Enthralling, royal, colourful, yet simple, the majesticity of Pink City Jaipur takes one back to 18th century, as established by Sawai Jai Singh. Amid the honking cars, camels and cycle rickshaws, one finds the evoking grace and splendour of the Maharajahs that elegently transfers a visitor to another world.
While walking through the city’s majestic past one will find the City Palace in the heart of Jaipur. It is the present residence of the former Royal Family. A few walks away is the royal observatory Jantar Mantar, commissioned by Jai Singh II in 1728. Honey comb shaped Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, the Amber Fort with a gamut of courtyards, gardens and buildings exhibit the royalties the Maharajahs luxuriated in.
Trekking enthusiasts can look forward to the forts of Jaigarh and Nahargarh, which provide plethora of options to spot rare and beautiful wildlife species. Reach the top to get a bird eye view of the entire Jaipur city as the polluted lungs are filled with some fresh moutain air.
The city of Maharajahs is incomplete without shopping and tasting the mouth watering Rajasthani delicacies. To ‘shop till you drop’ a visit to Bapu Bazar, Nehru Bazar, Johari Bazaar, Kishanpol Bazaar and Tripolia Bazaar is absolutely necessary. Pick up from a countless range of gold, silver and kundan jewellery, Lehariya saree, Lac Bangles, Bandhani Dupatta, Meenakari products, colourful Mojris (Rajasthani footwear) and the exquisite blue pottery.
To tickle the taste buds of staunch foodaholics, Jaipur offers Keema Bati, Laal Maas, Soola (Mutton), Pyaaz Kachori & Mawa Kachori, Daal Baati Choorma and Gatta Curry. Best place to try them is the internationally celebrated Chokhi Dhani.
Let’s venture together the fairy tale grandeur of the Pink City’s star attractions.
City Palace
An awe inspring symphony of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, the palatial residence of Jaipur’s former Maharajahs sits elegently in the centre of the city. Guests are invited in the Mubarak Mahal or Auspicious Palace which was meticulously designed by architect Sir Swinton Jacob in Islamic, Rajput and European style. Marvel at the textile section of the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. Walkthrough the Anand Mahal Sileg Khana, Diwan-i-Khas (Sarvatobhadra), Diwan-i-Am Art Gallery, Pitam Niwas Chowk & Chandra Mahal (inside is Peacock Gate, Lotus Gate, Green Gate and Rose Gate representing four seasons).
Jantar Mantar
A few walks away from the majestic City Palace is the astronomical wonder Yantra Mantra (sanskrit). The UNESCO World Heritage Site is enthusiastically visited by tourists who marvel at the instruments that were used to calculate the sky movements. Jaipur’s Maharajah Sawaii Jai Singh II will surely amaze with his collection of giant sculptures or yantras.
Hawa Mahal
Synonymous to the city of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal is a 5 storied honeycombed hive. From these intricate windows, the ladies of the royal household would see the city pass by and also the processions. A brainchild of Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the monument since 1799 has been a major attraction for local and tourists alike.
Amber Fort
Sprawling over a 4 km area town named Amer, the 16th century grand complex of Amber Fort is a rare combination of red sand stone and marble. Inside, one will find Diwan-e-aam, Shila Mata mandir, and the Sheesh Mahal. Also, walk through the underground tunnels go to Jaigarh Fort while admiring Rajasthani architecture. Don’t miss the beautiful light and sound show within the fort to know it better.
Jal Mahal
The 18th century floating palace on Man Sagar Lake belongs to the 18th-century royal Maharajahs. Though one can only view it from outside, but this place is worth a stop for a photo enthusiast. Don’ t forget to feed flour balls to fishes, it brings good luck.
Central Museum
Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, the spectacularly florid Albert Hall is a perfect blend of English and North Indian architecture. Pride of the Pink City, the museum since 1887 is an assorted array of tribal dresses, sculptures, royal carpets, miniature paintings and musical instruments. Special attraction here is the Egyptian mummy.
Nahargarh Fort
A splendid piece of architecture, Nahargarh Fort is shrouded with numerous stories about the curse of Prince Nahar Singh Bhomia. The most attractive part of this palace is the Madhavendra Bhavan, which used to be the summer resort of the royal family. There are 12 suites, that used to be the residence of the royal ladies.
Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple
Standing on the foot of Moti Dungri fort, the temple is a gift from the wealthy Birla family. The presiding deities Lord Narayan and Goddess Laxmi are carved from one piece of marble. Outside, one will find the historic figures of gods and goddesses from other religions like Socrates, Zoroaster, Christ, Buddha and Confucius.
Chokhi Dhani – Padharo Mhare Desh (Welcome to our Land)
A mock Rajasthani village, about 20km south of Jaipur is a fun place for adults and kids. Enjoy Rajasthani dances, acrobats, magic shows or get a mehandi design before relishing the tasty Rajasthani thali served by the khidmatgar.
Shopping
the vibrant markets of Jaipur which are as popular as their monuments and palaces. One will be spoilt for options in jewellery, perfumes, marble, wood, stone and leather goods, textiles and saris. Bapu bazaar and Nehru bazaar are best for authentic Rajasthani textiles. Johari bazaar is famous for semi-precious stones, whereas Tripolia bazaar and Chaura Rasta can be visited for utensils and ironware. Jaipur is famous for Blue Pottery and the best place to pick some authentic product is Jaipur Blue Pottery Art Center. Women can choose from a wide range of silver jewellery from Chameliwala market.
Other Major Attractions
Winter (October to March)
This is the winter season and also the best time to plan for sightseeing and tourism.
Summer (April to June)
Summers are hot and dry and hence it is best to avoid this time as travelling would be difficult.
Monsoon (July to September)
Jaipur receives low to medium rainfall, hence monsoons can be considered for a tour.
By Air
Jaipur International Airport connect Jaipur with major cities of India like Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai. International destinations include Kuala Lumpur, Sharjah and Dubai.
By Train
Jaipur Junction Railway Station connects the city with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Indore, Ernakulam, Kanpur, Varanasi, Patna, Thiruvananthapuram and many others.
By Bus
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) offers regular, Volvo (air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned) and deluxe buses between Jaipur and other cities within the state.
Self Drive
Take the Delhi-Jaipur National Highway 8, 11 and 12, which is a smooth ride of 260 kilometres. Enroute, stop to enjoy local food in a plenty of restaurants.
