Jaipur

If ancient palaces and architecture attract you, and you crave for an insight to the lavish lifestyle of the rulers of the bygone era, then Jaipur is the city for you. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, can be your ideal vacation spot if you long to experience the marvelous architecture that flaunts the expertise of old artisans. The very mention of Jaipur evokes images of kings and palaces, and queens and princesses in all their regal finery. Fancy elephant rides and a luxurious stay in one of the heritage hotel’s here will give you a glimpse of the imperial experience. The city is also known as the “Pink City”, do you know why? The whole of Jaipur was painted in pink during the rule of Sawai Man Singh to welcome Prince Edward of Wales. Pink is the colour associated with hospitality, and since then the colour has been retained, and it is popularly known as ‘The Pink City’. Jaipur is rich in history, culture, and tradition, and has a lot of attractions and experiences for every visitor.

History of Jaipur Jaipur's history dates back to the 12th century when the Kachchwaha clan of Rajputs arrived at the old fort palace of Amber in the Aravalli Hills. The city was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in November 1727, and also got its name from this brave Hindu ruler. The city of Jaipur was planned as per the Indian Vastu Shastra, a science that promotes well being and prosperity. Jaipur has also developed economically over the years, due to the city’s tourism.

Art and Culture of Jaipur Jaipur is known for its culture, and people here are known for their warm and kind attitude. People here love to dress up in vibrant colourful outfits clubbed with beautifully carved jewellery. Remember to visit the Jawahar Kala Kendra and Ravindra Manch if you want to experience the culture of Jaipur closely. The Albert Hall Museum and the government museum at Hawa Mahal include various art pieces and antiques that give a glimpse of Jaipur’s beautiful culture. Folk music and dance are the major attractions of the city. Ghoomar, where the women perform wearing flowing colourful ghagharas and Chari, where the dancers perform with pots including lit diyas on their head, are among the major dance festivals of Jaipur.

Fairs and FestivalsThe beautiful city is immensely famous for the numerous fairs and festivals it holds in its backyard. Irrespective of caste and creed, people come together and enjoy the festivals and fairs held in the state. The festivals such as Teej, Diwali, Gangaur, Kite Festival, Elephant Festival, Camel Festival, etc are celebrated with great fervour and joy.
Gangaur Festival - Gangaur is the most significant and colourful festival which is celebrated with great zeal all over the Rajasthan and in some parts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati or Gauri are worshipped during this festival. This festival is celebrated in the Hindu month of Chaitra, between the months of March and April, according to the Gregorian calendar.

Teej FestivalTeej is another important festival celebrated Jaipur. On this day, women and girls wear new clothes, jewelleries and make designs on their palms and feet with mehndi (henna). They gather in group in a temple and perform special puja, aarti and offer prasad to Goddess Parvati. Women and girls perform folk dance, sing traditional teej songs and enjoy swinging. These three are the unique features of this festival.

Kite FestivalOn 14th January, the festival of Makar Sakranti is celebrated all over India. Also, on this day, people enjoy the flying of kites. Complete sky is adorned with beautiful, big and small colourful kites. In Jaipur, it is declared as the state holiday.

Elephant FestivalThe Elephant Festival is an annual festival which is held every year in the Pink City, Jaipur. It is celebrated on the day before the festivals of colours i.e. Holi. From the ancient times, elephants have always been an important part of the Indian society. The Elephant-headed God, Ganesha, believed to be the remover of obstacles and foremost to all the gods, is revered and devotedly worshipped in all the parts of India.

Food The city offers some mouth watering delicacies such as Dal Bati Churma, Missi Roti, and the exceptionally large Pyaaz Kachori. Ghevar, Chaugani ke Laddu, and Moong Thal are among the popular sweet dishes here.

Best time to visit Jaipur Winter: Winters are from October to March and are the best time to enjoy holidays in Jaipur city

Summer: Summers are from April to June and are very hot and dry

Monsoon: Monsoon season is from July to September but Jaipur receives low to medium rainfall

How to Reach Jaipur By Rail ? Jaipur is connected to all the major Indian cities

By Air ? Jaipur International Airport is located in Sanganer. Both international and domestic flights to several places are available from here

By Road ? The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) provides regular Volvo and deluxe buses between Jaipur and neighbouring cities. Those driving from Delhi can reach Jaipur in about 5 to 6 hours, via NH 8 route.