Rajasthan in India is the desert state which is also famous for its historical forts and palaces. The state of Rajasthan has a glorious history of brave Rajput rulers who preferred to die than to accept slavery of the Mughals. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan which offers many beautiful historical monuments for sight seeing. Rajasthan has a rich cultural heritage which is quite evident in Jaipur. You can taste the authentic Rajasthani cuisine consisiting of dal, bati, choorma and gatte ki sabji while watching the traditional kalbeliya dance at the Choki Dhani at Jaipur.
If you love shopping then Jaipur is just the right place for you. Jaipur is famous all over the world for precious gem stones. You can also buy beautiful fabrics & bed sheets etc in tie and dye or batic prints.Lac jewellery of Jaipur is also very famous. Brassware is another special item of Jaipur.
When planning a visit to Jaipur, don't miss out on these must see places:
- City Palace City Palace is a palace complex which is a combination of Mughal, Rajput and European architecture. The palace complex which includes Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Sri Govind Dev Temple & other buildings was built by Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber.
- Jantar Mantar Jantar Mantar has a collection of nineteen astronomical instruments and was built by King Sawai Jai Singh. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has the world's largest stone sundial.
- Nahargarh Fort Nahargarh fort is one of the three beautiful forts which formed a strong defense ring for the city of Jaipur during ancient times. Situated at the top of a hill, Nahargarh offers a breathtaking view of Jaipur.
- Jaigarh Fort Jaigarh fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh II to protect the Amber fort. Also known as Victory Fort, Jaigarh is famous for 'Jaivana', the world's largest cannon on wheels. Jaigarh fort has a palace complex, an armoury and a museum. It is connected to Amber fort through a series of subterranean passages.
- Amber Fort Amber fort is a popular tourist destination. This opulent fort is constructed of redstone & marble and is laid out on four levels. Sheesh Mahal (mirror palace) inside the fort is magnificent.
- Kanak Vrindavan Kanak Vrindavan is a beautiful garden situated in a valley surrounded by Aravali Hills. The garden has Lord Krishna's temple, a series of fountains and intricate marble decorations which mesmerise the visitors.
- Hawa Mahal Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds is an architectural marvel. Constructed of redstone, Hawa Mahal is like a high screen wall with small windows so that the women of the royal family could witness the royal processions and street festivals from there.
- Jal Mahal Jal Mahal (water palace) is situated in the middle of Maan Sagar lake. One reaches the palace through a boat ride. The decorated hallways and chambers of the palace are breathtaking.
- Birla Mandir This beautiful temple in white marble is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. It looks amazingly beautiful when lit at night,
- Albert Hall Museum This oldest museum of the state functions as the State Museum of Rajasthan. Situated at Ram Niwas Garden, the museum displays rare artefacts and paintings along with other items of historic importance.