JAIPUR, the blushing capital city of Rajasthan dressed in the hues of Pink, epitomises magnificence, vibrancy and the allure of the ancient Rajputic Era. The seventh best place to visit in Asia and one amongst the Golden Triangle City of India, the city is packed with vibrant colours, enchanting cultural insights, spellbinding festivals, richly decorated elephants in the high- spirited Bazaars and a labyrinth of royal and regal palaces.

History

Standing against the backdrop of the majestic Aravalli ranges, Grand Forts and heritage buildings the UNESCO Heritage Site and the pride of Rajasthan, Jaipur,  was founded in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.  In 1876,  the Prince of Wales visited India on a tour. Since the colour pink was symbolic of hospitality, Maharaja Ram Singh got the city painted  in the shades of pink and hence got the name “The Pink City Of India”.

“Where Rajputana Hospitality runs thick in the blood!”

Things to do in Jaipur

Architectural sites

Sitting on the hills of the Aravalli ranges and offering a breathtaking view of Maota Lake, Amber Fort is a  superimposing and rugged defensive structure from the outside with starking contrast to the lavish interior. The Amer Fort was built in 1592 by Raja Man Singh I. Recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort is built in traditional Hindu and Rajputana style of architecture.

With a radiating blend of Rajasthani and Mughal and even a touch of European architecture,  the grand City Palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during the years 1729 to 1732. The Palace includes Mubarak Mahal -the palace of reception and the Chandra Mahal -The Palace of the Queen, Diwan-E-Am – The Hall of the public audience and Diwan-E-Khas – The Hall of the private audience.

JANTAR MANTAR, an observatory in Jaipur is the largest and the best-preserved among the five that were built in India by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the 18^th century, featuring the world’s largest stone sundial. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. What is astonishing about this observatory is that it still tells the time accurately to this day.

The massive edifice of Hawa Mahal, also called the Palace of Winds, was built in 1799 by the poet king Sawai Pratap Singh, is built in red and pink sandstone. Its unique five-storey exterior resembles a honeycomb and it contains 953 small windows or “Jharokhas”, with an excellent amalgamation of Hindu Rajputic and Mughal Islamic architecture.

The Aravalli ranges on the outskirts of the City offer an array of trekking trails at

Chouri Ghat and Bhuteshwar Nath. Sitting proudly on a ridge of the old fold mountains is Nahargarh Fort, constructed in the reign of Jai Singh in 1734, was the summer destination for the members of the royal family. The palace gives a glittering view over Man Sagar lake and the vast sprawl of Jaipur city when floodlit at night. Capture a breath- taking view over the surrounding mountainous landscape at Jaigarh Fort, best known as the site of the world’s largest cannon, the Jaivana. Jaigarh Fort is one of the unconquerable fort.

Nahargarh and Jhalana provide wildlife photography and jungle safari opportunities. Hot Air Balloon, ATV rides and zip-lining are some of the adventurous activities you can try out in Jaipur.

Other than monuments and historical sites Jaipur is home to  vibrant bazaars – Bapu Bazaar, Johari Bazaar and many more are all decked up with blue pottery, gem stones, Bandhej and Lehriya cotton textiles, carved statues in markets like etc.

Jaipur is one of the best festival celebration hubs. Loose yourself in  Elephant festival, Kite festival, Jaipur Literature Festival, Teej festival or Gangaur Fair.

From traditional Rajasthani meals to International Cuisines Jaipur uptick all. From mawa kachori and Rajasthani Ghewar to Daal baati Churma thali. From chicken kali Mirch to Lal Maas there are many famous lip smacking food junctions where one can relish Rajasthani food in the traditional mode in Chokhi Dhani or in  Apno Gaon.

Places To See Around Jaipur

1. Samode Palace: 40 km northwest of Jaipur on Jaipur-Sikar road. Experience the rural lifestyle by taking a camel safari through the village and visit local craftsmen.
2. Garh Ganesh Temple: Krishna Nagar, 8 km from Jaipur. In Krishna Nagar, here Lord Ganesha is worshipped as a small boy without any trunk.
3. Sisodia Rani Garden: Lal Dungri, 8 km from Jaipur. A romantic multi- level garden with spectacular fountains, exotic foliage, and splendid pavilions decorated with amazing wall paintings of Lord Krishna and his antics.
4. Pushkar: 161 km from Jaipur. One of the five sacred pilgrimage sites or Dhams for Hindu devotees. It is said to be the seat of Lord Brahma, The Creator. The only Temple of Lord Brahma in the world.
5. Mandawa: 168 km from Jaipur. An open art Gallery in the Jhunjhunu district is famous for its fresco paintings on the walls and courtyards of palatial Havelis.
6. Sambhar Salt Lake: 90 km west of Jaipur. Sambhar Lake the largest inland saline Lake of India. The white stretched landscape is home to beautiful migratory birds and flamingoes.
7. Ajmer: 130 km South- West of Jaipur is a divine city of Ajmer well known for the shrine of Khwaja Muin- ud- din Chishti, Ana Sagar Lake, Taragarh Fort and Golden Jain Temple.

Best Time To Visit

Sun lounging during the winters when the temperature dances between 10 to 27 degrees celsius are the best time to visit Jaipur. The temperature remains pleasant throughout the day during winters from November to February end.

The next favourable months for Jaipur visit are the months of Monsoon, July- August when the temperature ranges from 23-34 degrees celsius

How To Reach Jaipur

The nearest airport is Sanganer Airport, which is 10 km from Jaipur having both Domestic and International Terminals.

Jaipur has three Railways Junctions at Gandhinagar, Durgapura and Jaipur main. Jaipur Railway stations are well connected with other popular tourist destinations of India.

By Road Jaipur is connected with NH8, NH11 and NH12.

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Happy travelling to the land of Valour!