Jaipur is known as the pink city of India and attracts travelers again and again. The city got its name from its founder Sawai Raja Jai Singh II, a learned man, an astronomer and a great warrior. There is some interesting history behind this refreshing color of the city as well. During Britain’s Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert’s visit in 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh was the ruler at that time. He ordered all buildings to be painted in pink, the color of hospitality. So when you come visiting this beautiful green city, here are some of the historical landmarks of Jaipur to spend time in.
Another interesting bit
When you reach the old city you will observe rows of shops with their names written in black over white. This was done at the behest of Rajmata Maharani Gayatri Devi. She believed that names in black would prevent the city from an evil eye. Even the English names were ordered to be written in Hindi like for example the one on the left below, Prints Valley.
Born in London, daughter of Cooch Behar royal family, well educated, very beautiful, an avid equestrienne, an excellent rider and a brilliant Polo player, she fell in love with Sawai Man Singh II. And later she got married to him in 1940 as his third queen. Her contribution towards education and upliftment of poor women and orphan children of the erstwhile kingdom was immense.
She provided shelter, food, education and ensured they were trained in weaving and printing of textiles so that they could become financially independent. The tradition continues with Gayatri Printing Factory still going strong. To pick up some amazing stuff you must visit their showroom on one of the days you are in Jaipur.
Must Visit Landmarks
1. Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is a palace built with red and pink sandstone by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. The exterior has 953 small windows called Jharokhas with intricate latticework. They were built to allow royal ladies to view festivals and everyday life on the street just opposite to the palace. The entrance is from the front. Let’s go in.
2. City Palace
City Palace, Jaipur was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II almost at the same time as the city of Jaipur. The palace was where religious and cultural festivals were held and also housed the royal court. Currently the Jaipur royal family stays here and it also houses Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II museum.
3. Jantar Mantar
The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, a World Heritage site is a collection of 19 astronomical instruments. The monument features the world’s largest stone sundial and was completed in 1734. It was the brainchild of Sawai Jai Singh II. Let’s roam around and check out the complex
The Yantra Raj is an adaptation of an Astrolabe, a medieval instrument for the measurement of time and the position of celestial objects. This remarkable instrument seems to have interested Sawai Jai Singh greatly. He compiled and studied astrolabes of different languages available in his era and fabricated a comprehensive astrolabe for Jaipur observatory.
The Souvenir Shop
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4. Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir is a hindu temple in Jaipur built by the industrialist family of Birlas. The temple has been constructed completely with white marble and is also known as Lakshmi Narayan temple. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu & Goddess Lakshmi.
When your friend happens to be a great photographer, it’s always a pleasure hosting their photos. Birla Mandir photos are courtesy of Sukhnandan Vohra.
5. Albert Hall Museum
The Albert Hall Museum is the oldest museum of Rajasthan and is also called the Government Central Museum. It is located in Ram Niwas garden.
Yet another great photographer friend of mine Loks Subrahmanyam has contributed his clicked photos of Albert Hall Museum and Patrika Gate below.
6. Patrika Gate
Patrika Gate is a historical monument and an important tourist attraction of Jaipur. These days it is an important location for pre-wedding shoots.
7. Jal Mahal
Jal Mahal meaning water palace is right in the middle of Man Sagar Lake and can only be viewed from a distance.
8. Amer Fort
Located ten kms from Jaipur in what was a small town Amer is the gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage site, Amer Fort. It was completed during the reign of Raja Man Singh and the palace made out of sandstone and marble is a classical example of Rajput architecture.
Take this virtual tour to Amer Fort with a fine dining restaurant dinner experience
For history buffs
Sanjay Sharma Museum & Research Institute
This museum possesses manuscripts, art, glass and fabric paintings, literature, arms, ammunition, royal costumes, textiles and more of the earlier era and is an interesting place for those interested in history. A guide takes you through the exhibits.
And for foodies
If you loved visiting the historic landmarks of Jaipur, PIN it for planning & forward to friends!
Rajasthan, the land of vibrant colors and rich heritage, is renowned for its diverse and captivating folk dances. These traditional art forms reflect the essence of Rajasthani culture and have been cherished for centuries. Each dance encapsulates a unique blend of music, rhythm, and graceful movements, captivating audiences with their enchanting charm. Let’s delve into the world of Rajasthan’s major folk dances, each with its own story to tell.
Rajasthani language stands as a testament to the cultural richness and historical legacy of Rajasthan. From its ancient roots to the present day, it has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, absorbing influences and evolving into a vibrant linguistic entity. Its profound impact on Rajasthani literature has given voice to the region’s ethos, serving as a powerful medium for creative expression and cultural preservation. As Rajasthan continues to forge ahead, cherishing and nurturing the Rajasthani language is essential to its cultural identity and heritage.