Jaipur

Best Tourist Season (September – March)
Airport: Well connected from Agra, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Cochin, Kolkata, Mumbai, Surat and Udaipur
Railway: Jaipur is linked by rail with Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Bikaner, Delhi, Jodhpur, Kolkata, and Udaipur.
Road: Agra 230 km, Ajmer 130 km, Bharatpur 170 km, Bundi 210 km, Delhi 260 km, Dundlod 143 km, Devgarh 280 km, Fatehpur Sikri 203 km, Khimsar 330, Kota 239 km, Kishangarh 105 km, Mandawa 168 km, Mukundgarh 150 km, Madhogarh 40 km, Pushkar 150 km, Roopangarh 125 km, Rajmahal 165 km, Ranthambhore 185 km, Samode 47 km, Sawai Madhopur 160 km, Sariska 100 km, Udaipur 425 km

Introduction
Jaipur – the capital city of Rajasthan has earned universal renown as the “Pink City”. Jaipur was built in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber, first planned city of its time.
A Bengali architect, Vidyadher Bhattacharya, planned the Jaipur City, in a grid system with wide straight avenues, roads, streets and lanes and uniform rows of shops on either side of the mani bazaars, all arranaged in nine rectangular city sectors (chokris).
Jaipur is now, one of the most important heritage cities in India, and is a must-see for tourists coming to North India.

Geography
Jaipur located at 26.92° N 75.82° E.
Average elevation 432 mtrs (1417 feet).
Nahargarh Fort is a famous landmark in Jaipur.
The district is situated in the eastern part of Rajasthan. It is bound in the north by Sikar and Alwar, in South by Tonk, Ajmer and Sawai Madhopur. Nagaur, Sikar and Ajmer in the west and in east by Bharatpur and Dausa districts.

Area
Jaipur is just 64.75 sqm km (Pink City 9.8 sq. km)

Climate
Jaipur has a semi-arid climate in spite of receiving more than 50 cm rainfall annually, as the rainfall is concentrated in the monsoon months between June and September. This is due to its proximity to the Thar desert. The highest recorded temperature ever was 45°C, while the lowest ever was 1°C.
Summer maximum of 38°C and minimum 28°C
Winters maximum 25°C and minimum 9°C
Railfall 50 cm (annual)

Demographics
Population 2,324,319 (as of 2001 India census)
Males 53%
Females 47%
In Jaipur 15% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Sightseeing in Jaipur

The City Palace: The City Palace complex was conceived and built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II – the founder of Jaipur. A beautiful fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the City Palace is still home to the present ruling royal family which lives in a private section of the palace. Most of the structures was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, but many of them were expanded upon by later rulers as well. The City Palace complex, Jaipur includes …

  • Mubarak Mahal (the palace of reception), and
  • Maharani’s Palace (the Palace of the Queen)

Mubarak Mahal now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum and displays a vast and unique collection of royal costumes, delicate Pashmina (Kashmiri) shawls, Banaras silk saris, and other dresses with Sanganeri prints and folk embroidery. These clothes of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I, are also on display.

The Maharani’s Palace has an interesting display of very well preserved Rajput weaponry, some dating back to the 15th century. Besides arms, the palace is adorned with beautiful paintings on the ceiling that are well preserved.

Jantar Mantar: Jantar Mantar of Jaipur, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Now, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is considered to be the largest of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. It contains sixteen geometric devices, designed to measure time, track celestial bodies and observe the orbits of the planets around the sun. It also houses the Interpretation Centre that helps the tourists to understand about the working principles & chronology of the observatory.

Hawa Mahal – Palace of Wind: Hawa Mahal, literally the Palace of Winds, was built in 1799 by the poet king Sawai Pratap Singh as a summer retreat for him and his family. It also served as a place where the ladies of the royal household could observe everyday life without being seen themselves. This unique five-storey structure is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, and the exterior, with its small latticed windows (called jharokhas), resembles the crown of Lord Krishna. The windows also serve as an air-conditioner of sorts, blowing cool air throughout the palace, making it the perfect retreat during summers. Built from pink sandstone, the Hawa Mahal is Jaipur’s iconic landmark and visitors can view its complete magnificence from outside, from across the road. However, it is also possible to climb right up to the top for a wonderful view from the windows. Today, the Mahal is maintained by the Archaeological Department of the Government of Rajasthan and also houses an archaeological museum in the courtyard.

Zoological Garden: Sawai Raja Pratap Singh in 1868 founded Jaipur Zoo or The Zoological Garden in Jaipur. This Jaipur Zoo is located in Ram Niwas Bagh within walking distance from famous Albert Hall.

Govind Devji Temple: This Kishna temple is a rare spire-less temple and houses the idol of Govind Devji brought by Sawai Jai Singh from Vrindavan. The daily worshipped by the royal family and also by the locals in the area.

Ishwar Lat or Swarg Suli (Sargasuli): a 60 feet high grand minaret in Jaipur. Also called ‘Swarga Suli’ or ‘heaven piecing minaret’. This tower near Tripolia Gate was built in 1749 AD, by Raja Ishwari Singh, to commemorate a grand victory. A beautiful breath-taking view is possible from Ishwar Lat.

Digamber Jain Temple: The ancient Digamber Jain Temple in Sanganer is 14 km from Jaipur. The main idol in the Samghiji Temple is of Lord Adinath in the Padmasan posture (lotus Position). This Digambar Jain Mandir is seven-storied and has sky-high ‘shikharas’ (spires) and its inner sanctum is eight sky-high shikharas.

Moti Doongri Ganesh Temple: Moti Doongri is a small hill around which the capital city Jaipur flourishes. Moti Doongri – pearl hill, because the hill indeed resembles a pearl drop. Visitors come to Moti Doongri to pay homage at the famous Ganesh Temple, the most auspicious and important religious temple in Jaipur. The Ganesh temple was guide in early 18th century by Seth Jai Ram Paliwal. As the legend goes, the king of Mewar was heading back to his palace after a long journey and was carting a massive Ganesh idol on a bullock cart. The king decided to build a temple for the idol of Lord Ganesh, wherever the bullock cart stopped. Apparently the bullock cart stopped at foot of this Moti Doongri and the temple is situated exactly where card stopped. This Moti Doongri also has an exotic palace perched right on top. A replica of a Scottish castle, was once the royal home of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh. 

Gaitore (Memorial of Kings): Just off the Jaipur-Amber road is Gaitore, where the former Maharajas of Jaipur are entombed. The chhatris (cenotaphs), made of white marble display the distinctive Rajput style of architecture. The open pavilions with ornate domes are supported by delicately sculpted pillars. The crematorium is located in the middle of yellow sandstone hills. The décor and extravagance of a particular chattri is meant to reflect the stature and prowess of the ruler it contains. The most graceful and beautiful chattri at Gaitor is that of Maharaja Jai Singh with 20 carved pillars. Tourists are especially drawn towards it because of its intricate carvings.

Sisodia Rani Garden: Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden is located 8 kilometres from Jaipur on the Agra road. Laid out in Mughal style, it is painted with the legends of Radha and Krishna. The garden is multi-tiered and has fountains, water courses and painted pavilions. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built it for his Sisodia queen.

Vidyadhar Garden: Located near Sisodia Garden, this is yet another beautiful garden which is a must-see for visitors. It is named after Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the Chief Architect of Jaipur.

Raj Mandir: Raj Mandir Cinema hall established in 1976, one of the most famous spots in Jaipur. A single screen experience, done up with a royal and luxurious architecture.  Watching a Hindi movie is an amazing experience at this cinema. An asymmetrical exterior design helps the theatre stand apart. Inside, the extravagantly finished roof, grand chandeliers, and a rising staircase next to the lobby lend an old world charm to this place.

Masala Chowk: Masala Chowk – a place where you can enjoy street food of Jaipur. This Masala Chowk (Square) become a popular hangout spot among visitors to Jaipur city. Tourists can enjoy the best street foods of Jaipur at Masala Chowk and sit around enjoying the local flavours of Pink City. This Masala Chowk is home to a total 21 street food stalls, and charges an entry fee of Rs. 10 only to get in. The best time to visit is in the evening, when you also get the chance to mingle with the locals of Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Museums in Jaipur

Albert Hall Museum (Central Museum): The building gets its name from The Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the inspiration for its design. The exquisitely built Albert Hall is housed in the centre of Ram Niwas Garden. Sir Swinton Jacob (who is also the mastermind behind many other palaces in Rajasthan) conceptualised and designed it using styles from the Indo-Saracenic architecture (also known as Indo-Gothic, Mughal-Gothic, Neo-Mughal, Hindoo style) and the Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone of the building in 1876. The museum displays a wide range of metal objects, wood crafts, carpets, stone and metal sculptures, arms and weapons, natural stones and ivory goods. It also houses a large collection of miniatures from Bundi, Kota, Kishangarh, Udaipur and Jaipur schools of art.

Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing: At just 10 minutes walk through the cobbled streets of Amber lies the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing. Located in a magnificently restored haveli (tension), this museum displays a varied selection of block-printed textiles alongside images, tools and related objects – all chosen to provide an in-depth look into the complexity of this ancient tradition.

Jaipur Wax Museum: Jaipur Wax Museum has been developed by Entertainment 7 Ventures Pvt. Ltd. and hosting over 30 wax statues of famed personalities. This wax museum holds wax statues of many leading personalities such as Amitab Bachchan, Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Rabindernath Tagore, Albert Einstein, Michael Jackson, Sawai Jai Singh II, Maharani Gayatri Devi etc. This wax museum also has a display of the 10 foot long Bullet, Gati Gamini, the signature Rajasthan Tourism Motorbike.

Museum of Gem & Jewellery: This Gem and Jewellery museum located in the heart capital city Jaipur, Rajasthan and tells stories about the rich legacy of the gem industry in Jaipur. The museum showcasing diverse specimens and their origins to taking you through the history of trade and displaying exquisite craftsmanship. Gem & Jewellery museum is one of the most vibrant and unique museums for gems and jewellery in the country. To ensure that the museum has the best gem and Jewellery, Jewellers from all over the world have donated exquisite pieces.

Amrapali Museum: Amrapali Museum is an initiative of the founders of Amarpali Jewels Pvt. Ltd. and is dedicated to Indian jewellery and jewelled objects. For the founders, the collection has been a labour of love which began nearly forty years ago when Rajiv Arora and Rajesh Ajmera became friends in college, and that continues to this day. This museum has several areas to focus in two floors, the ground floor displays items of beauty and adornment, silver and gold jewellery for every part of the body, from almost every region of India; with a special focus on pieces that are connected with rites of passage – from birth to death. The basement of Amrapali museum houses numerous inspirations for designs that have been available to Indian craftsman over time, seen through both the jewellery and the rage of silver objects in the collection. There is a separate section dedicated to heirloom textiles that are embellished with gold and silver. The entire collection is made up of over 4000 pieces, of which around 800 are on display and the rest can be seen in the Visual Storage. The founders are keen to share their entire collection with the world, in the belief that the unknown creators of each piece would have wanted their work to be seen and admired because thee creations are ageless, timeless and priceless.

Museum of Legacies: This Museum of Gegacies opens on 9th December, 2017, housed in a nearly 200 years old building ‘the historic Kishanpole Bazaar of Pink City, Jaipur. The aim is to create an art space that exclusively displays the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan with a diverse collection that includes everything from textiles, jewellery, stoneware and inlay work, painting, pottery and more. Apart from this, indigenous art from different parts of India are also given a platform here. Currently, Museum of Legacies, has with 8 active galleries. Each one has been allotted to an individual who has been instrumental in the art and culture scene of India. Brij Bhasin’s collection of Everyday Embroideries shows the stunning array of textiles that are found across the state of Rajasthan. Mitch Crites displays semi-precious stone and marble works that have been created in his oeuvre and paintings that have been lovingly collected by him and his wife, Nilou, during their stay in India.

Dolls Museum:

Excursions around Jaipur

Amer Palace and Shila Mata Temple: Amber (pronounced Amer) is at a distance of about 11 kilometres from Jaipur. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the bastion of the Kachwahas of Amber, until the capital was moved to the plains, to what is today Jaipur. The palace, located in craggy hills, is a beautiful melange of Hindu and Mughal styles. Raja Man Singh I began construction in 1592 and the palace, which was built as a strong, safe haven against attacking enemies, was completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh. The contrast between the harsh exterior and the inviting interior couldn’t be more surprising. Made entirely of red sandstone and white marble, visitors are left spellbound by the magnificence of the palace that utilises carvings, precious stones and mirrors. The splendour of the palace is enhanced by the breath-taking vista of the Maota Lake in front. The palace is nearly seven centuries old and has a legendary past. Originally a small structure that the Rajputs won from the Meena tribes, it was later transformed into the grand Amber Palace.

Nahargarh Fort: Nahargarh Fort sits proudly on a ridge of the Aravalli Hills, creating an impressive northern backdrop to the city of Jaipur. It was constructed during the reign of Jai Singh in 1734, and was later expanded in 1868. Nahargarh, which means abode of tigers, was a formidable barrier, defending Jaipur against attacking enemies. Within its walls, the fort houses Madhavendra Bhawan, the summer destination for the members of the royal family. Built by Sawai Madho Singh, the palace has 12 matching boudoirs for the queens, at the head of which is a suite for the king. They are all connected by corridors decorated with delicate murals. Even today the palace is a favoured spot for local picnickers. The fort looks brilliant when floodlit at night. Overlooking the city, it presents a glittering view of the city lights.

Jaigarh Fort: About 15 kilometres from Jaipur, Jaigarh Fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh II sometime in the early 18th century amidst the arid, rocky and thorn-scrub covered hills. Despite its ancient construction, it still retains most of its imposing citadel appearance. Visitors can see the world’s largest cannon – Jaiban, at the fort.

Birla Temple or Laxmi Narayan Temple: The Lakshmi-Narayan Temple, or the Birla Temple, as it is more popularly known as, is located at the base of Moti Dungari. Built on an elevated platform, this comparatively modern temple is built entirely of white marble and dominates the skyline of south Jaipur. The temple was commissioned and built by renowned Indian industrialists, the Birlas, in 1988. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also called Narayan, and his companion, Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and good fortune. The temple is a work of art and has a marvellous display of exquisite carvings and sculptures covering many mythological themes. The eye is drawn to the images of Laxmi and Narayan, carved as they are, from one piece of marble. The top of the temple has three domes, each representing the three religions followed in India. This is designed to pay homage to secular India. The temple looks spectacular at night when it is lit up. Other than the main temple, the complex has a museum that exhibits the earlier belongings of the Birla family.

Jal Mahal – Water Palace: One of the most wonderful sights in Jaipur is the beautiful Jal Mahal or Lake Palace. The light, sand coloured stone walls and the deep blue of the water make for a wonderful contrast. The palace appears to float in the centre of Man Sagar Lake, where its magnificent exteriors can be enjoyed by tourists.

Kanak Vrindavan: Kanak Vrindavan is popular among the locals for picnics, located at the foothills of Nahargarh Fort, on the way to Amber Fort. This beautifully landscaped garden houses an intricately carved temple, several terrace sites, marble columns and lattices, making it a dream location for film shoots.

Galtaji: Galtaji – an ancient pilgrimage centre in Jaipur. Set amidst low hills and packed with locals and tourists alike, this attractive spot has temples, pavilions and holy kinds (natural springs and water tanks). Tourists to Galtaji will come across the complex of Ramgopalji temple, also known as Monkey Temple (Galwar Bagh). On top of this hill is a small temple dedicated to the sun god, called Surya Mandir (Temple) constructed by Diwan Kriparam. This temple is visible seen from anywhere in the Jaipur city.

Ram Niwas Garden (Bagh): This Ram Niwas Bagh was built in 1868 by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh. Located in the heart of Jaipur, the garden houses the Albert Hall Museum (now known as Central Museum), a bird park, a zoo, the Ravindra Rang Manch theatre, an art gallery and an exhibition ground.

Maharani Ki Chhatri (Memorials of Queens): A special funeral area for women belonging to Jaipur’s royal family, located on the way to Amber Fort. This crematorium has several exquisitely carved cenotaphs built to commemorate them. All these cenotaphs are either built with marble or the local stones. As a popular belief, a cenotaph was finished with a roof structure only if the queen died before her king. If she died after the king, it would remain unfinished.

Nahargarh Biological Park: About 12 km from Jaipur on the Jaipur – Delhi highway, a part of the Nahargarh sanctuary is located and known as Nahargarh Biological Park. This Biological Park encompasses a large area of 720 hectares and is situated under the Aravali range, famous for its vast flora and fauna. At Nahargarh Biological Park, ornithologists may see over 285 species of birds, of which, the most popular is the white-naped tit, which can only be found here. Visit the park and make sure to visit Ram Sagar, famous among bird watchers and makes for a great spot to catch different varieties of birds. The Nahargarh Biological Park also houses animals such as Asiatic Lions, Bengal Tigers, Panthers, Hyenas, Wolves, Deer, Crocodiles, Sloth Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Wild Boar etc.

Samode Palace: A beautiful 475 years old Samode Palace, located just 40 km northwest of Jaipur on Jaipur-Sikar road, is a fine example of the Rajput haveli architecture. Samode Palace is a luxury hotel now and Samode Bagh offers luxury tent accommodation, visitors can experience the rural lifestyle by taking a camel safari through the village and meet local craftsmen.

Jawahar Kala Kendra: Popular as JKK – The Jawahar Kala Kendra, established in 1993, is an international institution that focuses on preserving and promoting the different genres of Indian culture and art. JKK is constructed on a theme of Nine Planets (the Navgraha concept of Indian astronomy) with six exhibition galleries, dormitories, auditoriums and an open house theatre. JKK also has its own Shilpgram complex, having six huts that represent the rural aspect of Rajasthan state and a venue for the Haat Bazaars, festivals and fairs. JKK was built to facilitates artists, artisans, scholars, art-connoisseurs and visitors to interact with each other and the centre portrays the nuances of Indian art and culture through art exhibitions, theatre shows, dance & music recitals and workshops which help people to observe the intrinsic aspects of Rajasthani and Indian culture.

Sambhar Lake: Just 70 km from Jaipur lies Sambhar Lake – one of the largest inland salt lake. Almost resembling the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, its an incredible landscape. Sambhar Lake is an incredible place to spot birds including large flocks of flamingos and producing a large percentage of India’s sort supply. There is a breathtaking view at sunset from Shakambhari Mata Temple and one can spend hours in solitude. Another unique aspect – the Salt workers own railway system built to transfer salt from the pans to the processing unit. Also a must do activity is to visit salt lake and a walk in the Sambhar town. Important places to visit are Devyani Kund, Sharmishtha Sarovar, Salt Museum, Circuit House and religious sites Naraina and Bhairana on the way to Sambhar.

Madhvendra Palace, Nagargarh: Madhvendra Palace is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jaipur, was built by Sawai Ram Singh for his nice queens. This is a double storied palace having nine apartments that are beautifully decorated with flower motifs and mesmerising murals which elevate the spacious courtyard. At a height of 700 feet and around 15 km from Jaipur, this palace probably has the most splendid views of them all. All nine apartments of the queens surround three sides of the palace and the fourth houses the Maharaja’s living room.

Akshardham Temple: The Akshardham Temple, Jaipur depicts real architectural wonders and one of the most visited temples in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This Akshardham Temple of Jaipur has unique architectural features, surrounded by lush green gardens and charming fountains, the walls are covered with a number of carvings and sculptures that are beautiful to look at. This temple is located in Vaishali Nagar, dedicated to the Hindu God, Narayan, whose beautiful statue is covered in silver and gold ornaments. This beautiful temple reflects the rich Hindu religious culture, unique heritage and royal history of Rajasthan, enrapturing the tourists with its beautiful architecture, paintings and mantras.

Jagat Shiromani Temple: A Hindu Temple, Jagat Shiromani Temple, is located in Amer, Jaipur. This temple is devoted to Hindu Gods Lord Krishna and Lord Vishnu, possessing an extraordinary architecture which enchants with its greatness and beauty and is said to be built around 1599-1608 AD by Queen Kanakwati – the wife of King Man Singh-I, in the memory of their son Jagat Singh. Jagat Shiromani means ‘Head Jewel of Lord Vishnu’, an epochal facet of the ancient history of Rajasthan. This Jagat Shiromani Temple houses idols of Lord Krishna, Lord Vishnu and Meera Bai – the Hindu mystic poet and devotee of Lord Krishna, worshiped in the state of Mewar. The architecture of Jagat Shiromani Temple is quite interesting – it is a riveting amalgamation of various architecture styles including Jain, Hindu, Mughal and South Indian. Carving on white marble and black stone, the walls and ceilings of the temple are covered in exquisite bas relief carvings of elephants, horses, Purans and other legends. The main attraction of Jagat Shiromani Temple is the marble Torans (pylon) or ornamental arches at the entrance, carved out of a single piece of marble.

Sculpture Park (Nahararh): The Sculpture Park in Nagargarh Fort, is a one-of-a-king venue that showcases works of contemporary arts. This Sculpture Park is a collective efforts of SathSaath Arts (a non profit NGO) and Government of Rajasthan. The main aim is to convert this palace into a gallery for contemporary art, with sculptures by top Indian and international artists being displayed indoors and outdoors. The aim of this Sculpture Park at Nahargarh Fort, is to promote country’s ever growing interest in contemporary art, while at the same time embracing the heritage of India.

Jawahar Circle Park: Jawahar Circle is a unique destination for tourists, located near the Jawaharlal Nehru Marg in the Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan. Jawahar Circle is encompassed by a rose garden and offers a number of concentric jogging tracks, benches, and lush greenery and honoured a the largest circular park in Asia. Main attraction of Jawahar Circle Park is Musical Fountain. The fountain creates spectacular shows with over 270 types of effects and over 300 colourful lights and the height of the water of this musical fountain reaches upto 25 feet. There is a 30 minutes musical fountain show in the evening.

Jhalana Safari Park in Jaipur: An expensive and beautiful Jhalana Safari Park in Jaipur, popular for its leopard sightings. Situated on south easter border of Jaipur city, this forest block has an area of 1978 hectare. The Jhala Safari Park was under feudalistic rule until 1860 and was the exclusive property of the erstwhile Jaipur estate and was used by the royals to play sports, and to meet the fuel and fodder needs of neighbouring villages. This park is immensely rich in flora and fauna and the vegetation in this park is categorised as northern tropical dry deciduous forest type. The Jhalana Safari Park tour is raw, wild and forthcoming, as the park lets the visitors witness wildlife in its natural habitat. This safari has 15-20 panthers reigning the forest area, besides leopards. Jhalana Safari Park entail insightful excursions for dicovering and exploring diverse wildlife, including striped hyenas, desert fox, golden jackal, chital, Indian palm civets, blue bulls, jungle cat, and many more. The Jhalana Safari park is also a paradise for bird watchers, as it is home to various species of birds including the Indian Pitta, Dusky Eagle, Owl, Spotted Owlet, Indian roller, sikra and hawks among others. Besides wildlife, there are a few popular places of tourist interest in the park as well; a majestic shikar oudhi built in 1835 by Sawai Ram Singh, a big temple of Kali Mata and a Jain Chulgiri Temple.