4 days from Ranthambore
Jaipur is also known as the ‘Pink City’ due to the mixture
of red sandstone soil of the area used to decorate the buildings
in this traditional color of welcome. Your stay will be at the
charming Samode Haveli, once the home of the Prince of Samode. The
facilities include rooms with en-suite bathrooms, bar, garden and
dining area. The period furniture is complemented by frescoed walls
and ceilings, while excellent food and highly personalized service
make for a memorable experience.
Why not, visit the Maharaja’s City Palace the Jantar Mantar
(the observatory), the local bazaars and the Hawa Mahal (Palace
of the Winds), with its incredible façade of balconies
and pierced screens. A ride on Elephant-back to the early 17th
Century Amber Fort is also an option. Amber Fort, built by Man
Singh, embodies the Rajput belief that the fort symbolizes the
strength of the King. Its commanding view, sheer walls and rock
face, and the curved route that leads to the palaces within, all
point to concern with security and defence. The fort is mirrored
in Maota Lake, which stands adjacent to the Delaram Garden. A
visit to the private apartments and the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of
Mirrors) are both a must.
Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital of
the state of Rajasthan. It has, long been established, on tourist
itineraries as the third corner of India's Golden Triangle, just 300
kilometres southwest of Delhi, and 200 kilometers west of Agra. The
old city of Jaipur is partially encircled with seven gates - the
major gates are Chandpol, Sanganeri, and Ajmeri.
Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, is one of the major landmarks of
Jaipur. This five storey building, which looks out over the main
street of the old city, is a stunning example of Rajput artistry,
with its pink semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed sandstone
windows.
City Palace occupies a large area, divided into a series of
courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The outer wall was built by
Maharaja Jai Singh II, but other additions are much more recent,
some dating back to the beginning of this century. The palace is a
wonderful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, a major
tourist attraction.
Jantar Mantar, an observatory begun by Jai Singh in 1728. Jai
Singh's passion for astronomy, was even more notable, than his
prowess as a warrior. The Jaipur observatory is the largest, and the
best preserved of the five observatories he built.
Access by Air:
Jaipur is connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Aurangabad,
Calcutta and Varanasi by domestic flights.
Access by Rail:
The train service to Jaipur is available from all the major parts of
the country. The train services to Jaipur are slower, because of the
metre gauge line.
Access by Road:
Jaipur can be accessed from all the major places in Rajasthan,
Gujarat, Delhi and Mumbai by bus. |