A part of India’s Golden Triangle tourist circuit, Jaipur is one of the most beautiful places visited by millions of tourists every year. The capital city of Rajasthan is home to a large number of historic forts, heritage buildings, royal palaces, and other architectural marvels, some of which have also been recognized as World Heritage sites by UNESCO. Jaipur also has the distinction of being the first planned city in India. The Pink City’s unique charm can be attributed to this fascinating blend of the ancient and modern. You will be left speechless at the grand beauty of this city bathed in a pinkish hue, the color reflecting its hospitality. Here are some of the top places to visit in Jaipur.
Amer Fort:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amer Fort or Amber Fort is an excellent example of Rajasthani architecture. This ancient fort sits on a hilltop in the Aravalli ranges in Amer, situated 11 km from Jaipur. The extensive complex of this royal fort consists of four main sections, each with its own beautiful courtyard. Riding an elephant to the top of Amber Fort is a popular tourist activity to do here. Explore the famous Sheesh Mahal, Shukh Niwas, Sun Pol (Gate), Jalebi Chowk, Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) for a glimpse of the city’s royal past. Don’t miss the spectacular light and sound show held here every evening.
Hawa Mahal:
Hawa Mahal, a landmark of the city, is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Jaipur. The impressive exterior of this imposing palace, with its 953 intricately laced jharokhas (tiny windows), resembles the crown of Lord Krishna. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, had this palace built for the royal women of the palace so they could observe from the windows the hustle of everyday life without themselves being seen. You will be surprised to know that this huge five-story palace has no foundation!
City Palace:
Located in the heart of Jaipur, City Palace comprises a complex of mind-bogglingly beautiful palaces built between 1729 and 1732. Its architecture incorporates both Rajut and Mughal styles, and some of the most recognized palaces in the complex are Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, and Maharani’s Palace. City Palace was once the seat of the king of Jaipur, and the descendants of the royal family still reside here in a private section of the palace. Most of the palaces have been converted into museums and house a range of artifacts like royal clothes, Kashmiri pashminas, Sanganeri block prints, embroidery, and other handcrafted products, etc.
Jantar Mantar:
Built by the Rajput King Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1734, Jantar Mantar is one of the interesting places to visit in Jaipur. It is home to nearly 20 larger-than-life astronomical tools that helped measure time, track stars, predict eclipses, and observe space some hundreds of years ago. Jantar Mantar also features the world’s largest stone sundial called Samrat Yantra. This age-old instrument measures time precisely to two seconds. Acknowledging it’s rich cultural, heritage, and scientific value, UNESCO has listed Jantar Mantar among the World Heritage Sites.
Nahargarh Fort:
Nahargarh Fort is a historical fort strategically built on a ridge of the Aravalli Hills as a defensive fortification to protect Jaipur from enemies. The connected rooms of the fort feature marvelous wall and ceiling paintings, and you can also enjoy sweeping views of the entire Pink City from the top of this fort. The night views of Jaipur from Nahargarh Fort are simply breathtaking! This fort is a popular picnic spot among the locals. While you are here, do visit the Nahargarh Biological Park, a haven for tigers, leopards, Asiatic lions, and other animals.
Additionally, Jaigarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Albert Hall Museum, Galtaji, Chokhi Dhani, Birla Mandir, Jaipur Wax Museum, Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, Jaipur Zoo, Johari Bazaar, and Bapu Bazar must be added to your list of places to visit in Jaipur. Tourist attractions in Jaipur are too many, and so a long holiday is recommended to cover all the major attractions of the Paris of India. Plan your Jaipur trip and book flights with Indian Eagle as this online flight booking agency has year-round deals on airline tickets to India.