies in traditional local costumes greet you with garlands of
flowers and perform the "aarti" ceremony. After having your forehead anointed
with the traditional red "tikka", relax with a non-alcoholic welcome drink
Overnight: Hotel Taj Mahal
Day 2. Delhi
This morning we proceed for a guided tour of New Delhi.
For more on the tourist attractions of Delhi click here: Delhi Tour
Special Mughal Theme Dinner : Go back to the historically fabled world of the
great Moghuls. "Chobedars" (gate keepers) usher guests to the
"daawat-khana" (dining-room). Hostesses clad in silken, flowing
"shararas" (skirts) and "chunnis" (veils) welcome the guests with
flowers and "attar" (perfume) in the traditional style. Flamboyant folk dances
herald a sumptuous spread of Moghlai delicacies, served in a manner befitting royalty
Overnight: Hotel Taj Mahal
Day 3. Delhi/Udaipur (CD 7471- 1655/2000)
Following breakfast we visit Dilli Haat, a project conceived with the basic idea of
providing encouragement and exposure to needy artisans and craftsmen all over the country
who often spend their lives within the confines of their own village and town. The success
of the project lied in freeing the craftsman and the artisan from the stranglehold of the
middlemen and bringing them into direct contact with buyers both within the country and
outside. Dilli Haat offers the visitor not only the arts and handicrafts of the country at
one place, but also the cuisine and performing arts from different parts of the country.
While developing the concept, it was kept in mind that when a 'Haat' comes to the city, it
has to adjust to urban contemporary needs while retaining the cultural ambience familiar
to rural crafts people.
Late afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight to Udaipur.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival as we welcome you to the Taj Lake Palace, a vision
of floating marble that leads you on a journey through time. From the opulence of the
lobby to the delicate architecture and lavish trappings of every suite, the Taj Lake
Palace is a secluded haven for a fortunate few. Marble statues, intricate woodwork and
manicured gardens have been restored to their former pride and grace. Taj Lake Palace sets
an elaborate stage for you to experience the past in the grandest possible way.
Overnight At Hotel Lake Palace
Day 4. Udaipur
Following breakfast, we proceed on a tour of this "Lake City". Udaipur is a
cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city in a state
where every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering
over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a
conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a surprising
uniformity of design and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from the upper
terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace enshrines a black stone image of
Lord Vishnu and his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a brass image. The temple is
a very fine example of Indo-Aryan Art.
This afternoon we explore the bustling bylanes of Udaipur which have artisans
practicing their traditional crafts handed down to them by their elders. Khari printers do
decorative floral patterns in gold and silver on plain or printed fabric. Block printers
print various designs and patterns in different colours with the help of wooden blocks.
You'll also find artisans carving furniture, making puppets and traditional wooden toys.
Alongwith engraving and embossing on brass, silver, jewellery, copper and even pottery,
Meenakari is a speciality of this region. Udaipur also specializes in stone carving,
especially in marble and sandstone, with artisans working hard at chiseling their finest
filigree work. Colour as usual plays an important role in the life of Udaipur as in
Rajasthan. It is wonderfully evident in ghagharas (long flowing skirts), cholis (blouses),
and odhnis (long scarves) of the women as well as the turbans of the men.
The Gangaur Boat Cruise Dinner : The Gangaur boat is the antique royal barge of
the house of Mewar. The barge is decorated in a regal way and lit up to resemble a
fireball from a distance. The guests are taken around the mystical Lake Palace. Their
would be folk music, dance and fireworks. Music and dance are intermingled in the lives of
the Mewaris who perform in various areas as wandering minstrels, bands of musicians and
dancers or as dance drama troupes. They recite religious messages, local legends, and
tales of romance or social stories. This is a tremendous experience. A bar would also be
set up and people can buy their drinks here.
Overnight At Hotel Lake Palace
Day 5. Udaipur / Ranakpur / Jodhpur.
Following breakfast and then drive to Jodhpur . Our first stop would be at Ranakpur
where we tour the exquisitely carved Jain temples made in white marble. The profusion and
the detailed sculpture is a mind blowing experience
Upon arrival, check into the Taj Hari Mahal Palace.
Late afternoon , we visit the Clock Tower Bazaar. This is one of India's largest and
most colourful whole sale market especially with respect to clothes, fabrics, spices,
vegetables etc. It is a fantastic experience to walk through the place observing and
photographing this incredible spectacle of vibrant lifestyles and incredible colours.
Overnight Taj Hari Mahal Palace
Day 6. Jodhpur
Following breakfast, we tour the huge Meherangarh fort that looms ominously above the
town. The ramparts of the fort look down over the city which is predominantly painted
blue, identifying them as houses of Brahmins. The blue powder that is mixed with lime to
paint the houses is expensive to buy, so as you look down from the fort it is easy to see
the "richer side of the town"!
This afternoon we explore the crafts of Jodhpur, which is renowned for its woodworking
and most of the Thacket furniture sold in the West originates from the region so in the
morning you will visit a furniture workshop.
Overnight Taj Hari Mahal Palace.
Day 7. Jodhpur/Pachewa (275 kms)
After breakfast we will drive to Pachewa. On the way you will stop in a village where
you will visit a block printing and vegetable dyeing unit. Here you can see indigo dye
wells and block printing.
A truly Rajasthani welcome at the Pachewa Heritage Hotel, a 300 year old fort with
massive ramparts, imposing gates and antique frescos, ends the day perfectly.
An easy and restful afternoon. Take a wander in the village and discover the knotting
of carpets.
Overnight Pachewa Heritage Hotel
Day 8. Pachewa/Jaipur. (110 kms)
Following breakfast, a short ride brings us to Jaipur. Transfer to the legendary palace
hotel - The Rambagh Palace.
A Maharaja Welcome : As was in the past, when the victorious Maharajas returned from
war, a stunning tableau of decorated camels and elephants unfolds before you on the lawns
of the palace-hotel. Ladies in Rajasthani costumes perform the traditional garlanding,
"aarti" and "tikka" ceremonies while the music of the
"shehnai" welcomes you. Afterwards relax with a gin-based welcome drink.
This afternoon we will visit a workshop where the most exquisite embroidery is carried
out. It is a workshop where wedding saris are embellished with tiny beads and intricate
gold and silver threads. When you first see the gold thread work that comes from this
workshop you will think it is machine work as its so precise.
Overnight At Rambagh Palace
Day 9. Jaipur
An essential starting point for Rajasthan craftwork is block making and block printing
and the morning will be dedicated to exploring the process from start to finish in the
villages around Jaipur.
The sound of the muffled thud of the block on the fabric is so gorgeous, and the
sharpness of the eye of the printers never ceases to amaze - the block always goes down in
the right place. Along the street are tiny shuttered shops with men sitting in wood chips,
with smiling faces, chip chip chopping at blocks, making the most intricate designs with
the utmost precision.
Later you visit a hand made paper factory where you will see mass production of
recycled cotton pulp paper. Here it is made with flower petals or leaves and is then cut
and made into books, cards, and all kinds of stationary. Finally, on your way back to the
hotel, you can visit a small pottery workshop. Jaipur is famous for its blue pottery and
at this workshop you can see the intricate, labour intensive painting of the pottery.
A Gala Evening : This evening we ride out to an Agriculture farm. There is a
Rajasthani Village ambiance with thatched roofs and mud plastered walls in typical Indian
village attire. This Rajasthani Village is in an area of about 3000 sq. yards with lush
green lawns and is surrounded by trees all around. The lighting is elaborated but subtle.
There is display of local arts and crafts from the famous Sanganer Village displaying -
Block printing, Bangles, Miniature paintings, Blue Pottery, Potter and Wheel, Durry Weaver
etc. the artisans display throughout the evening. The Farm recreates a typical. has
original Rajasthani Village atmosphere. Adjoining the village, the farm has tube-well for
irrigation and normal crops like wheat, barley, millet along with the seasonal vegetables
are grown.
A Royal Welcome is accorded to you upon arrival with decorated Camels, Aarti, Tikka,
and Garlanding. Also enjoy a short camel ride in the farm surroundings.
Rajasthani Folk Dancers and musicians performance for 45 minutes soon after arrival of
the group. Following the entertainment dinner is served. It is Buffet-Cum-Sit down meal
arrangement. The elaborate menu offers Bar-be-ques and a selection of Indian, Continental,
Chinese, Tandoori dishes. After the dinner, there will be a spectacular firework display
with the Group's Name prominently displayed through the fireworks
Overnight At Rambagh Palace
Day 10. Jaipur
Today, you will visit the Amber Fort, which is one of the most superb examples of
Rajput architecture, dating back to the 16th century. It is built on a hillside with
outlook posts and walls all around and is truly majestic. Inside, some of the rooms are
encrusted with mirrors and painted with designs of flowers and water vessels. A great
place to sit and sketch, or just sit and imagine that you are a Maharajah, or a Maharani!
This afternoon, we explore one of the chief attractions of Jaipur - its jewellery,
which offers a variety that ranges from chunky tribal jewellery to enamelled gold to
modern diamond jewellery. In Rajasthan, men and women can be seen sporting necklaces,
armlets, anklets, earrings and rings. Silver is more commonly worn by the rural women and
is certainly more affordable for a shopper. For dedicated collectors, goldwork of the
highest quality is also available. Kundan (art of stone setting) and enamel jewellery has
been a speciality of Rajasthan, particularly that of Jaipur. The stones are embossed into
decorative shapes & patterns and embellished with delicate enamel ornamentation in the
champeve ( raised field ) technique. Jaipur is well known for its gold and silver
enameiling. Colorful bangles made of lac and set with semiprecious stones make an
inexpensive buy. The craftsmen take great pains to embed the hundreds of stones into the
lac. The skilled gem-cutters of Jaipur carve enchanting little animals and birds from
rock, crystal, jade, smoky topaz and amethyst. Intaglio beads & buttons and crystal
scent bottles are also available.
Overnight At Rambagh Palace
Day 11. Jaipur/Bharatpur/ Fatehpur Sikri / Agra
Following breakfast we drive to Agra . Our first stop will be at Laxmi Vilas Palace,
the former home of the Maharaja of Bharatpur for lunch. Set amidst 40 acres of
picturesquely landscaped environs, the palace was built in 1899 as residence for the Royal
ladies. A lively fusion of traditional Rajasthani architecture and the prevalent Mughal
style, this place with its regal ambience, sunny courtyards, and enchanting cupolas will
mesmerize you.
From here we drive to the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri (ghost capital) for a tour of
the magnificent and world heritage buildings still in a state of perfect reservation.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival as you are individually checked in at your rooms at
the luxurious Amarvilas hotel, which is one of the best boutique hotels in the world. The
hotel of whimsical charm has several attractions. However, being in the city of the Taj
Mahal, the most relevant charm of the hotels is the unhindered view of the Taj Mahal from
your bed room. It is the most beautiful and an amazingly uplifting sight. Only 600 meters
from the Taj Mahal stands this luxury resort. Discerning travelers can now appreciate the
fabulous Taj Mahal while enjoying world-class luxury. The elaborate Mughal gardens,
terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions complement the classical
architecture of the hotel
Overnight Amarvilas ( B )
Day 12 . Agra/Delhi
Early this morning we tour the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal,
perhaps the most photographed monument in the world. However, their is a degree of enigma
about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of
a building your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No
matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter how high your expectations are, the
Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses
beyond all human imaginations. At sun rise we visit the Taj Mahal to witness this
spectacular monument built for love. Besides perfect symmetry in every aspect of its
construction, the inlay work of semi precious stones into marble in pietra dura style is
absolutely remarkable.
We would also have an opportunity to visit a marble showroom where we would be able to
witness the inlay work done on marble just as at the Taj Mahal
We return to our hotel for breakfast, following which we ride to the massive Agra Fort.
The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian
architectural styles. Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques &
private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire. The Moti Masjid &
other magnificent buildings reflect the skill of the ancient Indian architects.
Late afternoon, ride to Delhi airport through one of India's finest free ways. We would
have opportunities to stop on the way at well appointed comfort stops for refreshments as
well as washroom facilities.
Upon arrival, check into Hotel Radisson, a 5* Deluxe Hotel situated next to the
airport.
Farewell Dinner - The Great Kabab Factory, Radisson Hotel
A Mecca for those who love Indian cuisine, this restaurant especially offers a variety of
delectable kababs from all over the country. The Great Kabab revolutionise the entire
concept of enjoying kebabs as a meal. The Great Kabab Factory produces varieties of
kababs, vegetarian and non-vegetarian and is brought endlessly in platters. Beside kababs,
the platter service consists of biryani, selection of India breads, green vegetables. The
platter service is a new concept where it is a continuous feast of replenishments on
demand. The Great Kabab Factory has made a name for itself in New Delhi.
Overnight The Radisson .
Day 13. Delhi/Departure.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
END OF TOUR
We also offer customized tours to destinations in Rajasthan. We will be happy to
customize this tour for you to suit your interests and convenience. |
