Planning your Jaipur Trip then this post is for you. This post mentions the places that are worth visiting in Jaipur.
Jaipur, is the capital of Rajasthan state. This is one of the most beautiful city in Rajasthan. This city was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727. It is also popularly known as the “Pink City”. There is a story behind the name “Pink City”. In 1876, Prince Albert and Queen Victoria visited India on a tour. During that time Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh was the ruler of Jaipur. Maharaja ordered to paint the city Pink in color to welcome the guests. As Pink is the color of hospitality. Until now every building including historical monuments in Old City of Jaipur has the pink color. Every year state government paint city in pink color to retain its name.
It is the first planned city of India, which was developed by architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya from Bengal. This city is home to many beautiful historical sites that have a breathtaking architecture. City is filled with many forts and palaces that give you the glimpse of the history. Some sights in Jaipur are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Recently Jaipur city also got the tag of UNESCO World Heritage Site. The announcement was made after the 43rd Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. One of the proudest movements for Jaipur and this city totally deserve it.
1. AMBER FORT
Amber fort is also known as Amer Fort. It is located in Amer Town about 11KM from Jaipur. This a huge fort located on a hill. It attracts a lot of tourists. Several parts of the fort have a great influence of Mughal architecture. Red sandstone and white marble were used in the construction of this fort. Amber fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.
This fort consists of four courtyards, palaces, halls and gardens. The main entrance was named Suraj Pole which means Sun Gate. This gate is east facing towards the rising sun that is why it was named Sun Gate. It leads you to the first courtyard, Jaleb Chowk . Another gate which leads to this same courtyard is “Chand Pol”which means Moon Gate. There is a temple on right side near the stares, which is dedicated to goddess Shila Devi. Then move on to second Courtyard which is named “Diwan-e Aam”(Hall for Public Meeting). Enter the Third Courtyard through Ganesh Pol or Ganesh Gate. Third courtyard was the private area for King and his family. It was divided into two section separated by a beautiful garden. First section of this courtyard was named “Diwan-e-Khas”(Hall for Private Meeting). The walls of the hall are covered with beautiful mirror work. That is why it is also called Sheesh Mahal or Hall of Mirror. Second section of this courtyard was named “Sukh Niwas” (Place of Pleasure). King used to spend time with his wives in this hall. The last and the fourth Courtyard is the Palace of Man Singh I. This courtyard has a section named “Zenana”(Place for Royal Family Women’s). This palace has many rooms which were used by king’s wives. It is one of the oldest parts of the fort.
You can reach the fort either by car or by riding Elephant. Elephant ride starts from parking and will drop you at the Amber Fort. It is a one way ride and then you can return back by car.
2. Jaigarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort is situated on Cheel Ka Teela (Hill of Eagles). This fort is connected to Amber fort through a passage. One can walk from Ganesh Pol (Ganesh Gate). This fort was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1726. It was constructed to protect the Amber Fort and was named after the Maharaja. It is also known as the Victory Fort. The walls of the fort are very thick and made of red sandstone. There is a Cannon at the fort which was the world largest cannon on wheels at that time. There is a Museum and the Armory Chamber at the fort where swords, shield, guns, old photographs of the Maharajas etc are displayed.
3. Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort was built in 1743 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh and was later extended in 1868 by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh. This fort is situated on the edge of Aravalli hills. The fort’s original name was Sudarshangarh , later it came to known as Nahargarh (Means Abode of Tigers). There were some obstacles during the construction of this Fort. It is believed that everything that was constructed in day was destroyed at Night by the spirit of Prince Nahar Singh. Then Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh realized the land was haunted. So to calm the spirit of the Prince, Maharaja decided to name the Fort after the Prince name. So then it was named Nahargarh.
4. Panna Meena Ka Kund
Panna Meena Ka kund is an ancient step well which is located on the way to Amber fort .It was built in 16th century and was served as a source of water. It was used for collecting rainwater and using that water for domestic purpose. It has unique design, the staircase that leads into the well makes it look uniquely beautiful. This step well has now become a popular tourist spot in Jaipur.
5. Royal Gaitor
Royal Gaitor is a cremation site of the Royal family. Beautiful cenotaphs are built over the cremation site which is located at the foothills of Nahargarh Fort. Every cenotaph has a beautiful carving that reflects the taste of each Maharaja. You can have a beautiful view of Mansarovar Lake and Jal Mahal from Royal Gaitor.
6. Jal Mahal (Water Palace)
Jal Mahal, also known as Water palace. This palace was built in the year 1750 by Maharaja Madho Singh. It is situated in middle of Man Sagar Lake which makes it more of scenic view. Maharaja used this palace as a lodge and he never had any intention to use it as a palace. The walls of the palace are made of light sand colored stone and it goes perfectly with the dark blue color of the lake. In the past many efforts were made to improve the condition of the palace and the lake. It was restored successfully. One can have a distant view of this beautiful attraction, as no one is allowed to enter the palace.
7. Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace)
Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace) was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. It is made of Red and Pink Sandstone. Maharaja got the inspiration of building Hawa Mahal from the unique structure of Khetri Mahal, which is in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. The main reason for building this beautiful palace was to let royal ladies observe everyday life and festival celebrations. They could watch the activities from the windows of the palace without being noticed by anyone. Because there was “Purdah System” . Which meant the ladies has to cover their faces so that no outside men can see their face. This beautiful looking palace attracts lots of tourists because of its a unique design.
8. City Palace
City Palace was built between 1727 to 1732 by Sawai Jai Singh II. This palace is a complex of courtyards, gardens, buildings, temples and pavilions. This huge palace consists of Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-khas and Govind Ji temple (Dedicated to Lord krishna). Chandra Mahal is the Palace where the descendant of the Royal Family still resides. One has to purchase a separate ticket in order to get the tour of this palace. Only some parts of this palace are accessible for public. This way one can experience the lifestyle of the Royal family.
9. Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is situated near city palace. It is an Observatory which was started by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1728 . It is an astronomical instrument. Maharaja was interested so much in astronomy that before constructing this instrument, he sent scholars abroad to study foreign structures. He built total five Observatories in India, others are located in Delhi, Varanasi, Mathura and Ujjain. But Jantar mantar in Jaipur is the largest and best preserved one. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
10. Sisodia Rani Bagh
Sisodia Rani Bagh is a palace garden which was built in 1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Maharaja built it for his second queen Sisodia Rani. The place consist of multilevel garden, fountains, painted pavilions, mural paintings of Lord Krishna and Radha and double storey palace. This palace garden was named after Sisodia Rani . This attraction has both Indian and Mughal style architecture.
11. Vidyadhar Bagh
Vidyadhar Bagh is a Garden was built in 1988 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. It was built in the memory of the chief architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya. He was the architect of Jaipur city. This garden is surrounded by the hills which creates a beautiful view. It has beautiful fountains, flower beds, amazing artwork on the walls, etc. Best for bird watchers. Design of this attraction is influence by both Mughal and Rajput architecture.
12. Raj Mandir Cinema
Raj Mandir is the movie theater but not a normal one. It was opened in 1976 and is known for its beautiful meringue Shaped interior, lighting and chandeliers. This theater has the ambience of a heritage palace. Which makes its audience feels as if they are the royal guest in a palace.
13. Albert Hall Museum
Albert Hall Museum was opened to public in 1887. It is the oldest museum of Rajasthan state. It was named after King Edward VII (Albert Edward). This museum has a rich collection of beautiful paintings, jewelry, metal sculptures, etc.
14 .Galta Ji Temple
Galta Ji Temple is an ancient Hindu temple which is about 10 KM from Jaipur. This temple is made of Pink stone. It is situated between rocky valleys and consists of various temples and sacred Kunds (water tanks). Also known as the Monkey Temple, as it is home to many monkeys.
15. Chokhi Dhani
Chokhi Dhani is about 20 KM from Jaipur city. It is an ethnic Rajasthani village. It has become the popular tourist spot. It opens in evening from 5PM to 11PM. Enjoy Traditional folk dance, Puppet shows, Camel rides, Indian cuisine at the restaurants etc. Its environment gives you a feel of traditional Rajasthan village.
Conclusion
In conclusion this city has so much to offer and will never let you down. Do explore these places on your Jaipur trip.