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The Best of Rajasthani Food: A Mouth-Watering Tour of the Thar Desert | Mera Rajasthan

 Rajasthan is a state in northwestern India known for its rich history, culture, and stunning deserts. But Rajasthan is also famous for its delicious food. The cuisine of Rajasthan is influenced by its arid climate, its proximity to the Thar Desert, and its diverse cultures.

Here are some of the most famous foods of Rajasthan:

  • Dal Bati Churma: This is a dish of lentil stew, bati (steamed wheat cakes), and churma (sweetened semolina). It is a staple food in Rajasthan and is often served as a meal in itself.

    Image from Vaya.in

  • Laal Maas: This is a spicy red lentil curry made with lamb or goat meat. It is a popular dish in the Marwari region of Rajasthan and is often served with bajra roti (millet flatbread).

    Image from  ranveerbrar.com

  • Pyaz ki Kachori: These are deep-fried pastries filled with a spicy onion mixture. They are a popular snack food in Rajasthan and are often served with a chutney or curry.

    Image from static.toiimg.com

  • Mirchi Vada: These are spicy fritters made with green chilies. They are a popular street food in Rajasthan and are often served with a chutney or curry.

    Image from yummyfoodrecipes.in

  • Gatte ki Sabzi: This is a dish of gram flour dumplings in a spicy gravy. It is a popular dish in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan and is often served with roti or rice.

  • Kadhi: This is a yogurt-based curry made with vegetables or lentils. It is a popular dish in all of India, but it is especially popular in Rajasthan.

  • Ker Sangri: This is a dish of beans and desert berries cooked in a spicy gravy. It is a popular dish in the Thar Desert region of Rajasthan and is often served with roti or rice.

  • Kalmi Vada: These are deep-fried fritters made with lentils and spices. They are a popular snack food in Rajasthan and are often served with a chutney or curry.

These are just a few of the many famous foods of Rajasthan. If you are ever in Rajasthan, be sure to try some of these delicious dishes. You won't be disappointed!

Here are some other reasons why Rajasthan is famous for its food:

  • The use of local ingredients: Rajasthani cuisine is known for its use of local ingredients, such as bajra (millet), urad dal (black lentils), and methi (fenugreek). These ingredients are grown in the arid climate of Rajasthan and give the food its unique flavor.

  • The use of spices: Rajasthani cuisine is also known for its use of spices, such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili peppers. These

    • spices add heat and flavor to the food and make it a truly memorable experience.

    • The emphasis on taste: Rajasthani cuisine is all about taste. The dishes are cooked with care and attention to detail, and the flavors are perfectly balanced. This makes Rajasthani food a delight to eat.

    If you are looking for a delicious and authentic Indian food experience, then Rajasthan is the place to go. The food is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

    Here are some tips for enjoying Rajasthani food:

    • Try as many different dishes as possible. Rajasthani cuisine is diverse, so there is something for everyone.

    • Be adventurous with your spice level. Rajasthani food is known for its heat, so if you like spicy food, then you will be in heaven.

    • Enjoy the food with friends and family. Rajasthani food is best enjoyed with loved ones.

    I hope you enjoy your next meal of Rajasthani food!


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Let's Explore Rajasthan's Bazar | Mera Rajasthan

 



Rajasthani Bazaar, also known as a Rajasthani market or marketplaces in Rajasthan, India, are vibrant and bustling spaces where you can explore the rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship of the region. Rajasthan is renowned for its exquisite handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and artwork, and the bazaars offer a wide array of these products.

Here are some popular Rajasthani bazaars that you can visit:

Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is renowned for its vibrant bazaars that offer a wide range of traditional Rajasthani products. Here are some popular bazaars in Jaipur that you can explore:

1. Johari Bazaar: Located in the heart of the city, Johari Bazaar is famous for its exquisite collection of jewelry. You can find a variety of traditional Rajasthani jewelry, including Kundan, Meenakari, and Thewa. The bazaar also offers gemstones, precious metals, textiles, and handicrafts.

2. Bapu Bazaar: Situated close to Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar is a bustling market known for its textiles and fabrics. You can find a wide range of textiles, including Bandhani (tie-and-dye), Leheriya (wave pattern), and Sanganeri prints. The market also offers traditional Rajasthani clothing, footwear, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

3. Tripolia Bazaar: Located near the City Palace, Tripolia Bazaar is a popular market known for its lacquer bangles, brassware, ironware, and other metal crafts. The market also offers traditional Rajasthani textiles, blue pottery, and wooden handicrafts. It's a great place to find unique and authentic Rajasthani items.

4. Chandpole Bazaar: Situated near the famous Hawa Mahal, Chandpole Bazaar is known for its textiles, particularly block-printed fabrics. You can find a variety of textiles, including Jaipuri quilts, bed sheets, sarees, and dress materials. The market also offers handicrafts, home decor items, and traditional Rajasthani footwear.

5. Nehru Bazaar: Located near the famous Birla Mandir, Nehru Bazaar is a popular shopping destination in Jaipur. It is known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Rajasthani footwear like Mojari. The market also offers puppets, jewelry, and other local artifacts.

6. Kishanpole Bazaar: Kishanpole Bazaar is famous for its block-printed textiles and fabrics. You can find a wide range of traditional Rajasthani block-printed bed sheets, quilts, clothing, and home decor items. The market also has shops that specialize in wooden handicrafts, furniture, and Jaipur's famous blue pottery.


Jodhpur, the "Blue City" of Rajasthan, is known for its magnificent forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars. The city offers a vibrant shopping experience with its diverse range of traditional Rajasthani products. Here are some popular bazaars in Jodhpur that you can explore:

1. Clock Tower Market (Sardar Market): Located in the vicinity of Mehrangarh Fort, the Clock Tower Market is a vibrant and bustling bazaar. It is famous for its textiles, handicrafts, spices, traditional footwear (Mojari), and colorful fabrics. You can also find Rajasthani turbans, Bandhani (tie-and-dye) fabrics, embroidered textiles, and silver jewelry.

2. Nai Sarak: Nai Sarak is a bustling market in Jodhpur that specializes in books, stationery, and textiles. It is a haven for book lovers, with shops offering a wide range of academic, fiction, and non-fiction books in Hindi and English. You can also find textiles, fabrics, and dress materials in this market.

3. Sojati Gate Market: Sojati Gate Market is renowned for its traditional tie-and-dye (Bandhani) fabrics and textiles. The market offers a variety of Bandhani sarees, dupattas, dress materials, and turbans. You can also find other Rajasthani handicrafts, jewelry, and footwear in this market.

4. Mochi Bazaar: Mochi Bazaar is a dedicated market for footwear and is known for its traditional Jodhpuri Mojari (handcrafted shoes). These shoes are made from soft leather and intricately embroidered with beautiful designs. Mochi Bazaar is a great place to shop for authentic Rajasthani footwear.

5. Kapraa Bazaar: Kapraa Bazaar, as the name suggests, is a cloth market where you can find a wide range of fabrics, dress materials, and textiles. It is known for its colorful and vibrant fabrics, including Bandhani, Leheriya, and Sanganeri prints. The market is perfect for those looking to purchase fabrics for traditional Rajasthani attire.

6. Tripolia Market: Tripolia Market is famous for its metal utensils, handicrafts, and lacquer bangles. Here, you can find a variety of brassware, copperware, silverware, and decorative items. The market is also known for its beautiful lacquer bangles that come in a multitude of colors and designs.


Bikaner, a city in the state of Rajasthan, is known for its rich cultural heritage, magnificent forts, and delicious sweets. The bazaars of Bikaner offer a unique shopping experience with a wide variety of traditional Rajasthani products. Here are some popular bazaars in Bikaner that you can explore:

1. Kote Gate Market: Kote Gate Market is a bustling market located near the historic Junagarh Fort. It is famous for its textiles, handicrafts, and local snacks. You can find a range of Bandhani (tie-and-dye) fabrics, embroidered textiles, traditional Rajasthani attire, camel leather products, and colorful turbans. The market is also known for its snacks like Bikaneri bhujia and sweets like rasgulla and gulab jamun.

2. Station Road Market: Station Road Market is a popular shopping destination in Bikaner. It offers a variety of products, including textiles, footwear, handicrafts, and household items. The market is particularly famous for its camel leather goods like shoes, bags, belts, and wallets. You can also find traditional Rajasthani artworks, puppets, and decorative items here.

3. Bada Bazaar: Bada Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest markets in Bikaner. It is known for its traditional Rajasthani crafts, textiles, and jewelry. You can explore shops selling embroidered fabrics, traditional silver jewelry, colorful bangles, lacquerware, and wooden handicrafts. The market is also famous for its local spices, pickles, and snacks.

4. King Edward Memorial Road: King Edward Memorial Road is a popular street lined with shops and stalls selling various items. Here, you can find a wide range of Rajasthani textiles, including Bandhani sarees, printed fabrics, and dress materials. The market also offers handicrafts, traditional footwear, and souvenirs.

5. Sadul Singh Market: Sadul Singh Market is known for its vibrant and colorful shops selling textiles, handicrafts, and Rajasthani artwork. It is a great place to find handwoven carpets, embroidered fabrics, pottery, and camel bone artifacts. The market also has shops selling spices, snacks, and traditional sweets.

6. Mahatma Gandhi Road: Mahatma Gandhi Road is a popular shopping street in Bikaner. It offers a mix of modern stores and traditional shops. You can find clothing, accessories, handicrafts, and souvenirs here. The street also has many eateries and sweet shops where you can try the famous Bikaneri sweets.


Kota, a city in the state of Rajasthan, is known for its rich history, architectural marvels, and educational institutions. While Kota is more renowned for its educational coaching centers, it also has a few bustling bazaars where you can explore local products and experience the local culture. Here are some popular bazaars in Kota:

1. Aerodrome Circle Market: Located near the Kota Airport, Aerodrome Circle Market is a popular shopping destination in Kota. The market offers a mix of clothing, footwear, accessories, and household items. You can find a range of products, including traditional Rajasthani textiles, Kurtis, sarees, dress materials, and artificial jewelry.

2. Mahaveer Nagar Market: Mahaveer Nagar Market is a busy market area in Kota that caters to the needs of local residents. It offers a variety of shops selling clothing, footwear, electronics, and daily essentials. You can find both traditional and modern wear in this market.

3. Brijraj Bhawan Market: Brijraj Bhawan Market is known for its textile shops that offer a wide range of fabrics and dress materials. You can find cotton fabrics, silk sarees, Bandhani prints, and other traditional Rajasthani textiles. The market is particularly popular for its selection of wedding wear and ethnic clothing.

4. Nayapura Market: Nayapura Market is a popular shopping area in Kota, known for its textiles, clothing, and accessories. You can find a variety of shops selling traditional Rajasthani clothing, including sarees, suits, and lehengas. The market also offers artificial jewelry, footwear, and household items.

5. Rangbari Road Market: Rangbari Road Market is a bustling market area in Kota, known for its clothing stores, electronics shops, and food joints. The market offers a mix of traditional and modern wear, including ethnic clothing, casual wear, and accessories. You can also find electronics, gadgets, and mobile phone shops in this area.


Ajmer, a city in the state of Rajasthan, is known for its spiritual significance and the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The city also offers vibrant bazaars where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and find a variety of traditional Rajasthani products. Here are some popular bazaars in Ajmer:

1. Dargah Bazaar: Located near the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Dargah Bazaar is a bustling market known for its religious and cultural significance. The market offers a range of products, including religious items, prayer beads, perfumes, incense, and traditional clothing. You can also find a variety of local snacks and sweets here.

2. Naya Bazaar: Naya Bazaar is a lively market in Ajmer that attracts locals and tourists alike. The market offers a wide range of products, including textiles, clothing, footwear, accessories, and household items. You can find traditional Rajasthani textiles, Bandhani sarees, embroidered fabrics, and Rajasthani handicrafts in this market.

3. Mahila Mandi: Mahila Mandi, meaning "Women's Market," is a unique market in Ajmer that exclusively caters to women. It offers a variety of products like clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and household items. The market is a great place to find traditional Rajasthani attire, jewelry, and handicrafts that are specifically designed for women.

4. Purani Mandi: Purani Mandi is a historic market in Ajmer known for its old-world charm and traditional Rajasthani products. The market offers a variety of items like textiles, clothing, footwear, jewelry, handicrafts, and home decor. You can find antique pieces, traditional fabrics, wooden handicrafts, and silver jewelry in this market.

5. Nala Bazaar: Nala Bazaar is a famous street market in Ajmer that specializes in textiles and clothing. The market offers a range of fabrics, dress materials, sarees, and suits. You can find traditional Rajasthani prints, Bandhani, and Leheriya fabrics in this market.

6. Ajmer Cloth Market: Ajmer Cloth Market is a popular market where you can find a wide variety of fabrics, dress materials, and textiles. The market is known for its collection of silk, cotton, and synthetic fabrics. It is a great place to shop for fabrics and get them tailored according to your preferences.


Udaipur, also known as the "City of Lakes," is a picturesque city in Rajasthan famous for its stunning palaces, lakes, and rich cultural heritage. The city also boasts vibrant bazaars where you can explore traditional Rajasthani products and immerse yourself in the local culture. Here are some popular bazaars in Udaipur:

1. Hathi Pol Bazaar: Hathi Pol Bazaar is a bustling market located near the City Palace in Udaipur. It is known for its handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani artwork. The market offers a wide range of products, including colorful textiles, embroidered fabrics, miniature paintings, marble handicrafts, and silver jewelry.

2. Bada Bazaar: Bada Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in Udaipur, situated near Jagdish Temple. It is a vibrant market where you can find a variety of goods, including textiles, clothing, handicrafts, and accessories. The market is particularly famous for its traditional Rajasthani puppets, Bandhani (tie-and-dye) fabrics, and silver jewelry.

3. Chetak Circle Market: Chetak Circle is a popular shopping area in Udaipur. The market offers a mix of traditional and modern shops, where you can find clothing, accessories, footwear, and household items. You can also find traditional Rajasthani artifacts, handicrafts, and decorative items in this market.

4. Bapu Bazaar: Bapu Bazaar in Udaipur is famous for its textiles and fabrics. It is a vibrant market where you can find a wide range of traditional Rajasthani attire, including Bandhani sarees, suits, and turbans. The market also offers handicrafts, souvenirs, and artificial jewelry.

5. Shilpgram Crafts Fair: Although not a permanent market, the Shilpgram Crafts Fair is a significant event that takes place in Udaipur. It showcases the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Rajasthan. During this fair, artisans from different parts of Rajasthan gather to display and sell their handicrafts, textiles, artwork, and traditional products.


While exploring these bazaars, make sure to engage in bargaining, as it is a common practice in Rajasthani markets. This allows you to get a good deal on your purchases. Enjoy the colorful ambiance, soak in the local culture, and take home some beautiful pieces of Rajasthani artistry.


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Pushkar Camel Fair | Mera Rajasthan

 

    


Rajasthan's largest camel fair :

The Pushkar Fair, also known as the Pushkar Camel Fair or Pushkar Mela, is one of the most famous and vibrant annual livestock fairs held in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan, India. It is a seven days colorful and culturally rich event that attracts thousands of visitors, both locals and tourists, from all around the world.



When is the Pushkar Fair Celebrated?

The fair takes place over a period of seven days during the Hindu month of Kartik (October/November) according to the lunar calendar. It starts on the day of Kartik Ekadashi and concludes on the day of Kartik Purnima, which is the full moon day.

Description About Pushkar Fair :

The main highlight of the Pushkar Fair is the trading and showcasing of thousands of camels, horses, and other livestock. The fairgrounds become a bustling marketplace where traders, farmers, and villagers gather to buy and sell animals. The camels, elaborately decorated with colorful bridles, beads, and textiles, are the major attraction. Livestock owners showcase their animals and participate in various competitions to win prizes. Visitors can witness camel races, beauty contests, and traditional Rajasthani dances and music performances.

Pushkar Fair 2023 Dates :

In 2023, Pushkar Fair will be celebrated from 11th November 2023 to 19th November 2023.



Where is the Pushkar Fair celebrated :

Pushkar Camel Festival is celebrated in the small town of Pushkar. This holy town is located in the state of Rajasthan on the edge of the Thar Desert.

 

How is the Pushkar Fair Celebrated?

Aside from the livestock trading, the Pushkar Fair also features numerous cultural events and activities. There are traditional folk performances, such as puppet shows, acrobatics, and folk dances, showcasing the vibrant culture of Rajasthan. Visitors can explore the traditional handicrafts and souvenir stalls, offering a wide variety of Rajasthani textiles, jewelry, clothing, and artwork. The fairgrounds are also filled with food stalls serving delicious Rajasthani cuisine and street food, offering a culinary delight for the visitors.


Religious Importance of Pushkar Fair

One of the major attractions during the Pushkar Fair is the religious significance of Pushkar. It is believed to be one of the holiest places for Hindus as it houses the famous Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple. Pilgrims take holy dips in the lake during the fair, which is said to cleanse their sins. The fair becomes a convergence point for religious rituals and festivities.

Things to do at the Pushkar Camel Fair

Although the Pushkar Mela is primarily held to showcase camels and livestock and is the world’s largest cattle fair, other events and features are the main highlights of this fair. These events enhance the entire experience of the fair while gifting the visitor with some lovely memories.

 

Look at the things to do at Pushkar Camel Fair for a lovely experience -

Pushkar Glamping Experience

These camps combine the pleasures of camping amidst luxury. An example is a tented accommodation at the Sky Waltz Camp, which offers air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options for a glamping stay at Pushkar Fair. The other major attraction is the stunning performances by eminent fusion maestros from around the world.

 

Hot Air Ballooning

Enjoy hot air ballooning at the Pushkar Fair. Watching the buzzing activities from above will give you an experience like no other. This thrilling activity is one of the top reasons to visit the Pushkar Fair. Further, one can indulge in a number of adventurous activities like paramotors, quad biking, and horse riding.

 


Cattle Fair

A cattle fair is one of the major highlights of the Pushkar Festival in Rajasthan. Cattle owners bring their livestock – camels, horses, cows, goats, and sheep; all dressed in colorful attire to be sold and purchased.

 


Handicrafts

Take beautiful handicrafts from the Pushkar Camel Fair home with you. During the event, a number of makeshift stalls are set up that sell items ranging from saddle straps, saddles, and beads to strings of cowries. The fair is also attended by women in large numbers who can also find a gamut of traditional silver ornaments, bead necklaces from Nagpur, garments of patchwork, printed textiles from Ajmer, and traditional footwear.


Elevated Sitting Arena

The elevated sitting arena allows visitors to be seated in a special tent viewing gallery equipped with all the modern amenities. It’s marked by hundreds of brightly adorned camels and horses mounted by riders clad in vibrant traditional Rajasthani attire.


Religious Gatherings

Besides all the camel races, stalls, and food, Pushkar Fair also has a strong religious association. A large group of pilgrims visits Pushkar Lake to mark the importance of this event while the temple city buzzes with religious activities.



Harmony Half Marathon

The Harmony Half Marathon is one of the best things to do at Pushkar Mela. Held during the Pushkar Fair, the run starts from Dargah Ajmer Sharif and ends at the Pushkar Stadium Ground.

Places to stay at the Pushkar Fair

The Pushkar Fair is a vibrant and popular event held annually in Pushkar, Rajasthan, India. It attracts a large number of visitors, so it's advisable to book your accommodation well in advance. Here are some suggestions for places to stay during the Pushkar Fair:

 

1. Luxury Hotels and Resorts:

   - The Gateway Resort Pushkar Bypass: A luxurious resort offering comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and a serene ambiance.

   - Ananta Spa & Resorts: A lavish resort with spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, and beautiful surroundings.

   - Pushkar Resorts: This resort provides comfortable accommodation, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a spa.

 

2. Mid-Range Hotels and Guesthouses:

   - Pushkar Villas Resort: A mid-range resort with well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.

   - Hotel Pushkar Palace: Located near the Pushkar Lake, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop restaurant with a view of the fairgrounds.

   - Hotel Rajshree Pushkar: A budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location.

 

3. Heritage Havelis and Guesthouses:

   - Inn Seventh Heaven: A beautifully restored haveli with cozy rooms, traditional decor, and a rooftop restaurant.

   - The Greenhouse Resort: An eco-friendly resort with rooms in traditional Rajasthani style and a serene atmosphere.

   - Hotel Master Paradise: A heritage property with comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a pool.

 

4. Camps and Tents:

   - Pushkar Royal Safari Camp: Experience the desert charm with luxury tents, cultural performances, and camel safaris.

   - Orchard Tents and Tranquility: Stay in Swiss cottage tents amidst orchards, enjoying the tranquility and natural surroundings.

   - Royal Desert Camp: This camp offers well-equipped tents, cultural performances, and traditional Rajasthani hospitality.

Note : Remember to check the availability and make reservations in advance, as accommodations tend to fill up quickly during the Pushkar Fair.

 

The Pushkar Fair offers a unique and immersive experience, combining the excitement of a traditional livestock fair with the vibrancy of cultural events and religious significance. It is a celebration of Rajasthani heritage and traditions, attracting both local and international visitors who want to witness the rich cultural tapestry of India.


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