Alexandra Marshall, a contributor to Travel and Leisure Magazine, had no idea Rajasthan, India, was so dazzling until she found herself in a Jaipur jewelry store, holding a massive blue sapphire in the palm of her hand. Located in the northwest region of the country, Rajasthan was once the center of attention in India, serving as the home of political leaders from the sixth century to the early 19th century. Today, all that remains are jeweled examples of an illustrious past, and during a tour of India, travelers will have numerous opportunities to see some of the most impressive treasures of the East.
According to Raghavendra Rathore, a fashion and jewelry designer who spoke with the news source, countless brides-to-be come to Rajasthan in search of the perfect location for their dream wedding. Traditionally, Indian weddings last about six days, complete with feasts, dances and, of course, the closing nuptials.
"The wedding business has completely changed the way people see monuments and land here," Rathore told Marshall.
While some locals, including Rathore, are worried that allowing international visitors to have their weddings in Rajasthan may result in a loss of cultural identity, others are content to have a strong economy in light of a tourism influx.
Whichever the case, there's no doubt that Rajasthan is now a focal point for shopping in northern India, and if you're in the market for fine jewelry during your India tour, the city of Jaipur is calling your name. One store, The Gem Palace, features pieces that were made more than 150 years ago, and as you peruse the glass cases for a one-of-a-kind pendant, the jewelers will be more than happy to let you try on anything you want.
