The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur provides in a nutshell the incredible delights of any Rajasthan tour. This city is one of the three points of the Indian tourism’s Golden Triangle, the other two being Delhi and Agra. Forts, palaces, pink sandstone structures, colourful bazaars bursting with handicrafts and a myriad other attractions make Jaipur a must on any Rajasthan travel guide. The Pink City as it is known was built in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Surrounded by a wall with 7 gates to insulate it against invaders, Jaipur is a marvel of traditional grandeur and old-world hospitality.

Forts

Built in front of Maota Lake, the Amber Fort is a dream in white marble and red sandstone. It is a 10-minute steep climb, which leads to the imposing fort, an outstanding attraction in Jaipur. Inside the fort are souvenir shops and eateries. Carvings, paintings and detailed mirror work adorn the walls of the gigantic fort. Nahargarh Fort built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1734 is another architectural wonder in Jaipur. Inside the fort is the astounding Madhavendra Bhavan, which has nine identical sets of rooms for the king’s nine queens.

Palaces

Talking of palaces in a tour of Jaipur instantly brings to mind the charming Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds. Built in 1799 by Sawai Man Singh, the palace has 953 jharokhas or perforated windows, through which the royal queens would watch the world, go by. Another attraction in Jaipur is the City Palace with the Diwan-e-am and Diwan-e-khas resplendent with the grandeur of the erstwhile royal lineage of Rajasthan. Another palace is the Chandra Mahal, where the ground and first floor is now the famed Sawai Man Singh II Museum, which has an amazing collection of paintings, jewellery and weapons of a bygone era.