Land of mystical charm!

During the magical month of November, the beauty of Rajasthan comes out in true colour—from Jaipur's vibrant Amber Fort to Udaipur's serene lakes and Jaisalmer's desert rhythms, among other things;

- Monjit P.

As November settles in, Rajasthan's allure grows impossible to ignore. The chaotic hum of Mumbai fades with each passing mile, replaced by the silent stories of sand dunes and palaces. This time, I've set my sights on Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer, hoping to soak in Rajasthan's traditions at the turn of winter—a season that brings with it a unique romance, one that resonates deeply with this colorful land.

The "Pink City" is a riot of color even before winter settles in, but November lends a certain magic to Jaipur. The sunlight turns softer, casting warm hues over the palaces and the bustling bazaars. My first stop is the iconic Amber Fort, where golden walls seem to glow under the winter sun. As I walk through its grand corridors, I meet an older man named Shyam, a guard with a fondness for storytelling. He points to the Jaivana Cannon and shares stories of ancient battles and kings who once defended this land. His voice lowers conspiratorially as he tells me that, even now, they say the fort is filled with whispers from the past.

Outside, in the courtyard, I spot a group of women dressed in Rajasthani attire—vibrant lehengas with intricate embroidery, paired with stacks of silver bangles that jingle with every move. The sight is mesmerizing, and I find myself drawn to one woman who sits painting delicate designs on her hand with henna. I ask her if she would paint my hand, and she smiles, nodding eagerly. As she works, she shares snippets of her life, the pride she feels in Jaipur's heritage, and the age-old tradition of henna art that has been passed down for generations. Her skill is undeniable, and as she finishes, she tells me, "Henna is not just art—it's a blessing for health and happiness."