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Founded by the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (in 1727), Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan. As you might have noticed, the city was named after him. Jai (his name) and pur, which means ‘city’ in Hindi. Jai’s city is very much a beauty in its structure, and historical buildings. Situated with a mountain range in view, it combines both the beauty of the desert and the majestic sight of mountains. Amber Fort Amber Fort is the first palace of the Maharajas, and was built at a very strategic point on the hill, overlooking the breath-taking Maota lake and the city of Jaipur. Those who have seen the Taj would immediately sense that the palace and fort structure have very similar features: mainly the use of sandstone and intricate drawings and carvings. The fort is actually a blend of both Mughal and Hindu designs. I suggest either taking a tour guide along with you or getting a headset at the entrance that provides information for various rooms and places. And you mustn’t miss out on how the Maharajas used some of the first air conditioners. They made curtains of a green leaf called khas and placed them under the pipes of water. When the hot air blew, it would instantly get cooled down with the effect of the cold water and curtains. Keeping warm wasn’t a problem either; they hung thick carpets and lighted candles in the hall of mirrors. City Palace When the Maharajas moved to live in the city of Jaipur, the city palace complex was constructed. A beautiful complex of palaces that now house two museums in addition to the palace where the Maharajas still live in is definitely worth a visit. One of the palaces has been turned into a textile museum of sorts. There you’ll find the wonderfully designed clothes and jewelry worn by the Maharajas in various celebrations and occasions. Next there is a smaller palace that houses the artillery museum. All kinds of weaponry, paintings of warring troops and a life size horse statue in ‘war’ costume. The third main palace is where the once ruling family of Rajasthan now lives, and if you’re interested in checking it out a fee of almost 200 AED is paid to see certain parts of that palace (as it is still inhibited the rooms used are not for viewing). Other Visit Worthy Places Hawal Mahal “Wind Palace” – situated in the middle of a lake, it’s certainly worth a visit. It has been under maintenance recently and should be open soon for the public. Albert Hall Museum – A museum built by the Raja and which also houses a zoo and a garden. Babu Road – Shop for Rajasthan original textile designs amongst other things here. There are also several other forts, temples, and monuments that are worthy of a visit. Elephant Ride When I think of Maharajas, I think of a long, winding, line of elephants traveling. An image of princesses in high curtained chairs on their elephants, and people fanning them comes to mind. So why not take a trip of your own on a couple of elephants? A 4 hour (or shorter if you wish) picnic could be arranged, whilst the grand old elephants take you to a place called Naila Fort. Elephants couldn’t be any gentler than they already are, so there’s nothing to fear. It’s a great experience and if there are kids around, they are bound to love this added perk. Suggested Hotel Since this is the city of the Maharajas, you might want to step back in time and indulge your senses with all that is royal. I highly suggest the Oberoi Rajvillas – they do keep their promise, especially with their very friendly staff and beautifully designed rooms/villas. Their grounds also boast of a 100-year-old temple and their signature spa and restaurants are an added bonus. Jaipur is reminiscent of times gone by, and spending time there would rekindle those old, forgotten memories. And although it’s not really pink anymore, it’s mesmerizing to know that once upon a time, a Maharaja decided to literally paint his city pink. |
