Rajasthan: Udaipur and Jaipur

Rajasthan: Udaipur and Jaipur Travel Guide

Once called Rajputana -- "Abode of Kings" -- this vast land consisted of more than 22 princely states before they were consolidated into modern Rajasthan in 1956. Each state was ruled by a Rajput, an upper-caste Hindu warrior-prince, and the Rajputs were divided into three main clans: the Suryavanshis, descended from the sun, the Chandravanshis, descended from the moon, and the agnikuls, who had been purified by ritual fire. When they were not fighting among themselves for power, wealth, and women, the Rajputs built the hundreds of forts, palaces, gardens, and temples that make this region so enchanting.

With its stark colors and rich folk traditions, Rajasthan is one of India's most popular tourist destinations. The region is home to numerous cultural festivals, crafts fairs, and religious gatherings throughout the year. In the last decade, Rajasthan's poverty rate has plunged and the literacy rate skyrocketed to almost double what it was. Tensions with Pakistan have, in the past, made some people wary of coming here, but there is really nothing to fear. The cities and people remain lively and unaffected.