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Morning walk of Jaipur
The tourist attractions of Jaipur have been explored by discerning travelers from times immemorial. Nevertheless, a journey at the crack of the dawn, in one of the earliest planned cities in the world, evokes the spiritual side of it. ‘One who wakes up early, benefits the most’ is the underlying belief amongst the inhabitants, imbibed from their forefathers. It is practiced as an integral part of their daily chores, clearly seen on an insightful walk through the Chhoti Chaupar and Badi Chaupar; two main public squares created at cross-section of important roads. As the rising sun imparts glow to the facades of the buildings, havelis, paintings, courtyards, and temples, the uniformity in elegance is unveiled. A layer beneath is resurfaced by the spirit of one and many, while they rush from one temple to the other in search of the sought-after “darshan”(view) of their beloved deities. It is hard to not get humbled when you watch devotees interacting with the image of Radha-Govind at Govinddevji temple which overlooks the City Palace complex. In the background of wholehearted hymns and chants, there is a no- holds-barred approach and yet there is space for everyone. Momentarily, a thought crosses the mind – is this mankind at its democratic best! Stepping out on the streets again, witness the unfolding of bazaars in the wee hours of the morning but there are no distractions (read touts, beggars, and hawkers). Begin to realize, this is quintessentially Jaipur.
Deogarh village walk
Located off the National Highway-8 between Jaipur and Udaipur, Deogarh, the Abode of Gods, is a magical place. The experience of walking in the village of Deogarh is one of its own kinds. Walk out of the atmospheric 17th century palace and arrive in a setting which will transport you to the bygone era. What can be expected in the colorful bazaars - grocery shops, cloth merchants, sweet maker, vegetable vendors, barber, dhobi, village doctor, fortune teller; and all of this at an arm’s length. Interestingly, children in school uniforms are keen to shake hands and know your name instead of asking for anything. Deogarh family’s consistent efforts have ensured that tourism doesn’t leave a negative impact on locals. Unhindered by the visiting tourists, life goes on here at its usual pace. Whether it’s a lady on her weekly house-hold shopping trip or a farmer selling his day’s produce, watching them is fascinating. A large image of Ganesha smiles at everyone passing by the busy colorful bazaar. Located on the banks of a large lake (monsoon-dependent), is Gokul Vilas; the original residence of family. Shimmering water of the lake is ideal for bird-watchers as flocks of bar-headed geese can be spotted. Vintage car collection or personal vegetable-gardens of the family, there is plenty to stroll around. For avid walkers, a hike up to the deserted fortress and royal cenotaphs is recommended.
Bikaner old city walk
On the face of it, Bikaner gives an impression of a large city. And who would not feel so after visiting the well-kept Junagarh fort or imposing Lallgarh palace complex. Yet there is a different world living within the old walled city. Time seems to have stood still here. Begin walking from the 15th century Jain temple, which is decorated by frescoes, wall-paintings and gold leaf paintings on the ceiling. Meandering through the serpent-like narrow streets you get introduced to the understated liveliness, hardly evident from the other side of the wall. Don’t be surprised if you come across a marriage procession notwithstanding the space, which is a scarcity. Harmonious co-existence is the key. Marvel at the exquisitely carved Bikaneri havelis (mansions) which stand magnificently, displaying latticed windows, jharokhas in unique patterns. Jali, or stone screens, create astonishing effect on the exterior of these red-sandstone structures. The fascination of art and beauty led the wealthy merchants to build these architectural wonders, albeit they were meant to be lived in only for a couple of months every year. Staying away in far flung areas for business, the owners would return to their splendid abodes only for a big festival or family-celebration, a fact hard to believe given their giant proportions. Not to be missed is the busy Kot gate bazaar where a railway line dissects the bazaar at two points.
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