Jaipur Travel

Overview
Jaipur: The Historic City of Forts, Palaces and Royalty

Known for being the largest city in Rajasthan, Jaipur is also fondly called as the 'pink city' of India. The fame and charm of its picturesque heritage is very popular. It has been known as the land of kings. One can spot the amalgamation of ancient and modern history in Jaipur. The tempting options of shopping opportunities and heritage sights at Jaipur can win anyone's heart.

Jaipur was founded in 1727 by the Rajput leader, also called as Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Initially, the capital of Rajasthan was Amber, located 11 km away from Jaipur. Later, Jaipur evolved as the first planned city of India. Several architectural books had been consulted by the King before the layout of Jaipur was finalised. But it was only later by the end of 19th century when the city became prosperous.

Following are the main attractions of Jaipur:
City Palace: It includes the main palaces, like the seven-storied Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal. The City Palace used to be the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The ruler of Amber, Sawai Jai Singh II had built the palace in between 1729 and 1732. It is lauded for the brilliant mixture of European, Mughal, Rajput and Shilpa Shastra style of architecture. The City Palace Museum preserves a wide variety of exquisite carpets, costumes, textiles, paintings and even arms.

 

Hawa Mahal: It is fondly called as the 'Palace of Breeze' or the 'Palace of Winds.' Essentially, this high screen was a palace that was built to let the royal women watch the festivities without being seen from outside. Pink and red sandstone was used to construct it. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh initiated the construction of Hawa Mahal by 1799. There are 953 windows, also called as 'jharokhas' in the exquisite latticework of the Hawa Mahal.

Jantar Mantar: One can find several architectural astronomical instruments in Jantar Mantar. It is included in the World Heritage Sites. The term 'jantar' means instrument while 'mantar' means calculation. This observatory is also known for its religious significance as Indian astronomers were also religious heads.

 

Amber Fort: The exquisite Hindu style of architecture that adorns the Amber Fort is simply breathtaking. The cobbled paths and great ramparts make it even more beautiful. It was built by Raja Man Singh I and is perched on the hill top, near the Maota Lake.

 

Excursions from Jaipur: Once in Jaipur, travellers can explore several other beautiful cities of Rajasthan such as Alwar ( 101 km), Bharatpur (168 km),Mandawa (168km), Bikaner(333km), Jodhpur (338 km), Ranakpur (350km).

Shopping in Jaipur: Famously known as the shopper's paradise, Jaipur is known for its metal work, leather work, paintings, marble work, carpets, jewellery and wood work.

 

When to Reach: The best time to pay a visit to Jaipur is between October to March. Tourists also visit Jaipur during the time of festivals, like the Teej Festival, Elephant Festival, Gangaur Festival and Kite Festival.

 

How to Reach
Air: The Sanganer Airport in Jaipur is easily accessibly by domestic and international flights.
Rail:A number of super fast, express and even mail trains connect the railway station at Jaipur with the important stations of India.
Road: For those travelling from Agra or Delhi, frequent transport buses are easily available.