IMMERSE IN THE COLOURS OF INDIA
THE vibrancy and colours of India captivate and mesmerise visitors, offering travellers to its shores a taste of the exotic against a rich tapestry of tradition and culture.
A visit to Jaipur and its capital city Rajasthan is definitely a must for a fascinating holiday.
When you’re in Jaipur, do make it a point to experience a most colourful festival – the Dhulandi Festival which marks the beginning of spring.
Held at the Khasa Kothi hotel, the Department of Tourism will organise an event especially for foreign tourists, where they can play with dry colours while dancing to Rajasthani folk music performed by local artists.
Meanwhile, Gangaur is one of the most important festivals in Rajasthan, celebrated in some form or other across Rajasthan. The festival commemorates the union of Lord Shive (Gan) and the goddess Parvathi (Gaur) as a symbol of conjugal and marital happiness.
Those who enjoy a spot of kite flying should catch the Kite Festival, which is unique to Rajasthan. Marvel at the wonderful sight of kites taking to the sky all across the state. The celebration looks truly spectacular in the evening as fireworks, alongside kites with lights, brighten the city skyline.
On this occassion, the Department of Tourism organises a festival for tourists to enjoy kite flying along with various cultural performances.
When it comes to dining out, one should pay a visit to Niro’s, which was established in 1949.
Escape the chaos of the street and take refuge in the restaurant’s cool and clean mirror-ceilinged sanctum to savour both vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian cuisine complete with professional service.
The Peacock Rooftop Restaurant gets rave reviews for excellent yet inexpensive cuisine (Indian, Chinese and Continental) and a fun ambience. This multilevel rooftop restaurant at the Hotel Pearl Palace offers a romantic view of Hathroi Fort and the experience is complete with attentive service and whimsical furnishings.
Another fascinating part of India to visit is Amritsar. Here, you can also enjoy a colourful experience during Holi, a Hindu spring festival also known as the festival of colours or festival of love. Holi announces the arrival of spring with the warm weather and bright sunshine urging one and all to celebrate.
You should also experience Baisakhi, which marks the establishment of the Khalsa in 1699. This is one of the most significant events in the Sikh calendar, which is also a harvest festival and marks the Punjabi New Year.
A day of special significance for the Sikhs, Diwali is one of the most popular festivals. Signifying the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair, on this day the Golden Temple is illuminated with traditional lamps and there are spectacular fireworks lighting up the sky.
For a taste of Amritsar, All India Famous is the place for butter drenched, potato and cauliflower stuffed Amritsari kulcha – maida bread baked in a tandoor.
Located beside the Golden Temple and Wagah Border, this place has been serving only kulchas over its many years of existence.
Pair this with Amritsari tandoori chicken, a whole chicken marinated in spices and roasted to perfection. The recipe for this delicious dish has been in existence since 1972.
Plan a colourful getaway and experience India for an unforgettable holiday. AirAsia flies to Jaipur and Amritsar 4X weekly. For more details, go to www.airasia.com.