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Jaipur, also popularly known as the Pink City,
historically sometimes rendered as Jeypore, is
the capital of Rajasthan state, India. Jaipur is
also the capital of Jaipur District. Jaipur is
the former capital of the princely state of
Jaipur. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai
Singh II, the ruler of Amber. By 2003, after
only 276 years, the population had reached
approximately 2.7 million.
Built of pink stucco in imitation of sandstone,
the city is remarkable among pre-modern Indian
cities for the width and regularity of its
streets which are laid out into six quarters
separated by broad streets 111 ft (34 m) wide.
The urban quarters are further divided by
networks of gridded streets. Five quarters wrap
around the east, south, and west sides of a
central palace quarter, with a sixth quarter
immediately to the east. The Palace quarter
encloses a sprawling palace complex (the Hawa
Mahal, or palace of winds), formal gardens, and
a small lake.
Nahargarh Fort crowns the hill in
the northwest corner of the old city. Another
noteworthy building is Sawai Jai Singh's
observatory, Jantar Mantar. With its rich and
colourful past, resplendent with tales of valour
and bravery, Jaipur is now one of the most
important heritage cities in India, and is a
must-see for tourists coming to India. |
Jaipur is considered by many urbanites to be one
of the best planned cities. Almost all Northern
Indian towns of that period presented a chaotic
picture of narrow twisting lanes, a confusion of
run-down forts/temples/palaces and temporary
shacks that bore no resemblance at all to the
principles set out in Hindu architectural
manuals, which calls for strict geometric
planning. Thus, for Sawai Jai Singh II and the
Bengali Guru Vidyadhar (who was a 'Shaspati' -
Hindu Priest Architect), the founding of Jaipur
was also a ritual and a golden opportunity to
plan a whole town according to the principles of
Hindu architectural theory. The town of Jaipur
is in fact, built in the form of a nine-part
Mandala known as the 'Pithapada'. Nine signifies
the nine planets of the ancient astrological
zodiac. It is also known that Sawai Jai Singh II
was a great astronomer and a town planner and
hence the 'Pithapada'. Also, the commercial
shops designed are multiples of nine (27) and
then having one cross street for a planet.
Location
The district is situated in the eastern part of
Rajasthan. It is bound in the north by Sikar and
Alwar, in South by Tonk, Ajmer and Sawai Madhopur.
Nagaur, Sikar and Ajmer in the west and in east by
Bharatpur and Dausa districts.
Jaipur, the pink city was founded in 1727 by
Maharaja Jai Singh II, a Kachhwaha Rajput, who ruled
from 1699-1744. Initially his capital was Amber,
which lies at a distance of 11kms from Jaipur. He
felt the need of shifting his capital city with the
increase in population and growing scarcity of
water. Jaipur is the first planned city of India and
the King took great interest while designing this
city of victory. He consulted several books on
architecture and architects before making the lay
out of Jaipur.
After several battles with Marathas, Jai Singh was
keen on the security aspect of the city. Due to this
reason, he focused on his scientific and cultural
interests to make a brilliant city. Being, a lover
of mathematics and science, Jai Singh sought advice
from Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Brahmin scholar of
Bengal, to aid him design the city architecture.
Vidyadhar referred the ancient Indian literature on
astronomy, books of Ptolemy and Euclid, and
discussed the plan with the King.
With a strategic plan, the construction of the city
started in 1727. It took around 4 years to complete
the major palaces, roads and square. The city was
built following the principles of Shilpa Shastra,
the Indian Architecture. The city was divided into
nine blocks, out of which two consist the state
buildings and palaces, whereas the remaining seven
blocks were allotted to the public. In order to
ensure the security, huge fortification walls were
made along with seven strong gates.
According to that time, architecture of the town was
very advanced and certainly the best in Indian
subcontinent. In 1853, when Prince of Wales visited
Jaipur, the whole city was painted in Pink color to
welcome him. Still, the neat and broadly laid-out
avenues, painted in pink provide a magical charm to
the city. Jaipur is rich in its cultural and
architectural beauty, which can be traced in the
various historical and aesthetic places that reside
in the city. This city of victory really wins the
hearts of the people with its splendid charisma.
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.
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. City Palace
complex covers a huge area, which is divided into a
series of gardens, courtyards and buildings.
Initially, Raja Jai Singh built the outer wall
occupying a huge area. The additional grand
buildings were constructed later by the succeeding
rulers.
A part of the exquisite Palace still makes home for
the former Maharaja/ King. The premises consists
several buildings like Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal,
Mukut Mahal, Maharani's Palace, Shri Govind Dev
Temple and the City Palace Museum. One would come
across the Mubarak Mahal, as one enters the first
square. Mubarak Mahal was built by Sawai Madho Singh
in the 19th century to entertain his guests. Today,
it has converted into a costume gallery, which
displays royal attires of the Kings.
After crossing the first square, a beautiful gateway
welcomes to Diwan-I-Khas, a hall meant for private
audience. It has two sterling silver vessels on
display and they are acclaimed to be the world's
largest silver vessel. These vessels were made for
Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II to carry water from
River Ganga to drink on his trip to England.
Diwan-I-Aam, which was meant for public audience,
forms the other attraction of this courtyard. At
present, it makes an art gallery showcasing
enthralling painted ceilings and rare ancient
handwritten original manuscripts of Hindu
scriptures.
In the series, Maharani's Palace, which was meant
for royal queens, has been converted into a museum,
showcasing weapons dated back to 15th century.
Chandra Mahal is essentially regarded as the best
part, out of the whole tour to City Palace. It has
seven stories and each story is known by a different
name. The topmost story is known as Mukut Mahal. The
wonderful architecture of this Palace with delicate
paintings, mirror work on walls and floral
decorations, makes it a "must-see" for every
visitor. In the present day, this palace serves as
the residence of ex-ruler.
Badal Mahal stands opposite to Chandra Mahal and
while crossing the path, one would find Govind Dev
Ji Temple between them. Above all these, the Palace
also offers delicacies in its multi cuisine
restaurant. To sum up, the City Palace is a
structure of historical importance and a souvenir of
the regal past. The palace, with its royal grace
stands as a symbol of magnificence. All these
features of City Palace leave the tourists with no
other option, but to visit it.
HAWA MAHAL ( PALACE OF WIND )
Hawa Mahal is a major landmark and a famous tourist
attraction of Jaipur. The Palace offers a beautiful
sight to behold. The splendid Rajputana architecture
of Hawa Mahal, still speaks the glory of the royal
family. However, one can also find a glimpse of
Mughal architecture, which is blended perfectly to
make it different from others. The literal meaning
of Hawa Mahal is Palace of Winds. Hawa Mahal was
built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799.
Hawa Mahal is a pyramid-shaped facade with five
stories. It has 953 small windows decorated with
tiny lattice work. These pink sandstone windows
commonly known as "Jharokhas" are constructed in
such a style, that it looks like a giant honeycomb.
The air circulation through windows represents the
marvelous touch of Mughal designing, which keeps the
Palace always cool. The small screened balconies and
arched roofs with hanging cornices enhance the
beauty of the Palace. The Pyramidal outline and
replication of pattern makes it more attractive in
appearance.
As a matter of fact, Hawa Mahal is believed to build
for the women of the Royal Families, since they had
to observe strict "purdah" (cover). The small
windows and screened balconies serve the women to
watch processions and different activities taking
place on the streets. In this manner, the women
could enjoy a sense of freedom without showing
themselves.
Early morning is considered as the best time to
visit the Palace, when it is drenched in the golden
light of the Sun. At this time, Hawa Mahal appears
incredible. One cannot possibly describe the beauty
of the Palace in words. The golden light of the
early morning sun floats beautifully through the
windows of this palace creating a wonderful sight
for one and all. The palace has to be visited to
experience the true beauty.
JANTAR MANTAR ( OBSERVATORY )
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.
Jantar Mantar has a remarkable collection of
architectural astronomical instruments. It portrays
noteworthy attempt of the ancestors, who were
interested in astronomy and knowledge of celestial
bodies. Above all, this observatory still, provides
accurate information, which can be compared with
today's modern instruments undeniably. The compound
instruments, whose settings and shapes are
scientifically designed depicts the forte of
Medieval Indian Astronomy.
Jantar Mantar is wholly constructed with stone and
marble. The observatory has fourteen statistical
instruments for measuring time, predicting eclipses
and to ascertain other astronomical events. Amongst
all the instruments, the Sundial usually attracts
the maximum attention of people, which tells the
time to an accuracy of about two seconds in local
time of Jaipur. Jantar Mantar was carefully
renovated in 1901 and was declared a national
monument in 1948. Today, Jantar Mantar has become a
major tourist attraction in Jaipur.
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.
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. It has several palaces, granary,
well-planned cannon foundry, several temples and a
tall tower. Jaigarh Fort used to serve as the center
of artillery production for the Rajputs.
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.
The museum has a remarkable collection of coins,
puppets, photographs of the royal kings, buildings,
processions and even a circular pack of cards
besides many other remnants of the past. The armory
has numerous swords, shields, guns, muskets and even
a 50 kg cannon ball, which would take you back to
the gallantry days of the Kings. One can also see a
few weather beaten sedan chairs and drums at the
Shubhat Niwas or the Meeting Hall of Warriors. Above
all, the Fort offers a wonderful view of the city
below. Jaigarh Fort is a perfect destination for a
traveler, interested in the majestic past of India.
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. Keeping
this fact in mind, the fort was made to serve as a
means of supporting the security of Amer. 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.
According to a legend, the Fort was named after a
prince, whose spirit used to haunt the construction
site. As a result, a tantrik was called and the
ghost agreed to leave the fort only if, the fort was
named after him. There are numerous buildings
situated inside the Nahargarh Fort and amongst them,
Madhavendra Bhawan appeals the most. It was built by
Sawai Ram Singh II and has a series of
interconnected rooms with colorful corridors and
hallways. This Place was used as a picnic spot for
the members of the Royal family.
Another major attraction of the Fort is that, it
provides an eye catching view of the Man Sagar Lake
and the suburbs. 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
GALTAJI TEMPLE
Galtaji is a holy pilgrimage of India, located 10
kms away from Jaipur in Rajasthan. The vast complex
of Galta Ji has several temples in it. The Temple of
Galtaji is famous for its natural water springs. Set
amidst the beautiful landscape, Galtaji Temple
offers a picturesque view of the city. Galtaji is
considered holy place, as Saint Galav spent his life
meditating here. However, the temple was built mach
later by Diwan Rao Kriparam, a courtier of Sawai Jai
Singh II, in the 18th Century. The outstanding
structure of the Temple looks more like a mansion or
Haveli.
The complex of Galtaji has numerous temples,
pavilions, natural springs and holy 'kunds'. Built
in pink sandstone, Galtaji Temple appeals to the
aesthetic sense of the visitors. The temple,
dedicated to the Sun God, is the most famous temple
built on the top of a hill. The temple is decked
with rounded roofs, exquisitely carved pillars and
painted walls. Out of all other temples, Hanuman
temple stands out, being surrounded by hundreds of
monkeys. Besides all other attractions, Natural
water springs draw special attention of the
visitors.
The water of these springs is accumulated in the
tanks or 'kunds'. In all, there are seven tanks,
holiest being the Galta Kund, which never goes dry.
It is considered auspicious to take bath in the holy
waters of Galtaji. Thousands of people come every
year to take a dip in the tanks to rinse out their
sins. Makar Sankranti is regarded as a special day
to take bath in the holy waters of Galtaji.
Galtaji Temple is a prehistoric pilgrimage location,
in a lush green landscape of nature. The location of
temple is such that it provides awe-inspiring views
of the surrounding plains. The Galtaji Temple is a
souvenir of the former age and a sacred pilgrimage
of the Hindus. The tranquility of the Temple,
attracts people from far and near, to visit it again
and again.
GAITORE ( CENOTAPHS )
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. Gaitore is
regarded to be the mispronounced form of a Hindi
phrase 'Gaye ka Thor' which means 'resting place of
the departed souls'.
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.
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.
Time zoneIST (UTC+5:30)
Area 200.4 kmē (77 sq mi)
Elevation 431 m (1,414 ft)
Population 3,324,319 (2005
Density 16,588/kmē (42,963/sq mi) |
