Lonely Planet Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra

Rajasthan is literally the Land of the Kings. It is home to the chivalrous Rajputs, and its battle-scarred heritage has bestowed legacies of pride and tradition. The upper echelons of this medieval society built magnificent palaces and forts, many of which are now glorious hotels and museums. In addition, stunning handicrafts and fine arts were developed and nurtured through patronage by the maharajas. Village life remains steeped in tradition but, just like the rest of India, the pace of change is accelerating. Turbaned men still barter for decorated camels they just relay the successful deal home via a smart phone.

Celebration of Colour

The colours of Rajasthan are impossible to ignore and the effect of emerald green, canary yellow and fire-engine red turbans and saris is simply dazzling. Little wonder so many fashion designers find their inspiration and raw materials in this state. The lucky visitor might even see a flash of orange while tiger-spotting in Ranthambhore National Park. Easier to collect on a camera are the bright hues of Rajasthan's many festivals: from garishly decorated mounts at the camel and elephant festivals in Pushkar and Jaipur, respectively, to the rainbow explosions of Diwali and Holi, celebrated across the region.

Chittorgarh Fort | ANAND PUROHIT / GETTY IMAGES

By Lindsay Brown, Writer

My first trip to Rajasthan was part of a quick Golden Triangle tour to 'warm down' after my first trek in the Himalayas. Any apprehensions about heat and dust were quickly dispelled by the desert's cool winter days. I was captivated by camel carts and distinguished, turbaned cameleers bringing produce into Jaipur's pink city. Here was a seemingly timeless world that I had only ever imagined. These glimpses are more fleeting now in the cities, but the sight of an oxen-driven water-lifting device in rural Rajasthan reignites the magic.

Exquisite tomb that's as much a monument to love as it is to death, the is arguably the world's most beautiful building, and has been enshrined in the writings of Tagore and Kipling. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in adoration of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this milky-white marble mausoleum is inlaid with calligraphy, precious and semiprecious stones and intricate floral designs representing eternal paradise, and is the pinnacle of Mughal architecture as well as romance.