Architecture of Rajasthan

India tour takes you to the vibrant and striking land of Rajasthan which was the home of the Rajput warrior clans who had ruled here for many years. The desert state has some of India's most romantic cities like Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Jaipur and the list is endless. The vast area of Rajasthan is dotted with the most imposing and magnificent forts and palaces in the world. The Rajputs were prolific builders and today these magnificent structures tell the story of gallantry, courage and tragedy of that bygone era.

The majestic forts, intricately carved temples, and decorated havelis are part of the architectural heritage of Rajasthan.Many tourists visit Rajasthan to explore this traditional art. These Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan can be an inspiration for an architecture lover. When we talk about the architecture of Rajasthan the names, which strike our mind, are Jantar Mantar, Dilwara Temples, Chittorgarh Fort, Lake Palace Hotel, City Palaces, and Jaisalmer Havelis.

Jaisalmer Havelis depict a true picture of the royal heritage of Rajasthan.The Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer was built in the 19th century by two architect brothers. The interesting fact about the construction of this Haveli was that the two brothers concentrated on either side separately, which could give a proper symmetry to the structure. Paintings in miniature style monopolize the walls in the interior. Mighty tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone stand guard to the Haveli.Another popular Haveli in Jaisalmer is Salim Singh Ki Haveli, which was built about 300 years ago and has a beautifully arches roof with superb carved brackets in the form of Peacocks.

The architecture of Rajasthan is basically secular and draws a lot of inspiration from the Mughals, while the later day architecture also embraces European interiors. The structures like those of mahals, zenanas, diwan-I-aam, diwan-I-khas, sils, mandir, bagh chatris, and ramparts all display these art forms. One can trace the historic interventions in the Lodhi and Mughal periods and their absorption into the traditional architecture of Rajasthan.

A tour to Rajasthan would also take you to the various schools of miniature painting, largely derived from the Mughal style with some clear difference in themes, particularly relating to the Krishna legends. Most of Rajasthan's early architecture was damaged or destroyed by the first waves of Muslim invaders. Many such buildings dating from the 10th to 15th centuries still exist today.

If you are in Rajasthan how can you escape the fun of experiencing its colorful art of block printing, tie and dye prints, Bagaru prints, Sanganer prints, zari embroidery are major export products. In Rajasthan you can shop for handicraft items like wooden furniture and handicrafts, carpets, blur potteries etc. This unique character of the state of Rajasthan makes it a perfect destination for tourism in India.