Jaipur, once hailed as the City of Victory, is still a triumphant sight with its many forts and palaces gracing hilltops and framing busy streets. The opulent pink walls form the backdrop to the much-loved capital of India’s largest and most romantic state, and the main gateway to explore the alluring desert state of Rajasthan.
Busy and bustling, Jaipur is a constant favourite for visitors despite the teaming brightly turbaned crowds and the car, cow and camel-choked streets.
Every view offers elegant facades and ornate royal architecture. Majestic monuments, manicured gardens and parks, and heritage hotels represent the opulence of times gone by. On the fringes of the city there are cenotaphs, an observatory and other relics of the maharaja. The historic city is surrounded by a wall with seven gates, built for protection. Within this, the nine sectors sub-dividing the city represent the nine divisions of the universe.
Jaipur is also renowned for a splendid array of modern boutiques and ancient medieval-style bazaars that are filled with colourful wares from all across the state. Hand-woven sarees sit alongside marble sculptures, offering some of the best shopping in India.
The city is most beautiful at dusk which the iridescent ambers and pinks are emboldened by the rich golden rays of the setting sun. As one of the three corners of the Golden Triangle, its diversity and sheer magnificence make it one of the most celebrated destinations in India.
Highlights
The Hawa Mahal Palace of Winds | Riding an elephant (or jeep) up to The Amber fort | The Jantar Mantar – a working observatory | Browsing in the bazaar for jewellery, clothing, blue pottery, lightweight quilts known as Jaipuris, and block-printed linens | Some of the most beautiful shopping in India
Interesting facts
− Largest city in Rajasthan, founded by Jai Singh II (1693-1743)
− Also known as The Pink City and lovingly nicknamed Paris of India
− Painting the buildings pink dates back to 1876 in honour of a visit by Edward, Prince of Wales
