How to get off the beaten track in Rajasthan, India

No visit to India would be complete without exploring Indias biggest state Rajasthan. Thename Rajasthan translates into English as the Land of Kings, and it certainly lives up to its name.With an abundance of ancient forts and intricate palaces, Rajasthan proudly showcases the tales ofits regal past.

Beyond the beaten down tourist track of the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan is a goldmine of cultural delights,ready to welcome its visitors and share a piece of Rajasthans rich heritage. Whilst its certainly wellworth visiting the iconic landmarks of north India, there are plenty more experiences which shouldbe included on your India ‘to-do’ list.

Take a cooking class with a local

Take home something more than just a souvenir. Learn the skills and secrets of true Indiancuisine from an experienced local. You can inform your teacher in advance what youreparticularly interested in cooking, or she can show you the staples of Rajasthan. Youll visither home and learn the tips and tricks of Indian cooking in a real Indian kitchen. Not just anobservation, youll really get involved with every step of the process. When the feast is ready, sitdown and eat with your teacher to sample your dishes.

Visit a traditional Rajasthani village

Villages make up a large percentage of Rajasthans population, and keep Rajasthanitraditions alive. Instead of just driving by them on the highway, get to know the traditionalway of life by stopping off in a village for the afternoon with a translator. The locals willbe proud to introduce you to the traditional way of life and give you a tour of their home.Villagers in Rajasthan typically produce fruits and vegetables, along with dairy produce.Gandhi once said that India lives in its villages; get to know the real India and interact withlocal Rajasthani people.

Stay in an authentic converted palace

Many of Rajasthans most opulent palaces have since been converted into luxurious heritagehotels. Experience the life of Rajasthani royalty by spending the night in a genuine palace.

The Raj Palace, in the capital city of Rajasthan, was the first haveli (mansion) of Jaipur. Builtin 1728 by the then Prime Minister, the Raj Palace was converted into a luxury hotel in 1997.The family renovated and repaired the Palace to showcase its original glory, and each roomhas a unique theme. The Palace presents intricate Rajasthani detailing throughout, from itsarchitecture to furniture. The Historical Rooms even feature mini-museums inside, housinggenuine Rajasthani antique items passed down through the generations. Waking up at theRaj Palace, therell be no mistaking that youre in Rajasthan!