Rajasthan#

Pictures of Rajasthan by Bernd Mader from 2009.

Rajasthan Rajasthan is an Indian state with an area of 342,239 km² 68.5 million inhabitants (2011 census). The capital of Rajasthan is Jaipur Jaipur and the official language is Hindi. Rajasthan is bordered by the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat as well as the Pakistani provinces of Sindh and Punjab. It is India's largest state area and only slightly smaller than Germany.

Rajasthan is one of the wildest and most colorful areas throughout India. It is the home of the Maharaja's (Prince), which have dominated this part of India more than 1000 years. The historic importance of Rajasthan can not only be recognized by the delicate marble palaces belonging to the great wonders of the world and the imposing desert fortresses, but also by an unique and varied landscape, bizarre mountains and artificial lakes.

Almost every city in Rajasthan has its own fortress. They are evidence of a warlike past. The fortresses are battlements, turrets and massive walls with palaces of astonishing luxury and incalculable charm. They recall the time of the Rajputs (warlike caste) and their mental attitude as men of honor and bravery.