Jaipur
Introducing Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of northern Indian state of Rajasthan is one of the most visited cities of the country. Known as the 'pink city', Jaipur preserves a myriad of legacies belonging to the mighty Rajput rulers and aristocratic princes of the past. Pink may be the predominant colour of this place's landscape, but Jaipur is actually a riot of colours with magnificent palaces, majestic forts, well laid gardens, revered temples and spirited people. Entire Jaipur is surrounded by an ancient 20 feet wall having eight gates.
Jaipur, which literally means the City of Victory was founded in the year 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Most of Jaipur's designing and planning is the brainchild of the Maharaja himself. The city has been divided into nine blocks- two earmarked for the rulers and the rest seven dedicated to the public.
Climate
Jaipur experiences typical desert climate. Summers are very hot with temperatures remaining upwards of 40 degrees during the season. The place is mostly dry as rainfall is scarce. The winter months are cool and pleasant. The temperatures begin to drop from October onwards and remains so till about March.
Best Time to Visit
October-March
How to Reach
Air : Sanganer airport of Jaipur is located 11 kms away from the main city centre. Direct flights are available to Jaipur from most national destinations. Both Indian Airlines and private carriers operate flights to the place.
Rail : Jaipur is well connected to the rest of India by railway network. Super-fast trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi operate between national capital Delhi and Jaipur. Luxury trains like Palace on Wheels also cover Jaipur.
Road : Regular deluxe bus services operate between Jaipur and many destinations of north India.
Where to Stay
Jaipur has adequate accommodation facilities in top end, mid range and budget categories. Some of Jaipur's famous luxury hotels are Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur Palace, Hotel Mansingh, Raj Vilas, Rambagh Palace and Rajputana Palace.
Attractions in Jaipur
Hawa Mahal : One of Jaipur's most attractive buildings dating back to the Rajput period, Hawa Mahal was constructed by Sawai Pratap Singh to enable the ladies of royal household to witness every day life activities and royal processions from safety and comfort.
The City Palace : The City Palace is a wonderful blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The walls, ceilings and floors of the palace are richly carved and decorated. A huge building, City Palace occupies total one seventh of Jaipur's area. The palace also houses a museum having an impressive collection of costumes and armoury belonging to both Mughals and Rajputs.
Jal Mahal : Encircled by the clear blue water Man Sagar lake, Jal Mahal is one of the most fascinating buildings of Jaipur. The palace was built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 A.D for royal duck shooting parties. It is interesting to note that many varieties of migratory birds still come to the lake in the winter season. The palace is built of red sandstone and a causeway from the main land leads to the palace.
Jaigarh Fort : Perched on top of a cliff on the outskirts of Jaipur city, Jaigarh Fort is regarded as one of the best examples of medieval period military structures. The main attraction of this rugged military structure is Jai Ban, the largest cannon on wheels found in India. The fort also houses a museum where a large collection of weapons and cannons used by the Rajputs have been kept for display. The fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh in 1726 to strengthen the defence of the area.
Amber Fort : Buil
t of red sandstone and marble, Amber Fort is one of the most attractive forts of Rajasthan. Basically a military structure, an element of luxury is also associated with the fort. The construction of this fort was initiated by Raja Man Singh in 1600 AD but could only be finished by Sawai Jai Singh in the eighteenth century. Influences of Hindu and Mughal forms could be seen in the architecture of the monument.
Laxmi Narayan Temple : More popularly known as the Birla temple, this temple was constructed by the Birla family. Located on top of a hill surrounded by lush green gardens, the exteriors and interiors of this white marble temple has many exquisite carvings showing various mythological themes and images of saints.
Excursion Places near Jaipur
Gaitor : Gaitor is located some 8 kms away from Jaipur. Tourists mainly visit the place to see the cenotaphs of the royal family. The most impressive is the cenotaph of Maharaja Jai Singh II made of white marble and decorated with carved peacocks. Just opposite the cenotaphs is the Jal Mahal in the middle of a lake.
Galta : Situated at a distance of some 20 kms from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Agra highway, Galta is a small pilgrimage centre famous for its magnificent Sun temple and sacred kunds.. Located on top of a hill, the temple is visited by large numbers of people all throughout the year.
Sanganer : Sanganer is famous both as a place of pilgrimage and shopping destination. The Jain temples of Sanganer are known for meticulous carvings and polished marble idols. The town is famous for its handmade paper and block printed fabrics. There are also a few ruins of imperial houses, towers and gateways.
Shopping in Jaipur
Shopping in Jaipur is always exciting. Shoppers can lay their hands on a rich treasure of sparkling jewellery, beautiful gems and semi precious stones and enamel work on gold. Jaipur is also famous for beautiful cotton fabrics like sanganeri prints, tie-dye and fine kota doria saries. As souvenirs and gift items, blue pottery, enamel ware and brass ware could be purchased. Jaipur is also a good place to buy woollen carpets, cotton rugs, leather footwear and embroidered jutes.
The main shopping areas of the place are Johari Bazaar, MI road, Nehru Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar and Chapur stalls.
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