Jaipur - Discovering The Pink City

By Author: Rashmiranjan Patil
Total Articles: 261
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Jaipur, first planned city in India, is a major tourist destination of Indian and foreign travellers. Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan, is called the 'Pink City' because the buildings within the walled city are painted in pink. Jaipur's importance lies in the fact that it is a part of the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Jaipur got its name from its founder Maharaja Jai Singh II (1693-1744).

The major attractions in Jaipur are its forts, palaces, monuments, temples and gardens. Amber Fort, which was built in Hindu-Muslim architectural style, was the palace of the rulers from 1600 to 1727. The Fort was named after the Goddess Amba. The famous Sheesh Mahal, adorned with numerous mirror tiles on its walls and ceiling, is a part of this fort.

Jaigarh Fort lies a short distance away from the Amber Fort. This fort is believed to be the strongest of the three forts in Jaipur. The world's largest canon, Jaivana, is a star attraction in this Fort. The smallest among them is the Nahargarh Fort. This Fort houses the Madhavendra Bhawan Palace. Man Sagar Lake and the beautiful Jaipur city can be seen from this fort. ...
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City Palace, which occupies one-seventh of the walled city, is an imposing structure. Palatial structures like Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas and Diwan-e-Aam or Hall of Public Audience are part of this palace. Jal Mahal (the Water Palace), situated in the centre of the Mansarovar Lake, is a major attraction in Jaipur. But water is full in the lake only during the monsoons.

Jaipur has several important monuments. Among them, Jantar Mantar is in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was among the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 18th century. Maharaja Sawai Singh built the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Breeze) in 1799 as part of the City Palace.

Jaipur has several prominent temples. Among them, the star attraction is Govind Devji Temple. The Vaishnavites consider this as one of the most important temples. Moti Doongari Temple, located in the centre of the city, is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. Among other temples in Jaipur are Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Akshardham Temple, Galwah Bagh and Surya Mandir.

Jaipur is dotted with several gardens and museums. Among them are Ram Niwas Garden, Zoological Garden, Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden, Vidyadhar Garden and Central Park.

Jaipur has its own airport and is well connected by rail and road. Jaipur has a large number of hotels to accommodate travellers. The best time to visit Jaipur is from September to March. Jaipur packages are available for travellers to visit various destinations in Jaipur. These Jaipur packages also provide pick-up of travellers from airport and railway station.