Here winter is not a season but a festival|Jaipur Beat

January 7, 2020January 7, 2020 AdminLeave a comment

The scent of winter fog, waft from tea stalls, hurried traffic crossing the mild sunshine, the sight of travellers exploring the hilltop Amer fort and locals wandering the narrow streets in traditional Rajasthani attire is a riot of delightful things for the senses at any time of year, but none more so than during the winter months.

We love the rush with which winter arrives and suddenly changes our lives with its aroma, and we never want these winter days to pass.
Winter is the best time to experience Rajasthan’s ‘Pink City’. For the people around, winter is just another season but for a Jaipurite it is a festival in itself.

Festival to indulge in the traditional delicacies, to enjoy gala events, to take pleasure in the legendary Polo game, to celebrate patang baazi, and to participate in the world’s biggest literature festival, the list goes on.

Winter Delicacies

Walk into any part of the city’s bazaars, the one thing that you cannot resist is the tandoori kulhad chai with pakoras.

Samosa, kachori, jalebi, Mirchi-vada and kadhai doodh at night is just the perfect ending note to the day. A true Jaipurite never leaves an opportunity to taste the variety served on its streets. Winters add an extra charm to almost everything we get on the streets and we don’t even miss the outdoors as the city has abundant rooftop bars and cafes.
Not to be missed, the winter chill is best enjoyed at bonfire nights.

Festivals and Events

The World looks up to Jaipur as it hosts some unique events and festivals, which no other city has to offer in winters.

This is the time for Jaipur Winter Polo Season, Children festival, kite festival, Jaipur Art Summit, Jaipur International Film Festival, Rajasthan International Film Festival and the one that needs no introduction- Jaipur Literature Festival and its Music stage. Too much on the platter, yeah?

Watch for Migratory Birds

The time for winged wonders. Gazing at the beautiful migratory birds, that travel from far lands to Mansagar lake, Barkheda and Chandlai lake is one of the kind experiences that we Jaipurites look forward to every year in winters.

Monument Hopping

The list is never complete without the three must-sees being the towering Palace of the Winds, the hilltop, marble-decked Amber Fort and the sprawling City Palace complex.
The mild winter sun makes the palace hopping a lot more fun.

Get closer to nature

This is the best time to enjoy Safari at Jhalana and enjoy the wilderness from close corners. You never know when you stumble upon a black panther.

Kite Flying

For a true Jaipurite, kite flying is not a game but a religion. When hundreds of kites dance in the sky and people dance on their terrace is a sight to behold. This is one of the most favorite and zealous festivals in Jaipur. And every Jaipurite has beautiful memories of Makar Sankranti.
So if you ever plan to visit Jaipur during winter, make sure you don’t miss the intoxicatingly enthusiastic vibe of Makar Sankranti!

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Your Guide to Ultimate Food Experiences this Winter | Jaipur Beat

December 24, 2019December 24, 2019 AdminLeave a comment

There’s not a single person who doesn’t enjoy food. Since Jaipur food is so well-loved, we decided to make a list of the best food items to eat in the winter season. Here we go!

Halwa

During winters, no one would ever say no to the lip-smacking Gajar or moong dal or badaam ka halwa. We only wait for winters so that we could enjoy this mouthwatering winter speciality topped with desi ghee and dry fruits.

Aloo Tikki

A mouthful of hot aloo tikki with a burst of flavourful chutneys is a total bliss in winters. Be it on streets or at a wedding, aloo tikki is most enjoyed dish by everyone.

Mawa Kachori

If you have a sweet tooth and love kachori then Mawa kachori is just for you. A puff pastry filled with aromatic mawa and nuts is one winter speciality that you anyone would want to indulge in if travelling to Jaipur.

Mirchi Bada

You better be strong enough to try this street snack in which green chillies are stuffed with aloo masala and are deep-fried served with sweet and tangy chutney.

Soup

A hot bowl of soup with bread crumbs and cream is a total saviour during winters plus a healthy appetiser too.

Dal Baati Churma

This power-packed Rajasthani dish that is everyone’s favourite is best enjoyed during winters. The one when we get invited at Khol ke Hanuman Ji the level of excitement to get to eat Dal Baati Churma is just next level.

Eggs and Omelettes

Since the past few years, Jaipur streets are buzzing with street stalls selling egg dishes. Yes, most of us don’t eat at eggs at home 🙂 Most of the egg stalls serve an extensive menu of egg dishes from Omelette Pizza to butter Masala Omelette this list is endless.

Paneer Tikka

Just look at that tempting tandoori chicken or paneer tikka on that plate waiting to be devoured. There are many street joints where you could enjoy paneer tikka plus you could stand next to the griller and enjoy the heat.

Kadhi with Kachori & Samosa

Hot, spicy and tempting, a superb combination of Rajasthani kadhi and mouth-watering Kachori/Samosa is everyone’s love. Once tasted, it will leave you to ask for more.

Kadhai wala Doodh

Be it early morning or at late night, the sip of hot kadhai wala doodh (milk) served in kulhad tastes like heaven during winters. It becomes more delicious when paired with freshly taken out jalebi’s.

Gajak

Dry and crisp sweet made of til and jaggery will keep your body warm on the biting cold days. Winters are incomplete without eating gajak and you don’t have to find it in Jaipur, it’s available in every street and corner and you’ll be surprised to see the variety here.

Dal ke Pakode

While you sit with frozen hands and crave for some warmth, these garam garam dal pakode are a perfect cure and company for you. Try them on the street side stalls or just make them at home and don’t forget to serve with the green chutney.

Kulche Chole

Traditionally the Punjabi speciality, this dish Kulche Chole is made with lots of spices and masala like onion, tomato and garlic and with lots of butter on it has stolen the hearts of many in Jaipur, especially during the winter season.

To all food Connoisseurs, Jaipur will never disappoint you when it comes to food.

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Winter Is Coming!

November 11, 2019November 11, 2019 AdminLeave a comment

Hello Fellas! Good is finally happening to us – the winters are almost here (sigh) and we’re finally going to get a break from the heat, even though it has not exactly been as terrible as before. There are lots of reasons to look forward to this season’s winter like school holidays, timely leaves from office, cosy nights but here’s a list of the most important things that we believe everyone gets excited about the most:

Silk

Yes, yes, yes! We finally get to adorn silk sarees and shirts without drenching in our sweat and especially now, considering that the wedding season has just begun – it is the perfect time to flaunt, lads.

Time to say bye-bye cotton!

Gajar ka Halwa

The Ma-ke-haath-ka Gajar ka Halwa is heaven. The beautiful amalgamation of milk, sugar, delicious carrots topped with crunchy almonds is the best thing god ever invented.

Drooling already? Same.

Sunbathing

Okay, we know we said we need a break from the heat – but the feeling of sitting under the winter sun is totally different. Sitting on your terrace in the afternoon, eating guava or radish and just absorbing the rays is so so so satisfying.

Peanuts

Eating roasted peanuts with family is a childhood memory that can only be re-lived during this time of the year, when hundreds of vendors are going to come down the street to sell peanuts. 90s kids would understand the nostalgic feeling of their father getting peanuts wrapped in newspaper, only to eat with Gud.

Eggs

While eggs are super-duper tasty, they are extremely beneficial during low temperatures. They contain vitamin D which is essential for the body especially because the sun rays are weak.

So, no need to come up with bahanas to eat eggs now! 😜

Coconut Oil

Damaged hair knows the real pain here – thankfully we can apply coconut oil now & condition our hair, and skin (yay). Plus, who doesn’t always cherish a good warm oil massage? 😉

Courtesy: Google Images

Festivals

This time of the year, many festivals like Jaipur Literature Festival, Jaipur Jewellery Show and obviously the on-going Pushkar Fair, to name a few, begin. There’s madness, fun and celebration of culture, food and knowledge which is extremely exciting.

Weddings

Gathering with your friends and family after a long time and having a good time is what we all wait for. A wedding in India is filled with lots of emotions – where you celebrate, cry, laugh, probably feel lonely (😂) because you’re still unmarried (just kidding!) and feel blessed. There’s truly nothing like it!

Boots

Wearing boots and feeling like you own the world is another thing about winters – the only thing disappointing is that you wished it snowed and you got to wear boots often. All the fashion prodigies would agree, eh?

Courtesy: Google Images

Looks like we’ve covered the list!

But let us know your favourite part about winters, that you think we’ve missed, in the comment section below! 😁

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Its March Already & Winter Season Refuses To Go Away From Jaipur

March 5, 2019 AdminLeave a comment

Winters seem to stick in Jaipur longer than the usual this time. The weather took a turn but we’re back to square one, freezing in chilly breeze all over again. We’re sure Jaipurites must be living with confusion on a daily basis and we’re here to tell you how.

– Woollen Clothes, Inside or Out?

When we almost decided to keep the woollen clothes inside, the weather ditched us right then. We neatly packed them and were almost bidding it a goodbye, but the weather was in a different mood and we had to take them out all over again.

– Umbrellas?

Yes! Umbrellas are out and we are not joking. Going out for shopping or planning to visit your favourite picnic spot, don’t forget to carry an umbrella with you because you never know, the rain god might be showering its blessing on us anytime of the day!

– Fan or no fan?

At one point of time, we started switching on the fan, isn’t it true Jaipurites? But now every moment of the day is so confusing that we can’t decide what needs to be done L Winter, summer, humid, we’ve experienced it all in the past 15 days and still we’re stuck at the same question, fan or no fan?

– Holi in pullovers?

This year seems like we will be playing the festival of colours in pullovers! Imagine all of us in bright coloured pullovers and splashing colours & water on each other 😀 Doesn’t it sound strange ! We might experience it this year Jaipurites, be prepared for it already 😉

– Weather cold or not?

Alarm clock rings, we wake up to see the beautiful sunrise and guess what? You don’t see one! Yes, the weather has decided to play hide and seek with us. You wake up one day to see a bright sun shining right at you, the next day you see the rain showers as soon as you open your window and the very next day a cold chilly breeze blowing right at your face. We’re sick and tired of it. Why can’t the weather decide what it wants once and for all

– Gajar Ka Halwa or Ice Cream?

Left in a pickle? Can’t decide whether your taste buds want Gajar Ka Halwa or is it already time for Ice Cream? Don’t worry, enjoy both side by side while watching the scenic view of Jaipur! Happy binge-eating 😀

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The Gajak Guide For You Crazies, Who, Just Like Us, Had No Idea Which One’s Which.

February 9, 2019 AdminLeave a comment

Winter in Jaipur is usually synonyms with loads of gajak on all those cold nights. And gajak love, for every jaipurite, is undeniably strong. But, I guess we have all faced this nightmare when mom sends us to bring some gajak, and the confusion just over boards our intelligence and wrecks our judgement. Defeated and lost, we come back home empty-handed saying the shop was closed. It doesn’t have to happen ever again, we promise when visiting a gajak shop, just open up this guide and you’re all set.

It’s a typical categorization after all?

Well, not really. We too felt so, until we went ahead and researched. Well, there a lot more types than we imagined, but you know, they fell more like a parody of the few original types of gajak, so we decided and skipped them, for good.

1 Til– One of the humblest gajaks known to mankind, and it’s better you know there is a til laddu in the options too. So, til, is basically a kind of Superfood, it has enormous benefits to our health and, is tasty, in gajaks to say the least.

Til’s most know gajak is til papdi Patti. However, it comes in a variety of til gud, til mawa, til gud khasta and what not.

Sweetener– Mawa, Gud, and plain old processed Sugar

Shape– Rolls(rarely), Rewdi, Patti(bar) and Ladoos.

2. Mungfali (peanut)- this gajak’s so popular it has its own name, it’s called chikki. It’s usually made with gud and is also available with a combination of til. It’s so widely popular, we are sure it’s the top-selling item at every gajak shop we came across.

Sweetener– Gud, processed Sugar(rarely)

Shape-Patti(bar), and, you may find it in other shapes too.

3. Son– This one’s borrowed from the iconic son papdi, and yes, its one of those ‘other types’, but, at least, it’s iconic, unlike, chocolate flavored gajak. It’s mostly happened to be made with gud.

Sweetener– Gud, processed Sugar

Shapes– Patti, Ladoo, and sometimes, Rolls too.

4 Mawa (khoya)– Gud mawa and til mawa remains the most common options, but there’s a simple mawa gajak all on its own too.

Sweetener– Gud, and sometimes, processed Sugar is added.

Shape– Patti(bar), Ladoo, and rarely Rolls.

5. Dry fruit– there are a lot of different varieties in dry fruit gajaks, its range includes kaju, pista, and badam gajaks. People have a love-hate relationship with them, but you aren’t short on options anyways, so we leave that up to you.

Sweetner– Gud, processed Sugar, Mawa.

Shapes– Usually Patti(bar), oval, and what not.

If you still happen to have doubts or confusions, or a query, ask us in the comments section and we will be happy to help.

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Things No One Tells You About – Jal Mahal, Jaipur

January 15, 2019 AdminLeave a comment

January, that time of the year when everybody be it Jaipurites or tourists always ask for this one place, Jal Mahal. Yes! Jal Mahal is in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan and no, it is not built on any island like other water palaces. This 5 storied building continues to stand still in Man Sagar Lake with 4 floors immersed in water and dare anyone come near it. You can watch, behold the sight and, capture its beauty only from a distance as it is too introverted to let anybody close to it. We’re sure you must have visited this eyeful multiple of times, but let’s enlighten you today on these unknown facts about your favourite “Water Palace”.

Initially, Jal Mahal welcomed the royal family with open arms and let them have a gala time here. Back then it served as a host to duck hunting parties for the royals. Years passed by and it started getting shy. And now, you can only have a look at it wondering what makes this architectural marvel stand tall in the water body.

Come February, and you can spot large number of migratory birds dancing here and there, enjoying the serenity of water at Jal Mahal. This once again revives the liveliness in it.

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Chameli Bagh of Jal Mahal was a grand spectacle to watch back when beautiful dance and musical performances painted this splendor in its own colours.
Built in red sandstone, Jal Mahal is one of the most photographed monuments in Pink City. With tranquil waters by the side and birds sitting on top of the chattris giving it a picturesque view, tourists and localites love to spend their soothing evenings here, clicking selfies with it in the backdrop.

Catch the sight of this exquisiteness this weekend with your loved ones, but only from the outside as no one can actually go inside it to see it.

Most people view the architectural brilliance of Jal Mahal from across the Jaipur-Delhi Road but if you take a walk for a kilometre or two into the valley behind the lake, its true beauty will reveal.

Did we just make you love Jal Mahal even more? If yes, then we think we have sorted your weekend evening plans! 😉

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Things No One Tells You About – World Trade Park, Jaipur

December 26, 2018 AdminLeave a comment

What is that one place even your relatives or friends visiting the Pink City for the first time from metropolitan ask for? Yes, World Trade Park is what comes to our mind always! It gives us a moment of pride for being one of the largest malls in the country with 11 floors. But, we are sure there are few things that no one told you about this mall. Curious? Read on to discover what makes this mall so close to the hearts of not only Jaipurites but also for those visiting the city for the first time.

Few hours left in the city and have not seen World Trade Park yet? Don’t worry, you can drop by and visit one of the grandest malls that the city houses on your way to the airport as it is located at a mere distance of 2.8 km from there.

World Trade Park is here to turn your fantasy illusions into reality. This architectural wonder houses a Fantasy World where you can see people selling beautiful accessories like costume jewellery and sunglasses from inside a boat shaped shop or a bus. You can spot umbrellas hanging upside down from the ceiling and the interior designed in a very unusual format that takes you into the world of Arabian Nights.

World Trade Park is not just a shopping mall, but a plethora of entertainment. You name it, and World Trade Park has it. World-class brands like Marks & Spencer, Charles & Keith, Faces, The Body Shop to name a few, Cinepolis, that has the best 3D effects to offer in the city, Play Zone for the kids to get some respite while you are on a shopping spree, and not-to-forget the food court that has a world-class cuisine to offer your taste palettes. This qualifies for a one-stop destination for all your entertainment needs ! 🙂

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Did you know that World Trade Park is the 2^ndlargest mall in India by area whose construction was completed in just a span of 2 years? :O Isn’t that quick?

World Trade Park added another feather in its cap this Diwali by hosting the 1^stLED Balloon Festival of India. Yes ! The very first one was held in our very own Pink City. Doesn’t that make you smile with pride?

Don’t you love World Trade Park even more now? 😉

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9 Places To Have A Meal Fit For Kings In Jaipur

December 14, 2018December 14, 2018 AdminLeave a comment

We Jaipurites are born in the land of royals and we have been brought up seeing palaces, elephants, royal abodes and the royals themselves. But dining like royals is a different experience altogether.

Jaipur Beat brings you a list of the choicest restaurants of Jaipur for when you are in a mood to be welcomed and served like royals.

Baradari- Located in the heart of the City Palace itself, Baradari is synonymous to grandeur and royalty. With the most royal services and a kingly court kind of ambience, this place treats you with regal pleasures.

1135 AD- Perched up high in the lap of Amer Fort, 1135 AD offers a lavish experience like no other. Brightly lit aisles, with congenial ambience, gives you the true feels of regalia.

Fort- The modern blended with the traditional, Fort divides itself in Chowk and Sultanat. With stone architecture, this place takes you back to age-old forts from the era of Saxons and Vikings.

Shahpura House- Historic jharokha and chattri style architecture of this place does not fail to leave you in the awe of the moment. From the entrance itself, you are bound to feel the palace to its core in every step you take.

Giardino- Taking its name from Italian origin meaning ‘garden,’ Giardino is located in the royal abode Taj Jai Mahal Palace. Celebrating the Italian culinary pleasures, this place provides an insight into Italian elegance and royal opulence.

giardino_taj jai mahal palace — Image Courtesy: Google

Shikaar Bagh- A silent abode in the heart of the buzzing city, Shikaar Bagh is a heaven for those who wish to be pampered like royals and enjoy a serene meal with loved ones and family.

Virasat- Celebrating the royal history of Rajasthan, this place speaks of Rajasthani culture in every fibre of its being. From eating in royal thaalis to enjoying the ancient art forms of Rajasthan displayed all around, Virasat is a vibrant showcase of Rangeelo Rajasthan.

virasat restaurant — Image Courtesy: Google

The Rajput Room- The name says it all. Situated in the former residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, the palace turned heritage hotel Taj Rambagh Palace, The Rajput Room is a place where the grandeur unfurls in a Rajputi demeanour inspired by the ancient rulers of Jaipur. Pleasing and colourful ambience takes your heart away at first sight!

rajput room_rambagh palace — Image Courtesy: Google

Marble Arch- The dream house-palace in the midst of Jaipuri waters Marble Arch is a heaven located in the legendary Jal Mahal. With a dreamy ambience and inexplicable beauty all around, Marble Arch is instilled with white marble furnishings matched up with vibrant décor and interior to create a mesmerizing contrast.

So the next time you wish to be treated like a royal, make your way to one of these splendid places in the city.

Celebrations · Culinary · Festive Season · Food · Food Festival · Jaipur · Jaipur Beat · Jaipur Food · Jaipur Happenings · Uncategorized · winter

Keep Your Bucket List Ready For The Authentic Jaipuri Delights!

December 4, 2018December 4, 2018 AdminLeave a comment

An itinerary is never complete without some delicious local foodie delights of the place in it. So ditch the stereotypical food chain brands and savour the luscious and irresistible treats that are just not-to-be-missed when you visit Jaipur!

Dal Baati Churma– Who can miss the legendary Dal Baati Churma? The saada, masala and mawa baati dipped in ghee, served with dal and three different kinds of churma is the Aan Baan Shaan of Rajasthanis.

Gatte ki Sabzi– It’s one of the most basic of dishes cooked in Rajasthani homes, but the tempering done with red chillies and garlic adds a very different, not-to-be-forgotten flavour to it.

Ker Sangri– This is the legit sabzi of Rangeelo Rajasthan’s “Registhan.” Ker, a shrub berry and Sangri, a bean of a flowering tree called Khejari, come together to make this exclusive delight of Rajasthan. It is often enjoyed in winter!

Laal Maans– This one is for the non-veg fans! Lamb or Mutton in a sauce of yoghurt and hot Mathania chillies is rich in garlic and has a very spicy flavour to it.

Aloo Pyaaz ki Sabji with Bejad ki Roti– Out of all the things that you find in Jaipur, this one is totally different with not just the rich in spices Aloo Pyaaz ki Sabji but also the rich in ghee and fibre Bejad roti.

Lehsun ki Chutney– Red, hot and spicy, this chutney is what will have your taste buds on fire! Extremely spicy, lehsun chutney is made by grinding garlic with dried red chillies.

Gajak– For all the sweet tooths out there! You just cannot leave Jaipur without taking along this “til ki patti” from Jaipur.

Mirchi ke Tipore– Mirchi fried in besan and mustard oil along with the other spices makes up for this spectacular appetizer!

Kachori– Kachori in Jaipur is not just food, it is a feeling. Available in various options, like Dal, Pyaaz and even Mawa, this delicious desi delight will have your senses tingled.

Sev Tamatar ki Sabji– Last but not the least, the chatpati Sev namkeen put in tomato curry is one of the simplest and one of the most palatable dishes from Jaipur.

You may leave Jaipur after your indelible stay, but Jaipur would forever be in your heart with random memories of its scenic beauty, cultural richness and not to forget crave-worthy local dishes.