Morocco was on my travel list since I was a teenager. Casablanca, Marrakesh and Tangier used to come in my dreams. So when opportunity knocked the door, I packed the bags and started my journey with family and friends in January 2025.
Landed in Casablanca from Mumbai early morning and drove down to Marrakesh. In 4 hours reached this old charming city, Marrakesh, land of God, situated at the foothills of high Atlas Mountains in southern Morocco.
Marrakesh, though inhabited by Berber communities from Neolithic time , was established as capital in 1070 AD by Berber Almoravid dynasty .Later Arab people shifted the capital to Fez and both cities acted as rivals in terms of cultural and economic development of Morocco. After getting independence in 1956, Rabat is made capital as a compromise to supporters of both these beautiful cities.
Marrakesh also known as Red City or Ochre city because of its colour which is due to red sandstone material used to make all buildings (riads)and fortification walls.Wall or rampart of the city was made to protect medina or city center and is 19 km long with 11 Babs ( gates) .
After getting freshened up with delicious hot Moroccan mint tea , we ventured out to Jemma el Fnna at the heart of medina( old city).This is a square market place, UNESCO world heritage site and is dotted with numerous souks and various types of activities by traders like snake charmers, juice vendors, astrologers etc.can be observed. One can ride horse driven carts here or venture in to intricate honeycombed alleys inside the market selling leather goods, street foods, mint tea , local clothings , spices etc like Grand Bazzar of Istanbul.
After numerous haggling with multiple shopkeepers we purchased some leather goods, tea and sweets and then settled in a rooftop restaurant overlooking Koutoubiya mosque for Moroccan dinner with live western music.
Next morning after breakfast we headed for Koutoubiya mosque which is the largest mosque in Marrakesh ( largest one in Morocco is Hassan 2 mosque in Casablanca)and was built in 1147 Ad by Almohad caliphate. We appreciated the architecture from outside which has inspired some other famous buildings in world like Giralda of Seville, Spain and Hassan tower of Rabat.
Thereafter we made a short visit to Bahia palace ,a wonderful late 19th century place famous for its decorated work of Arabic inscriptions, marbled and mosaic designs on floor and wooden work on the wall.
Next stop was beautiful Majorelle garden.
An extremely charming well designed garden by French artist Jacques Majorelle keeps one in awe of its beauty. Numerous plants , cactuses and small buildings designed in cobalt blue can be visited along with one Berber museum. Another museum dedicated to French designer Yves Saint Laurent is also present nearby.
After visiting this unique garden of 2 acres , drove along inside the medina and went to visit Palmerie and Gueliz , very popular areas of luxury living in Marrakesh as many French noblemen and celebrities from different parts of the world have their homes in this inspirational city.
Marrakesh trip can never be completed without mentioning Argan oil which is produced from Argan tree kernels and this medicinal tree is indigenous to Marrakesh.
This oil has lots of essential nutrients,has antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties,works as good cosmetic agent ,antiallergic medicine and is used in cooking.Very good qualities of this oil is available in local Marrakesh markets.
As sun set in , supper time approached and we were guided to a Moroccan restaurant offering delicious local cuisine with local live music . Enjoyed thoroughly for three hours and left for hotel around midnight as we needed few hours sleep before we start for Rabat next morning by road.
How to reach Marrakesh
By Air – Marrakesh has own airport known as Menara airport.However connections
from Mumbai or Delhi via gulf countries to Marrakesh show long lay over and high er cost compared to flights to Casablanca.
By Road – 3 and half hours comfortable ride from Casablanca and roads are in superb conditions, though not scenic..Many day trips are available.
By Train – Connected to all major cities by ONCF system.
Local Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is a delicious mix of Arabic,Mediterranean and French cuisine and is heaven for non vegetarian foodies, though vegetarian options are not less.
As a starter Pastille, chicken or vegetarian is very tasty.
Best and most popular dish is Tagine, a delicious stew made of lamb, chicken or vegetables.
Couscous composed of semolina, served with vegetables or meat and fruits is their
national dish.
Not to miss chicken rfissa which is made of shredded bread and lentils.
Zaalouk is a versatile salad available everywhere and Harira soup is usually vegetarian but can be made with meat and fish too.
Also to note that very nice fruits especially citrus ones, grapes, pomegranates are available aplenty along with juicy dates and olives.
Continental and Indian food options can be found in all major cities.
