TRAVEL SPECIAL................. ROLLING ON THE ROAD

 ROLLING ON THE ROAD



Ditch planned holidays, get on the road and drive to some of the best destinations in India. Discover a new route and a new you

Want to add serendipity to your family holiday this summer? Jump out of the set box of planned holidays, think road, think refreshing.
Well, you might ask why to go through the trouble of driving when the family can fly down?
There are multiple benefits of going on a road trip with kids: Driving allows us to appreciate natural beauty and makes geography more concrete.

Not only do kids learn map skills as they follow along on the journey, but also they experience land forms in real life, instead of learning about them in a book.

Without the distractions of television, internet, school, and work travelling nurtures conversation and ensure some great bonding time.

If you leave time for exploration, road trips can inspire and encourage kids. Give yourselves extra hours to reach the destinations on the way, so that you could take a detour to explore villages, towns, forests and be more spontaneous.

This is will surely foster kids' curiosity. Are you tanked up?
By Rashmi Henriques  ETTR140529

DRIVING IN RAJASTHAN ROAD-MAP: Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Jaipur and Ranthambore DISTANCE: 751 kms Before you start the ignition and get on the road, keep in mind, road trips are not about miles, they are about moments. The adventure ride begins from Jaisalmer, which is home to beautiful palaces and ornate temples. In thi World Heritage Site, your family can witness many artistic structures and monuments of historical importance.

After a drive of 278 kms, the sheer opulence of Jodhpur is all set to amaze you. This beautiful city is popularly known as `Blue City' because of the blue-painted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. Do take the time out to visit Umaid Bhawan Palace, Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower), you could also relax by the the Kaylana Lake and Garden and Balsamand Lake. Currently the 19th European Film Festival is on till June 7 in Jodhpur, it would be a good idea to introduce your kids to some world cinema. Your next stop is Jaipur, the capital city of the state. Hawa Mahal is the five storied semi-octagonal monument with over hanging latticed balconies, a fine piece of Rajput architecture. City Palace located near Hawa Mahal was built in the 18th century. The carved arches are supported by grey-white marble columns studded with floral motifs in gold and coloured stones. Two elephants carved in s marble guard the entrance, where retainers whose families have served generations of the rulers are at hand, to serve as guides. The last leg of your road trip is the most awaited by the kids. On SH 24, Jaipur to Ranthambore is a 145 kms drive. One of the biggest natural reserves in India, Ranthambore was once a princely game conserve, is now home to tigers, leopards, deer, snakebird, peacocks and a variety of plants and reptiles. Enjoy few days in the wilderness, spend quality time with your family and chat about moments when you were behind the wheel.

http://www.rajasthantourism.gov.in

ETTR140529