Journey of Colours: Monika’s Trip to Rajasthan with Thrillophilia
“Monika, how does an adventure through Rajasthan sound?” my husband had asked one evening, with an excited shine in his eye. His words caught me off guard as we were just settling into the quiet of another weekend at our home. We had talked about visiting Rajasthan someday but never took it seriously - until now.
“Yes! Let us explore the forts, palaces, and those golden sand dunes!” I replied, with the same enthusiasm as his. And just like that, we had our bags packed for a journey that promised to be a clash of cultures, colors, and stories in one of the most royal states of India.
Legends in Every Stone
Our first stop in Rajasthan was Jaipur, where the Amber Fort stands - a massive golden fortification that commands both respect and wonder. Situated on the top of a hill and overlooking Maota Lake, the fort seemed almost spectacular, its reflection mirrored in the water below.
As we walked through the Ganesh Pol entrance, I could feel the weight of history surrounding us. My husband took my hand and guided me through each room and courtyard as we admired intricate mirrorwork and frescoes that lined the Sheesh Mahal.
“It looks like a palace from a dreamland,” I whispered to him.
The walls shimmered as rays of sunlight bounced off each tiny mirror while illuminating the hall in a kaleidoscope of colors.
My husband agreed, just as enchanted as I was. Every step seemed to unravel a new story, hidden in the arches and corridors that had witnessed centuries of royal splendour.
The Hue of Jodhpur
Leaving Jaipur, we drove to Jodhpur, a city that appeared like a sea of blue from a far distance. Every rooftop and every wall seemed drenched in shades of indigo - a colour chosen by the Brahmins centuries ago but adopted by the entire city over time.
Mehrangarh Fort stood tall above this ocean of blue houses,
“Imagine the armies that have passed through these gates,” my husband spoke softly as we looked over the battlements.
Walking along the tall walls of the fort, we admired the intricate jharokhas (balconies) and the massive iron-studded doors. These were the relics of a time when the fort was a powerful fortress defending against invasions.
As the day drew to a close, we wandered down to Ghanta Ghar Market.
“Let us pick up something unique,” I suggested, eagerly exploring the stalls filled with Rajasthani handicrafts, colourful bangles, and bright textiles. We shopped our hearts out and left the market with our bags heavier and hearts fuller.
The Golden City Awaits
Our journey took us further into the Thar Desert to Jaisalmer. The Jaisalmer Fort, known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort, dominated the landscape with its warm yellow sandstone walls blending into the desert.
But it was not just the fort’s golden glow that left us spellbound. Unlike most forts, what truly set it apart was the way it felt alive, unlike any other fort we’d seen so far. We walked through narrow lanes lined with shops and small homes and heard the laughter of children, the chatter of shopkeepers, and the clink of artisans at work.
“Monika, look!” my husband pointed to a small shop displaying hand-crafted leather goods. We stopped to browse and ended up in a lively conversation with the shopkeeper, who recounted tales of his ancestors who had lived and worked in the fort for generations.
After visiting the fort, I felt that we had stepped into a living and breathing community that had somehow managed to thrive in the heart of this ancient structure.
Dancing Dunes and Desert Nights
After days of exploration, it was time to experience the Sand Dunes. When we reached there, we saw the entire desert stretched out in golden waves, meeting the horizon as far as the eye could see.
Our adventure began with a bumpy ride over the dunes in an open jeep.
“Hang on tight!” our driver called out as we rushed over the sandy hills, the wind whipping through our hair.
The thrill of dune bashing was exhilarating, each descent sending a thrill through us, with my husband laughing beside me like a kid on a rollercoaster.
Next, we were led to a camel waiting patiently by the side of the road.
“I guess this is where we get to play desert nomads,” I joked, and my husband smirked while helping me mount the camel as it rose. Sitting on top of the camel gave us a stunning view of the vast desert landscape.
It took us to our desert camp in the evening. The ambience was filled with lively folk performances, where dancers in bright ghagras swirled and musicians played traditional instruments, their voices rising to meet the desert wind. I felt a warmth and a sense of belonging, sitting there with my husband under the starlit sky, clapping to the beat of Rajasthan folk songs.
When dinner was served - Dal Baati Churma, I was completely swept away by its delicious flavors. They were rich and earthy, and a perfect match for the rustic surroundings. My husband and I exchanged smiles, each savoring the simplicity and charm of the magical evening.
As the skies grew darker, the desert became quiet, and we sat back in awe, taking in the peaceful ambiance around us. The flickering flames of the bonfire, the tunes of distant music, and the subtle warmth of the desert air blended into an experience that felt truly timeless.
Read More: Thrillophilia Rajasthan Reviews