India’s first planned city and the gateway to Rajasthan was founded on 18 November 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber. The ‘Pink City’ as it’s known due to the distinct colours of the buildings, has a regal history that still resonates today.
The Palace quarter encloses a sprawling palace complex, the striking Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, formal gardens, and a small lake. Nahargarh Fort, which was the residence of the King Sawai Jai Singh II, crowns the hill in the northwest corner of the old city. The old city is teeming with bustling bazaars specialising in different crafts, including silver, saris and turbans. The astrological observatory, Jantar Mantar, is listed as a World Heritage Site and the remarkable 17th century Amber Fort is just a few kilometres from the city centre. With so much to offer Jaipur is sure to be a highlight of any trip to India..
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