Jaipur, dubbed the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan state, and it's the cultural capital of India. Along with Delhi and Agra, Jaipur also is a key pillar of the "Golden Triangle" of India tourism, and serves as a gateway to other tourist destinations in Rajasthan, such as Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Udaipur. With its vibrant colours, culture and the city’s historic monuments that boast of its glorious past, chivalry and valour of Rajput kings, Jaipur has become one of the top tourist destinations in India for both national and international tourists. Here are some of the top tourist places not to miss:
City Palace
Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the City Palace reflects Rajput, Mughal and European architectural styles. This beautiful palace complex comprising numerous edifices, vast courtyards and attractive gardens, is a souvenir of the magnificent history. Most of the palace is the residence of the descendants of the former rulers of Jaipur, only the ground floor is allowed for visitors where the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum is located.
Amer Fort
Overlooking the beautiful Maota Lake, the fort was built using red sandstone. Known for its ornamented pillars and delicate mosaic work in Diwan-e-Khas, splendid ivory and sandalwood work in Sukh Niwas, elegant frescoes and fascinating latticed work in the Ganesh Pol or a spell binding glass work in the Sheesh Mahal, Amer Fort is incomparable as far as the artistic skills of the artisans and designers of the Rajput era.
Jantar Mantar
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered to be one of the world's largest observatories and features the world's biggest sundial 'Samrat Yantra'. Jantar Mantar is famous for its intriguing sculptures and structures, made of stone and brass based on the astronomical design principles of Hindu texts of astrology and modern science.
Hawa Mahal
Constructed in Rajputana architectural style with red and pink sandstone, Jaipur's iconic landmark is an architectural masterpiece, with over 900 windows or jharokhas decorated with intricate latticework. The main intention of the lattice was to allow royal ladies to observe day to day life in the street below without being seen. The most unique feature about the palace is the fact that at all times a light breeze passes through it.
Jal Mahal
Situated right in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake, this palace is flanked by the majestic Nahargarh Hills in Jaipur. It was constructed as summer resort for the ruler's family and guests. The palace stands bright with five floors and is considered to be one of the most beautiful architectural palaces. The palace gives you ample opportunities to spot flamingos and various other species of migratory birds in winter. Tourists can book boat rides to visit the palace but only the terrace garden is allowed to be accessed by the visitors.
Nahargarh Fort
Originally called Sudarshangarh Fort, it was built in 1734 by Sawai Jai Singh II and is known for its extended wall that connects it to Jaigarh Fort. The fort represents Indo-European architecture and there are many well preserved structures inside the fort. Madhavendra Bhavan is a beautiful hall designed with intricate murals and is the main attraction in the fort complex. It is famous for its enchanting sunset views and looks stunningly beautiful at night when it's lit up.
Birla Mandir
This white-marble temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the exteriors of the temple are carved with beautiful sculptures based on mythological themes, while the interiors have a large marble panel portraying mythological events. Surrounded by lush green gardens, the temple looks stunning, when it is brightly lit in the night.
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