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PREFACE I, ________________________, being a student of BMS of (PODDAR), Mumbai The project title RAJASTHAN - TOURISM is the analysis of the big scale sector of TOURISM . This project involves the big scale level provided me vital information in tourism sector The survey was conducted so as to analyze the big scale sector prevailing in the current industry and the improvement that can be made upon it. Market research study has been conducted in order to bring out the picture of big scale sector that exists in this industry. The differences in service quality that exists in the market. What the customers preferences are provided by the tourism agent in Mumbai ---------------------------------

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Achieving accuracy in any research requires in depth study regarding the subject. As the prime objective of the project is to about tourism sector Rajasthan with the existing competitors in the market and the impact of tourism the research methodology adopted is basically based on primary data via which the most recent and accurate piece of first hand information could be collected. Secondary data has been used to support primary data wherever needed. Primary data was collected using the following techniques Questionnaire Method Direct Interview Method and Observation Method The main tool used was, the questionnaire method. Further direct interview method, where a face-to-face formal interview and also using i-net was taken. Lastly observation method has been continuous with the questionnaire method, as one continuously observes the surrounding environment the works in.

Procedure of research methodology To conduct this research the target population was the tourism sector Rajastan Who have visited Rajasthan
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 I beening Rajasthani has provide useful research. Target geographic area. Sample size of was taken. To these maximum numbers of people a questionnaire was given, the questionnaire was a combination of both open ended and closed ended questions. The date during which questionnaires were filled. Some people were also interviewed to know their prospective. Interviews with the managers of Tourist agent service providers were also conducted. Finally the collected data and information was analyzed and compiled to arrive at the conclusion and recommendations given.

Sources of secondary data

Used to obtain information on, Government of Rajasthan site was used including tourism industry sector of central government procedures etc, wherever required. Lastly the vital information was also provided by tourist Agent M/s,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, in Mumbai and their Manager Mr.. And also TIGER CALLING RANTHAMBHORE TRAVEL AGENCY,
NEAR TAJ HOTEL, RANTHAMBHORE ROAD, SAWAI MADHOPUR

# Internet # Magazines # Newspapers # Journals

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Objective of the Project To study about Rajasthan and their ( Music & Dance, Architecture, People & Religion, Cuisine, Souvenirs, Handicrafts,, ect To study about one should know and vist Rajasthan as a tourist place (Ajmer-Pushkar Bikaner Bundi, Alwar, Bharatpur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Mount Abu, Ranthambhore, Udaipur, Shekhawati, Virat Nagar, Other Destinations

Ranthambhore Wildlife Safari

Limitation Research strickly upto Mumbai area only Review of Litu

Ranthambhore Adventure Tours Tiger Calling Ranthambhore Travel Agency

About Rajasthan

Folklore of heroism and romance resound from the formidable monuments that majestically stand to tell the tale of a bygone era. The magic of vibrant Rajasthan - its rich heritage, colourful culture, exciting desert safaris, shining sand-dunes, amazing variety lush forests and varied wildlife - makes it a destination nonpareil. Rajasthan is often portrayed as one vast open-air museum, with its relics so well preserved that it delights even the most skeptical traveler.

It is an incredible destination for the outdoor-tourist take a safari on horses, camels, elephants or even in jeeps, with the Aravalis - India's oldest mountain range as the backdrop. Feast your eyes on spectacular sand-dunes, take the tiger trail, or just watch the birds in the wetlands. You can also choose to pamper yourself in the lavish heritage properties. Rajasthan has something for everyone one just has to choose an activity appropriate to one's temperament.

Music and Dance

Rajasthan is culturally rich and has extensive tradition in art and culture, which reflects the Indian way of life. The dance, music and art forms have been consciously cultivated and patronized by the erstwhile royal courts. An equally rich and varied folk culture from villages is both fascinating and mesmerizing. The music is of uncomplicated innocence and songs depict day-to-day relationships and chores, more often about the bringing of water. Rajasthan's cultural tapestry takes in simple folk to highly cultivated classical music and dance, in its own distinct style.

Music sung by women is mostly about water and the style is called panihari. It depicts daily chores and is centred on the well. In an arid area like

Rajasthan, water is of immense significance. Some of the folk songs also talk about a chance encounter with a lover. Some are snipes at the incorrigible mothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Here too the music has a strong religious flavor and is sung in dedication to various deities. Some religious songs are folk idioms of Saints like Surdas, Kabirdas, Meerabai and others. These songs are mostly heard in nightlong soires. Entertainers like the Langas, Manganniyars, Mirasis and Dholis keep music traditions alive. Their education in music began early and passed down the generations. The folk musicians are accomplished in the classical tradition. Songs normally begin with an alap, which sets the tune of the song and then the recital of the couplet that is called the dooba. The songs also have the taan, the pitch and the tibias -the triplet, which lends variance to the tune. The ballad traditions of Rajasthan are indeed appealing. Here bards sing about folk heroes like Tejaji, Gogaji and Ramdeoji. They sing and narrate heroic tales of battles and even of legendary lovers and their tragedies. Distinctive traditions falling into this class are the 'Phad' and the puppetry. The accompanying instruments are various percussion, string and wind; and even items of common use such as bells, thalis (metal dishes) and earthen pots.

Folk Dances

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Dance is an expresion of human emotion as much as music and it is found in almost limitless variations in Rajasthan. Simple, unsophisticated, dancing is seen in their fairs and festivals in the kudakna of the meena boys, the dancing which goes with the Rasiya songs of Braj, and the dancing by women and men where the women carry a pot or a lighted lamp on their head. In the Charkula dance of Braj, an elaborate lamp stand replaces the single lamp.

The famous Ghoomar, Rajasthan's popular dance gets its name from ghoomna, the pirouetting which displays the spectacular colours of the flowing ghaghra, the long skirt of the Rajasthin women. Men have a range of their own more vigorous dances. The Gair of Mewar have inner and outer circles of dancers who move diagonally or loop in and out. it is intricate and fascinating. The Gair of Jhdhpur is performed in a single file and martial costumes are worn for effect. The Geendad of Shekhawati is similar. Sticks or swords are often used in male dances and the Shekhawati dance has the daf accompanying it .

Free dancing full of zest, with rows of dancers waxing colourful pennants, makes the Bam rasiya of the Braj region spectacular. It is performed at holi . The Kucchhi Ghodi or Dummy Horse dance is performed on festive occasions.

The terahtali is a tantalizing dance performed by women while sitting. The womes have manjeeras (little brass discs) tied with long strings to their wrists, elbows, waists, arms and a pair in their hands as well. Their male accompanists sing and play the tondoora while the women, with dexterous and fine movements, create a strong rhythm with the
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manjeeras. For added effect they may hold a sword between their teeth or balance ports or lighted lamps on their heads.

The dance of the kalbelia womes is vigorous and graceful. An authentic fire dance is performed by the jasnathis of Bikaner and Churu districts. The accompanying music rises in tempo as the dance progresses, ending with the performer dancing on brightly glowing embers-a breathtaking and deeply impressive sight.

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TRIBAL MUSIC & DANCES

Music and dances are such an essential part of tribal life that professional musicians and dancers are redundant.

The Garasia tribal's inhabit Abu Road and Pindwara Tehsils of Sirohi district and the neighboring territories of Kotra, Gogunda and KherwaraTehsils of Udaipur district; Bali and Desuri of Pali district. They have folklore enriched with folktales, proverbs, riddles and folk music. Walar is and important dance of the Garasias which is a prototype of the Ghoomar dance .

Their dances are generally accompanied by the beats of the mandal, chang and a variety of other musical instruments which provide a lively rhythm to their dance sequences.

The most fomous Bhil dance is the Gawari, a dance drama. Troupes of these dancers go from village to village for a month, during which the nine functionaries follow a strict regimen. The main characters are Rai Buriya Shiva, his two Rais, and Katkuria, the comic handyman. Between the enactment of various episodes, the entire troupe dances around a central spot consecrated to a deity. The dance is accompanied by a Madal and Thali.

The Goomar is the characteristic dance of the Bhils. Men and women sing alternately and move
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clockwise & anticlockwise giving free and intended play to the ample folds of the ghagra.

The music of the primitive group of Sahariyas (Sourias) of Shahbad, Kota, shows Central Indian links, with their songs speaking of Ram and Sita. The fairs of the Meenas had a lot of free dancing which is unfortunately on the wane.

Vibrant, vigorous, graceful, sinuous, plaintive and martial, the dance and music of Rajasthan evoke the desert in all its moods. It is the most lilting tribute to the spectacular beauty, the undulating sinuousness and the brutal harshness of the landscape, and to the hardiness and heroism of the people who live in this Land of the Kings.

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Folk Music THE STRINGED INSTRUMENT

A bright red turban on his weather-beaten face, white dhoti and a white shirt, a bow in his hand moving gracefully over the strings of his Sarangi - is a picture of the Rajasthni musician which evokes the melodious and plaintive music of Rajasthn in one's mind. The Sarangi is the most important folk musical instrument and is found in various forms in Rajasthan. The Rawanhathha of the Thori or nayak bhopas is probably the earliest instrument played with a bow, and this humble instrument could well be the precursor of the violin. It has two main strings and a variable number of supporting string, with a belly of half a coconut shell and a body of bamboo. The bow has ghugroos (bells) attached to it. The music is staccato and accompanied by the syncopated singing of the Bhopa and the Bhopan. No other rhythmic support is needed. The Jogis of Abu Road area use a smaller version of the Rawanhathha which has its two main strings tuned to 'sa' of the Indian octave and a third of steel to 'Pa'. The Langas use the Sindhi sarangi. It is made up of four main wire, seven jharas and seventeen tarafs. Other members of the family are the Gujaratan, Jogia and Dhani sarangis. The Surinda, favourite of the

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manganiyars, is a small Sarangi. The Chikara, used b the Meos and Jogis of Mewat is a replica of the Sarangi . The bowing of these instruments is a skilful exercise, often supported by the sound of the ghungroos that are tied to the bow to make the beat prominent.

Another remarkable bowed instruments is the Kamayacha of the Manganiyars, with its big, circular resonator. It is unique in that its bowmoves over the sympathetic and main strings , giving out an impressive deep, booming sound. So deeply ingrained is the sense of tune and rhythm in the mind and ear of the folk musicians, that they need nothing more than intuition and a highly trained ear to tune their instruments. They have a rudimentary concept of 'that' or mode which they use to tune the sympathetic strings (flat notes) and khadi bhelna (natural notes). The sarangis are one of the plethora of musical instruments in use in Rajasthan. The jantar of the Bhopas of Dev Narainji is akin to the Saraswati or Rudra Veena. It has two gourds, four strings and fourteen frets. The Galaleng Jogis of Dungarpur and Banswara have a twin gourded Kendru. The name Kendru appears akin to the ancient Kinnari Veera, and it has often been called the keengri in Rajasthan literature. The Chautara, also called the Tandoora or Nissan, is also a popular five stringed drone and beat instrument used as an accopaniment to devotional music and for the terahtali dance. while he sings, he also beats the rhythm on the belly of

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the Tandoora with his fingers. The single stringed Bhapang of the Jogis and the Duska of the Bhils are similar-a single string passes through the parchment covering one end of a cylinder and it is plucked rhythmically while the tension on the string is manipulated with the other hand. The Ektaara is also a single string instrument, but it is mounted on the belly of a gourd attached to a body made of bamboo. In Western Rajasthan, a simple instrument called the Morchag is very popular. The Ghoralio is common among the Bhils, Garasiyas and the Kalbelias. Both these instruments resemble the Jewish harp.
Folk Music WIND INSTRUMENT

These are the numerous instruments that are played by blowing into them. Rajasthan folk music has many variations of the flute. The Peli of the Meos of Alwar is a short flute, to the music of which the Ratwai is sung in a high pitch. The Algoza, is a common in the Tonk-Ajmer areas, is two such flutes played together . The Satara of the Langas has one long flute and another flute to provide the drone. The Narh or Nad produced music most evocative of the desert. It is a vertical flute with a
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single long hollow tube, into which the player whistles, at the same time gurgling a song in his throat or actually singing intermittently. The effect is haunting. The Kathodis use the pawri, a flute of bamboo held vertically. The Bhils use a short flute in some of their dances. Ceremonial music provided by the Nafeeri and Surnai, both rudimentary forms of the shenai. Then there is the Poongi of the snake charmers and its adaptation by the Langas called the Murla. Both have two tubes, one for the notes and the other for the drone. it, one for the notes and the other for the drone. Rajasthan also have wide range of trumpets from the small singi of the Jogi to the massive Karna and the intriguing looking Nagphani. The Bankia is the most common and interesting instrument which, though crude, produces a powerful, eerie sound in dexterous hands. The common man's orchestra is formed with the Dhol, the Thati and the Bankia , and accompanies the Chari and Kuchhi Ghodi dances.
Folk Music THE AUTOPHONIC INSTRUMENTS

The bells are the first of the auto phonic instruments. The Ghanti or the Ghanta are commonly used and the ghungroo (ankle bells) form an integral part of the music. The Bhopas of Bherunji wear large ghungroos around their
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waists and sway their bodies to provide a rhythm. The war dance of the Godwad area, the ramjhol, is performed to the rhythm of the large ankle bells. Then there are the manjeeras which are made of brass in the shape of hemispherical metal cups struck against each other. The Jhanit ant the Taala are different kinds of manjeeras. Another variety of musical instruments is formed by a single metal plate, the thali. The struck in various ways producing different kinds of tones and rhythms. The Jhalar, also called the Ghanta and Thali or Tasli are commonly used. In Jaisalmer district an interesting variant of the Jaltarang is used. It is called the Jaltaal and is a thali with water filled in it.The jhalar is usually played with bells, blowing of conch shells and beating of drums at aarti and on other religious occasions. The Jhol and the Bankia are used at auspicious social occasions as an accompaniment to the host of dances performed at such times. The Shree Mahdal uses scores of Jhalar like discs . Unfortunately it is rarely heard now.

Rhythmic music is also provided by the Khartals, which are disc jinglers, struck against each other. Jinglers are also used on the chhinpia and the lejim. The Raigidgidi or Khartal used
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by the Langas and Manganiyars is made of simple wooden castanets, and two struck against each other form the basic rhythm. The kathodis of Udaipur use scappers.

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Folk Music PERCUSSION

Different kinds of drums forms this groups of musical instruments . They are various kinds: the two sided ones, the single sided drums, the shallow rimmed and single faced. The twin faced drums include the tiny damru or dugdugi of the Kalbelia and the madari (juggler) and the obliquitous dhol from which the dholi derives his caste name. The Bhils use the maadal, a folk version of 'moisan' which has a body of baked clay and gives a booming sound. The single faced and shallow rimmed drums are the daf and the chang. The chang is the biggest, and with a parchment pasted on its rim, is a big favorite of the holi revellers. The player strikes the centre with his left hand and the edge of the membrane with a stick attached to finger of the right hand. A second player beats out a faster rhythm along the rim, which is called 'chippi lagana' . The smallest member in this group is the Khanjri, and its variant is the Dhapli. They are used by th kalbelias. Single faced instrument are played singly or in pairs. The largest single conical drum is the the Bam of Bharatpur. The Dhonsa and Damama are also big single drums. The nagara or naggara are two conical drums, one bigged than the other. played with the Surnai and Nafeeri, they form the orchestra for the folk operas. The Bhils, Garasiya and Sahariyas use the Kundli, a single, small conical drum, while the nagaru-mishan has two bowl shaped drums and is used by the Jasnathi Siddhas, among others.
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The tasa or tasha is like a covered thali and used in Moharram processions. The matkas of Pubuji and the ghada are a pair of huge eartherware pots, their mouths covered wiht membrane. One player plays each matka , and the Bhopas use it to accompany their singing. The Meghwals along the Indo-Pak border play the ghada, an ordinary earthenpot, with amazing effect. The ring worn on a finger of the right hand beats out the rhythm while the players produces a booming sound by blowing into the mouth of the pot. the whole effect is heightened by the graceful dance of the player.

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The Architecture of Rajasthan The mixture and brilliance of Rajasthan's architectural heritage can amaze a visitor. Majestic forts, intricately carved temples and havelis (meaning mansion) and even step wells make Rajasthan a paradise for an architecture buff. The desert State of Rajasthan is a land of irony and extremes. This vibrant and striking region is the home of the Rajput warrior clans who had ruled here for many years. Rajasthan is also home to some of India's most romantic cities. The Rajputs were prolific builders and have dotted the arid Aravali landscape with their legacy of some most imposing and magnificent forts and palaces in the world. Today the structures defy time to tell the story of gallantry, courage and tragedy of the bygone era and its story of survival in the harsh Thar Desert. Some of the prominent structures that represent the architectural heritage of Rajasthan are Jantar Mantar, Dilwara Temples, Chittaurgarh Fort, Lake Palace Hotel, City Palace and Jaisalmer havelis.

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Forts and Palaces

The architecture is basically secular and draws a lot of inspiration from the Mughals, while latter day architecture also embraces European interiors. These structures encompass mahals (palaces), zenanas (womens quarters), diwan-I-aam (public audiences), diwan-I-khas (private audiences), sils (galleries), mandir (temples), bagh (garden) chatris and ramparts for display and parades.

Jaipur

Moti Dungari Jaigarh Fort Nahargarh Fort Amber City Palace

Jodhpur

Umaid Bhawan Palace Mehrangarh Fort

Udaipur

City Palace Fateh Prakash Palace Sajjangarh Kumbhalgarh Fort Chittorgarh Fort

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Bikaner

Junagarh Lal Garh Palace Gajner palace

Ajmer

Taragarh Fort Man Mahal

Jaisalmer Bundi

Jaisalmer Fort Sukh Niwas Palaces Taragarh fort

Mount Abu

Achalgarh

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Temples The great architectural movement which swept Rajasthan from the 8th to the 11th century was really a later flowering of the virile development inspired by the Guptas during the 4th, 5th and 6th centuries. The 8th and 9th century also saw new styles of temples emerging from the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty from Mandore. Temples built around this time also include temples at Chittorgarh and Osiyan in western Rajasthan. The familiar feature of these temples is single sikhara or spire and intricately carved outer chamber called the mandap before the inner sanctum. In many temples the main temple would be surrounded by series of small and finely carved temples. Good examples of these are Kalika Mata Temple and Kumbha Shyam temples in the Chittorgarh fort. Temples at Kiradu in western Barmer known as Solanki style are known for sculptured frescos. The best example in this is the Someshvara Temple, which has fine sculptured fresco, and a multi tiered spire. The 10th century saw the constructions of many splendid Jain Temple, notable amongst them are the Dilwara Temples at Mt Abu, Mahavira Temple at Ghanerao in southern Rajasthan and Ranakpur near Udaipur. At Ranakpur the Chomukha meaning four faced is the finest. It features a series of mandupas decorated with intricate carving giving a breath taking symmetry. A group of Jain Temples at Jaisalmer are also noteworthy. A great deal of this fine architecture, however, was destroyed during the earlier Muslim invasions.

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Havelis

The Merchants of Rajasthan built sumptuously decorated mansions as residences known as havelis. The merchants had commissioned artisans to ensure that they construct and decorate the havelis in a manner that befits the prosperity of the owner. Havelis are common everywhere in Rajasthan but havelis at Shekhawati and Jaisalmer are worth visiting.

Havelis of Shekhawati Shekhawati as a region is known for its beautifully painted Havelis that spreads over Jhunjhunu, Sikar and Churu districts in north-western Rajasthan. Built by rich Marwari merchants of the region, Shekhawati's magnificent mansions display a unique architectural style that evolved around the courtyards to ensure safety and privacy of the womenfolk and protection from the heat of the long and harsh summers.

Painted predominantly in blue, maroon, yellow, green and indigo, the Havelis of Shekhawati have beautiful frescoes that adorn their walls. Earlier wall paintings were largely based on the mythological themesdepicting gods, heroes, epics and local legends, animals, portraits of hunting and wrestling scenes and glimpses of every day life.

The turn of the 19th century saw the appearance of new motifs, an outcome of the British Raj's influence upon the Indian Culture. The paintings continued with the mythological themes, but the new entries included European oleographs, lithographs and photographs. Trains, cars,

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balloons, telephones, gramophones, English men in hunting attires and portraits of Haveli owners primly dressed were painted profusely. Jaisalmer Havelis

Patwon ki Haveli is the most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis. Salim Singh ki Haveli was built about 300 years ago and is still partially lived in.

Salim Singh was the prime minister of the princely state and his mansion has a beautifully arched roof with superb carved brackets in the form of peacocks. The mansion is just below the hill and, it is said that it once had two additional wooden storeys, in an attempt to make it as high as the Maharaja's Palace. The Maharaja of Jaisalmer had the upper storey torn down.

The late 19th century Nathmal ki Haveli was also a prime minister's house. The left and right wings of the building were carved by brothers and are very similar but not identical. Yellow sandstone elephants guard the building and the front door alone is a work of art.

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Well and Tanks

The importance of a water source in a water scarce area like Rajasthan can hardly be exaggerated. So it is not surprising that wells and tanks or 'sagar' (lakes) were decorated ornamentally with beautiful edifices. Water table was found very low and step wells (locally known as 'baodi') leading to the water table are beautiful examples of architecture. Some excellent pavilions can be seen on the banks of lakes also.

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Attraction Introduction Place On Wheel

Roll back the pages of time for one glorious week, recapture the pomp and pageantry of a royal past in royal style. Step aboard the Palace on Wheels, once the personal railway coaches of the erstwhile rulers of the princely states of Gujarat and Rajputana, the viceroy of British India and the Nizam of Hyderabad. See Rajasthan in all its splendour and the Taj Mahal at Agra. A celebration of everything that is beautiful. A journey into the past on a luxury train.

Traveling in the famed Palace on Wheels is one of the most memorable ways to explore India's stately splendour. Unquestionably it's an unparalleled experience to ride the replica carriages refurbished to look like the original saloons of the Maharajas, the erstwhile rulers of India. The Palace on Wheels is one of India's most fascinating sojourns covering the pink state capital, Jaipur, the golden citadel, Jaisalmer, the blue city of Jodhpur, the National Park Ramthambhor; the symbol of chivalry, Chittaurgarh, romantic city of Lakes Udaipur, the bird sanctuary Bharatpur and the mughal capital, Agra before returning to Delhi.

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Royal Rajasthan onWheel

ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS The wheels roll on silently and the mind churns a myriad magical thoughts

Rajasthan is the magnificent land of numerous kingdoms, majestic forts and palaces, diverse cultures, varied landscapes and vibrant colours. Experience the land of regal splendour with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, the contemporary royal living. The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is the regal delight where every moment is woven together into an everlasting and immemorial experience to be lived and cherished forever. The makers of the Palace on Wheels have rekindled the charm of luxury with utmost consideration of your comfort and modern amenities at the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. This tour is extensively planned to take you through the whispering sands of desert, the intriguing sagas of forts and palaces, and the adventurous escapades to the wilds; while you witness the luxuries on the train in a truly royal fashion. This train is newly built and designed in a contemporary royal style. You will be delighted with the magnificent interiors, sumptuous meals, expensive wines, and personalised service by the Khidmatgars, the likes of which you would rarely experience.

The luxurious Royal Rajasthan on Wheels takes you through a seven day exploration of the vibrant Rajasthan. The magic of the splendid journey begins at New Delhi and prepares you to weave the fabric of delightful imagination becoming reality over the next seven days. Your royal journey begins from Delhi and takes you through various erstwhile princely states of Rajasthan like Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittor, Swai-madhopur, and Jaipur. After experiencing multifaced Rajasthan you will visit Khajuraho temples Indias unique gift to the world and then Varanasi, The holy city and city of temples and ghats,. In the end The TajMahal.at Agra. The entire
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expedition has been thoroughly planned like The place on wheels to take you back into the history. Most enjoyable journeys are short lived but long remembered. This journey will come to an end at Delhi. Which will, the onset of your reliving these cherished memories for a life time come get captivated.

8 Days / 7 Nights (Oct. 2012 - Mar. 2013)

Day Place Arrival Time Departure Time

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Accompany your sumptuous meals with finest wines and an array of international brands of liquor on the two restro-bars Sheesh Mahal and Swarn Mahal on the Royal Train. The fully equipped bar on the train serves selected brands on Aperitif, Malt, Whisky, Scotch, Rum, Vodka, Cognac, Wines and Champagne. These premium delights have been put to serve your palette better.

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The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels has souvenirs, to provide you with knickknacks and keepsakes that you would love to pick up. These include products and apparels specially designed to suit your interest like:

Beer Mug Emboss Leather Jewellery Box Leather Photo Frame Cruet Set Old Paper Notebook with Train Painting T-shirt, Caps, etc.

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SPA

A pampering cannot go amiss while on a vacation, especially if the holiday is in India. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels brings to you the finest spa services on board. This lifestyle spa will provide relaxation and wellness solutions on board with personal care products for hair, skin and body. The well-equipped spa will offer various massages and therapies and revitalising solutions amidst royal ambience. The royal train will have a dedicated coach for excellent spa services.

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Hospitality At Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, the gracious hospitality is bound to leave you speechless. Your experience at the regal train will be doubled by the warm welcome and the diligent service. The meticulously trained attendants, your Khidmatgars will serve you round the clock.

Splendid Saloons The 13 deluxe coaches have been rightly named after the famous palaces of Rajasthan. Namely, Hawa Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Surya Mahal, Moti Mahal, Sukh Mahal, Jal Mahal, Padmini Mahal, Kishori Mahal, Phool Mahal, Jogi Mahal, Kumbha Palace, Umaid Palace, Lalgarh Palace. The Super-Deluxe coach is Taj Mahal.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is a no smoking train. The Royal train is having Internet facility and Satellite TV on board. The Royal train is having Royal Spa and Wellness centre(Gym) facility on board. The windows in the Royal Train are the largest in any train running on tracks in India and have been made especially for enjoying the visual treat on your royal escapade.

The super deluxe saloons have an individual temperature control facility. Channel music system and public address system. Get engrossed with a range of board-games and a variety of books on the train. Various national dailies and magazines are available aboard. Laundry service is available on board to serve you better. A separate safe is provided in your cabin to store your valuables. 110/120 V sockets in Train. Mailbox is provided on board.

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Foreign exchange counters are available at hotel counters. Transport: For a comfortable sightseeing experience, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels will provide AC buses for the passengers .

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Rajasthan Tourism Festival Calendar 2008-2016

Baneshwar Fair Braj Mahotsav (Festival)

Jaipur Jewellery Show Jaipur Literature Festival

Matsya Festival Mewar Festival

Bundi Utsav Camel Festival

Jaipur Polo Jewellers Association Show

Muharram Nagaur Fair

Chandrabhaga Fair Desert Festival

Jodhpur Folk Festival Kailadevi Fair

Pushkar Fair Shekhawati Festival

Dussehra Elephant Festival

Kajli Teej Kumbhalgarh Festival

Summer Festival Teej Festival

Forhex Fair Gangaur Festival

Mahaveer Ji Fair Marwar Festival

Vintage Car Rally Winter Festival M

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Wild Life Of Rajasthan

In spite of a comparatively hostile terrain, Rajasthan surprisingly is the abode of a number of mammals and birds. Its vast size and latitudinal variations above the sea level of 1,700m provides it with varied vegetation. It provides semi green forests of Mount Abu to dry grasslands of the desert, and from the dry deciduous thorn forest of Aravali to wetlands of Bharatpur. The sanctuaries attract herds of species from all over to their temporary habitat that provides comfortable subsistence. During the season, the whole place echoes with enchanting sounds and fascinating visuals against the sprawling meadows of flora. Rajasthan is the haven of the tigers and many endangered species.

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The leopard also called the panther here is found in forests and in open degraded forest areas with rocky outcrops adjoining towns and villages. The sneaky predator finds easy prey of unsuspecting village dogs, asses, calves and goats. There five lesser cats besides the two big cats. Besides a host of fauna there is a handsome variety of avian life too. Wetlands at Koeladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary at Bharatpur are a bird watchers delight.

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Ranthambhor National Park

Climate & Access

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Ranthambhor National Park, once a princely game conserve is the scene where the celebrated Indian tigers are best seen. Ranthambhor Tiger Reserve lies on the junction of Aravali and Vindhyas just 14 Kms from Sawai Madhopur in Eastern Rajasthan. It sprawls over a varying and undulating landscape. The scenery changes dramatically from gentle and steep slopes of the Vindhyas to the sharp and conical hills of the Aravali. A tenth century fort also blends amicably with the background. Pure sands of Dhok (Anogeissus pendula) interspersed with grasslands at the plateaus, meadows in valleys and luxuriant foliage around the canals make the jungle. Three big lakes Padam Talab (meaning Lake), Malik Talab and Raj Bagh are similar turquoises studded in the vast forest that abounds with aquatic vegetation including duckweeds, lilies and lotus.

A significant geological feature within the park is the Great Boundary Fault where the Vindhaya plateau meets the Aravali range. The Rivers Chambal in the South and the Banas in the north bound the National Park. The park is dotted with steep rocky hills and the dominating architecture of Ranthambhor Fort (built in the 10th century), adds to its landscape. The rugged park terrain alternates between dry deciduous forest, open grassy meadow, dotted by several lakes and rivers that are only made
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passable by rough roads built and maintained by the Forest Service. The tiger is not the only attraction at Ranthambhor. A variety of birds including owlets, the ubiquitous langur (monkey), leopard, caracal, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, marsh crocodiles, wild boar, bears and various species of deer are the other attractions.

Ranthambhor is plagued by the typical problems encountered by all game reserves in India people living in and around the parks and grazing by livestock! Between 1976-1979, 12 villages within Ranthambhor National Park were resettled outside the designated park area with only a few people now residing in scattered hamlets within the park. Of course poachers continue their activities with increasing demand from China for tiger parts. There are no accurate figures on how many tigers and poachers kill other species, but on occasion evidence appears in the form of large numbers of skins and other body parts found on couriers. The park is well staffed and the people who man the centres and the mandatory guides one for every vehicle, know the terrain and some even know the Latin names of most species.

The tiger is not the only attraction at Ranthambhor; although it is the one park resident people come to see. We were lucky to see several varieties of birds including these owlets peering through their burrows pictured here on the right and of course the ubiquitous langur monkey. Other animals in the reserve include leopard, caracal, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, marsh crocodiles, wild boar, bears and various species of deer. The main food source for the tiger is the swamp deer like Barasinsga and on occasion the wild buffalo and also wild boar. If you wish to stay near the park, the facilities on offer are superb.

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Park Season: Opened During- 1st October to 30th June Visiting Shifts- Morning and Afternoon trips Closed During- 1st July to 30th September Note:- Advance Reservations for Ranthambhore National Park Visit is available online on this portal till 30th June of corresponding season.

Save Tiger

Like oil lamps flickering in the wind, the worlds tiger population is unhurriedly being snuffed out. Several books and literature have been produced to describe the most intriguing, the most powerful and the most majestic of all animals. The Hindu tradition and culture have a place of honor and worship for tiger. In India people had added Singh, Sher and Nahar on their names to upgrade their class. Yet people have been incredibly indifferent to the cause of the tiger. This web site aims in graphics, pictures and prose to advance the level of wakefulness and concern for this mythical and secretive striped beauty that placidly roams the jungles.

There is enormous pressure on the habitat of the tigers, the Ranthambhore hopes to strike an ecological balance and complete harmony between man and the beast.

Tiger Moments

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Tiger Burning Bright in rare and relaxed moments exhibits it lovable beauty. It is in these moments that the sheer beauty and power of this animal comes out so mesmerizing. It is an experience that no one should fail to spot. If your grand mother has told you that cat the maternal aunt of the tiger did not teach a tiger to climb trees so he cant climb trees then she was probably not wholly right. A commendable photographs shows that tigers can scale trees like other cats but only upto 16 months of age of after which they become too heavy to do so.

These pictures depict the world around the tiger and are expected to rouse passion for the tiger. The tiger is waging a lonely battle for survival you must stand for restoring the eco-balance.

Sariska Tiger Reserve

This park is situated only 200 km from Delhi and 107 kms from Jaipur. Although larger than Ranthambhor, it is less commercialised and has less tigers but a similar topography. It covers an area of 800 sq km in total, with a core area of approximately 500 sq km. The Northern Aravali Hills dominate the skyline with their mixture of sharp cliffs and long narrow valleys. The area was declared a sanctuary in 1955 and became a National Park in 1979.

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The landscape of Sariska comprises of hills and narrow valleys of the Aravali hill range. The topography of Sariska supports scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, rocks and grasses. The broad range of wildlife here is a wonderful example of ecological adoption and tolerance, for the climate here is variable as well as erratic.

It is located in the contemporary Alwar district and is the legacy of the Maharajas of Alwar. Pavilions and temples within Sariska are ruins that hint at past riches and glory. The nearby Kankwadi Fort has a long and turbulent history. In morning and evening, wildlife in Sariska heads towards the many water holes, which litter the park, thus providing the guests with their best chance of viewing game. At some of these watering holes it is possible to book hides which are situated in prime spots for wildlife viewing. Darrah Sanctuary Climate & Access An erstwhile royal hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Kota, it is a thickly forested sanctuary lying along the southeastern border of Kota. This hilly sanctuary with thick forests is worth a visit. The animals here include Wolf, Sloth Bear, Chinkara and Leopard. This sanctuary is stretched in the area of 250 sq Kms, almost
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50 Kms from Kota. The best time to visit is between February and May. Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is situated 5 kms in the west of tourist city Udaipur, which surrounds the Sajjangarh Palace overlooking Udaipur City. From the palace, one can have a magnificent view of lakes of Udaipur and Aravalli hill ranges. The view of sunrise and sunset attracts every visitor atop of Bansdara hill. Safari Park was created and wild animals like Chital, Sambar, Wild Boar, and Blue Bull were reintroduced. Animals like Panther, Hyena, Hare and Jackal have reappeared apart from variety of reptiles and birds. The wall extended further and now the entire hillock has been fenced, improving the vegetal cover of the sanctuary area.

Tiger Lake In the hills, at a short distance on the North-West of Sajjangarh, there is an artificial lake named Jiyan Sagar, popularly known as "Bari Lake" or "Tiger Lake". The lake was constructed by Maharana Raj Singh, the ex-ruler of Mewar, in 1664 AD and was named after Jana Devi, the mother of the Maharana. The lake has an area of 1.25 square miles with a storage capacity of 400 million cubic feet.
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary

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Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary Is located in the most rugged of the Aravalli hills in Pali, Rajsamand and Udaipur districts of Rajasthan. It takes name after the impressive historic fort of Kumbhalgarh, which come into view over the park. It is 578 sq Kms in area and at an altitude of 500 to 1,300m. It is home to a large variety of wildlife, some of which are highly endangered species. The wild life includes wolf, leopards, sloth bear, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, smabhar, nilgai, chaisingh (the four horned antelope), chinkara and hare.

The bird life at Kumbhalgarh is also gratifying. The normally shy and untrusted grey jungle fowl can be spotted here. Peacocks and doves can be sighted regularly feeding on grains scattered by the jungle guards. Birds like the red spur owls, parakeets, golden oriole, grey pigeons, bulbul, dove and white breasted kingfisher can also be seen near the water holes. Kumbhalgarhs natural beauty is attracting many tourists and especially for its accessibility from Udaipur, which is 100 Kms from here. Foot tracking and horse safari organised by local tour operators are proving to be very popular. A typical safari route enters the sanctuary from the Kumbhalgarh Fort and cutting across the sanctuary it reaches Ghanerao, and then borders an old abandoned road. On this road, one can sight chinkaras, neelgais, four horned antelope and many birds. Desert National Park

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he Desert National Park is an excellent example of the eco-system of the Thar Desert and its rich fauna. The Sudashri forest post is the most ideal place for observing wildlife in the Desert National Park. Sand dunes form less than 20 per cent of the park, which consists of craggy rocks, pavements and compact salt lake bottoms, inter-medial areas and fixed dunes.

Its inhabitants include the blackbuck, chinkara, wolf, Indian fox, desert fox, hare and desert cat. Flights of sand-grouse start coming to waterholes from sunrise onwards. One can also hear the morning call of the grey partridge. Blue tailed and green bee-eaters, common and bush quail and Indian rollers are birds, which are commonly found around waterholes. The park is also home to the great Indian bustard the state bird of Rajasthan. To visit the Desert National Park enclosure at Sudhasari, prior permission is required from the Desert National park office and office of the District Magistrate, Jaisalmer. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary The sanctuary comprises the oldest mountain ranges - The Aravallis. It was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1960. Apart from having several

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sightseeing places, this sanctuary is a draw for nature lovers. It has great potential for eco-tourism. In shape, this sanctuary is long and narrow but the top spreads out into a picturesque plateau which is about 19 km in length and 5-8 km in breadth. Altitude-wise, it varies from 300m at the base to 1722m at Gurashikhar, the highest peak of the Aravali Ranges. The rocks are igneous and due to the weathering effect of wind and water, large cavities are common in the rocks. This feature is typical of the Aravalis and particularly of Mt. Abu. Toad Rock in Mount Abu is one such example.

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Mount Abu has a very rich floral biodiversity starting with xenomorphic subtropical thorn forest at the foot hills to subtropical evergreen forest along water courses and valleys at higher altitudes. These forests consist of 112 plant families with 449 genera and 820 species. Of these, 663 species are di-cots while 157 species are monocots. Mount Abu is the only place in Rajasthan where one can observe a rich variety of orchids. The place is also rich in bryophytes and algae. Three species of wild roses and 16 species of ferns some of which are quite rare have also been reported from here. The south-west part of the sanctuary is rich in bamboo forests. Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary

Climate & Access In the forests having bamboo and dry deciduous vegetation, 108 km from Udaipur, this sanctuary provides rich pastures for a variety of deer that includes the Chousingha. Beside this it also provides homes to Caracal wild Boar, Pangolin and Leopards.

Keoladeo Ghana National Park

This magnificent bird haven in actual came into being paradoxically as a duck shooting preserve

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for Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur. He transformed the shallow depression formed by the confluence of river Gambhir and river Banganga into a reservoir by damming the rainwater in monsoons. Flooding of water created shallow wetland ecosystem causing it to be a perfect habitat for an astounding variety of birds. The park that was a hunting preserve for the Maharaja and the British continued to be so till 1964, after which hunting was banned. A forestation policy of planting acacias was vigorously followed. However, the ecosystem at the park continues to be fragile due to pressures of tourism and need for water from surrounding villages. However, the environmentalists won the day in 1985 when UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage site and earlier in 1982 it was declared as National Park. And, today the Park is recognised as the most important breeding and feed grounds for the birds in the world. Some species are endangered. Visitors are advised to maintain low noise level and avoid littering the park. The park opens from sunrise to sunset around the year. The ticket is Rs 200 per foreign visitor and Rs 25 for Indian visitor. Vehicles are permitted upto Shanti Kutir about 1.7 kilometres inside at Rs 50 per vehicle. After this you can choose to walk, bicycle, or go by cycle rickshaw, tonga or boat when the water level is high. The cycle rickshaw wallahs displaying yellow plate meaning authorised double up as guides also carry binoculars. Hotels do supply packed lunches and you can get a bite at a canteen on the second gate and even at the Forest Lodge.

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ECO- TOURISM ZONES

A BRIEF NOTE ON NAHARGARH ELEPHANT SAFARI

Introdcution

Elephant Ride trail was created in Nahargarh Biological Park to promote ecotourism. This offers a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate and enjoy nature in a very thrilling and entertaining manner. The birds and other wild animals usually do not get disturbed by the elephant which is a wild animal even in captivity. A climb to the hills on elephant back is further enriched by the superb views of the jungle and hills. Area is best representative of three ecosystems i.e. Aravalli Eco-system, Wet land Eco-system, and Desert Ecosystem. The fauna of all these eco-systems can also be enjoyed during the elephant ride.

About Elephant Safari The route is about 2 km in length on which elephant ride can be enjoyed. There is a mid-way halting station at Sura-ki-Baori for rest and recreation. This spot has an ancient step well and view points near a waterhole. Wild animals and birds can be seen in large numbers here. This route has a bird's

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eye view point where different species of antelopes and deer can be observed.

Birds: Owing to such diverse Eco-system in the park the diversity of avi-fauna is amazing. In winter the area is visited by a number of migratory water birds like large cormorant, grey leg-goose, coot, pin-tail, teals and the surrounding forests are visited by golden back wood pecker, Indian pitta and other beautiful birds. The resident birds of the park are also worth mentioning. The rare bird white naped tit is local resident of the park. Besides this the peacock, black-partridge, short eared owl, grey hornbill, tree-pie, various falcons and other birds are a common sight in the Park as listed below: Red-headed merlin, Black-winged kite, Barn owl, Crimson-breasted barbet, Green bee-eater, Grey shrike, Fantail flycatcher, Long-tailed nightjar, Greathorned owl, Peregrine falcon, Spotted owlet, Golden-backed wood pecker, Pied King fisher, Golden oriol, Common crow pheasant, large cormorant, Shikra, Crested serpent eagle, Indian Pitta, Grey-hornbill, Indian -roller, Paradise flycatcher and White eye.

Mammals Park has a good variety of mammals which includes Panther, Blue bull, Hyena, Porcupine, Jackal, Fox, Jungle cat, Desert cat, Indian hare Civets and Mongoose.

The total number of birds, resident and migratory in the park is 122. The total number of mammal species available in the park is 20.

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The park is inhabited by a variety of reptiles, including crocodile, Cobra, two species of Vipers, Krait, Monitor lizard, fat tail geeko, etc

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TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Introduction

Area of the Sanctuary is 719 hectares. Location and area Description. Situated close to Chapar town of Churu District an Sujangarh- Nokha state Highway. Small sanctuary further divided into two parts by Sujangarh-Chapar State Highway. Not divided into Core and Buffer like other parks.

History and Background

Prior to Independence Tal Chapar was a Private Hunting Reserve of the Maharaja of Bikaner.

Black Buck was introduced in by Maharaja Bikaner in 1920.

The population of Black Bucks in the Sanctuary has increased drastically since their introduction 1959 - 175 1962 - 250 1972 - 323 1987 - 949 1990-2006 - 1500 - 1750 approx.

Legal Status

Notified as Sanctuary under section 5 of Wild Animals and Bird Protection Act 1951, on May 11, 1966.
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Rights of Tal Chapar Sanctuary has been settled by District Collector Churu vide Notification No. 832 dated 24th August 1998.

Tal Chaper Sanctuary is being managed as per the provisions of the approved Management Plan.
ALCHAPAR SANCTUARY

Area Description

The Sanctuary is a typical grassland of the Indian Desert System. The Grassland is interspersed with Acacia trees. An Ideal habitat for Antelopes. Most of the desert mammals and reptiles species are found here. Most Grasslands in Western Rajasthan known as Beeds have been either converted or encroached for Agriculture.

Some beeds have converted into woodlands for growth or Prosepts juliflora trees. About 122 species of migratory and resident birds are found in the Sanctuary. Prominent being the winter migrants from Europe & Central Asia that include Demoiselle Cranes, Harriers, Rosy Starlings, Wagtails, etc.

About Black Buck

Black Buck belongs to Genus Antelope and is found only in the Indian sub-continent. In the beginning of 1900 Black Buck was spread over almost whole of the Indian Subcontinent (except for high Mountains).

4 species of Black Bucks (i.e. Genus Antelope) are found in India: Species Distribution

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1 2

A. cervicarpa A. rupicarpa

Deccan & S.India Nepal& E.India M.P., Vidarbha & Maharashtra Gujrat, Rajasthan, Haryana, U.P., Punjab

A. centralis

A. rajputane

Other important Antelopes found in India are Blue Bull, Chinkara, Barasingha, 4 horned Antelope, Chiru, etc.

Present Status and Geographical distribution of Black Bucks

Surviving Populations are scattered and isolated. Populations are surviving only in areas which have been accorded protection viz. Sanctuaries, National Parks habitations of Bishnois, etc.

Already become extinct in Bangladesh. Found in states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, M.P., Maharastra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Found in Guda-Vishnoia, Dhawa-Doli, Baran, Ranipur (Tonk), Ganganagar, Nagaur areas apart from Tal Chapar in Rajasthan

TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Black Buck

Prefers flat land with short grass.

Adult dominant, breeding males are territorial and attain black felt.

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Territory size varies from 2-3 ha.

Females and young ones live in mixed groups and are brown coloured.

Females and Mixed groups have a home range of nearly 2 to 3 sq km.

On an average they live up to 8 to 9 years.

Attain sexual maturity by 2 years and females can give birth twice in 14 months.

Fawning occurs in August-Sept. and March-April.

Bio-diversity value

Conservation of Black Bucks as the keystone species.

Supports largest, least-disturbed, intact patch of Tal with its representative Eco-system.

The area supports considerably good diversity of animals and birds.

Eight species of Mammal, including three varieties of Antelopes can easily be seen in the sanctuary.

Over 122 species of resident and migratory birds can be seen in Tal Chapar Sanctuary in a normal year, the most important being the Demoiselle Cranes.

Seven species of lizards and four species of snakes of schedule I category (and representative of the Indian Desert) are found in the Sanctuary.

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5 Tree species, 7 shrubs and more than 7 species of grasses and sedges are found in the sanctuary.

The Sanctuary supports a good diversity of insects TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Population estimates of last ten years (Census) Black Bucks Population 1032 Census not conducted 1572 1511 1576 1638 1281 1698 1680 1763

Year

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07

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Management Interventions
Effective

protection of Black Bucks and its habitat:

Against stray dogs Illicit grazing of cattle in the sanctuary Management Management

Water

Fodder

Tourism

Effective Protection

Small area of the Sanctuary has been divided into three beats which are being managed round the clock by the staff.

Guards maintain VIP lane round the clock to drive away the stray dogs and cattle that enter the Sanctuary.

Network for information about anti social elements and hunting tribes is developed by the field staff.
TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Water Management

Normal Rainfall per year is 300mm. The Sanctuary has 4 big ponds with a cumulative capacity of 30 lacs litres. Rain water lasts till Jan/Feb. following which sanctuary is dependent on externally supplied water till next monsoon.

Requirement per day is around 10,000 litres.

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Water is supplied by means of tankers. Arrangement of water for the Sanctuary becomes very difficult in the lean season as fresh water availability in the area itself is limited. The nearest sweet water source is 15 kms away at Bidasar.

Watershed Management

The Gopalpura Watershed that lies upstream of Tal Chaper used to provide a free flow of rainwater resulting into better grass production and attracting small birds, insects and other micro fauna.

The Migrant birds especially Harriers from Central Asia prey on Larks, Spiny tailed Lizard, that dwell in tall grass.

For survival of the eco cycle it is important to save the Watershed.

Leases for salt extraction have to be cancelled.

Free flow of runoff water from upstream has to be provided.

Fodder Management

As the sanctuary is small, the grass gets exhausted by the end of March in a good rainyear, otherwise earlier.

Average daily requirement of fodder after March is 10 quintal per day.

Closing of small areas to promote grass production

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Promote Rotational grazing.

Supplying Fodder to Black Bucks from external sources during the lean period (from April to July). TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Constraints in management

Small Area: Leads to spill over of animals to the adjoining agricultural fields at the time of scarcity, making them vulnerable to poaching, accidents and attacks by stray dogs.

Lack of Physical barrier: Tal Chapar Sanctuary is surrounded from all sides by dense human habitation and agricultural fields. The animals many a time wander outside and fall prey to stray dogs.

Scarcity of fresh water: Tal Chapar doesnt have any perennial water source.

Scarcity of Fodder: As the area is small the natural fodder gets exhausted by end of March.

Inadequate Staff: The sanctuary doesnt have sufficient staff for day to day Protection, Management and Tourism.

Lack of infrastructure facilities to promote tourism.

TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Potential of Tal Chapar Sanctuary

The area can become a well managed Black Buck sanctuary with a viable population.

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Sanctuary can become an attractive destination for tourists coming to Shekhawati Circuit.

The sanctuary can provide employment opportunities to local people.

Government-community partnership in conservation of rich and varied heritage.

TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Habitat Improvement and Fodder Management

Physical eradication of Prosopis juliflora seedlings from the sanctuary.

Rotational Grazing by erecting chain link fencing in patches of 25-30 ha.

Provision for captive fodder production area for sustained supply of fodder during the lean period.

Seeding of appropriate grass species in patches which are devoid of grass.

Planting of trees of Prosopis cineraria in groups of five to ten and along the periphery of the sanctuary to provide shade during summer months and fodder for Black Bucks during the lean period.

Water Management

Based on water requirement from February till rains the following steps are proposed.

Slope correction of existing ponds.

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Construction of storage tank for storing water for supply during the scarcity period. Including rooftop harvesting.

Construction of small tanks for harvesting rainwater to be supplied during the scarcity period.

New dedicated 2 water supply connection from PHED for sustained supply of water.

Purchase of Tractor with Tanker for supplying water inside the sanctuary.

Strengthening of Protection Mechanism

Construction of 2 km long, 6 high wall on the adjoining village/town to keep out dogs and cattle.

Erecting of 2 km long chain link fence to keep out cattle at specific places.

Construction of two Forest guard chowkis with watch Tower at vantage point close to adjoining village.
TAL CHAPAR SANCTUARY

Involvement of local community

Eco-development communities will be formed in the four neighbouring villages to ensure peoples participation and eco tourism.

Entry point activities will be provided opportunity of self employment.

Tourists will take a round of the sanctuary on animal, driven locally decorated
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donkey/horse carts.

Development of fuel wood and fodder plantations on community-lands for the cattle of the peripheral villages to benefit the villagers.

Vaccination of domestic cattle by organizing camps.

Promote Eco-Tourism

Need to popularize the sanctuary to attract more tourists to the park.

Promoting environment friendly tourism in the park.

Layout and development of interpretation center.

Up gradation of existing forest Rest House to provide better facility to tourists.

Provision for camping and pitching of tents inside the Eco-tourism zone

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NATIONAL CHAMBAL SANCTUARY Palighat to Rameshwar Ghat-Eco-tourism site The river Chambal originates from Vindhyanchal mountain ranges at Mahu in Madhya Pradesh. This river flows in the North-Eastern parts of M.P.,Rajasthan & U.P. and ultimately merges in Yamuna river at Etava in Uttar Pradesh. The one kilometer width of the Bank of Chambal river extending up to a length of 700 KM has been declared by the all the three states as the National Chambal sanctuary. Thus this constitutes Asia's only river-based eco-system sanctuary. The area of about 625 sq.k.m. of Chambal river passing through five districts of Rajasthan viz. Kota, Bundi, Sawai Madhopur, Karoli and Dholpur was declared as National Gharial sanctuary vide notification dated 16-7-83. One kilometer area of Chambal river bank from Palighat to Rohu ghat in Sawai Madhopur district comes under National Gharial sanctuary which is managed by Dy. Conservator of Forests (Core) Sawai Madhopur. Objectives : To prevent and control the illegal activities like fishing, transportation of bajari (construction material) and agriculture etc. in the sanctuary area. 1. To improve the standard of living of the local people by providing them additional means of income through eco-tourism. 2. To reduce the increasing tourist pressure in the park. 3. To motivate the tourists towards the Asia's only river-based sanctuary. 4. To provide additional source of revenue to the state government.

Necessity for the development of eco-tourism site

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More than one lac of tourists, Indians and foreigners, visit the Ranthambhore National Park RNP every year. Over the years, the number of tourists has considerably increased which has resulted in the rise of tourist-pressure in the park. Due to this the management and development of the park has also been adversely affected. The main cause of tourist pressure in RNP is the non-availability of other tourist places at Sawai Madhopur. There are certain areas in Sawai Mansingh sanctuary and National Chambal Ghariyal sanctuary which can be developed as important eco-tourism sites. The area of 22 km falling between Palighat to Rameswar ghat in National Ghariyal sanctuary is a suitable site for the development of eco-tourism. Once this area is developed as eco-tourism site, this will help reducing the tourist pressure from RNP.

Flora and Fauna Flora Flora National Gharial Sanctuary is mainly dominated by thorny shrubs. The aquatic vegetation includes Hydrilla, Valisneria Verticillara, Melisnaria spycalis, Potamogetan, Imperata Typha, Jamilia species etc.

Fauna Wild animals like Chital, Sambhar, Chinkara, Neelgai, Hyenas, Fox, Jackal, desert cat, fishing cat and Mangoose etc. are found in the sanctuary.

Aquatic animals like Otter, crocodile, tortoise (7 species), snake, fishes (around 71 species) are found in the sanctuary.
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In addition to the above, around 154 bird species are found in the sanctuary area, out of which 117 are local and 37 species are migratory. The main species of birds include Brahmani duck , Coot, Red Crested pochard, Pintail, Barheaded goose, etc Action Plan In order to reduce tourist pressure from RNP the area from Palighat to Rameswar ghat of National Gharial sanctuary is proposed to be opened for the tourists. The tourists will have the view of aquatic animals, birds and the scenic beauty of the river bank while moving by motor boat from Palighat to Rameswar ghat. The tourists will reach Palighat from Sawai Madhopur and from Rameswar Ghat to Sawai Madhopur either by tourist van or by personal vehicle. Presently the tourists will have to depend on hotels at Sawai Madhopur for lodging etc. But in near future the local people will be motivated for developing nature camps in the area. After the lodging arrangements are developed at Palighat, Baharawanda, Khandar and Baler, the local people will be substantially benefltted by the tourists. In near future on the opening of Bothal and Gilai Sagar gates of National Park there is tremendous possibility and scope for eco-tourism promotion and enhancement. This will lead to awareness among local people for better protection of the RNP and National Gharial sanctuary which will help solving the problems of illicit grazing, damage to crop and other such complaints.

Motor Boat Registration

To have a trip for tourists to National Gharial sanctuary, 8 seater motor boats will be used. For this purpose applications will be invited through

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tender from willing motor boat owners. Thereafter 5 to 8 motor boats will be registered by the office of Dy.C.F(Core). These registered motor boats will only be authorized to take the tourists for trip to the sanctuary. The distance between Palighat to Rameshwar is around 22 K.M. The driving of the motor boat for this distance, will cost Rs. 2000 which includes the expenses of petrol, driver, one assistant and maintenance of boat. Therefore, Rs. 3000 are proposed to be fixed per motor boat. Safety jacket and tyre tubes will be kept on the motor boat for safety. Such motor boats will be driven only by the license holder drivers and the boat owner will have to comply with all sort of norms as fixed by the State Government in this regard. Initially the registration of motor boat will be for one year. Thereafter it will be renewed every year. Prior to the registration, boat inspection shall be done by D.T.O. and thereafter, he will issue safety certificate for this purpose. For boat registration earnest money of rupees one thousand shall be charged from the Boat owner and on the violation of rules/norms the deposited earnest money will be forfeited. On the violation of sanctuary rules and any misbehaviour with the tourists, the earnest money will be forfeited and further plying of motor boat will be stopped-- and on this basis other boats will be registered. Training programme will be organized for boat drivers and their assistants to make them aware of wild animals, birds and their natural habitats so that no disturbance or damage of any sort may be caused to the sanctuary. In order to impart information to the tourists regarding sanctuary , 10 nature guides will be trained and the selection procedure for the tourists guides shall be followed as per the guidelines issued by C.F. Till these guides are selected the already registered guides by RNP will be allowed. Tariff Plan

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Following rates have been decided for entry to the National Chambal Sanctuary as per Rajasthan Government's Notification no. Fl 1 (35) Forest/97/ Jaipur dated 6.11.2000.

A. Sanctuary Entry Fee EcoTotal fee (

Category Entry Fee development per head surcharge Indian Non Indian Student (Indian) 3 20 7 60 /visit 10 80

01

01

02

B. Boating Fee Category Boating Fee Eco development surcharge Total Fee Fee for 3 hrs. trip Total bill (6 hrs) (a) Per head per hour (b) 8 seater boat

20

25

75

150

30

120

150

450

900

C. Camera Fee Eco Surcharge

Fee

Total

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Video Camera Basic Facilities

50

150

200

There is one forest gaurd Chowki at Palighat. The arrangements for bathroom and drinking water facilities are to be ensured for tourists at Pali ghat and Rameswar Ghat. The P.W.D. Rest House at Palighat is proposed to be maintained and developed for tourism purpose by forest and tourism departments. Booking The advance booking for tourists trip and boating to National Gharial sanctuary shall be done by the office of Dy. C.F. and Dy. Director (Core) Sawai Madhopur and the Current Booking for this purpose shall be done at Palighat Forest Chowki. Trip Time National Gharial sanctuary shall remain open for tourists from Sunrise to Sunset. The boating from Palighat to Rameshwar ghat may take 3 hrs. Therefore, the last boating from Palighat to Rameshwar Ghat shall be allowed to start before 2.00 PM.

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SAWAI MAN SINGH SANCTUARY ECO TOURISM SITE BALAS Introduction: "BALAS" is situated 9 km away from Sawai Madhopur on Sawai MadhopurKalibhat road. It is a part of Sawai Mansingh sanctuary. The area includes the confluence of the ancient Aravalli hill, system with the Vindhyan hill system due to which the area is a very rich in bio-diversity. The Vindhyan system is characterized by flat table tops (plateaus) locally known as "Dang and Aravallis are characterized by sharp ridges and conical hill tops. The camping site is surrounded by bold vertical cliffs of Neemli 'Dang'. Eco trails and motorable paths have been developed to visit the 'Dang'. Know is another beautiful feature of the Dang. It is a very deep, wide and long rocky Nallah cutup in the Dang which is characterised by steep rocky slopes and cliffs, flat bottoms with deep and fertile soil. Mahakho and Didikho are two khos which are very cool mist and alive throughout the year.

Flora The main vegetation is dhok associated with beautiful trees of Cheela, Raunj, Tendu, Gurjan, Kadaya, Khaair, Kadamb, Goya khair, Siras, Jamun, Khirni, Saintha, Salar, Kathphadi, Amaltas etc. Undergrowth is mostly Jarked, Jal, Gangerun, Jhadberi . Ground cover is mostly grasses of species Chinkali, Bhanjura, Lampla, Sheen, Sedvs, Loth, Jhonudali, Dada Musi Pharda.

Fauna

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The Main animals of the area are Chinkaras, Nilgai, Chital, Sambhar, Hare, Fox, Jackal, Hyena, Jingle Cat, Wild Boar, Sloth beer and Panther. Avifauna is represented by Peacock, Partridges, Quails, Sand grouse, Stone curlews, Minivets, Flycatchers, Tits, Orioles, Parakeets, Sparrow, and Vultures. Nesting of vultures can also be seen in the area.

Other points of tourist interest There are a number of attracting points near the camping site. These are: Sun set point Maha Kho Vulture nesting point Jamoda point Didi Kho

Tariff Plan for camping site Each tent shall accommodate two tourists at a time and a fee of Rs. 1000/per tent per day will be charged from the tourist by Eco Development Committee (EDC). Out of this amount the Committee will deposit the entry fee and camping fee to the forest Department. However, in case of use of Video camera, a fee of Rs. 200/- will be charged separately from tourists. SAWAI MAN SINGH SANCTUARY ECO TOURISM SITE BALAS

Role of Eco Development Committee (EDC) Camping facility will be managed and maintained by the Eco Development Committee Neemli Kalan, Gandhi Nagar and Khalibhat. The camping site has been prepared with the help & guidance of reputed hoteliers of Sawai

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Madhopur and efforts to provide basic facility and hygiene have been made condition. EDC members will be trained for catering, service, reception, security & guiding etc.

Food Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner will be made available by the catering trained EDC members. Food provided will be charged separately.

Security Camping site has been fenced around. One forest guard and two EDC members will remain on the Camping site for security purposes. During tracking tourists will be escorted by local EDC guides on nature trails on foot or by Gypsy.

Timings Sawai Mansingh sanctuary is open for tourists from Sunrise to Sun set. Camping at Balas may be for 24 hrs.

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ADVENTURE AND SPORT

Sir Edmund Hillary, the great Everester, who's thirst for adventure had proved enduring and never-ending, had found Rajasthan ideal for undertaking a journey on a camel caravan. It was an unusual way to choose to cross the arid Thar desert. And, following in his footsteps, one can re-live the adventure. Fortunately, one can choose from a number of adventure sports options. Relax with golf, go vintage, or practice archery, go boating - in the Chambal river through the gorges of the Vindhayan plateau of Hadoti, or, go up in the air, for a bit of aerial sightseeing over heritage cities by small aircraft or in hot air balloons. The terrain in Rajasthan is tailor-made for most adventure sports, what with its Aravalli and Vindhayan hills, the open desert tracts, the vast lakes and rivers, the wildlife parks, and little villages abandoned by the march of civilization as is known, but no less hospitable for it. And threading these together, a landscape where the paths and trails weave through a history rich with forts and palaces, mansions and cenotaphs. And a culture that binds these together into a fascinating journey. Just spot and sport it out.

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The aristocracy were enamoured of the gentlemen's game that was so popular in British India. Unfortunately, the weather did not permit them the indulgence of creating golf courses in this arid wilderness, and it was only in Jaipur, as a part of the large scale palace renovations undertaken by Maharaja Man Singh that a course was added to the city. That 18-hole course is still the only one in Jaipur and, in fact, in Rajasthan, and though it is not a professional course, it is good for a round of golf in what are picturesque surroundings: a palace next door, and peacocks on the hazards. BALLOONING Visitors can travel short distances between towns or historic resorts in these hot air balloons. The best, of course, is to coast over fairs such as Pushkar or Baneshwar or Nagaur in a hot-air-balloon. Jaipur is now a popular centre for ballooning.

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Vintage Car Rally

When the first motorcars started coming to India, Rajasthan's princes and aristocracy were among the earliest to order them. These, in turn, have become the venue for various rallies. Vintage car rally: an annual event, the Jaipur Vintage Car Rally has become an important one on the Indian social calendar. Held in January, and keenly contested, it invites prestigious entries. Since some of the aristocratic families have still kept their vintage cars in their garages, the turnout too is impressive, with some cars dating back to the very early years of the turn of the century. However, if you are a vintage car buff, and are likely to miss the rally, you will find it heartening to note that many of these beauties are still in peak
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running condition, and are also hired out for special occasions, rides, incentive parties, or marriages PARA-SAILING A sport that is begging to be tried out in Rajasthan, with its open, sandy countryside, this has so far only been offered by operators who have brought in their equipment with them.

Water Sports

Water sports may appear an alien concept in Rajasthan but the presence of large lakes has actually made the development of such sports possible. Even though they are not popular yet, the opportunities exist, a fact that was brought home when the water games during the prestigious Asian Games in 1982 were held at Jamua Ramgarh on the outskirts of Jaipur.

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STEAMER RIDES: Facilities like Kayaking and water scooter, etc. can be made available. Please contact Tourist Reception Centre, Kota for details. Phone: 07442327695. BOATING: Regular boating is offered at several places in Rajasthan, whether on the lakes in Udaipur, or at places such as Siliserh near Alwar. Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation has made paddle boats available at a number of lakes. WATER- SKIING: This is a new sport in the arena. An upcoming added sport for visitors. ANGLING: For the angler, Rajasthan's lakes and streams teem with game fish. The fishing expeditions can be undertaken with appropriate licenses in most of the lakes in Rajasthan. Expensive angling equipment is difficult to hire locally, and thus is recommended to carry your own rod. Bicycling

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The most popular mode of transport in Rajasthan could also provide the ideal leisure, since traveling on a bicycle is almost therapeutic, it provides exercise without being exhausting, and is certainly inexpensive. Bicycles can be hired almost anywhere in Rajasthan. Though the bikes tend to be basic, they are foolproof and unlikely to develop major snags. The period of hire can range from a few hours to a few days. However, those looking forward to doing some serious biking in the state should opt for buying racing, gear bicycles that are available in all major towns, and are not expensive. At the end of the trip, such bikes can either be sold or simply gifted away. Obviously, bikes are ideal when exploring the countryside where towns are in close proximity (Shekhawati, for example) or for getting around the hilly places such as Mount Abu.

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Trekking

The hilly areas of Rajasthan provide several days of ideal trekking opportunities. The Mewar belt with the Udaipur-Kumbhalgarh-Chittaur combine, or the area around Mount Abu, or the Sariska-Alwar-Amber belt is best for trekking. Winter is the best time for trekking, though the monsoon months provide romantic, green getaways. It is best to trek in a small group, and carry only basic necessities, since provisions can be bought along the way, but do ensure a supply of bottled water. Trekkers can choose a camp in the open countryside, though there are likely to be quaint, personalised hotels available in most areas. Trekking can be along established routes, though a more exciting option may simply be to chart one's own trails, moving practically as one likes.

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Camping

Camping is a fine art in Rajasthan with established camps in set locations that would be fit for royalty. Especially created tents include those with bedrooms, a small hallway or leisure area, and attached bath. These tents use hand-block printed fabrics within the interiors, to create a rich ambience. Such tented camps can be found at places like Samode Bagh, an hour's journey outside Jaipur, or at Pushkar for the duration of the fair in November. However, such tents can also be hired, and agents use them to create cities wherever required; or for moving visitors to different places, where these tents are pegged each night. Such camping expeditions bring the outdoors alive, albeit in style. From the food to the entertainment, everything takes on a more exciting edge while at camp

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Rajasthans Shoppers Paradise

The state enfolds in its lap a diverse kaleidoscope of breathtakingly beautiful and fascinating art-de-facts. The range is unparalleled even while it is sophisticated in its simplicity. The state has something for every traveller, presenting a vast range of arts and crafts, which is a treat for the visuals and are ready to be picked. The bazaars spill with products and there is a magnificent glow of colours all over. Intricate work carved on handicrafts or the wonders of gems and stones, it has it all and even more. For instance, the colours dancing on the textiles and fabrics with silver or gold thread settings and complimented with variety of silk-threads, beads, gota, zari, zardosi, banarasi, etc. are designed by the age old families of skilled artisans.

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Jewellery & Stone Jewellery

Each area has its own unique style that follows the age-old traditions. To add glamour, the regal and classic forms of jewellery adorned by the royals, aristocrats and nobles done in pure gold and platinum was embedded with precious stones. The rural prefer the reasonable, chunky silver or the cheap metal with coloured glass cuts to give it an added effect.

Some of the most charming and attractive hand crafted jewellery comes from Rajasthan. The state is famous for its jewellery industry and it is one of the world's largest centre for hand-cutting of gems. It is India's important source for precious and semi precious stones.

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Beautify Your Home with Icons of Rajasthan

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Blue Pottery

Metal Craft

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Wood Craft

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Metal Craft

Stone Carving

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Beautify Your Home with Icons of Rajasthan

Wooden Chair

Stone Carving

Sandalwood Art

Hand Embroidered Bag

Jewelry

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Beautify Your Home with Icons of Rajasthan

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Blue Pottery

Metal Craft

Metal Lamps

Wood Craft

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History of rajasthan

History of Rajasthan
The history of human settlement in north Indian state of Rajasthan dates back to about 5000 years ago with parts of North Rajasthan at the heart of the Indus Valley Civilization.This region was long known as Gurjaratra that is country protected or ruled by the Gurjars before it came to be called Rajputana, early in the Muslim period. It is also the famous land of the Rajput warriors renowned for their heroic deeds on the battlefield. The majestic palaces, forts and other architectural edifices of historical significance tell interesting tales of the Rajput rulers who once exercised sovereignty over this northwestern state of India.

Ancient history
he Jat king HARSHAVARDHAN who belonged to vibhuti jat clan from Hariyana ,ruled over the not only rajasthan but also indian ,after his death the rajput came in rajasthan history.Harshvardhan used first time a word which name is RAJPUTRA,after this the people who ruling that time called himself rajput or rajpoot. Parts of Rajasthan belonged to the Indus Valley Civilization between about 3500 and 1750 BCE. Excavations at Kalibanga in Northern Rajasthan have revealed the existence of human settlements of the Harappan times on the banks of a river that dried up later, which is believed to be the River Saraswati by some scholars. The historical evidence found in Bairat reflects the presence of Pre-Aryan people. The first Aryan settlement was at the Dhundhar region around 1400 BCE. Matsya or Meena (Sanskrit for fish) was the name of a Kshatriya tribe and the state of the Vedic civilization of India. It lay to south of the kingdom of Kurus and west of the Yamuna which separated it from the kingdom of Panchalas. It roughly corresponded to former state of Jaipur in Rajasthan, and included the whole of Alwar with portions of Bharatpur. The capital of Matsya was at Viratanagar (modern Bairat) which is said to have been named after its founder king Virata. Meenas are brothers and kinsmen of Virata, the ruler of Virat Nagar. They ruled this area(near to Virat Nagar) till 11th century

Rajasthan was a part of the illustrious Mauryan Empire around 321-184 BCE. It had also been a part of Republics like Arjunyas, Hunas, Kushans, Malavas, Saka Satraps and the Yaudheyas. The Guptas reigned in the 4th century. Some Buddhist caves and Stupas have been found in Jhalawar, in the southern part of Rajasthan.

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the Gurjara Pratihara Empire

The decline of the 300 year old Gupta Empire in the 5th century led to the political unrest in the Northern India and was followed by an epoch of instability as numerous chieftains tried to gain power. The situation was stabilized when the Gurjara Pratiharas, the earliest of the Gurjar clan emerged around 700 CE. Gurjar pratihars were well known for their hostility towards Arab invaders.The Arab chronicler Sulaiman describes the army of the Gurjar Pratihars as it stood in 851 CE, The king of Gurjars maintains numerous forces and no other Indian prince has so fine a cavalry. He is unfriendly to the Arabs, still he acknowledges that the king of the Arabs is the greatest of kings. Among the princes of India there is no greater foe of the Islamic faith than he. He has got riches, and his camels and horses are numerous.

Medieval period
Prithviraj Chauhan fought a brave battle against the foreign invader Muhammad Ghori and defeated him in the first battle of Tarain in 1191 (but was defeated in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192), but was defeated in the seventeenth battle with Ghori. After getting defeated for sixteen times, Ghori begged for his life saying a sentence with a literal meaning "I am your cow, Forgive". In the seventeenth battle, a traitor from Chauhan's kingdom supported Ghori's army and landed up in the defeat. What happens after this is clear from the local folk songs still prominent in Rajasthan. It is said that Prithviraj was taken to Afghanistan along with his raj-kavi
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cum friend, Chandbhar. In Ghori's court, Prithviraj and Chandbhar were brought in shackles. Prithviraj was asked to show the art of archery, wherein he could aim and shoot just by hearing the sound. It is also known as Shabdbhedi-baan. Ghori asked him to show him this art. To make game interesting for himself, he got his eyes pierced with hot iron rods. Chandbhar says, "A king, though as a prisoner, can receive command only from a king. So it would be an honour if you command Him to shoot". Then he says few verses or poetry, few of those lines were, "Char baans chobis guz, aangal asht pravan, taa upar sultan hai, mat chooko Chauhan". Chaar baans meant four bamboos stick, chaubis guz as approximately 24 yards, aangal asht praval meant eight fingers width. All this combined gave the exact location of Ghori sitting on his throne i.e. 4 bamboos stick high, 24 yards away and exactly eight fingers up was the Ghori sitting. "Go ahead O Chauhan and don't miss the aim". This is how Prithvi Raj kills Ghori in his court and obviously to meet his own death. Grave of Prithvi Raj Chauhan is present till date next to Ghori's grave. After the defeat of Chauhan around 1200, a part of Rajasthan came under Muslim rulers. The principal centers of their powers were Nagaur and Ajmer. Ranthambhor was also under their suzerainty. At the beginning of the 13th century, the most prominent and powerful state of Rajasthan was Mewar. The Rajputs resisted the Muslim incursions into India, although a number of Rajput kingdoms eventually became subservient to the Delhi Sultanate. Mewar led others in resistance to Muslim rule: Rana Sanga fought the Battle of Khanua against Babur, the founder of the Mughal empire. In between 1540 to 1556, Afghans were in control of most of North India. Rajasthan born Samrat Hem Chandra Vikramaditya also called Hemu, who started his career as a supplier of various merchandise to Sher Shah Suri empire held various positions in capital Delhi as 'In charge of Food Affairs', 'Minister of Internal Security' and 'Prime Minister-Cum-Chief of Army' with Islam Shah and Adil Shah, who ruled from Punjab to Bengal. Hemu crushed the first rebellion in 1553 at Ajmer where he killed the Afghan Governor Junaid Khan and appointed his own man as governor. Hem Chandra won several battles (22) against Afghan rebels and Mughal king Akbar and won all of them without losing any. He defeated Akbar's army at Agra and Delhi in 1556, and became a 'Vikramaditya' king after 350 years of foreign rule at Purana Quila in Delhi. Hemu lost in the Second battle of Panipat on 7 November 1556, and got killed.

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In order to gain the trust of the Rajput rulers, the Mughal Emperor Akbar arranged matrimonial alliances. He also sought reconciliation with the hostile Rajputs after performing the matrimonial alliances. He himself married the Rajput princess- Jodha Bai who was the daughter of the Maharaja of Amber. He granted high offices to a large number of Rajput princes and this maintained very cordial relations with these Rajputs. Soon most of the Rajputs were transformed into friends of Akbar from adversaries and many of them surrendered their kingdoms to Akbar. Rulers like Raja Maan Singh of Amber were trusted allies. However all Rajput rulers were not ready to accept Akbars dominance and preferred to remain independent. One such ruler was Raja Uday Singh of Mewar, who founded the city of Udaipur. He never accepted Akbars supremacy and was at constant war with him. Akbar forcefully seized Chittor, his capital. After his death, this struggle was continued by his son Rana Pratap. He fought a terrible battle with Akbar at the Haldighat pass where he was defeated and wounded. Since then Rana Pratap remained in recluse for 12 years and attacked the Mughal ruler from time to time. He fought valiantly throughout his life never ceded his independence to the Mughal ruler.

An ancient ruin in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

The traditional sacrifice and the self-respect of the Rajput women are also worth mentioning while discussing the imperial rule of Rajasthan during the medieval epoch. When the Rajput rulers were forced to surrender their kingdoms to other invaders, the Rajput women in order to protect their chastity and self-respect used to light up a pyre and together they used to jump into the fire thus sacrificing and ending their own lives. This custom of collective sacrifice was known as Jauhar. Rajasthan's formerly independent kingdoms created a rich architectural and cultural heritage, seen today in their numerous forts and palaces (Mahals and Havelis) which are enriched by features of Muslim and Jain architecture.
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Modern period
Rajasthan had never been united politically until its domination by Mughal Emperor Akbar. Akbar created a unified province of Rajasthan. Mughal power started to decline after 1707. The political disintegration of Rajasthan was caused by the dismemberment of the Mughal Empire. The Marathas penetrated Rajasthan upon the decline of the Mughal Empire. In 1755 the Maratha general Scindia occupied Ajmer. The beginning of the 19th century was marked by the onslaught of the Pindaris.

Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, inspecting Jaipur State forces deployed in the Middle East during World War II.

The Rajput kings concluded treaties with the British in the early 19th century, accepting British sovereignty in return for local autonomy and protection from the Marathas. Following the Mughal tradition and more importantly due to its strategic location Ajmer became a province of British India, while the autonomous Rajput states, the Muslim state (Tonk), and the Jat states (Bharatpur and Dholpur) were organized into the Rajputana Agency. In 1817-18, the British Government concluded treaties of alliance with almost all the states of Rajputana. Thus began the British rule over Rajasthan, then called Rajputana.

Post independence
At the time of India's Independence in 1947, Rajasthan consisted of 19 Princely States, two chieftains and a British administered province of Ajmer-Merwara besides a few pockets and territories outside its main boundaries.
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It took seven stages to form Rajasthan as defined today. In March 1948 the Matsya Union consisted of Alwar, Bharatpur, Dhaulpur and Karauli was formed. Also, in March 1948 Banswara, Bundi, Dungarpur, Jhalawar, Kishangarh, Kota, Pratapgarh, Shahpura and Tonk joined the Indian union and formed a part of Rajasthan. In April 1948 Udaipur joined the state and the Maharana of Udaipur was made Rajpramukh. Therefore in 1948 the merger of south and southeastern states was almost complete. Still retaining their independence from India were Jaipur and the desert kingdoms of Bikaner, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. From a security point of view, it was vital to the new Indian Union to ensure that the desert kingdoms were integrated into the new nation. The princes finally agreed to sign the Instrument of Accession, and the kingdoms of Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Jaipur were merged in March 1949. This time the Maharaja of Jaipur, Man Singh II was made the Rajpramukh of the state and Jaipur became its capital. Later in 1949, the United States of Matsya, comprising the former kingdoms of Bharatpur, Alwar, Karauli and Dholpur, was incorporated into Rajasthan. On January 26, 1950, 18 states of united Rajasthan merged with Sirohi to join the state leaving Abu and Dilwara to remain a part of Greater Bombay and now Gujarat. In November 1956 under the State Re-organisation Act, 1956 the erstwhile part 'C' State of Ajmer, Abu Road Taluka, former part of princely State Sirohi (which were merged in former Bombay), State and Sunel Tappa region of the former Madhya Bharat merged with Rajasthan and Sirohi sub district of Jhalawar was transferred to Madhya Pradesh. Thus giving the existing boundary Rajasthan. Today with further reorganisation of the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. Rajasthan has become the largest state of the Indian Republic.

Location of historical Sunel-Tappa region,shown with red colour in map. 98

The princes of the former kingdoms were constitutionally granted handsome remuneration in the form of privy purses and privileges to assist them in the discharge of their financial obligations. In 1970, Indira Gandhi, who was then the Prime Minister of India, commenced under-takings to discontinue the privy purses, which were abolished in 1971. Many of the former princes still continue to use the title of Maharaja, but the title has little power other than status symbol. Many of the Maharajas still hold their palaces and have converted them into profitable hotels, while some have made good in politics. The democratically elected Government runs the state with a chief minister as its executive head and the governor as the head of the state. Currently, including the new district of Pratapgarh, there are 32 districts, 105 sub-divisions, 37,889 villages, 241 tehsils and 222 towns in Rajasthan. Gurumukh Nihal Singh and Homendra Rajan Battu from Rajasthan was appointed as first governor of Rajasthan. Hiralal Shastri was first nominated chief minister who worked from 7 April 1949, after two more nominated chief ministers Tikaram Paliwal became first elected chief minister from 3 March 1951.

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The People According to the 2001 census, Rajasthan has a population of 56.5 million.

Rajasthan has large indigenous populaceThe Meo and Minas (Minawati) in Alwar, Jaipur, Bharatpur, and Dholpur areas. The Banjara are travelling tradesmen and artisans. The Gadia Lohar is the ironsmith (lohar) who travels in bullock carts (Gadia); they generally make and repair agricultural and household implements. The Bhils are one of the oldest peoples in India, and inhabit the districts of Bhilwara, Chittaurgarh, Dungarpur, Banswara, Udaipur, and Sirohi and are famous for their skill in archery. The Grasia and nomadic Kathodi live in the Mewar region. Sahariyas are found in the Kota district, and the Rabaris of the Marwar region are cattle breeders. The Oswals hail from Osiyan near Jodhpur are successful traders and are predominately Jains. While the Mahajan (the trading class) is subdivided into a large number of groups, some of these groups are Jain, while others are Hindu. In the north and west, the Jat and Gujar are among the largest agricultural communities. The Gujars who are Hindus dwell in eastern Rajasthan. The nomadic Rabari or Raika are divided in two groups the Marus who breed camels and Chalkias who breed sheep and goats.

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The Muslims form less than 10% of the population and most of them are Sunnis. There is also a small but affluent community Shiaite Muslims known as Bhoras in southeastern Rajasthan.

The Rajputs though represent only a small proportion of the populace are the most influential section of the people in Rajasthan. They are proud of their martial reputation and of their ancestr Religion Hinduism, the religion of most of the population, is generally practiced through the worship of Brahma, Shiva, Shakti, Vishnu, and other gods and goddesses. Nathdwara is an important religious centre for the Vallabhacharya sect of Krishna followers. There are also followers of the Arya Samaj, a reforming sect of modern Hinduism, as well as other forms of that religion.

Hinduism, the religion of most of the population, is generally practised through the worship of Brahma, Shiva, Shakti, Vishnu, and other gods and goddesses. Nathdwara is an important religious centre for the Vallabhacharya sect of Krishna followers. There are also followers of the Arya Samaj, a reforming sect of modern Hinduism, as well as other forms of that religion.
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Jainism is also important; it has not been the religion of the rulers of Rajasthan but has followers among the trading class and the wealthy section of society. Mahavirji, Ranakpur, Dhulev, and Karera are the chief centres of Jain pilgrimage. The Dadupanthi forms another important religious sect the followers of Dadu (d. 1603), who preached the equality of all men, strict vegetarianism, total abstinence from intoxicating liquor, and lifelong celibacy. Islam, the religion of the State's second largest religious community, expanded in Rajasthan with the conquest of Ajmer by Muslim invaders in the late twelfth century. Khwajah Muin-ud-Din Chishti, the Muslim missionary, had his headquarters at Ajmer, and Muslim traders, craftsmen, and soldiers settled there. The State's population of Christians and Sikhs is small. CUISINE

Rajasthan has a rich tradition of cuisines for this land of princes had some of the finest cooks in the palaces. The common-folk also took epicurean delight in the culinary art. Aptly has it been said that the royal kitchens of Rajasthan raised the preparation of food to the level of a sublime art. It is not surprising therefore that the 'Khansamas' (the royal cooks) who worked in the State palaces kept their most prized recipes to themselves. Some recipes were passed on to their descendants and the rest were passed
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on as skills to the chefs of semi States and the branded hotel companies. One special feature of the Rajasthani cooking is that it has its roots in the lifestyle of the medieval Rajasthan when the chieftains were mainly at war. The focus was on edible items that could last for several days and could also be eaten without heating. Food was also prepared out of necessity rather than choice. It depended on the items available in particular regions. Furthermore, the scarcity of water as well as fresh green vegetables have had some impact on their art of cooking. In the desert belt of Jaisalmer, Barmer and Bikaner, cooks use a minimum of water and prefer, instead, to use more milk, buttermilk and clarified butter. A distinct feature of the Maheshwari(a trading company) cooking is the use of mango powder, a suitable substitute for tomatoes, scarce in the desert, and asafetida, to enhance the taste in the absence of garlic and onions.
CUCINA

Generally, Rajasthani curries are brilliant red but not as spicy as they look. Most Rajasthani cuisine uses pure Ghee (clarified butter) as a means of cooking. A favorite sweet dish called lapsi is prepared with broken wheat
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(Dalia) sauted in ghee and sweetened. Perhaps the best known Rajasthani food is the combination of dal, and churma BATI (dal is lentils; BATI ball is cooked wheat and cereal powder churma sweetened), but for the adventurous traveler, willing to experiment, there is much variety available. In addition, each region is distinguished by its popular sweet - Mawa Kachori from Jodhpur, Alwar ka Mawa, Malpuas of Pushkar, Rasogullas of Bikaner, Jaipur Ghevar just to name a few. CUISINE

Contrary to popular belief, people of Rajasthan are not all vegetarians. One of the unique creation is the Junglee maas. Junglee maas was a great favourite among the Maharajas and due to paucity of exotic ingredients in the camp kitchen, the game brought in from the hunt was simply cooked in pure ghee, salt and plenty of red chillies. However, now this dish has been adapted to the less controversial ingredients like kidlamb, pork or poultry. The personal recipes of the royal Khansama still rotate around their generations and are the highlights of regal gatherings. Each princely State of Rajasthan had its own style of the recipes, and is still continued in the Rajput households. It was mainly the men folk of the family who prepared
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the non-vegetarian food. Some of the Maharajas apart from being great hunters relished the passion of cooking the Shikars themselves for their chosen guests and the trend continues among the successive generations.

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Literacy rate of rajasthan

Introduction to Rajasthan

Rajasthan is situated in the northern part of India. It is the largest State in India by area constituting
10.4 percent of the total geographical area of India and it accounts for 5.5 percent of population of India. Topographically, deserts in the State constitute a large chunk of the land mass, where the settlements are scattered and the density of population is quite low. It is administratively divided into 7 divisions, 32 districts, 241 Tehsils, 237 Panchayat Samities, 9,189 Gram Panchayats, 39,753 inhabited villages and 188 urban local bodies as of Census 2001. Recently, a new district has been carved out in the State namely Pratapgarh in 2008. Currently, there are 33 districts, 244 Tehsils, 249 Panchayat Samities and 9,166 Gram Panchayats. The State has a population of 56.5 million according to Census 2001.

According to the population projections by the technical group on population projections constituted by the National Commission on Population, population Projections for India and States 2001-2026, the projected population of Rajasthan as on 1st July, 2009 is 6.60 crore (66.0 million). The decadal growth rate of population of Rajasthan is 28.41 percent compared to 21.34 percent in case of India. In Rajasthan, there is a slight decline in the decadal growth rate from 28.44 during 1981-1991 to 28.41 during 1991-2001. In the last century (1901 to 2001), Rajasthans population has grown by more than five times from 1.03 to 5.65 crore compared to Indias population, which has seen a growth of more than four times, during the same period. The density of population of the State is quite low at 165 persons per sq. km. with large scale district level variations of 13 persons per sq. km. in Jaisalmer to 471 persons per sq. km. in Jaipur. The States literacy rate stands at 60.4 percent. The overall sex ratio is of the tune of 921 females per 1,000 males and the sex ratio amongst the 0-6 year population is 909 females per 1,000 males. The sex ratio at birth in the State is masculine in nature at 870 female births per 1,000 male births, which is lower than that of India (904 female births per 1,000 male births) (SRS, 2006-08).The percentage of Scheduled tribes in the State is 12.6 percent. It is one of the High Focus States under National Rural Health Mission (NRHM, 2005-2012).

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Though, the State has shown some progress on the human development front with the human development index showing progress from a rank of 12 in 1981 to 9 in 2001 amongst the 15 major States (National Human Development Report 2001), the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of health are far behind the desired levels. The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), which is considered to be one of the most sensitive indicators of human development lies at 63 infant deaths per 1,000 live births compared to 53 per 1,000 live births in case of India (SRS, 2008). The Maternal Mortality Ratio of the State is 388 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births compared to 254 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in case of India (SRS, 2004-06). It ranks third highest amongst the major States in India. The percentage of institutional deliveries is also dismally low. The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is also at a high level at 3.3 births per woman compared to 2.6 at the all India level (SRS, 2008) making the National Population Policy (NPP) 2000 goal of reaching the replacement level of fertility of 2.1 TFR and population stabilization a far-fetched dream. According to the projection report of Census 2001 with projections from 2001-2026, Rajasthan is projected to achieve replacement level TFR by 2021. The overall life expectancy of the State is 62.0 years with 61.5 years for males and 62.3 years for females (SRS based abridged life tables, 2002-2006). It has gained 12.8 years between 1970-75 and 2002-06 compared to 13.8 years gain in case of India during the same period.

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Background of the Study The Directorate of Economics and Statistics has been commissioned to conduct a Study on the 5% post enumeration check of the DISE data. The District Statistical Officers (DSOs) and Statistical Assistants (SA) were entrusted with the task of collecting data by canvassing a semi-structured schedule called the special Data Capture Format (DCF). The reference period for the DISE data and the post enumeration survey (PES) are the same i.e. September 30, 2009 for the districts of Ajmer, Dausa and Jaisalmer for the year 2009-10. In the present report, data for the three districts of Ajmer, Dausa and Jaisalmer for the year 2009-10 has been presented. In total, 395 schools were covered in the three districts of Ajmer, Dausa and Jaisalmer of Rajasthan. Out of which 302 were Government schools and 93 schools were Private (the actual sample size was 395, but 7 schools were found to be closed, out of which 3 were Government schools and 4 schools were Private). The data presented here is based on the 388 schools, out of which, 299 were Government schools and 89 were private schools, which were found open. The following findings are based on these 5% sample of schools covered in Post Enumeration Survey of special DCF data.

Percentage of variation between 5% PES and DISE data There seems to be some variation between the regular DISE data captured by the DISE DCF and the special DCF of PES data. The two data sets have been compared on some indicators of school management, enrolment, pupil teacher ratio and availability of certain facilities and it is observed that there is variation between the two sets of data.

In case of school management, the variation is higher in case of private aided and private unaided schools, where none of the data is matching. In case of schools being managed by the school education department, the variation is 56.62 percent and in case of schools being managed by the local bodies, it is 46.43 percent. In case of total enrolment, the variation ranges from 1.62 percent in Dausa to 6.27 percent in Ajmer. This variation is higher in case of private schools compared to Government schools.

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In case of avialbility of facilities in schools, the variation is 42.70 percent, 7.71 percent, 7.48 percent and 1.19 percent for availability of girls toilet, availabilit y of electricity, availability of playground and the availability of common toilet in the schools respectively. The variation in the percentage of girls toilets is due to fact that the Education Department has issued instructions to schools to consider single toilets as girls toilets as a result of which, in the DISE DCF, single toilets have been referred to as girls toilets. In case of the number of pupils and teachers in the three districts, the variation in case of number of students ranges from 5.92 percent in case of Ajmer to 1.63 percent in Dausa and in case of number of teachers, 43.35 percent in case of Ajmer to no variation in case of Dausa. Variation is also observed with respect to school type with 178 primary schools being reported in PES compared to 185 schools reported in DISE data. The overall percentage of variation computed between the two sets of data based on the data from the above indicators available from the two sets of data reveals a variation of 4.75 percent.

Total Enrollment in the selected schools Overall, in the three districts, the total enrollment upto upper primary in 2008- 09 was 51,859, out of which 28,720 were boys and the rest 23,139 were girls. In Ajmer district, the total enrollment upto upper primary in 2008-09 was 28,036, out of which, 14,985 were boys and the rest 13,051 were girls. In Dausa district, the total enrollment upto upper primary in 2008-09 was 16,745, out of which 9,483 were boys and the rest 7,262 were girls. In Jaisalmer district, the total enrollment upto upper primary in 2008-09 was 7,078, out of which, 4,252 were boys and the rest 2,826 were girls. Overall, in the three districts total enrollment upto upper primary in 2009-10 was 50,908, out of which 27,898 were boys and the rest 23,010 were girls. In Ajmer district, the total enrollment upto upper primary in 2009-10 was 28,157, out of which 4,964 were boys and rest 13,193 were girls. In Dausa district, the total enrollment upto upper primary in 2009-10 was 16,040, out of which 8,923 were boys and the rest 7,117 were girls. In Jaisalmer district, the total enrollment upto upper primary in 2009-10 was 6,711, out of which, 4,011 were boys and rest 2,700 were girls.

Enrollment of girls per 1,000 boys

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Overall, in the three districts of Rajasthan, the number of girls enrolled per 1,000 boys in 2008-09 was 806. Among the three districts this figure is 871 for Ajmer, 766 for Dausa and 665 for Jaisalmer. Overall, in the three districts of Rajasthan, the number of girls per 1,000 boys enrolled in 2009-10 was 825. Among the three districts, this figure was 882 for Ajmer, 798 for Dausa and 673 for Jaisalmer. It is lowest in case of Jaislamer as in case of the regular DISE DCF data. The data reveals that, the total number of girls enrolled per 1,000 boys, in the three districts has increased from 806 in 2008-09 to 825 in 2009-10. The percentage increase, in girls enrollment per 1,000 boys, is highest in Dausa district at 4.18 percent.

Enrollment of SC and ST With regards to the enrollment by social category, the percentage of ST (12.05 percent) enrollment is low, compared to SC and others in the total of the three districts in the year 2008-09. It has still declined to 11.33 percent in 2009-10, which is a matter of concern in the 5% of the schools covered in the survey.

Filled up position of Teachers Overall, the percentage of teachers post filled up against the total post sanctioned in the three districts, is 87.93 percent, out of which, 96.07 percent teachers post filled up in private school and 82.64 percent in government schools. Overall, the percentage of teachers post filled up out of the total post sanctioned, is highest in Dausa 92.43 percent and lowest in Jaisalmer (83.27 percent). In case of private schools, this figure is highest in Jaisalmer (98.21 percent) and lowest in Ajmer (95.75 percent). In case of government schools, this figure is highest in Dausa (89.12 percent) and lowest in Jaisalmer (79.34 percent).

Type of schools for Girls or boys only or Co-education Overall, in the three districts, 82.22 percent schools are Co-Ed, 12.37 percent schools are only for boys and rest 5.41 percent are only for girls. The highest percent of Co-Ed schools is in Jaisalmer (96.15 percent) and lowest in Dausa (64.62 percent). The highest percent of schools which are only for boys is in Dausa (30.77 percent) and lowest in Jaisalmer (1.28 percent). Similarly the highest
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percent of schools, which are only for girls, are in Ajmer (7.22 percent) and lowest in Jaisalmer (2.56 percent). Out of total schools in the 3 districtsamong the schools having primary only, 85.96 percent schools are Co-Ed, 12.92 percent schools are only for boys and 1.12 percent schools are only for girls.

Gender wise teachers employed In the three districts overall, 55.36 percent male and 44.64 percent female teachers are working other than the headmaster. In primary, it is 50.30 percent for male and 49.70 percent for female, whereas in upper primary, it is 56.91 percent for male and 43.09 percent for female.

Teachers present on the day of survey Overall, 39.35 percent teachers were present on the day of survey out of total working teachers. The highest percent of teachers were present in Jaisalmer district (79.46 percent) followed by Ajmer (35.44 percent) and lowest was in Dausa (31.01 percent).

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Primary education in Rajasthan, DISE, 2006-09 (in %)

Primary Education in Rajasthan, 2006-09

The District-wise Net enrollment ratio (NER) for the educational year 2008-09 reveals that the district with the highest NER is Jhunjhunu (99.99 percent) followed by Sikar (99.94 percent) and the lowest NER is observed in case of Jalore district (96.77 percent).

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Net Enrollment Ratio in districts of Rajasthan, DISE, 2008-09 (in %)

Net Enrolment Ratio in districts, 2008-09

The other significant MDG indicator of Literacy rate of 1524 year-olds women and men has been compared below with India, which reveals that amongst 15 24 year-olds women and men, in case of Rajasthan the female literacy is lower than the all India average, whereas, the male literacy is highe r than the all India average

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Literacy R a te

The DISE data for the educational year 2008-09 as of September 30, 2008 reveals that there are more than one lakh schools in Rajasthan, in which there is a total enrollment of 12.79 million children in the primary and upper primary category. There are still about a little less than 1 lakh out of school children (91,726). The Net enrollment ratio of Rajasthan is 99.25 percent and the pupil-teacher ratio in the Government schools is 34.67. The percentage of children who have passed with greater than or equal to 60 percent are 51.60 percent and the number of girls per 1,000 boys enrolled is 813. Amongst the selected six districts, Banswara has the highest number of schools (3,577) and Jaisalmer has the lowest (1,596). The NER is highest in case of Jaisalmer (99.84 percent) and lowest in case of Banswara (99.15 percent). The Pupil- Teacher Ratio (PTR) is lowest in case of Kota (25.80) and the highest in case of Dausa (33.39). The number of girls per 1,000 boys upto eighth class is highest in case of Dausa (850) and Kota (850) and lowest in case of Jaisalmer (695).

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TOURISM INDUSTRY IN INDIA

INTRODUCTION

India is a world in herself - geographically distinct, culturally varied, an ancient civilization that has over the years interacted with virtually all the world's races, creeds and ideologies, yet has preserved the unique flavour which underpins and unites the diversity that is India.

India, An ancient civilization with an impressive lineage that over the centuries amassed a tremendous wealth of grandeur majesty. The Indian sub continent over a long period has hosted countless numbers of cultures, creating a land with diverse beliefs where modern concerns mesh with has and

traditional values. On visiting this country one can witness intricately carved temples, gleaming marble palaces, monastic retreats of the Himalayas and the dusty backwoods of the countryside.

India has an ancient and diverse culture stretching back to more than 5000 years. Successive years of migration have been absorbed into the culture giving it a distinct physical, religious and racial variety as well as a
115

rich linguistic diversity. It has also been considered the oldest and the most resilient cultures in the world. Modern India presents a picture of unity in diversity where people of different faiths and beliefs live together in peace and harmony.

India is a land of fascination! Discover the contentment in the exhilarating mountains, the soothing backwaters, the tranquil beaches, the enchanting waterfalls and the countless number of exquisite arts forms, the exotic costumes, the enchanting music, the spectacular art forms and the majestic elephant rides. No other country on earth evokes the human spirit as she does from spectacular mountain retreats to wildlife sanctuaries to medieval palaces and from mesmerizing peoples to tropical forests to unspoiled beaches. And much, much more India is truly a destination of the ages.

The destination of this century, India meets the expectations of every type of tourist. With her varied topography, picturesque valleys, High Mountain peaks and cascading rivers, she never ceases to surprise tourists with her kaleidoscopic attractions. The pomp and

pageantry of India's festivals and local fairs are matched by the warmth and hospitality of her people who welcome tourists with open hearts and warm smiles.

116

India! The Land of Maharajas which has witnessed an era of civilization and human evolution. Explore India and make India your next holiday destination she has something fascinating for you. India is almost another world. Indian culture is as old as human civilization, and is filled with intricately sculpted temples, architecturally orchestrated palaces, and magnificently built forts.

Travel and Tourism one of the world's largest foreign exchange earner among industries, provides employment directly to millions of people worldwide and indirectly through many associated service industries. A very wide industry, it includes Government tourism departments, Immigration and customs services, travel agencies, airlines, tour operators, hotels etc and many associated service industries such as airline catering or laundry services, Guides, Interpreters, Tourism promotion and sales etc. Travel and Tourism enterprises include major internationals with a workforce of thousands, to the small private travel agent with a handful of employees.

Work in the travel and tourism industry is essentially concerned with providing services for people who are away from home, on business or holiday. Travel can be leisure travel involving package tours, pilgrim travel, and adventure travel etc or purely business. Work at every functional level in the industry involves dealing directly with people. Travel agents assess the needs of tourists and businessmen and help them make the best possible travel arrangements from the many travel options available. Also, many major cruise lines, resorts, and specialty travel groups use travel agents to promote travel packages to the millions of people who travel every year. Travel company personnel must be up-to-date on current rules and regulations and documentation required, in areas like cargo, ticketing and passports, visas etc. so as to correctly advise their clients, and to take care of the paperwork when necessary. Besides this, all tourism staff in marketing, counter sales, or guide services, should be knowledgeable about the places their clients visit, in terms of general background, how to get there connections by air, rail and road and the facilities available.
117

In India, Travel and tourism, as an industry, has been somewhat slower to take off than in many other places. However, with increasing worldwide interest in travel, and with the Government's encouragement of its activities, it is undergoing massive expansion and improvement.

HOW TO MARKET TOURISM (THE 7 PS)

1. The Product Mix:

The tourism product is essentially an intangible thing. Also, because tourism is a multi-segment industry, the task of formulating a product mix becomes more difficult & challenging.

Selling a holiday is selling dreams. The way to win the customers heart is through the peripheral services provided along with the core product. Thus a tourism product is quite a complex one, including the destination, airline seat, hotel room, occasional tangible products such as souvenirs, a free bag or bottle of whisky, etc.

118

2. The Price Mix

In pricing decisions, the product or the service mix of the tourist organization is important. They have to set prices in line with the quality of services to be made available to the customers. Pricing decisions are influenced by internal and external factors. The tourism professionals are supposed to watch the emerging trends in both the markets. They are required to think in favour of discounting price. These may include discounts for cash payments, seasonal discounts, trade discounts etc. But while offering the discounts, it is not to be forgotten that it may also create image problem since some of the value sensitive tourists may doubt the quality.

3. The Promotion Mix

Creation of awareness has a far reaching impact. The tourist organizations bear the responsibility of informing, persuading and sensing the potential tourists in a right fashion. The marketers need to use the various components of promotion optimally so that they succeed in increasing the number of habitual users.

Advertising:
Advertisement helps in furnishing important information to the actual and potential tourists. Its coverage is wide. Advertising is aimed at the public to create awareness of the travel offers available on a resort and its attractions to influence their business decisions. Intangibility can be compensated with the help of visual exposure of scenes and events. We can project hotel bedrooms, well arranged restaurants and cafeterias, swimming pools etc.

119

4. Publicity:
It focuses attention on strengthening the public relations measures by developing a rapport with media people and getting their personalized support in publicizing the business. It helps in projecting the positive image of tourists organizations since the prospects trust on the news items publicized by the media people. Eg. Kumarakom in Kerala after Prime Minister A B Vajpayees visit. The publicity programme include regular publicity stories and photographs to the newspapers, travel editors, contact with magazines on stories etc. There are different groups in publicity, such as advertising publicity, projected publicity, structural publicity and personal publicity.

Sales promotions:
Sales promotion measures are the short term activities seeking to boost sales at peak demand periods to ensure that the firms obtain its market share and are used to help launch a new product or support an ailing or modified one. The tool of sales promotions is designed to appeal particularly to those customers who are price-sensitive. There are a number of techniques to promote sale and the tourist professional need to use them in the face of their requirements vis-vis the emerging trends in the business. Eg. In the tourism industry, a travel company offers give-aways to their clients, such as flight bags, wallets for tickets and forex and covers of passport. 5. Publicity: It focuses attention on strengthening the public relations measures by developing a rapport with media people and getting their personalized support in publicizing the business. It helps in projecting the positive image of tourists organizations since the prospects trust on the news items publicized by the media people.

Sales promotions:
120

Sales promotion measures are the short term activities seeking to boost sales at peak demand periods to ensure that the firms obtain its market share and are used to help launch a new product or support an ailing or modified one. The tool of sales promotions is designed to appeal particularly to those customers who are price-sensitive.

Word-of-mouth Promotion:
Most communication about tourism takes place by word-of-mouth information which in a true sense is word-of-recommendation. In the tourism industry it is found that the word-of-mouth promoters play the role of a hidden salesforce, who instrumentalize the process of selling. The high magnitude of effectiveness of this tool of promotion is due to high credibility of the channel, specially in the eyes of the potential tourists

6. Place
Place or distribution management is concerned with two things availability and accessibility. Researchers in tourism must determine how and where potential customers prefer to buy tourism products and services. Most tour operators sell their services through travel agents, however some deal directly with the consumers and eliminate middlemen. Other companies may also utilize more than one method of distribution. Airlines, for example, sell tickets through travel agents, and sell seats on flights to tour operators, and also offer travelers to book seats themselves through their own booking offices.

7. People
121

We cant deny the fact that sophisticated technologies have been successful in accelerating the pace of development. We also agree with this view that new generation of information technologies have simplified the task of decision makers. At the same time we also have to accept the fact that the sophisticated technologies cant deliver goods to the development process if the employees operating and maintaining these technologies are not of world class. Technologies need due support of human resources who invent, innovate and develop technologies

122

Part1

TOURISM INDUSTRY IN INDIA

INTRODUCTION

India is a world in herself - geographically distinct, culturally varied, an ancient civilization that has over the years interacted with virtually all the world's races, creeds and ideologies, yet has preserved the unique flavour which underpins and unites the diversity that is India.

India, An ancient civilization with an impressive lineage that over the centuries amassed a tremendous wealth of grandeur majesty. The Indian sub continent over a long period has hosted countless numbers of cultures, creating a land with diverse beliefs where modern concerns mesh with has and

traditional values. On visiting this country one can witness intricately carved temples, gleaming marble palaces, monastic retreats of the Himalayas and the dusty backwoods of the countryside.

India has an ancient and diverse culture stretching back to more than 5000 years. Successive years of migration have been absorbed into the culture giving it a distinct
123

physical, religious and racial variety as well as a rich linguistic diversity. It has also been considered the oldest and the most resilient cultures in the world. Modern India presents a picture of unity in diversity where people of different faiths and beliefs live together in peace and harmony.

India is a land of fascination! Discover the contentment in the exhilarating mountains, the soothing backwaters, the tranquil beaches, the enchanting waterfalls and the countless number of exquisite arts forms, the exotic costumes, the enchanting music, the spectacular art forms and the majestic elephant rides. No other country on earth evokes the human spirit as she does from spectacular mountain retreats to wildlife sanctuaries to medieval palaces and from mesmerizing peoples to tropical forests to unspoiled beaches. And much, much more India is truly a destination of the ages.

The destination of this century, India meets the expectations of every type of tourist. With her varied topography, picturesque valleys, High Mountain peaks and cascading rivers, she never ceases to surprise tourists with her kaleidoscopic attractions. The pomp and

pageantry of India's festivals and local fairs are matched by the warmth and hospitality of her people who welcome tourists with open hearts and warm smiles.

124

India! The Land of Maharajas which has witnessed an era of civilization and human evolution. Explore India and make India your next holiday destination she has something fascinating for you. India is almost another world. Indian culture is as old as human civilization, and is filled with intricately sculpted temples, architecturally orchestrated palaces, and magnificently built forts.

Travel and Tourism one of the world's largest foreign exchange earner among industries, provides employment directly to millions of people worldwide and indirectly through many associated service industries. A very wide industry, it includes Government tourism departments, Immigration and customs services, travel agencies, airlines, tour operators, hotels etc and many associated service industries such as airline catering or laundry services, Guides, Interpreters, Tourism promotion and sales etc. Travel and Tourism enterprises include major internationals with a workforce of thousands, to the small private travel agent with a handful of employees.

Work in the travel and tourism industry is essentially concerned with providing services for people who are away from home, on business or holiday. Travel can be leisure travel involving package tours, pilgrim travel, and adventure travel etc or purely business. Work at every functional level in the industry involves dealing directly with people. Travel agents assess the needs of tourists and businessmen and help them make the best possible travel arrangements from the many travel options available. Also, many major cruise lines, resorts, and specialty travel groups use travel agents to promote travel packages to the millions of people who travel every year. Travel company personnel must be up-to-date on current rules and regulations and documentation required, in areas like cargo, ticketing and passports, visas etc. so as to correctly advise their clients, and to take care of the paperwork when necessary. Besides this, all tourism staff in marketing, counter sales, or guide services, should be knowledgeable about the places their clients visit, in terms of general background, how to get there connections by air, rail and road and the facilities available.
125

In India, Travel and tourism, as an industry, has been somewhat slower to take off than in many other places. However, with increasing worldwide interest in travel, and with the Government's encouragement of its activities, it is undergoing massive expansion and improvement.

HOW TO MARKET TOURISM (THE 7 PS)

1. The Product Mix:

The tourism product is essentially an intangible thing. Also, because tourism is a multi-segment industry, the task of formulating a product mix becomes more difficult & challenging.

Selling a holiday is selling dreams. The way to win the customers heart is through the peripheral services provided along with the core product. Thus a tourism product is quite a complex one, including the destination, airline seat, hotel room, occasional tangible products such as souvenirs, a free bag or bottle of whisky, etc.

126

2. The Price Mix

In pricing decisions, the product or the service mix of the tourist organization is important. They have to set prices in line with the quality of services to be made available to the customers. Pricing decisions are influenced by internal and external factors. The tourism professionals are supposed to watch the emerging trends in both the markets. They are required to think in favour of discounting price. These may include discounts for cash payments, seasonal discounts, trade discounts etc. But while offering the discounts, it is not to be forgotten that it may also create image problem since some of the value sensitive tourists may doubt the quality.

3. The Promotion Mix

Creation of awareness has a far reaching impact. The tourist organizations bear the responsibility of informing, persuading and sensing the potential tourists in a right fashion. The marketers need to use the various components of promotion optimally so that they succeed in increasing the number of habitual users.

Advertising:
Advertisement helps in furnishing important information to the actual and potential tourists. Its coverage is wide. Advertising is aimed at the public to create awareness of the travel offers available on a resort and its attractions to influence their business decisions. Intangibility can be compensated with the help of visual exposure of scenes and events. We can project hotel bedrooms, well arranged restaurants and cafeterias, swimming pools etc.

127

4. Publicity:
It focuses attention on strengthening the public relations measures by developing a rapport with media people and getting their personalized support in publicizing the business. It helps in projecting the positive image of tourists organizations since the prospects trust on the news items publicized by the media people. Eg. Kumarakom in Kerala after Prime Minister A B Vajpayees visit. The publicity programme include regular publicity stories and photographs to the newspapers, travel editors, contact with magazines on stories etc. There are different groups in publicity, such as advertising publicity, projected publicity, structural publicity and personal publicity.

Sales promotions:
Sales promotion measures are the short term activities seeking to boost sales at peak demand periods to ensure that the firms obtain its market share and are used to help launch a new product or support an ailing or modified one. The tool of sales promotions is designed to appeal particularly to those customers who are price-sensitive. There are a number of techniques to promote sale and the tourist professional need to use them in the face of their requirements vis-vis the emerging trends in the business. Eg. In the tourism industry, a travel company offers give-aways to their clients, such as flight bags, wallets for tickets and forex and covers of passport. 5. Publicity: It focuses attention on strengthening the public relations measures by developing a rapport with media people and getting their personalized support in publicizing the business. It helps in projecting the positive image of tourists organizations since the prospects trust on the news items publicized by the media people.

Sales promotions:
128

Sales promotion measures are the short term activities seeking to boost sales at peak demand periods to ensure that the firms obtain its market share and are used to help launch a new product or support an ailing or modified one. The tool of sales promotions is designed to appeal particularly to those customers who are price-sensitive.

Word-of-mouth Promotion:
Most communication about tourism takes place by word-of-mouth information which in a true sense is word-of-recommendation. In the tourism industry it is found that the word-of-mouth promoters play the role of a hidden salesforce, who instrumentalize the process of selling. The high magnitude of effectiveness of this tool of promotion is due to high credibility of the channel, specially in the eyes of the potential tourists

6. Place
Place or distribution management is concerned with two things availability and accessibility. Researchers in tourism must determine how and where potential customers prefer to buy tourism products and services. Most tour operators sell their services through travel agents, however some deal directly with the consumers and eliminate middlemen. Other companies may also utilize more than one method of distribution. Airlines, for example, sell tickets through travel agents, and sell seats on flights to tour operators, and also offer travelers to book seats themselves through their own booking offices.

7. People
129

We cant deny the fact that sophisticated technologies have been successful in accelerating the pace of development. We also agree with this view that new generation of information technologies have simplified the task of decision makers. At the same time we also have to accept the fact that the sophisticated technologies cant deliver goods to the development process if the employees operating and maintaining these technologies are not of world class. Technologies need due support of human resources who invent, innovate and develop technologies

130

Part 2 Inbound and out bound tourism

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Foreign tourist Arrivals in india upto 2011

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Monthly wise Foreign tourist Arrivals in india upto 2011

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Earning In US Dollar From Tourism in India

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