Jaipur – Most Elegant city of the Golden Triangle Tour Packages

by Nisha Parmar SEO Executive

Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is surrounded by hills crowned with rugged forts, and the plains are dotted with pretty palaces. This picturesque city is a symphony in pink and in the evening light this 'pink city' has a magical glow. Jaipur is the focal point for tourists travelling on golden triangle tour packages, with the other destinations being Delhi and Agra.

Maharaja Jai Singh II founded Jaipur in the 17th century. It was the first planned city of its kind, and was designed by the architect Vidyadhar, on the basis of the ancient Hindu treatise on architecture, the Shipla Shastra. Today, Jaipur is a very popular tourist destination and offers a unique opportunity to see great forts, palaces and other magnificent monuments, all in one city. The Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds is Jaipur's answer to Agra's Taj Mahal. The City Palace is a huge complex with several gardens, courtyards and beautiful buildings. The Jantar Mantar is the grandest of the many astronomical parks built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Jaipur is also the home of several exquisite crafts and its bustling bazaars and teeming markets are a vivid showcase of skills of craftsmanship. These traditional handicrafts are a big attraction for shoppers and perhaps, the most popular is Bandhani, the local name for tie and die textiles. Gold, precious and semi-precious stones are traded in the Johari Bazaar (Goldsmith's market), and the other popular goods include blue-pottery, miniature paintings, carpets, etc. The lanes that house the overflowing shops are interconnected and are like an open-air museum, a treasure house of traditional arts and crafts.

Amber Fort

The Amber Fort on the outskirts of Jaipur offers a magnificent diversity of sights, from the 12th century relics of the old town in the valley to the sheer beauty of the 17th century royal palace. The Jaigarh Fort located above Amber, houses the huge and impressive Jaya Vana cannon and also has an impressive armory containing a variety of swords, spears, guns, battle-axes, etc. The Amber Fort complex provides an insight into the intricacies of defense in the turbulent times of war and siege, and the flamboyant extravagance of the rulers during periods of peace.

Jaipur also excels in its choice of period accommodation. The majestic Ram Bagh Palace, originally built as a pleasure pavilion, is now a part of the Taj Group of Hotels. The Oberoi Group's Rajvilas is a new structure designed to resemble a fort complex and among the distinguished guests that have stayed here is the former US President Clinton. In the affordable price range are the Alsisar Haveli, Narayan Niwas Palace, etc.

jaipur colourful city

Jaipur is full of places to see and things to do, a colourful city that casts its spell from the moment you arrive. Be prepared to surrender yourself to her many pleasures.

For more information on Delhi, Agra and Jaipur contact Swan Tours, one of the leading travel agents in India.