JAIPUR

Jaipur is a city with various charms. The royal city of Rajasthan is not just home to forts, palaces and incredible architecture, it is home to intricate arts and crafts. The walled city has joined the ranks of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India and is also a UNESCO inscribed Creative City of folk arts and crafts. The Pink City as is lovingly called has a rich history of performing culture and craft production. UNESCO celebrates the distinct artistic identity of Jaipur. On a visit to the city, take a look at the creation of the arts and crafts.

Under the patronage of the Kachwahas, different art forms were laid and developed. Today, Jaipur has 30 different crafts forms, and at least 7 mainstream performing arts with 36 craft industries (karkhanas) of different kinds of crafts from textile production to stonework.

The traditional bazaars and popular markets of Jaipur offer a look at these impressive workmanship and shop for these treasures. Here is all that you need to know about the Jaipur’s creations.

1. Blue Pottery

Jaipur has a reputation for blue pottery. The craftsmanship is used to make objects like flower vases, lamp shades, crockery, jewellery boxes, serving trays and other things. The pottery stands out as it is made of unique quartz stone and has vibrant blue and golden designs, or animal and bird motifs.

2. Lac Bangles

A fashionable creation, bangles in Jaipur are made of lacquer, a type of varnish from wood. These bangles are strikingly beautiful with bold colors and artistic designs of colorful beads, stones or mirror work.

3. Gems and Metal Jewelry

Jewelry making in Jaipur is as old as the city itself. Crafted in all its sparkling forms in the gold, silver and diamond with delicate Meenakari, Jadau, and Kundan work these handmade crafts make them look gorgeous. The traditional Thewa jewelry has its own charm as well. The jewelry ranges from necklaces, anklets, headgear, pendants, bracelets, nose rings, earrings, etc. Jaipur is also famous for its precious stones and gems.

4. Textiles

Textiles are also a specialty of Jaipur. These textiles are hand-made in vibrant shades and made unique with block printing and different styles. Bandhani sarees are among the famous creations of Jaipur as are odhnis, shawls, scarves, and more turbans. Plant based paints and hand-made designs are the reason the textiles are uniquely wonderful.

5. Miniature Paintings

Another handcrafted treasure of Jaipur are miniature paintings. Made from natural paints derived from plants, minerals, and shells the art does not fade through time. A special feature of the paintings are sparkling effects that is created by crushed powder of precious or semi-precious stones.

6. Wooden Furniture

Jaipur is well-known for its marvellous wooden furniture. They have unique design and motifs, especially latticework. The beautiful wooden furniture includes chairs, stools, cabinets, picture frames, jewelry boxes, household items among many others.

7. Puppets

Colourful puppets are one of the best souvenirs of a holiday in Jaipur. Finely crafted by craftsmen at almost every market of the city, puppets are used for home décor or play toys for children.

8. Jootis

An essential part of Rajasthan’s traditional attire, jootis meaning shoes are one of the finely crafted treasures of the city. Worn at the time of festive seasons, marriage ceremonies and special occasions, they are beautifully made from camel leather and embellished with stones and embroidery.

9. Rugs and Carpets

Jaipur is known for the finest hand-made carpets and rugs. Woven in rich colors, patterns, and designs, the wool or silk rugs and carpets are best used as home décor items. You can either watch the artisans weave or shop for the finished products.

10. Marble Handicrafts

Jaipur is world-famous for its handicrafts made of marble. In the bustling city shop for marble statues, sculptures, furniture, table tops, flower vases, serving trays, etc. The fantastic display are perfect for souvenirs.

The arts and crafts of Jaipur are known to offer a fabulous shopping experience. So, when a plan a trip to Jaipur, look beyond the forts, palaces and sightseeing. Explore the creativity and the incredible cultural heritage.

We are nothing without our past, and in India it is the same. The golden yesteryears are a source of some incredible tourism moments in the country. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, the royal Rajputana is one among the must-visit places in India. A point on the Golden Triangle circuit, the "Pink City" is a city that has preserved its past.

To learn more about the glorious history, culture, traditions and hospitality, here is a list of the must-try experiences in Jaipur.

City Palace Tour

The City Palace is still the dwelling of the former royalty H.H Bhawani Singh Ji of Jaipur. This Palace still has an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons.

Early Morning Visit to the Amer Fort

The Amber Fort is located 11 km away from Jaipur. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur. The Fort is an excellent illustration of Rajput architecture, impressively situated on a hillside facing a lake, which reflects its walkways and walls.

Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds): Constructed by Maharaja Sawaj Pratap Singh in 1799, the Hawa Mahal is one of the Jaipur’s main landmarks, the front of the Mahal has pink windows and latticework screens. This mahal was initially constructed for the ladies of the imperial household to watch the ordinary life and parades of the city.

Heritage Walking tour of Jaipur

A walk through the colourful and vibrant bazaars of the Pink city of Jaipur. The walk starts at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) , which is one of Jaipur’s most famous and photographed landmarks, and ends at the Tripolia Gate, one of the entry points to the Jaipur City Palace.  On this fascinating walk  mingle and talk with the locals whilst sampling some of the regions culinary delights, like Pakoras, Aloo Tikki, Samosa and local sweets from some of the city’s most popular street food vendors. Observe local artisans in their workshops, Jewellers and Silversmiths, Gold painters and Bangle making experts.

Cooking Class at Ikaki Niwas Homestay

A journey to India can never be complete without a culinary experience with a local family. This is an opportunity to learn about the secret home recipes and the culture of Rajasthan, while cooking and eating either Lunch or Dinner at the Ikaki Niwas Homestay.  The hostesses Mrs. Devika Rathore and Ms. Chandrika Rathore deliver the cooking sessions , where you learn about spices and participate in the preparation of the meal and then sit down to lunch or dinner with your hosts, learning about Indian lifestyle, as well as cuisines.

Jantar Mantar- UNESCO World Heritage Site

Built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728. Jantar Mantar appears to be an inquisitive collection of sculptures but in fact each construction has a detailed purpose such as measuring the positions of stars, altitudes and azimuths, and calculating eclipses. The most striking instrument is the sundial which is 27 meter tall gnomon. The shadow this casts moves up to 4 meters an hour.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience Jaipur  from a Hot Air Ballon on this unforgettable 1 hour  Balloon flight.  You will drift slowly over the historical forts and hidden palaces nestled amongst the countryside on Jaipur's outskirts, watch the sun rise and enjoy a unique view of traditional Rajasthani life. Don't forget to exchange smiles & waves with the friendly villagers below!

Evening at Chokhi Dhani

Taste Rajasthani Delicacy in Jaipur

Jal Mahal

India’s favoured Golden Triangle circuit needs no introduction when it comes to a brief tour of the country’s history, architecture, heritage, culture, and tourist experiences. The Golden Triangle Tour covers cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, the three major tourist destinations in North India.

Delhi is the magical “City of Cities” with lots of heritage sites, culture excursions and some of the best hospitality. Agra makes its name on the world map with the beautiful ‘wonder of the world’ Taj Mahal. The most-photographed landmark in India needs no introduction; its ethereal beauty tells many tales of Mughal grandeur. Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan and the newest entry on the list of UNESCO world heritage sites is a city of royal architecture, hospitality and the magnificence of Rajputana.

Now that you are aware of the charms of the Golden Triangle tour packages take a look at the amazing things to do on your holiday.

        1. Rickshaw ride in ChandniChowk

ChandniChowk in Old Delhi is a treasure of heritage and culture, in fact, the most amazing there is to explore in Delhi or all of the Golden Triangle circuit. Dating back to the Mughal days but now a vibrant shopping area, the old town area of ChandniChowk deserves to be explored and that too on a rickshaw ride. Explore the old alleys lined with heritage sites, watch the centuries old-shops trading spices, and do not miss out to shop for some great takeaways.

        2. Taste a palate of rich Indian gastronomy

Indian food is a palate of rich flavours, smells and unique tastes. Any India tour remains incomplete without trying the dishes. Street food in Old Delhi, especially the ParathewaliGali and the Mughlai dishes near Jama Masjid deserves a try. Agra is a city of Mughal splendour and not just in architecture but also gastronomy. The city is known for the delicious ‘Petha’, a sweet made of pumpkin dipped in sugar syrup. Do not miss to try over 50 types of savoury local chaats across the city. Jaipur is known for the delicious daal-baati-churma, kachoris, laalmaas and other pleasures.

        3. Heritage Tours of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

When it comes to Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, heritage is the prized attraction. The historic cities are home to incredible monuments, architecture and landmarks including the “Wonder of the World” Taj Mahal. Heritage tours of the cities allow a proper exploration of the architectural splendours. Learn about the history, characteristics of design, layout and more with a guided tour. Understand the incredible legacy at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other sites.

        4. Relive history in the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri

On the last leg of Golden triangle tour, en route Jaipur from Agra lies Fatehpur Sikri. Exuding the same charm and marvellous architecture of the Mughal Empire, the abandoned city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for intricate, detailed carvings and designs.

        5. Discover Kathputhli Colony

The Kathputhli Colony is slum dwelling in the heart of Delhi. The colony is home to artists, dancers, singers, and of course, puppeteers. Watch performances of local dances like Chari, Ghumar, Bhawai and Dandiya here. There are puppet shows, magic and fire show to enjoy. Take the Art of Hope tour for enriching experiences.

        6. Experience Sufism

Sufism is not just a religion but more of a life-changing experience. For such a soulful rendezvous get to the NizamuddinDargah in Delhi, the tomb of Sufi Saint NizamuddinAuliya. Enjoy the divine Qawwalis sung by the devotees at the Dargah every Friday. After the soothing Sufi experiences try out delicacies at Karim’s or GhalibKabab Corner.

        7. Visit the Lotus Temple

The beautiful Lotus Temple is one of the popular landmarks of Delhi and also the Golden Triangle circuit. The architectural wonder deserves complete attention to bask in the soothing aura. Set in the middle of well-manicured lawns, the temple appears like a white lotus, and is a place of worship, of solitude and bliss.

        8. Cook like the locals

Indian food is a delight that deserves some special attention. While you can indulge in some great tastes a Golden Triangle tour becomes memorable when you also learn to create some Indian dishes. Learn cooking the local dishes with a local family and afterwards enjoying a delicious meal with them. Learn the local way of cooking, the use of spices and recipes.

        9. Watch the creation of impressive handicrafts

The Golden Triangle tour gives you a chance to explore the best of Indian arts and artisans. Enjoy a hands-on experience of the creation of impressive handicrafts. Learn about hand-block printing at the Sakshi Block Printing Factory or blue pottery, creation of traditional jewellery and more, at Sanganer Village in Jaipur.

        10 Shopping in Jaipur markets

All stops of the Golden Triangle Tour are all great shoppers’ paradise. No holiday in India is ever complete with a shopping trip. You can get beautiful handicrafts, clothes, handlooms and arts at the various markets in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

A journey of a lifetime, the Golden Triangle Tour offers an incredible experience of Indian history, heritage, culture, gastronomy and other charms. To make the vacation all the more amazing, there is a golden chance of extending the trip with a visit to places such as Bharatpur, Ranthambore, Udaipur, Varanasi, Kerala or Goa or any other place that suits your interest.

The royal capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur, globally known as the ‘Pink City’ has recently joined the elite UNESCO World Heritage list. One of the most popular places to visit in India, the regal city of Jaipur has for decades lured visitors from all over the globe with its opulence. Magnificent architecture, rich traditions, royal hospitality, Jaipur has so much to offer. Indulge in sightseeing, royal stay, a superlative shopping experience and more. Definitely a delight for those interested in Indian heritage, Jaipur has been one of the most popular places to visit in India. In fact, it is a part of the most-sought travel itinerary of India, the Golden Triangle Tour.

Besides a display of royal palaces, mighty forts, culture and heritage, there is fabulous food, fairs, and festivals, arts and crafts, music and dance and many treasures to explore. The city remains in welcoming spirit mode for the better part of the year except for a few summer months. Here is a Jaipur Travel Guide that will certainly assist you in planning a wonderful holiday in Jaipur.

The secrets of the Walled City

The 18th century walled city of Jaipur is one of the most glamorous testament of the era of Rajputs and the unique elegance of Rajasthan. Jaipur was conceptualised after studying the urban planning of several European cities. For the first time in Indian history, a blueprint was made, which brought to life India’s first aesthetic well-planned city. However, it was the vision of the Maharaja Jai Singh II and his business acumen and scientific temperament. Giving fruition to his vision was the architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya. The city was designed on the concepts of Shilpa Shashtra and Vastu Shashtra to ensure a lot of natural sunshine and breeze in residential and commercial establishments.

Spectacular arched pols (gates), located at seven entry points lead to a well-laid city in a geometric grid of streets cutting each other at right angles. The layout is such that every corner of the city gets adequate air and light. The water conservation and management system, drainage system, and the organisation of town space as different functional units was well thought of.

The three chaupars (squares) with temples of Hindu goddesses were established as settlements of priests, warriors, and a business hub. The entire city was divided into nine squares or chaukri, dedicated to nine planets. The jharokhas, and lattice work decorate the buildings. The city was painted in pink by Maharaja Ram Singh in 1876 to honour the visit of the Prince of Wales. The cultural significance of the city is the major reason for Jaipur’s entry to the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Wonders of the ‘Pink City’

Jaipur comes with an extensive list of places to see, things to do and the most of all many cherished experiences.

The first among the places to visit in Jaipur is the City Palace, home to the rulers of Jaipur from the first half of the 18th century is an amalgamation of Rajput and Mughal architecture. It has a museum housing royal artefacts. The extravagantly decorated Chandra Mahal is closed for public but even the entrance to this palace is as gorgeous as the rest of the sprawling palace complex.

The UNESCO heritage site of Jantar Mantar (Observatory), built during 1728-1734, shows the founder-Jai Singh II's keen interest in astronomy. It is well-preserved and has 19 astronomical instruments that resemble large sculptures used to calculate time, the position of stars and the Sun, and to predict natural phenomena.

The iconic Hawa Mahal or the palace of winds, erected by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 is another iconic landmark in Jaipur. The projected windows, balconies and perforated screen with ornate pink façade makes it the most photographed places among tourists. The palace was built for royal ladies to observe the lively street scenes below unnoticed.

One outstanding feature of the walled city is that numerous temples co-exist with mosques. Even the shops in the markets in the walled city have been numbered and marked according to the city planning.

Beyond the Walled City

The seven-storied Jal Mahal that remains partly submerged, giving an illusion of a floating palace. Built in mid-18th century, it hosted duck-shooting events by the royalty. Nowadays, birdwatchers throng the lakeside as they present sighting of 84 species, including 72 species of migratory birds.

Drive a little further to visit the three elegant forts of Jaipur- Amber, Jaigarh and Nahargarh. The UNESCO heritage site of Amber Fort was built by Man Singh I in 1592 on a high hillock. Ride up on an elephant to the yellow-sandstone fortress or hike while enjoying the views. Sheesh Mahal here is a must-visit. Another highlight is the Light and Sound show in the evening. The nearby Jaigarh Fort is said to be connected to Amber through a secret passage. The fortress is home to the world’s largest cannon on wheels- a 50-tonne Jaivana, only fired once. Armouries, museums and photo-session opportunities make it worth visiting.

The rich legacy of royal Rajasthan is treasured in Jaipur’s museums. The majestic Indo-Saracenic architecture of Albert Hall Museum (1876), The Gems and Jewellery Museum, and the Doll Museum are worth visiting. The Jawahar Kala Kendra and Birla Auditorium host art and craft exhibitions and performing arts.

Other tourist attractions in Jaipur are the 18th century terraced-garden of Sisodiya Rani Ka Bagh, the Vidyadhar Garden set in the foothills of Moti Doongri Palace, Galta ji Ka Temple with its hot spring, Samode Garden and Sanganer- famous for block printed cotton, handmade paper, and blue pottery.

Shop till you drop

It was the foresight of Sawai Jai Singh II that Jaipur city was developed as a commercial hub. Traders and investments were invited from far and wide, from Bengal to Iran, and were granted housing facilities. A thriving trade in jewellery, gemstones, handicrafts, artillery, and marble flourished in due course of time. Shopping in the Pink City is one of the most amazing things to do in Jaipur.

Each lane being dedicated to one business or crafts and named after the economic activity. The colourful markets are a treasure trove of traditional textiles and crafts. An array of traditional embroidery, tie and dye fabric, gems and jewellery, blankets, camel skin bags and belts, blue pottery, Rajasthani puppets, eatables are among the things to buy in Jaipur.

Festivals

Celebrated with great fervour are the grand processions of Teej and Gangaur. Diwali when the entire walled city is lit up, and Holi with a touch of royal traditions are the popular festivals in Jaipur.

Apart from religious festivals, Jaipur is popular for its art and culture, dance, music, theatre, food and literary festivals. The Jaipur Literature Festival is the most popular event that attracts renowned litterateurs from around the world. Other popular festivals and events include Jaipur Diwas, International Film Festival, and the Kite Festival.

Gastronomic delights

Jaipur city has earned a reputation for its mouth-watering food. Chokhi Dhani offers a taste of rural cuisine while hip cafés offer farm-to-table experience of global food. Trendy cafes, bars with hookah, live music, and rooftop restaurants spoil you for choice.

Splurge on traditional royal recipes with a visit to the heritage Suvarna Mahal Restaurant at Taj Rambagh Palace or 1135 AD in Amber Fort.

The street food offers savouries and sweets in the maze of lanes. The hot mirch ka pakoda (chilli fritters), delicious pyaz ki kachori, spicy samosas, etc. are must-haves. Those with a sweet tooth have savory options of delectable paneer ghevar, rabdi and laddoos. The quintessential Rajasthani favourite dal-bati-choorma could be had at most traditional eating places.

Where to Stay?

Jaipur offer accommodation options in all categories and to suit all budgets. Heritage hotels in Jaipur steal the show when you think of where to stay. The Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, Oberoi Rajvilas, Jai Mahal Palace, Samode Haveli, Alsisar Haveli and Shahpura House are among the most popular options to stay in Jaipur.

The happening Pink City of Jaipur is among those places that every traveller to India must definitely visit !