Jaipur

4.22

Jaipur, fondly known as the Pink City, is a vibrant city in the heart of Rajasthan, India. Renowned for its majestic palaces, forts, and a rich cultural heritage, Jaipur offers a fascinating glimpse into India's royal past. Established in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur serves as the capital of Rajasthan, embodying a harmonic blend of history and modernity.

Nestled within the Aravalli hills, Jaipur features an arid climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. The city's unique pink-colored buildings were painted in the 19th century to welcome the visit of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, earning it the nickname 'Pink City'.

Jaipur's historical significance is profound, reflected in landmarks like the City Palace, still home to the former royal family, and the stunning Hawa Mahal, known for its distinct honeycomb facade. Equally noteworthy is the Amber Fort, a magnificent example of Rajput architecture. These sites, along with Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory, are part of Jaipur's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city is a cultural beacon, hosting the annual Jaipur Literature Festival, the largest of its kind in Asia, which attracts authors and readers from all over the globe. Diwali, celebrated with grandeur, illuminates the entire city with traditional lights, while Gangaur Festival highlights the rich folklore and traditions of Rajasthan through vibrant processions and rituals.

An intriguing fact about Jaipur is its well-planned urban layout. It is one of India's earliest planned cities, designed based on Indian Vastu Shastra (architecture principles), with streets and markets arranged in a precise grid system.