Jaipur is steeped in history and culture with its stunning hill-top forts and magnificent palaces where the maharajas once lived. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known as the ‘pink city’ because of the pink paint applied to the buildings in its old walled city. And within the old walled city you will find bustling bazaars, world-class hotels and camel carts, cows and rickshaw drivers, filling the streets with character.
Our itinerary ideas for your tailor-made holiday in Jaipur
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Highlights
Amber Fort is a fascinating Indian forts. It was the ancient capital of the Jaipur state. Construction began in the 16th century and was subsequently added on to by successive rulers. Don’t miss the Palace of Mirrors, inlaid with millions of tiny glistening mirrors, the hall of Public Audience and the beautiful manicured gardens.
The City Palace
The City Palace is situated in the heart of the city. The whole complex is wonderfully laid out with large courtyards, balconies, cupolas, arched entrances and gardens, which are a combination of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The museum displays the rich heritage of the Jaipur family in miniature paintings, textiles, garments, books & manuscripts, carpets, palanquins and weapons dating back to the 15th century.
Jantar Mantar (Medieval Observatory)
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II had a passion for astronomy which led him to build five astronomical observatories in India at Jaipur, Ujjain, Varanasi, Mathura and Delhi. The observatory at Jaipur, built in 1728, is the largest and best preserved of them. It also has a curious collection of sculptures which enable the calculation of many astronomical and astrological events such as eclipses. Each of these structures was built after relentless study of books, manuscripts and discussions with scholars from all over the world. Apparently, even today they are put to good use!
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
Built in 1799 Hawa Mahal or the palace of winds is one of the landmarks of Jaipur city, although it is little more than a façade. It is a five-storey building in pink, built to enable the women of the harem to see the activities of the outside world without being seen.
Other
Walking tour of Old Jaipur – the bazaars between the Badi (Large) and Chhoti (Small) Chaupar (Square) in the old city of Jaipur feature some of the best sights that the city has to offer. Visit the labyrinth of colourful alleys where artisans make puppets, bangles, and other local handicrafts and at the jewellery market or Johari Bazaar, explore architecturally interesting havelis (mansions).
Arts and craft tour – a specialist tour showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship that developed under the patronage of the Maharajas of Jaipur. Includes block printing and tie and dye textiles, embroidery in gold and silver, jewellery making, semi-precious stones, blue pottery, shoe making and more.
Connect to a local family – over tea or a meal at the family home, have the opportunity to gather understanding and worldview of a local.
Our favourite hotels in Jaipur
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