Discover Bagru Block Printing: A Unique Cultural Workshop in Jaipur

Jaipur, the Pink City of India, is a treasure trove of culture, history, and craftsmanship. Among its many artistic traditions, Bagru block printing stands out as a mesmerizing blend of skill, heritage, and creativity. This ancient art form, practiced by the Chippa community in the small town of Bagru, has captivated art lovers and travelers alike with its intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
If you’ve ever been captivated by the intricate patterns and earthy hues of Indian textiles, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Bagru block printing and discover why it’s a must-experience on your Jaipur itinerary.

Introduction to Bagru Block Printing

Bagru block printing is a traditional textile art that involves hand-carved wooden blocks, natural dyes, and a meticulous printing process. The designs, often inspired by nature, feature floral motifs, geometric patterns, and intricate detailing that reflect the cultural richness of Rajasthan. What sets Bagru printing apart is its use of natural dyes derived from plants, minerals, and other organic sources, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable craft.

A Journey Through History

The origins of Bagru block printing date back to the 17th century, when the Chippa community settled in Bagru. These artisans brought with them the knowledge of natural dyes and block carving, which they used to create stunning textiles for local communities. Initially, the craft was used to print designs onto cotton fabric for turbans, but over time, it expanded to include silk, chiffon, and other fabrics.

The popularity of Bagru block printing soared during the Mughal era, with its intricate designs adorning the courts of emperors and the wardrobes of royalty. However, the advent of industrialization and synthetic dyes in the 20th century threatened the survival of this traditional craft. Thankfully, in recent years, there has been a revival of interest in handmade, sustainable products, bringing Bagru block printing back into the spotlight.

The Magic Behind the Process

The process of Bagru block printing is a labor of love, requiring skill, patience, and an eye for detail. Here’s a step-by-step look at how it’s done:

  1. Preparing the Fabric: The fabric, usually cotton or silk, is washed and treated with harda, a natural mordant made from myrobalan fruit. This helps the dye adhere to the fabric and ensures long-lasting colors.
  2. Carving the Blocks: Skilled artisans hand-carve intricate designs onto wooden blocks. Each block is a masterpiece, with every groove and line carefully chiseled to perfection.
  3. Mixing Natural Dyes: The dyes are prepared using natural ingredients like indigo for blue, madder root for red, and turmeric for yellow. These dyes create a unique, earthy palette that’s both vibrant and sustainable.
  4. Printing the Fabric: The blocks are dipped into the dye and stamped onto the fabric with precision. This step requires a steady hand, as the blocks must align perfectly to create a seamless pattern.
  5. Drying and Washing: Once the printing is complete, the fabric is dried in the sun and washed to remove excess dye. The final result is a vibrant, handcrafted textile that tells a story of tradition and artistry.

The Role of Natural Dyes

One of the most fascinating aspects of Bagru block printing is its reliance on natural dyes. Unlike synthetic dyes, which can harm the environment, natural dyes are derived from plants and minerals, making them eco-friendly and safe. The use of natural dyes also adds a unique charm to the prints, as each batch of dye can produce slightly different shades, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike.

Why Bagru Block Printing Matters

Bagru block printing is more than just a craft; it’s a way of life for the artisans of Jaipur. For generations, families have passed down the secrets of block carving, dyeing, and printing, preserving this ancient art form. By supporting Bagru block printing, we not only celebrate their craftsmanship but also contribute to the sustainability of their livelihoods.

Moreover, Bagru block printing is a sustainable alternative to mass-produced textiles. The use of natural dyes and handmade processes reduces the environmental impact, making it a choice that’s both beautiful and responsible.

Bagru Block Printing Workshop Experience

Attending a Bagru block printing workshop can be a highlight of your trip to Jaipur. Imagine stepping into a small studio of a indian artisan, where the air is filled with the earthy scent of natural dyes and the rhythmic *thump thump* of blocks being stamped onto fabric.

Under the guidance of a master artisan, you can learn how to prepare the fabric, mix dyes, and print your own design. It’s incredible to see how a simple piece of fabric can be transformed into a work of art with just a few stamps. The hands-on experience will give you a newfound appreciation for the skill and dedication of the artisans.

The Future of Bagru Block Printing

While Bagru block printing has seen a revival in recent years, it still faces challenges. The rise of fast fashion and synthetic dyes threatens the survival of traditional crafts. However, by choosing handmade, sustainable products, we can help preserve this beautiful art form for future generations.

Conclusion: A Craft Worth Celebrating

Bagru block printing is a celebration of tradition, creativity, and sustainability. It’s a reminder of the beauty that can be created when skill and passion come together. Whether you’re a textile enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates handmade art, Bagru block printing is sure to leave you inspired.

So, the next time you’re in Jaipur, take a step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the world of Bagru block printing. Attend a workshop, meet the artisans, and take home a piece of this timeless craft. After all, every block-printed fabric tells a story – and now, you can be a part of it.

Ready to Explore Jaipur’s Artistic Heritage?

Join us at Le Tour De India as we curate unique experiences that bring you closer to India’s rich cultural traditions. From Bagru block printing workshops to heritage walks, we’ll help you discover the soul of Jaipur. Visit Le Tour De India or mail us: letourdejaipur@gmail.com to plan your next adventure.

Click here to explore our Block Printing Workshops & Heritage Walk tours!

Gangaur Festival: A Celebration of Love, Tradition, and Spring

Experience the magic of Rajasthan’s most vibrant festival – the Gangaur Festival in Jaipur. Dedicated to Goddess Gauri (Parvati), the embodiment of love, devotion, and marital bliss, Gangaur is a celebration of femininity, spring, and the sacred bond between husband and wife. In the Pink City of Rajasthan, this festival comes alive with colorful processions, traditional rituals, and a display of rich cultural heritage. From intricately decorated idols to the joyous participation of women in vibrant attire, Gangaur offers a glimpse into the heart of Rajasthani traditions. Join us as we explore the significance, rituals, and unforgettable experiences of the Gangaur Festival, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting Jaipur.

What is Gangaur Festival?

The word Gangaur is derived from two words: “Gan” (Lord Shiva) and “Gaur” (Goddess Parvati). The festival celebrates the divine union of Shiva and Parvati, symbolizing love, devotion, and marital harmony. It is primarily observed by women, both married and unmarried. Married women pray for the well-being and longevity of their husbands, while unmarried girls seek blessings for a loving and understanding life partner.

Gangaur is celebrated in the month of Chaitra (March-April), marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring. The festival spans 18 days, with the final day being the most vibrant and grand.

The Significance of Gangaur

Gangaur is more than just a festival; it’s a reflection of Rajasthan’s cultural ethos and traditions. It symbolizes:

  • Marital Bliss: The union of Shiva and Parvati represents the ideal marital relationship, filled with love and devotion.
  • Femininity and Strength: Goddess Gauri is revered as the embodiment of purity, fertility, and courage.
  • Spring and Renewal: The festival heralds the arrival of spring, a season of new beginnings and rejuvenation.

How is Gangaur Celebrated in Jaipur?

Jaipur comes alive during Gangaur, with the city adorned in vibrant colors, traditional music, and joyous celebrations. Here’s what makes the festival so special:

1. Rituals and Traditions

  • Idol Making: Women create clay idols of Shiva and Parvati, decorating them with colorful clothes and jewelry.
  • Fasting and Prayers: Married women observe fasts for 18 days, praying for their husbands’ well-being. Unmarried girls fast to seek a good spouse.
  • Mehendi and Attire: Women adorn their hands with intricate henna designs and dress in traditional Rajasthani attire—bright lehengas, sarees, and heavy jewelry.

2. The Grand Procession

The highlight of Gangaur in Jaipur is the royal procession that takes place on the final day. Starting from the City Palace, the procession winds through iconic locations like Tripolia Bazaar, Chhoti Chaupar, and Gangauri Bazaar, culminating at Talkatora.

The procession features:

  • Decorated Elephants and Camels: Adding a royal touch to the celebrations.
  • Folk Performances: Traditional dances like Ghoomar and Kalbelia enchant the crowds.
  • Women Carrying Ghudlias: Earthen pots with lamps, symbolizing prosperity and happiness.

3. Cultural Extravaganza

Jaipur transforms into a cultural hub during Gangaur. Folk music, puppet shows, and art exhibitions fill the streets, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich heritage. Local markets like Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are decked up, selling traditional crafts, jewelry, and festive delicacies.

Why Gangaur is a Must-Experience in Jaipur

A Visual Spectacle: The vibrant processions, colorful attire, and beautifully decorated idols make Gangaur a feast for the eyes.

Cultural Immersion: From folk dances to traditional rituals, the festival offers a deep dive into Rajasthani culture.

Spiritual Connection: The devotion and prayers during Gangaur create a serene and uplifting atmosphere.

Culinary Delights: Indulge in festive treats like Ghewar, Malpua, and Halwa, which are an integral part of the celebrations.

Best Places to Experience Gangaur in Jaipur

  • City Palace: The starting point of the grand procession.
  • Tripolia Bazaar: A bustling market filled with festive energy.
  • Talkatora: The culmination point of the procession, where the festivities reach their peak.
  • Albert Hall Museum: Hosts cultural performances and exhibitions during the festival.

Conclusion: A Festival of Love and Tradition

The Gangaur Festival is a beautiful blend of devotion, culture, and celebration. It’s a time when Jaipur shines brightest, showcasing its rich traditions and vibrant spirit. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a traveler looking for a unique experience, Gangaur promises to leave you mesmerized.

So, mark your calendar for the next Gangaur Festival and immerse yourself in the magic of Jaipur. Witness the grand processions, join the prayers, and take home memories of a lifetime. After all, Gangaur is not just a festival—it’s a celebration of life, love, and the timeless beauty of Rajasthan.

Plan Your Jaipur Trip with Us!

At Le Tour De India, we curate unforgettable experiences that bring you closer to India’s rich cultural heritage. From Gangaur Festival tours to heritage walks, we’ll help you discover the soul of Jaipur.

Visit Le Tour De India or mail us: letourdejaipur@gmail.com to plan your next adventure.

Click here to explore our Gangaur & Heritage Walk tours!

Explore The Famous Street Food Culture In Jaipur

Food Culture Jaipur - Le Tour De India

Hey there, fellow foodies! If you’re in Jaipur and seeking a royal treat for your taste buds, you’re in the right place. I’m Khush, your Jaipur explorer from Le Tour De India, and trust me, this city’s food scene is as vibrant as its culture! 

Discover Jaipur Delicious Street Food Secrets

Jaipur’s food paradise is divided into two: the Heritage and the Urban. Let’s dive into the heart of this culinary adventure.

In Jaipur, there are some hyped food joints known for their presentation, hygiene, and ample parking, catering mainly to tourists. However, for a genuine taste of the city’s flavors, explore the locally popular joints cherished by locals for their outstanding food quality and authenticity. These hidden gems embody the true essence of Jaipur’s culinary delights.

Urban Jaipur: The Best Food Joints Beyond the Walls

Explore the markets and localities, discovering the top culinary tapestry.

  • Lassis Wala : Savor pure churned yogurt shakes since 1944! A must-stop where tradition meets delight for an authentic taste of Jaipur.
  • Gulab Ji Chai Wala : An ode to the generous soul Gulab Ji was. His family’s modern shops carry on his legacy, crafting exquisite chai experiences.
  • Masala Chok : A hub for Jaipur’s top food joints. Find the best in the open kitchens; a haven for local flavors!
  • Spice Court, Handi, Kabab and Curries : The triumvirate of delectable non-vegetarian treats. Trusted by locals and endorsed by my friends!
  • Narayan Ji Gajak : Raju Bhai’s pride and joy! Unmatched sesame seed sweets await at two locations.




Jaipur Food Culture

Old City – Heritage Jaipur: In the Pink City’s Lanes

The Pink City, or ‘Parkota,’ and Char Diwari exude an aura of tradition and flavor.

  • Sahu Chai Wala : 55 years of perfecting the tea game! Next to a banyan tree on Chaura Rasta, it’s a tea-lover’s paradise.
  • Shankar Namkin : Find Bombay mix at its finest in ‘Namkin walo ki gali,’ a street steeped in heritage.
  • Karodiya K Kachori Samose : Jahori Bazar’s gem, serving up exceptional kachori and samosa delights.
  • Sambhar Fini Wala : The master of ‘Ghaver’ and ‘Fini,’ offering seasonal delights all year round.
  • Jaggannath Pakode Wala, Acharwala, Khuteta Kachori Wala, Bhagat K Laddo, Perm Paan Wala : Each a culinary marvel in their own right, showcasing the best of Jaipur’s flavors!


Old City Delights: Dive into the tapestry of flavors and stories in the lanes of Acharwalo ki Gali, Gopal Ji ka Rasta, and more. From pickles to sweets, each lane narrates a unique tale through its delicacies.

A Feast for the Adventurous

Don’t miss the late afternoon and evening delights from street vendors! During our walking tours, we unveil these hidden treasures, offering a sensory explosion to our guests. Things to do in Jaipur include exploring these culinary adventures!

Come, explore Jaipur with us at Le Tour De India! We promise a gastronomic adventure like no other. Discover where to eat in Jaipur and the best restaurants of Jaipur with our curated tours.

In Conclusion

Jaipur’s food culture isn’t just about taste; it’s a symphony of tradition, history, and innovation. Venture into the heart of Jaipur’s culinary wonders, and you’ll find yourself in a whirlwind of flavors, each bite telling a story of this majestic city’s heritage. 

So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready for an unforgettable Jaipur day tour through the streets of Jaipur. See you soon! 

Jaipur Best Food
Photo by letourdeindia.com

DISCOVERING THE JAIPUR BY BIKE

Jaipur is considered as the capital of ancient architecture with a legacy of 300 years old heritage. Biking through a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautiful affair that one must have in pink city. And the best time to visit Jaipur by bike is early morning when the life is leisurely unfolding with the first light.

A Jaipur bike tour around the heritage city is highly recommended to the travellers. A slow and relaxed travel experience on a bike gives you a traditional perspective of how morning time develops in this beautiful and historic city. And this will also assist you to closely experience the culture and see more iconic sites and on cycle than you would on other fast vehicles.

Cycle Through Corridors

The old city was systematically planned in a grid structure of blocks and corridors by the Kings and you can bike from the same historical walled city. Handy information or a local guide can be helpful for you to maneuver these structured corridors which are also home to the markets of jewellers, artisans, food and handicraft. Pedaling through these lanes give you a first-hand experience of heritage, culture, local lifestyle and the famous food joints of Jaipur.



You will also notice small tea shops at every nook & corner of an Indian city due to its necessity. You should also stop for a tea which is a basic need of Indians every morning. And travellers can’t miss on it so they are suggested to taste the same aromatic tea prepared with authentic herbs at a popular shack of Sahu Chai &Gulabji tea shop and a few others.



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Local Lifestyle Bike Tour In Jaipur

Another attraction on your route can be city’s biggest vegetable and the only flower market which is engaged only during the morning. Men or women, everyone loves colours in life. Your eyes will get abundance of colours from bright yellow, red and blue at one corner to green, pink and orange at another. Ladies drape sarees of bright colours and men can be seen donning colourful turbans on their head. These markets have importance for trade, business and culture and are also a scenic view of city dwellers. These are among our favorite stops during the ‘Jaipur cycle tour‘ at ‘Le Tour de India’ and we recommend you also to take a walk through these markets and attend public activities, interact with locals to get a feel of local lifestyle. In between the market tour, you can also find some vintage houses to know their origin story and other attractive spots which top the list of places to visit in Jaipur.




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For Food Lovers – Food Tour Jaipur

We answer your biggest question of ‘What to eat in Jaipur’ in a very tempting manner. Food is by far a biggest emotion in India with uncountable delicacies and Jaipur is no exception. Heritage and architecture of Jaipur was nurtured by many Kings and those kings and ancient travellers also introduced their delicious food to the locals. And the tour of Jaipur is incomplete without treating yourselves with the best desserts in Jaipur. We have some names of treats and best food joints in Jaipur to help you out. The combination of Jalebi, Kachori& Samosa is the hero of snacks that quickly makes your tongue flavourful. These can be enjoyed at only at popular shacks and not just any cafe of old city. Second on the list is Gajak, a delicious and nutritious sweet made of sesame seeds and jaggery which can be enjoyed at the shop of Narayan Ji ki Gajak. Next on the list of food is Laddu. It’s the easiest and softest sweet to prepare. It is made of gram four and sugar and you can try this at ’BhagatkeLaddu’. Other snacks and sweets are Ghevar which is again a traditional delicacy and it’s made in a disk shape with Ghee, flour and sugar syrup. Last but not the least is the relishing treat of Lassi (churned yoghurt shake) at a famous shop of ‘Lassiwala’. It is scrumptious and fulfilling to your tummy as well.

These sweet and savoury snacks are too inviting to resist from. A brief stop for tea along with snacks with a local person or a guide should not be missed during this tour of Jaipur. Also at the snacks shops in Jaipur, you can see the workers cooking in a huge traditional charcoal stove.



Cultural Connection

Once you visit India, you also get a chance to start the day a local person does every morning. Early mornings in Indian subcontinent are considered to be connected with spirituality and purity. A regular day of every individual is started with devotional practices towards nature and gods. You are suggested to visit Govind Dev Ji temple dedicated to the Lord Krishna. Here you can attend a worship ceremony and feel an uplifting spiritual experience. Even, we haven’t missed this ceremony any day in the last 11 years of doing bike tours of Jaipur early morning.

A good community of devotees is busy preparing for the traditional Aarti (vesper service and devotional hymns). As the main deity’s idol is about to be exposed for the devotees and curtains are unfolding, the people start ringing the traditional bells. The complete aura is mesmerizing when hundreds of devotees sing together with lighted lamps before the sacred idol of Lord Krishna.


Art Attack

Jaipur has been a home to many artisans who came from across the world and settled in the tiny lanes. Their art was patronized by the Kings of Jaipur who helped them to flourish and spread the art among other States as well. You are highly advised to visit old settlements of sculpture artists where one can still see the aura of art and heritage even amidst busy streets. Artisans can be seen striving hard to make beautiful idols of gods on stones. The sounds of hammers and tools are a bit loud yet their detailed art presents a fine blend of spirituality and craftsmanship. There are also some shops of spices and sweets. Everything here is a pot-pourri of fascinating stories and photo opportunities for the tourist. Although the shops are shut in the spices market still you get the strong aroma passing the closed shutters.



These are just a few experiences which we live everyday on our Jaipur cycle tour. A new story adds up in the list with every tour and guest. We at Le tour de India wish that every traveller should experience the best of Jaipur. If you have a bike, just hop on it and you are good to go. Else, if you don’t have a bike, let us know and we are present to assist you with our best package of bike tours in Jaipur. You can select and join our guided bike tours where you don’t have to miss on any of the above mentioned experiences.