Day 58 - Jaipur

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is the capital of the state of Rajasthan. It is an ancient city of India located in a semi desert terrain. It is believed that Jaipur was India’s first planned city and was planned according to the 'vastushastra' (Vedic planning for the prosperity and comfort of citizens).This city was built by the ruler of Amber, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II on 18 November, 1727. The architect of Jaipur was Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, an architect from Bengal. However, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh himself also contributed to the planning of Jaipur. Jaipur was a walled city, but presently it has expanded much beyond that.The town is an example of Hindu architecture. It is built in the form of 'pithapada', an eight part mandala. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II was a patron of astronomy which is quite visible in the city planning. He has used the number 9 or its multiples quite significantly. 9 was symbolic of the 9 planets. Jaipur is mostly renowned for its majestic buildings, which displays unique architectural grandeur. These stunning facades of medieval India have received a global acclaim for its intricate and exquisite charm. Its effervescent panorama is attributed by the charismatic lure of its outstanding gardens. The serenity and tranquility of the verdant gardens with its marvelously tended landscapes and colorful floral arcades presents a picturesque appeal, which will certainly mesmerize any visitor.


How to reach here:

By Air: Sanganer Airport located at Jaipur is nearly 10 km from the heart of the city.Jaipur airport is connected to metro cities Mumbai and Delhi.

By Rail: Jaipur is well connected by many trains to most of the major cities in India. Apart from these trains, a specialty train called "Palace on Wheels" which is covering all tourist destinations in Rajasthan starting from Delhi is also available.


Best time to visit: October to March.


Languages spoken: Hindi, Rajasthani, English.


Must eat: Dal, Churma- Bati, Ghevar, Chauguni ke laddu, Moong Thal.


Famous Restaurants: Suvarna Mahal, The Rajput room, Anokhi cafe, Barbeque Nation,Okra.


Places you must visit:

City Palace Complex gives you an idea about the farsightedness of the founder of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. He left behind a legacy of some of the most imposing and magnificent architecture in the city. The palace is a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture and the ex-royal family still lives in a part of the palace. It also houses audience halls, pavilions and many other important buildings. The construction work of this palace was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during the early 1730s.Near the entrance of this palace is the Mubarak Mahal or the 'Palace of Welcome' which was built by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh. There is also a Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum inside the reception centre. This museum exhibits Kashmiri pashmina shawls, Banaras silk sarees, traditional embroidery, royal period costumes and sanganer textiles.here is a separate Maharani's Palace in the complex which houses Rajput weaponry that dates back to the 15th century. It also exhibits pistols, ivory handles, cannons, chain mail and swords. This palace is also known for Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, Chandra Mahal and multi-cuisine restaurant.



Hawa Mahal, built in 1799 by Sawai Pratap Singh, was designed by Lalchand Usta. This five-storey building overlooking the busy bazaar street is a fascinating example of Rajput architecture and artistry with its delicately honeycombed 953 pink sandstone windows known as 'jharokhas'. It was originally built for the ladies of the royal household to watch everyday life and processions in the city from their veiled comfort.Housing an archaeological museum, the entire structure was built with red and pink sandstone. This museum is connected with the nearby women section, which is known as 'zenana'.



Amber Fort, also known as Amber Palace, is said to have played a key role in the history of Medieval India. This fort depicts true royal lifestyle of the Rajputs, who are known for their decadent, radical and volatile behaviour. The Amber Palace is a perfect fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture.The Amber Fort was constructed during the 15th century by Raja Man Singh, who was the renowned Rajput commander in the army of Mughal ruler Akbar. It also has large gateways, stairways, beautiful palaces, courts and pillared pavilions. The fort is also known for Sheesh Mahal, Jas Mandir, Jali Screens and other important temples.Mughal style gardens, called Dil-e-Aaram and Diwan-e-Aam, are also present inside the Amber Fort. This fort can be reached on elephants that are available from the main city of Jaipur.



Ganesh Pol is located south of the courtyard of the main palace inside the Amber Fort. This beautiful structure has an image of elephant headed Lord Ganesha, which is designed with different colours. Ganesh Pol was built by Raja Jai Singh II, who belonged to the Rajputana clan.It is one of the seven gates of the Amber Fort which was constructed between 1611 and 1667. This gateway is known for its unique fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. Ganesh Pol was constructed exclusively for the royals so that they could easily access the private sections of the Amber Palace.



Ridhi Sidhi Pol, leading the way to Pritam Niwas Chowk, has both Rajput as well as Mughal architectural elements. This section is part of the City Palace complex and has been named after the main idol Lord Ganesha and his consorts, Ridhi and Sidhi.he doorways of this gateway ideally represent all four seasons. These four doorways include Rose Gate (winter), Peacock Gate (autumn), Green Gate (spring) and Lotus Gate (summer). The doorways are also decorated with traditional Rajasthani ornamentations, influenced by the regional culture.



Shila Devi Temple is located inside the main Amber Fort and is dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is believed that Raja Man Singh was a devotee of Goddess Kali and brought an image of Shila Devi during the 16th century from East Bengal. He prayed at this temple for being victorious in the war with the ruler of Kedar.It is a beautiful temple made of white marble and is known for its black idol of Goddess Kali, who is believed to protect the Amber Fort.   These images are imprinted on the silver gate, along with that of Lord Ganesha.



Sheesh Mahal is a famous hall of mirrors situated inside the Amber Palace. An integral part of the Jai Mandir, it has been uniquely constructed by decorating the ceilings and walls of the hall with mirrors, which reflect light rays. This reflection in turn lights up the entire hall inside the Jai Mandir.The Sheesh Mahal was constructed by Raja Jai Singh in 1623, which he used for meeting his special guests. This hall is specially designed with the glass imported from Belgium. The mirrors on the walls and ceilings have been carved with beautiful designs that reflect even a small ray of light for providing natural light to the entire hall.



Chandra Mahal is situated inside the main City Palace, which occupies around one-seventh area of the city. This mahal was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II and later on renovations were done by his descendants. It is presently the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur and has a seven-storeyed citadel. This mahal is known for its floral decorations, mural paintings, decorated ceilings and mirrored walls.The first two floors of the Chandra Mahal is part of the Sukh Niwas Hall and above this hall is the Rang Mandir. Shobha Niwas which is known as a House of Beauty is situated above the Rang Mandir. The topmost section belongs to Chavi Niwas or the House of Mirrors.



Govind Dev ji Temple is a holy shrine situated in the main complex of the City Palace. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is managed by the Jaipur royal family. It was constructed during the 18th century and is decorated with beautiful paintings.The local inhabitants believe that the idol of Lord Krishna in this temple was brought from Vrindavan and installed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Pooja is done seven times a day at this temple, which is thronged by innumerable tourists, especially during the festival of Janmashtami.



Diwan-e-Aam was constructed during the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. It is also known as Diwan Khana or the Hall of Public Audience. The king of Jaipur used to sit at this place and listen to the problems of his subjects. This hall houses durbars and banquets, along with jalis that were used by the royal ladies to sit behind the purdah and watch the proceedings.Currently, it has been functioning as a museum that has collection of howdahs and carriages for elephants, carpets and portraits of the royal family. The museum also exhibits some of the ancient manuscripts of Hindu scriptures and miniature copies of sacred Bhagavad Gita.




Diwan-e-Khas is gateway to the City Palace, which is known for its open courtyard of private audience. This gateway is made of brass and wooden doors that have been put of elevated pillars. The architectural design of this gateway is inspired by Rajasthani and Mughal style. It is also famous for its marble-paved pavilion that consists of two silver vessels.These silver vessels are around 5 ft high and have been certified by the Guinness World Records as largest silver objects in the world. The vessels were mainly built for holding water that was brought from the Ganges River for the royal use. The beautiful and big chandeliers of the Diwan-e-Khas are also popular among travellers coming to this palace.

Galtaji Temple complex comprises various shrines, holy kunds, pavilions and natural springs. This temple is located in the middle of hilly terrain that is surrounded by a beautiful ravine. It has been constructed using pink colour sandstone and is mainly a large temple complex with varied shrines. This complex is situated inside the City Palace and the main deity is the sun god.The walls of this temple are beautifully decorated with carvings and paintings that attract numerous travellers.







Jain Mandir is similar in appearance to the Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu in the state of Rajasthan. This temple is a seven-storeyed structure which houses large spires. The construction of the temple was done in different places and was finally completed in the 10th century.This temple has been constructed using red stone and is known for beautiful carvings and sculptures. The main deity at this temple is Lord Adinath, which is believed to be over 400 years old. There is also an idol of Lord Parsvanath inside this temple that is famous for its seven serpent lids. It also exhibits figurines of lotuses, elephant pouring water from carafes and lianas.

Jal Mahal was built during the 18th century in the middle of Mansarovar Lake. This is one of the biggest artificial lakes in Jaipur, which was constructed using red sandstone. It is a five-storey structure built in Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles. The Jal Mahal was constructed by Sawai Madho Singh for serving the purpose of a summer resort for his family and guests.During the monsoon season, four out of the five floors of this palace remains submerged under the water due to heavy rainfall. Currently, the Jal Mahal is under renovation for repairing and preserving the beauty of the roof garden. 

Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden were built by Sawai Jai Singh in 1728 for his queen. The garden, inspired by both Mughal and traditional Indian architecture, has large lawns, fountains, pavilions and galleries. There are figures of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha inside the garden, having few watercourses.Mural paintings installed in the garden depict the love story of Lord Krishna. 

Moti Doongri is the famous Pearl Hill which resembles a pearl drop and is known for its temple and palace. Its architecture is similar to that of a castle in Scotland. The palace situated at this hill was once the residence of Sawai Man Singh II (1912-1970), who was the last ruler of Jaipur.Later, the palace was residence of Jagat Singh, who was the youngest son of Sawai Man Singh II. This palace is not open for public as it is still the private property of the royal family. There is also a temple situated at the hilltop, which is open for all, regardless of their religion and social status. This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is situated near the Birla Mandir.  

Jantar Mantar was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II between 1727 and 1734. The word 'jantar' means instrument, whereas 'mantar' refers to formula or calculation. Situated in Jaipur, this monument is one of the five astronomical observatories present in India. The other four astronomical observatories are located at Delhi, Varanasi, Mathura and Ujjain.Placed adjacent to the city palace, this monument has been awarded as the largest stone observatory in the world. Jantar Mantar also includes about 15 astronomical instruments of various geometrical shapes and sizes. These instruments are used for measuring time, accurately determining the celestial altitude and predicting the occurrence of eclipses. In 1948, Jantar Mantar was declared as a national monument of India.

One of the most vibrant zoological parks in India, the Jaipur Zoo is situated close to the Ram Niwas gardens, set amidst verdant landscapes. It is also the biggest crocodile breeding center in the country and houses a few rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The unique feature of the Zoo is that it is divided into two portions, the animal Zoo and the Bird Zoo that also showcases the reptiles.

Chand Pol or the Moon Gate is one of the famous architectural structures built according to the traditional Vastu ideology. The Moon Gate is located in the old Jaipur city near the main market road. Naubat Khana is the uppermost section of Chand Pol, where drum players and other musicians used to sit. It also used to serve as a gathering place for commoners, for making important announcements.The three entry gates (Chandpol, Ajmeri Gate, Sanganeri gate) in this wall have been located in western, northern and eastern directions.

Mubarak Mahal was constructed during the 19th century and is one of the famous architectural landmarks of medieval India. This mahal was constructed by the nobles of Rajput rulers. It is also known as 'Palace of Welcome' and was constructed for greeting the royal guests.This two-storey mansion has huge rooms along with a reception hall that is designed with beautiful frescos and mural paintings.

Jaigarh Fort is one of the famous tourist spots in the city which is commonly called as the fort of victory. This fort is situated high on the Chilh ka Tola or the hill of eagles that are about 400 ft above the main Amber Fort. There are two main entrances of this fort that are called as Dungar Darwaza which is located towards the south and Awani Darwaza that lies to the east.The fort walls cover an area of more than 3 km and were constructed for military purposes. Jaigarh Fort also houses gigantic cannon called Jaivan which is located on the top of a tower. It weighs around 50 tonnes and has 8 m long barrel, with a trajectory of over 20 km. It is also considered to be one of the largest cannons on wheels in the world. Diya Burj which is a seven-storeyed building is the highest point in the fort that provides a panoramic view of the Jaipur city. Sagar Talav is one of the grand reservoirs in the fort which acts as a storage system and supply water to the fort.  This fort is known for its big palaces, a cannon foundry, various temples and a granary. The Jaigarh Fort was constructed between 15th century and 18th century.This fort used to house royal treasury for several years and protected Amber and the city of Jaipur. It was reopened to the public a couple of years of ago, after it was sealed due to the rumours about the buried treasure. There is also a museum inside this fort, where tourists can see cannons, coins, artefacts and puppets of Mughal era.

 

Samode Palace has a 4000 year old history. It is famed for its exquisite grandeur and notable architecture. Other equally mesmerizing aspects of the Palace that can be visited are Samode Fort, Samode Bagh and Durbar tent which remain popular sightseeing spots. The surrounding Samode village still retains its old world traditional charm and folk arts can be seen.

Akshardham Temple in Jaipur is a popular tourist attraction, which is known for its beautiful architecture. This temple is situated in Vaishali Nagar and is renowned for the impressive idols, carvings and sculptures. It is dedicated to Lord Narayan and is famous for its lush green vicinity.

Birla Mandir, built completely of white marble and a popular tourist attraction. It was built by the corporate giants, Birla Foundation. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, his consort, the chief deity is constructed out of a single piece of marble giving it a beautiful sheen. The temple also houses numerous deities, with an exquisite image of Lord Ganesha. The temple is ornate with beautiful carvings and rich sculptures from of Hindu mythology

Jhalana Nature Park is commonly known as Nahargarh Biological Park, which is situated in the Nahargarh region. The Aravalli Mountain Range is located nearby and surrounds the area with thick forest, which is home to varied flora and fauna. Jhalana Nature Park is situated next to the Nahargarh Fort and covers an area of about 7.2 sq. km.Tourists can see large numbers of sandstone and quartzite rocks at this park, which is similar in appearance to dry deciduous forest. It also houses diverse animal species including tigers, monkeys   and varied types of reptiles. Furthermore, tourists can spot a large variety of migratory and native birds in this region.Travellers can enjoy jungle safari through these forests and catch glimpse of some of the rare animal species. The jungle trail measures around 10 km, which is suitable for exploration on horses or jeeps.

Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is a charitable foundation that works with an objective of preserving the traditional customs and works of artisans living in Jaipur. This foundation provides employment opportunities to several artisans by nurturing their talent and skills. It also aims at reviving the age old tradition of hand block printing, with a special focus on the traditional hand printing methods and techniques.This museum is situated in the ancient 'Chanwar Palkiwalon ki Haveli' (Anokhi Haveli) which is pink in colour. The trust also organises live demonstrations of the hand block printing craft, done by the local artisans.

Ram Niwas Garden was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh as a famine relief project. This garden is located within the main city of Jaipur and the construction was completed during the late 1860s. It was designed for incorporating pools, lawns, flower beds, four sentry doors and fountains.During the colonial era, this garden was opened to public only during the daytime and the British nationals used to visit during cooler evenings. This garden is considered to be one of the largest parks, covering an area of around 35 acres. Within the garden premises, Central Museum, Jaipur Zoo, exhibition ground, gymnasium and a few picnic spots are located.

Central Park which is located in the heart of the city has been developed by the Jaipur Development Authority. It is considered to be the largest park of Jaipur, which houses a big garden, Rambagh Polo Ground and the Rambagh Golf Club. This park has a 5 km long walking and jogging track.Travellers can view a wide variety of bird species that include native as well as few migratory birds. There are around 13 stone figures in this park which represent the constellation of Capricorn and the winter solstice.

Vidyadhar Garden was constructed in the memory of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, who was a famous ruler of Jaipur. This garden draws inspiration from both contemporary Indian and Mughal architecture. There are various fountains, pavilions, lakes and galleries inside the garden that add to the beauty of the attraction.t also houses few mural paintings that portray story regarding the life of Lord Krishna. This garden is located near the Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden, having an old artificial well.