| Event | Study tour 2024-25 |
| Session | 2024-2025 |
| Year | 2nd Year B.Arch. |
| Date | 8th to 16th November 2024 |
| Semester | 4 |
| Faculty Co-coordinator | Prof. Prathamesh Deshpande |
| Faculty Team | Prof. Moushumi Kulkarni, Prof. Mahesh Karande |
The 2024-25 Rajasthan study tour was highly significant as it provided students with a comprehensive understanding of architectural history, heritage conservation, and local traditions. By visiting historical sites, such as forts, palaces, and temples, students gained firsthand experience of how architecture evolved over time. This helped them appreciate the importance of preserving cultural heritage while adapting it for modern use. Studying settlements and local ways of life allowed students to understand how architecture responded to regional climate, culture, and social structures, promoting sustainable and context-specific designs. Additionally, the tour helped develop students’ architectural documentation and analytical skills through fieldwork, where they recorded and analyzed design features, materials, and spatial organization, enhancing their critical thinking abilities. Furthermore, observing passive design strategies in Rajasthan, such as natural ventilation, thermal mass, and climate-responsive building techniques, deepened their knowledge of sustainable design principles that are increasingly relevant in today’s architectural practice.
Day 1: Travel
Day 2 – November 9: Arrival in Jodhpur & Transfer to Jaisalmer
The group arrived early in the morning at Jodhpur Railway Station around 05:00 hrs. From there, they immediately departed by road for Jaisalmer, covering approximately 280 kilometers. Breakfast was served en route. After arriving in Jaisalmer and checking into the hotel, the group had lunch and spent the afternoon beginning their Jaisalmer Fort documentation, an in-depth observational and recording activity focused on one of Rajasthan’s most iconic heritage sites. Dinner and an overnight stay followed at the hotel.
Day 3 – November 10: Jaisalmer Fort Documentation
After breakfast, the group continued with their Jaisalmer Fort documentation. They explored various sections of the fort, including its massive walls, intricate Jain temples, residential areas, and winding lanes within its walls. This immersive day allowed participants to understand the historical and architectural significance of the living fort. The day concluded with dinner and an overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
Day 4 – November 11: Jaisalmer Fort Documentation
The group spent another day conducting documentation work within Jaisalmer Fort. They further studied its planning, construction methods, and interaction with the local community that still resides inside. Detailed sketching, note-taking, and photography formed a part of their work. Dinner and overnight accommodation were once again provided at the Jaisalmer Hotel.
Day 5 – November 12: Sightseeing & Travel to Sam Desert
The first half of the day was dedicated to local sightseeing in Jaisalmer, including visits to Patwa Haveli, a cluster of ornately designed merchant homes, and a final overview of Jaisalmer Fort. After lunch, the group departed for Sam, located about 45 kilometers away. On the way, they visited the Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls’ School, a notable architectural project in the desert. On reaching Sam Sand Dunes, they enjoyed a camel ride across the golden dunes at sunset. The evening featured a vibrant Rajasthani folk dance performance and a traditional dinner. Overnight accommodation was in desert tents.
Day 6 – November 13: Sam to Jodhpur
After an early breakfast in Sam, the group checked out and traveled back to Jodhpur, covering a distance of approximately 320 kilometers. After hotel check-in and lunch, they visited the historic Mandore Garden, known for its beautifully sculpted cenotaphs and lush green surroundings. Dinner and overnight stay were arranged at the hotel.
Day 7 – November 14: Historical Exploration of Jodhpur
The day began with a visit to Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest and most impressive forts in India, followed by a stop at Jaswant Thada, a white marble memorial. Subject to permission, the group visited the Rajasthan High Court (New Building). In the afternoon, they explored the beautifully restored Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell and strolled through the vibrant streets of the Blue City. The day concluded with shopping time at Nai Sarak, known for its handicrafts and textiles, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 8 – November 15: Shopping & Departure from Jodhpur
After breakfast and hotel check-out, the group spent time shopping in Jodhpur, exploring local markets known for traditional Rajasthani textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Following lunch, they proceeded to Jodhpur railway station and boarded Train No. 20944 (BGKT – BDTS HMSFR) at 16:20 hrs for their overnight return journey to Mumbai.
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