Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan is famous as the 'pink city'. History has it that in 1876, Jaipur dressed itself pink to welcome Prince Albert and Queen Elizabeth II, and thus the name "Pink City" stuck to it. It is high on the itinerary of the tourist visiting India and its close proximity to the cities of Delhi and Agra makes it part of the Golden triangle. Jaipur is a treat to the senses. Its various sights and sounds simply capture the imagination of every visitor.
Speaking of the Jaipur Tourist Attractions, the city has lots to offer to the novelty-seeking tourist. From grand forts and exquisite palaces to colorful bazaars, Tours to Jaipur Attractions is indeed an experience of a lifetime.
History Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, the desert state in India, which is famous for its majestic forts, opulent havelis, beautiful lakes and sand dunes. The history of Jaipur takes us about 300 years back in time, when the Mughal empire in India was on the decline.
At this time Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in Rajasthan was looking for a safe place to shift the increasing population of Amber and found Jaipur to build the city. He commissioned Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a fine architect from Bengal the responsibility of building the city. Jaipur was designed strictly according to Shilpa Shastra, which is the ancient treatise on architecture. Thus Jaipur is considered as the planned city in India. The city has been divided into nine blocks and is encircled by a wall that has seven gates.
The attractions of Jaipur are
Amber Fort
City Palace
Central Museum in Jaipur
Hawa Mahal
Jantar Mantar
Jaigarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort
Rambagh Palace
Laxmi Narayan Temple
Kanak Vrindavan Valley
Gaitore
Statue Circle
Vidyadhar Gardens
Amber Fort
Amber Fort is located in Amber (Jaipur), which used to be the capital of the Kachhwaha clan, till Jaipur was made the official capital in 1727. The Amber Fort looks stunning, all-built in white marble and red sandstone. To add to its charm, Maotha Lake makes its foreground. The crystal mirror image of the Fort, on the still waters of the lake, seems to be a beautiful illusion. Amber Fort is usually pronounced as Amer Fort. In 1592, construction of the Fort was started by Raja Man Singh I. However, the Amber Fort took its present form during the reign of Raja Jai Singh I.
Emergence Amber Fort
Amber was originally built by the Meenas in the town they consecrated to Amba, the Mother Godd ess, whom they knew as `Gatta Rani' or `Queen of the Pass' [ Tod.II.282 ]. Built over the remnants of an earlier structure, the palace complex which stands today was commenced under the reign of Raja Man Singh, Commander in Chief of Akbar’s army and a member of the Emperor's inner circle of nine courtiers, in 1592. The initial structure of the fort was entirely completed by his descendant, Jai Singh I. Amber was modified by successive rulers over the next 150 years, until the Kachwahas shifted their capital to Jaipur during the time of Sawai Jai Singh II.
Appearance
The outer appearance of the Fort, being rough and craggy is totally different from its core. The interior of the Fort provides a soothing and warm ambience, which is least expected from its outer appearance. The marvelous decoration of the Amer Fort is influenced by both, the Hindu and Muslim manner of ornamentation. Exquisite paintings of hunting scenes on the walls depict the temperament of the Rajputs, who were adventurous, revolutionary and self-indulgent.
The intricate carvings on the walls and ceilings simply astonish the visitors. The minute mirror work adds to the grand appearance and royalty of the halls. The Amer Fort undoubtedly captivates the tourists with its artistic quality of delicate work. The mighty walls guarantee the protection of the Fort against the invasion of the enemies. The Fort is divided into four subparts.
Kali Temple, which is also known as Shila Devi Temple, forms the part of the Fort. It is renowned for its glorious past, huge silver lions and silver doors. The Hall of Public Audiences, Diwan-I-Aam is a pavilion with double row of columns. Ganesh Pol, another feature of the Fort, directs the way to the inhabited apartments of the King. The Hall of Victory, Jai Mandir has a stunning ceiling comprised of mirror work and an inlaid panel. The Fort has numerous other halls and pavilions with their own specific attraction.
The best part of this tourist attraction situated on a crafty hill, is the royal elephant ride. The flawless beauty of the Fort can be enjoyed royally with an elephant ride. Amber/Amer Fort is the part of Jaipur and its royalty. A trip to Jaipur would be definitely incomplete, without the visit to this imperial Fort of Amber.
City Palace
City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture.
History & ArchitectureThe City Palace was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of the Kachhwaha clan of Rajputs, but a lot of changes and additions were made to the original structure by his successors.
The architecture of the City Palace is a synthesis of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The Complex comprises of many structures, courtyards, gardens and buildings. There are many splendid small palaces and halls in the complex, such as the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal and Badal Mahal. There is also a famous temple called the Shri Govind Temple and a museum inside, named the City Palace Museum.
Appearance
The complex is divided into a series of courtyards, sprawling gardens and buildings. It is home to several palatial structures like the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Badal Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.
In the first courtyard is the 'Mubarak Mahal', built by Maharaja Madho Singh II in the late 19th century. The Mubarak Mahal, or the Auspicious Palace, contains the textile section of the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum. There is a magnificent gateway with a grand door in brass opening to a stately courtyard. There lies the Diwan-I-Khas or 'Hall of Private Audience'- an open hall with a double row of columns with scalloped arches.
On display are the two largest silver vessels in the world figured in the Guinness Book of World Records. These were used for carrying water from the holy Ganges for personal use, by Madho Singh II on his journey to England. Across the paved square, with its intricate decorations in deep red and gold, Afghan and Persian carpets, miniature paintings, astronomical manuscripts in Persian and Sanskrit lies the 'Diwan-E-Aam' or the 'Hall of Public Audience'. At the other corner is the gateway Ridhi Sidhi Pol, with four small doorways decorated with motifs depicting the four seasons.
It also has Chandra Mahal which is filled with beautiful paintings and mirror works on walls and floral decorations that act as the main highlight of the entire Palace.India is extremely known for colorful works and decors this place proves the talents of Indian architecture.
Divisions
The lower two levels have the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, which has a large collection of 15th century weapons, carpets and rarities. There is also the Sukh Nivas or the 'Hall of Rest', which has the drawing and the dining area. On the fourth floor is the 'Shobha Nivas' or 'Hall of Beauty' which is decorated with mirrors all over and has gold leaf and mica decorations.
The fifth floor is the 'Chavi Nivas' or the 'Hall of Images' and the sixth floor is known for the beautiful view it offers of the surrounding area. The uppermost floor is called the 'Mukut Mahal' or the 'Crown building'. When one moves forward to Badal Mahal from the Chandra Mahal, one comes to the Govind devji temple, which is also quite like the others, a must-see.
The Chandra Mahal or the Moon Palace is a graceful seven storied building that was the residence of the former ruler.It affords a magnificent view of the gardens and the Jaipur City in its entirety.Govind Deo Temple - The Govind Deo Temple stands in between the Chandra Mahal and the Badal Mahal.It is one of the renowned spire less temple in Jaipur. According to a popular belief the construction of this temple was followed by a vision of Raja Jai Singh where he saw Lord Krishna expressing the wish to come to his palace.
Pritam Niwas - This is situated on the ground floor. Its chief highlight being a wide verandah adorned with Italian wall paintings.It faces the Jai Niwas garden that was laid at the command of Jai Singh II. TourofTajMahal.com is an international travel site and a repository of useful information on City Palace in Jaipur and on other related information on Tourist Attractions in Jaipur and other places of tourist interest in India.
Central Museum JaipurRajasthan is known for its rich traditional and cultural heritage, so it should not come off as a surprise to anyone that it is the perfect place to find some of the best Museums in India. Being the land of maharajas and maharanis, the state of Rajasthan is such a rich treasure trove that one cannot help but be awe-struck at the extensive collection of antiques it holds. Jaipur, in particular, the capital of Rajasthan, has many of the Museums in the state, that house the rarities and objects of the past, that are today seen as a symbol of the rich heritage and cultural prosperity of India.
One of the oldest and the most famous Museum is the Government Central Museum or Albert museum was constructed under the supervision of a British Army officer, Lt. Swinton Jacob in the year 1876. Maharaja Ram Singh, who was then the king of Jaipur, wanted this building to be used as the town hall but his successor Madho Singh decided to convert the building to an art museum.
Location & Style
It is located in the Ramnivas Gardens and is the oldest museum in Jaipur. The Central Museum not only houses many rarities and beautiful objects but its own building is also a sight to behold. The Museum is in the Albert Hall and is inspired by the Indo-Sarcenic style of architecture, which uses the best features of both styles of building. It has many pillars, courtyards and arches that give it a very traditional yet elegant look.This is also known as Albert museum and the British Army officer, Lt. Swinton Jacob supervised its construction in 1876.
Collections
You will find portraits of royal family in the upper floor of the museum.
- Museum has the display of the culture and tradition of Jaipur and thus you will get to see exquisite collection of metalwork,jewelery and sculptures as well.
- Chiseled and carved objects in brass
- Rich collection of miniature paintings from Udaipur, Jaipur, Bundi, Kota and Kishangarh schools of painting
- Costumes of Kings and the royal families
- Finest examples of woodwork,metalwork, pottery objects, paintings and sculptures.
If you happen to be in Jaipur, do take a tour to the Central Museum, which is open from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm and enjoy the opportunity to be able to admire the antiques and the rarities of the royal past, which are bound to give you a better insight into the rich past of India.
Hawa Mahal
Built in 1799, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh the 'Hawa Mahal', Palace of the Wind, is one of the major landmarks of Jaipur. It is an integral part of the City Palace, an extension of the Zenana (women's chambers) standing away from the main complex. This five storey building of unusual architecture designed by Lal Chand Usta, is a stunning example of Rajput artistry made of red and pink sand stone, beautifully outlined with white borders and motif's painted with quick lime. The monument with a spectacular view of Jaipur city with road avenues, intersections and colourful crowds in the market, was originally conceived with the aim of enabling ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and royal processions in the city without being seen by others.
Since the Hawa Mahal was built at a time when women of the royal families had to observe strict purdah, many believe that the Hawa Mahal was built, just so these ladies could watch the processions and various activities taking place on the streets. This does explain why Hawa Mahal has such tiny windows and many screened balconies. The royal ladies could look below at the people without showing themselves and thus enjoy a sense of freedom.
Structure & its BeautyJaipur's Hawa Mahal affords a spectacular view of the Pink City of Jaipur.It is a five tier structure that comprises of arches, balconies and perforated screens.There is a lack of embellishment as far as the interior of the building is concerned.The chambers have nothing gaudy about them and there are passages that would lead you to the top storey.The openings in the screens are comparable to peepholes which suggest that the ladies could see the processions and other activities in the street without being seen by others.
They are exquisitely sculptured and carved. These small windows prove very effective in circulating cool air in the hot moths.The structure towers to a height of about 50 feet and is about a foot in width.Besides affording a spectacular view of the city, the Jaipur's Hawa Mahal also offers a panoramic view of the Jantar Mantar.Hawa Mahal looks more beautiful at the break of dawn when the sun lends it a curious glow.
As the palace bathes in the golden light of the sun, it looks like a fantastic image conjured up by the mind in a trance. The palace glows like an impalpable dream, which makes you feel that even if you dare blink your eyes, it will quickly dissolve into thin air.
The entrance to Hawa Mahal is from the City Palace side, through a stately door which opens into a spacious courtyard. The courtyard has a double storeyed building on three sides. There is a small archeological museum here. Only the eastern wing has three more storeys above, which are just a single room thick. The building, standing on a high podium, is a fifty-foot high thin shield, less than a foot in thickness, with small intimate chambers, which give this palace its unique facade. There are no regular stairs to reach the upper floors, but only ramps.The Jaipur's Hawa Mahal has 953 small casements and each of them is graced by latticed worked pink windows, small balconies, curved roofs and hanging pelmets.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar at Jaipur is the largest stone observatory in the World and this feature makes it, a special destination for a traveler. Jantar Mantar of Jaipur is one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur. During the period between 1727 and 1733, Jantar Mantar took its form and structure. Initially Jantar Mantar was named as Yantra Mantra, which means instruments and formulae, but due to mispronunciation of the term, it is changed to the recognized name.
The observatories, or "Jantar Mantar" as they are commonly known, include multiple buildings of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement.These structures with their striking combinations of geometric forms at large scale have captivated the attention of architects, artists, and art historians world wide, yet remain largely unknown to the general public.
Facts of Jantar MantarJai Singh named his observatory Jantar Mantar, which is actually pronounced, as 'Yantra Mantra', yantra for instrument and mantra for formula.A huge sundial known as "Samrat Yantra" or 'Prince of Dials', meant to measure exact time of the day within half a second and the declination of the sun and other heavenly bodies dominates it.
The observatory consists of fourteen major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars in their orbits, ascertaining the declinations of planets, and determining the celestial altitudes and related ephemeredes.
History
Sawai Jai Singh II was commissioned by Emperor Muhammad Shah, to make corrections in the astronomical tables and to confirm the data, already available on the planetary positions. Sawai Jai Singh II took seven years to finish the task. He built the first stone observatory in 1724 in Delhi. The Jaipur observatory was built in 1728. There is actually a fascinating story in relation to the construction of the Observatory. According to the story, Sawai Jai Singh II sent his envoys to various parts of the world. The emissaries came back with manuals and astronomical tables besides tons of data on the advances made in the fields of astronomy. La Hire's "Tables" was one of these manuals, and impressed by it, Sawai Jai Sing II ordered the observatory to be constructed according to the data available in this manual. Amazingly, after Jantar Mantar was built, it was discovered that the Observatory was more accurate than the Table itself.
Jaigarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort is located on the top of the hill, by the name of Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles). Jaigarh Fort is also known as the 'Victory Fort', located at a comfortable distance of 15kms from Jaipur. Jaigarh Fort is considered as one of the spectacular forts in India. This Fort is on top of the hill, while Amber Fort is at the bottom. Many people regard the two as one complex however both of them are well connected with well guarded passages. Jaigarh Fort positioned centrally in the thorn-scrub hill, leaves a stern impact on the spectator at once.
The Jaigarh fort was built to bolster up the defense of Amer, so one should not be amazed to find that the fort unlike most palaces and forts of Jaipur is quite plain and simple. It has moats and all the features you would expect of a full-fledged citadel.
Facts
The highlight of the tour of Jaigarh Fort is definitely the Jaivana, which is the world's largest cannon on wheels. It was built in Jaigarh's foundry in the year 1720. Many say that the cannon was only used once and the ball fell some 35kms away on a village. But that's quite doubtful, since a closer inspection of the cannon actually revealed that it has been fired at least a couple of times.
The Fort has a lot of wide water channels, which were a part of a rainwater harvesting system. There are 3 underground tanks at the fort, the largest one of which could store 60,00,000 gallons of water. An interesting story about this tank is that, many believed it contained hidden treasure but unfortunately Indian Government searched for it and did not find anything at all.
While you are taking a tour of the Jaigarh Fort, you might want to visit the armory and the museum. The armory has many swords, shields, guns, muskets and even a 50 kg cannon ball. One can also see old photographs of two of Jaipur's Maharajas, Sawai Bhawani Singh and Major General Man Singh II, both of whom were senior officers in the military (Indian Army). The Museum has many photographs, of Maharajas, royalty, buildings and processions and even a circular pack of cards besides many other relics of the past. The highlight of this Fort is the massive cannon by the name of Jaivan, which was made in the same production house. Jaivan, the cannon, is believed to be the largest cannon in the World and the main attraction of the Jaigarh Fort. The Fort discloses the mastery over architecture of the former age. Jaigarh Fort has many wide water channels, which were a part of a rainwater harvesting system. The Fort also has 3 underground tanks, the largest one of which can store 60, 00,000 gallons of water. One can plan to visit the armory and museum, which are worth seeing.
Interiror
The hall of the fort (Shubhat Nivas) has pictures of military officers of Indian army and Maharajas of Jaipur and also the warned out wooden chairs and drums.Inside the fort there is a big reservoir which is an evident of the engineering excellence of the ancient India.Jaigarh Fort was made to tighten the security of Jaipur and Amber.Due to this fact, one may not find this fort as artistic as other forts and palaces, but it certainly has its own charm.The Fort has many structures of medieval India, which are worth exploring.
Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort is the first of the three forts built by Maharaja Jai Sawai Singh of Jaipur. The Fort stands at the top of rugged point of the Aravalis and offers a spectacular view of the City. The term "Nahargarh" refers to "the Abode of Tigers", so it is also known as the Tiger Fort. The Fort was constructed mainly in 1734, however further additions were made to it, by the succeeding rulers in the 19th century.
History
The Nahargarh Fort was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh in 1734. According to a legend, the Fort was named after a prince whose spirit used to haunt the site and would cause mischief so as to delay the construction of the fort. After too many disturbances, finally after a Tantrik prayer the ghost or the spirit, agreed to leave on the condition that the fort should be named after him.The fort served as a royal retreat for the ladies of the royal household and was also used as a personal treasury for several years.The Nahargarh Fort today stands as the symbol of the royal grandeur and as a reminder of the glory that once was.
Major Attractions
It offers of the Man Sagar lake and the surrounding area.The older parts of he fort are being hard hit by the ravages of times but the newer additions are quite captivating. The geometrically designed Nahargarh Fort looks at its best in the night, when it is dazzlingly lit. To add flavor to your trip, the cafeterias inside the fort offer the finest drinks and snacks. Nahargarh Fort forms a remarkable backdrop of Jaipur and offers a glittering view of the city lights.However, the older parts of the Nahargarh Fort got wrecked with the times, but the further additions to the Fort, are still charming and well-preserved. Nahargarh Fort stands as a symbol of the Royal heritage and speaks of its majestic past. A visit to this fort will definitely make your trip, a memorable one.
Rambagh Palace
A destination palace resort spread over 47 acres of tranquil, landscaped gardens; Rambagh Palace is Jaipur's foremost Royal Palace residence.Located close to the walled 'Pink City', spectacular forts, and all the unique shopping bazaars of Jaipur, the Palace unveils the rich culture and history of the erstwhile rulers of Rajasthan.Built in 1835 as a hunting lodge; converted to a palace in 1925 as the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur and finally converted as India's first palace hotel in 1957.
Facts
The Rambagh Palace was built in 1835 by the Queen of Jaipur but was later converted into a hunting lodge and a guesthouse. After a bit of modifications, the palace was made fit to be the residence for the Maharaja of Jaipur. Finally it was turned into a heritage hotel in 1972 and is now run by the Taj Group of Hotels, a leading name in the Hotel Industry. The Rambagh palace Heritage hotel has seen many illustrious guests, for instance, Lord Mountbatten, Prince Charles and Omar Sharif.
Architecture
An architectural masterpiece, Rmbagh represnts a fine blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.Sensitively restored to its former glory with refurbished rooms overlooking courtyards with fountains or verdant gardens, airy verandahs, idyllic front lawns and a warm intimate lobby, guests relive the royal lifestyle at Rambagh.In addition, personalized butlers are there throughout the Palace who is knowledgeable hosts to modern day Maharajas.The palace, which is now a fine heritage hotel, has all the modern comforts and luxuries to serve the guests yet it still has the splendor and elegance of an old palace.
The rooms of the palace are very imperial in their look and still look fit to accommodate the royalty. The Chinese room in particular is worth a closer look. It has been decorated with red and gold tapestry and lots of antiques and fittings have been used to make the room more captivating.
Laxmi Narayan TempleConstructed by India's one of the biggest business tycoons Birlas, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu ( Narayan) and his consort Lakshmi formerly called as Lakshmi-Narayan Temple.Its other name is Birla Mandir. It is positioned quite close to the Moti Doongri fort, which was transformed to a small palace by Ram Singh II and Gayatri Devi.Symbolizing the secular nature of the country, the temple boasts three domes, which represent dissimilar approaches to religion. It is a beautiful white marble temple, which seems to shine at night.
The Birla Mandir is situated just below the renowned Moti Dungri Fort. Built in a contemporary manner, Laxmi Narayan Mandir covers the vast lands of the city of Jaipur. The temple stands erect on a raised platform, at the footsteps of the Moti Dungri Hill. Birla Mandir is constructed in the finest quality of white marble. The three huge domes of the temple represent three different approaches to the religion. The beautiful white marble temple mesmerizes the onlookers, when it glows at night.
Architecture
The attractive stained windows glass windows of the temple depict scenes from Hindu Mythology. The idols of the temple look so real as if, they would utter a word just now. Amongst all the idols, the marble idol of Ganesha is a masterpiece which looks almost-transparent. The idols of Lord Vishnu and his consort, Lakshmi attract the attention, being made out from one piece of marble. The temple also portrays great historical achievers, philosophers and religious saints such as Socrates, Zarathustra, Christ, Buddha, and Confucius.
The Laxmi Narayan Mandir is a modern architectural marvel, surrounded by lush green gardens. The fascinating exteriors of the temple are carved splendidly with beautiful sculptures based of mythological themes, while the interiors have a large marble panel portraying mythological events. The Birla Temple has a museum too, which showcases the ancestral valuables of the Birla family. Birla Mandir / Laxmi Narayan Temple is a masterpiece of art and tourists should not miss this architectural spiritual heritage on their trip to Jaipur.
The Birla Mandir in Jaipur attracts many tourists and devotees every year. The temple is very crowded during the festivals as Hindus come from all over the state and country to pay their respect to the Lord.There are other small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman and Lord Buddha.Krishna Janmashtami and Deepawali are the two major festivals that attract huge crowds to the temple.
Kanak Vrindhavan ValleyKanak Valley is on the suburbs of Jaipur and is perfect retreat for tourists in lush green surroundings amidst picturesque locales.When you come down form the Amber fort which is on a hill you will see the scintillating view of Kanak-Vrindavan Valley.The Kanak-Vrindavan Valley in Jaipur etched in the Aravalli range and is flanked by the Amber Fort on one hand and city of Jaipur on the other.The valley is covered by dhok (Anogeissus Pendula) and Kadamba trees.
Facts
Kanak Valley is also believed to be the blessed place where holy water from several rivers was gathered to carry out the Ashwamedh Yajna. Govind Deoji Temple, with its beautiful and delicate carvings, spreads a holy aura of spirituality all over the valley. The temple looks marvelous with its chhatris, lattice and mirror work. "Garba Griha" is the seat of the lord, which is engraved with exotic 'panni' work.
Kanak valley is encircled by Aravalli ranges and looks amazing from all the three forts of Jaipur. Kanak Valley covers a vast area of land, where gardens are well developed. The beauty of valley, covered with Dhok and Kadama trees, get enhanced at the sight of the scenic water cascades, blossoms, brook, ponds and lotus ponds. On the side of Kanak valley, there flows Dharbawati River which soothes the environment with the cool breeze.
The beautiful valley received it name about 280 years ago by the ruler and founder of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh. Strangely, the Kanak valley made the ruler think of Vrindavan, where Lord Krishna spent his childhood, which is why an idol of Shri Govind Deoji (an incarnation of Lord Krishna) was installed here. Even now the place has not lost its significance and is considered a sacred place, which is why during the many festivals such as Gangaur and Teej, the procession that come from Amber make a stop here to pay respect to the Lord.
Divisions
Divided into eight sections, the garden comprises a series of fountains. The fountain by the name of 'Parikrama' is carved out of a single piece of marble. The picture of the garden is amazing and one cannot describe its beauty in words. Kanak valley is simply breathtaking and due to its inexplicable charm, it has made background for many Bollywood movies.
At night, when the temple is brightly lit, it offers a heavenly picture on the earth itself. The sounds of chants and hymns offered to the God complete the celestial picture of the place. Kanak Valley is a divine green oasis that flourishes in a bare land. The evergreen gardens of Kanak Valley offer a perfect place to the weary visitors for sitting and enjoying the nature.
The temple is truly a sight to behold with its chhatris, jali and mirror work. The 'panni' work on the garba griha , the seat of the lord is truly beautiful. There is also a fountain, parikrama, which has been carved from a single marble block.
Gaitore
Gaitore is situated on the Jaipur-Amber road, about 15 kms from Jaipur. Gaitore is a royal cremation site of the majestic rulers of Jaipur. There is a cenotaph for each Maharaja, built in his honor. These royal cenotaphs of the Maharajas are commonly known as 'Chhatris'. The royal chhatris are engraved with typical Rajasthani carvings.
The cenotaphs are erected with a perfect blend of architectural essentials of Islamic tomb architecture and Hindu temple architecture. Amongst all the cenotaphs, the one dedicated to Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II appeals the most. This Chhatri is built in pure white marble, ornamented with delicate carvings, peacocks and beautiful designs. Although all the Maharajas of Jaipur were cremated here, but Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh was an exception to this ritual. He was cremated behind the Chandra Mahal in the City Palace complex, so his cenotaph was built there with the due respect.
Design & Style
The designs carved on each Chhatri represent the taste of the particular Maharaja, in whose honor it was built. This cremation ground of the Kachhawaha rulers of Jaipur stands there, since the time of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. The Cenotaphs, which were built in the honor of Maharanis of Jaipur, are located in the Maharani Ki Chhatri complex near to Ramgarh road crossing.
Gaitore is a special place with its own charm, displaying the royal past of Jaipur and its imperial rulers. Gaitore Chhatris with its beautiful artistry and majestic history attracts tourists from India as well as abroad.
Statue Circle
Statue Circle forms a major landmark of Jaipur. It is situated on a busy crossing of the city. Statue Circle has got its name from the statue, which it portrays. Statue Circle comprises the statue of King Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur. In the statue, Raja Jai Singh is holding an astrological diagram which shows his love for astrology. The memorial is actually made in the loving memory of the generous ruler, builder and futurist.
Vidyadhar Garden
Vidyadhar Garden is a beautiful garden that was derived by the Rajputs of Jaipur from the Mughals' definition of Garden. Vidhyadhar Ka Bagh was made in order to bring a sense of relief in the scorched scenery of the desert land. The Garden is situated at a distance of 8 km in the east of Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra Road. Initially, the place served as a vineyard to previous rulers then it was renovated to its present form.
Vidhyadhar Gardens is the only well-planned garden in the Majestic city of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Vidyadhar Garden was built in the memory of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the chief architect and the city planner of Jaipur. The Garden has been designed as per the rules and edicts of Shilpa Shastra, the ancient Indian line of architecture, just as Vidyadhar did while planning Jaipur.
Vidyadhar Garden is situated 7 km east of Jaipur in a narrow valley on Agra Road. The garden is built in memory of Vidyadhar, the architect of the Pink City and is surrounded by high hills. The garden is newly renovated and is enchantingly beautiful.
The Vidyadhar garden, jaipur is a terraced garden with lot of fountains, pools and other interesting attractions, which make it a royal resort. The concept of the formally laid garden was borrowed by Rajputs from the Mughals. Vidyadharji ka Bagh also got its design from the lines of Mughal garden. The garden is spread in the valley between two low hills and has a lovely setting.
Apart from these attractions other minor attractions involve
Close to the Tripolia Gate and within the Old City area of Jaipur, the Iswari Minar Swarga Sal has an interesting history, being built by the son of Jai Singh. Many people visit this attraction to climb to the top and enjoy the stunning views across the Old City. The entrance to the Iswari Minar Swarga Sal is located at the back and off the Chandpol Bazaar.The Moti Doongri Temple, which lies close to the very heart of the Old City district. Enjoying a hilltop setting and affording good city views, the Moti Doongri Temple resembles an English castle in style and is still owned by the royal family. Although tourists are not able to view the interior of the fortress, the white marble is impressive in its own right, appearing to glow at night-time. Nearby attractions include the Ganesh Temple and also the Birla Mandir shrines.Tourists staying in Rajasthan will immediately realise that camel rides are amongst the most popular tourist attractions and enjoyed by many. A number of sandy deserts lie close to Jaipur, where companies operating camel safaris are easy to find. Offering an enjoyable audio-visual experience, visitors to Jaipur's Birla Planetarium will enjoy its many astronomical attractions, which range from star constellations to the solar system as a whole, using state-of-the-art technology. The Birla Planetarium is actually part of the Birla Science and Technology Centre and is sited close to the city's Statue Circle.Along with plenty of historic forts and ancient temples, Jaipur offers a thriving tourism scene and plenty of tourist attractions for visitors to enjoy. Look out for the camel rides, which are particularly spectacular at sunset, together with a range of recreational activities, such as boating and horse riding. Other popular tourist attractions in Jaipur include stargazing at the Birla Planetarium and Indian Masal movies at the Raj Mandhir Theatre.
The tourist attractions in Jaipur are the architectural marvels, perhaps the most popular being the Hawa Mahal.Once used as a veil by the royal women to watch the proceedings on the road, it is today one of the most visited monuments in Jaipur.Jaipur is a vibrant land that reflects myriad colors of tranquil peace, gaiety, traditions, cultural fiestas and more.
Come and explore fascinating Jaipur drenched in hues of romantic fuchsia. Feel an indescribable exuberance as you stroll along the narrow lanes of the Old Jaipur city as the sun goes down and the monuments of Jaipur blush in light pink hues, a panoramic vista that you would not want to miss.
Sources
www.indianholiday.com
www.jaipur.world-guides.com
travel.mapsofindia.com
www.indianhorizons.net
www.jaipurhub.com
www.indiahotelsandtours.com
en.wikipedia.org
www.royalorienttrain.com
www.jaipur.org.uk
www.touroftajmahal.com
