Traditions and culture in Rajasthan

The state of Rajasthan is situated in the north-east of India and shares borders with Pakistan and fellow Indian states Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab.

It has a rich culture and many unique characteristics which differentiate it from other parts of the country, including its own strand of classical music and singular dances.

Art is another speciality of the region, with a number of styles - including block, Bagaru and Sanganer prints - proving popular around the world.

It is also famed for its impressive architecture, with the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur just one example of the countless Rajasthan landmarks which dominate the skyline.

Things to do in Rajasthan

People on a Rajasthan holiday do not have to follow cultural pursuits - they can, if they prefer, indulge in a spot of shopping.

Sought-after wares include jewellery, textiles, handicrafts and furniture and are appealing not just because of their quality but also because of their price.

The more intellectually-minded are also spoilt for choice, with the Rajasthan area providing an abundance of must-see sights.

The Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu, Ranakpur Temple near Udaipur and Bhandasar Temple of Bikaner are some of the highlights which are bound to be in all good holiday guides.

Religion has also left its mark on the region, with the Hindu festivals of Deepawali, Holi, Gangaur, Teej, Gogaji, Makar Sankranti and Janmashtami all celebrated.

Rajasthan additionally plays host to a desert festival in which camels play a major role - and camel treks in general are favoured by many of the tourists on Rajahstan breaks.

Other notable animals which can be found in Rajahstan are the Great Indian Bustard, the Indian Gazelle and the Indian Wild Ass.

Weather in Rajasthan

There are four main seasons in the Indian state: pre-monsoon, which starts in April and ends in June; monsoon, which runs from July to September; post-monsoon, which encompasses the October to December period; and winter, which extends from January to March.

It is hottest in pre-monsoon, most humid in monsoon and coldest in winter, making the post-monsoon period arguably the best time to book airline tickets - and particularly cheap flights - to visit Rajahsthan.

Destination checklist for Rajasthan

Rajasthan has a population of 56.47 million

The resort is five and a half hours ahead of UTC time.

Hindi and English are widely spoken in addition to indigenous Rajasthani languages.

The official currency is the Indian rupee

The resort's international dialling code is +91