Jaipur - A Paradise for Heritage Lovers

The Pink city of Rajasthan is immersed in the relics of the rich past, which keeps on illuminating the great culture of the awe-inspiring land. Jaipur was founded by the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727. The architecture of the place is based upon the principles of Vastu Shashtra and is considered as one of the most impressive pre-modern cities in India.

There are many places depicting the affluent heritage and culture of the city. The Rajputana history speaks through its architecture, various beautiful palaces, forts, gardens and temples. Some of the sites which are the most famous among them are:

City Palace - Built in 1932 this grand and splendid complex encompasses many palaces, courtyards and gardens. The royal family of Jaipur still lives in one of the palaces known as Chandra Mahal. Many of the other palaces have been converted into museums. Like, there are museums of costumes belonging to the royal family, weapons, which were used during the war by the Rajputs and the royal carriages and palanquins.

Jantar Mantar - This monument of astronomical significance was built by the learned King Jai Singh II, from 1727 to 1734. His love for mathematics, astronomy and astrophysics culminated into this scientific structure, which was used to study the celestial objects.

Hawa Mahal - This impressive structure was built by the Maharaja Sawai Pratab Singh in the year 1799. The five-story building consists of several windows, which helped to cool the inside temperature and also let the royal women peek into the streets outside without getting noticed.

Nahargarh Fort - The fort was built in 1734 as a retreat by the royal family. Standing on the periphery of the enchanting Aravali Hills, the fort provides a vantage point from which one can have a panoramic view of the alluring city of the Jaipur. The fort looks magnificent in the night, when it is illuminated by the flood lights.

Amber Fort and Palace (or Amer Fort) - Located in Amer town, 11 km from the Jaipur, this dazzling complex of palaces is a major tourist puller. It was built by the Raja Mann Singh in 1592. Mann Singh was one of the nine gems (Navratnas) of the Emperor Akbar. Among its various stunning structures, the ‘Sheesh Mahal’ is the most enticing. Both ceiling and walls, on the inside, have various designs, which are made of glass.

Galtaji Temple - It is a prehistoric temple complex belonging to the Vaishnava cult and is situated 10 km from Jaipur. There are several temples along with seven ponds, which store the water of the natural springs that are found inside the premises of this religious site. The most sacred of the ponds is called Galta Kund. It never goes dry and bathing in it is believed to be auspicious.

Jaigarh Fort - The fort is famous for being unbeatable as it was never captured. The cannon on wheels, which have been on display at the Jaigarh Fort, are considered the largest in the world. Maharaja Jai Singh II got the fort constructed in 1726. There is an underground passage which connects the Jaigarh Fort with the Amber Fort.

The city provides a good glimpse of the bygone era through its preserved past.. A travel to Jaipur is a must for any heritage lover. Furthermore, one can club one’s Jaipur tour along with the other historically and culturally rich places of the Rajasthan. Therefore, a chance to relive the majestic past of this region should not be delayed for long.

The author is a travel fanatic, she loves to share her travel experience through her articles.