Nestled on the rocky hills just outside Jaipur, the Amber Fort is a stunning blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. This magnificent fort, built with red sandstone and marble, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Rajput Maharajas.

History and Architecture

Amber Fort, also known as Amer Fort, was built in 1592 by Raja Man Singh. The fort comprises a series of palaces, courtyards, halls, and gardens, each more splendid than the last. The Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) is a highlight, with its walls and ceilings inlaid with thousands of tiny mirrors, creating a dazzling effect when lit by candles.

Located in the heart of Jaipur, the City Palace is a stunning complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. This palace, still home to the royal family, showcases a perfect blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.

History and Architecture

Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the City Palace complex includes the Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal. The Chandra Mahal now houses a museum, showcasing royal artifacts, while the Mubarak Mahal serves as a textile museum.

The Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of Winds," is one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks. This five-story structure, built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, features 953 small windows, allowing royal ladies to observe street festivals without being seen.

History and Architecture

The Hawa Mahal is built from red and pink sandstone and is a fine example of Rajput architecture. The latticework windows, known as jharokhas, provide excellent ventilation, making it a cool retreat in the summer.

The Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the 18th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site features a collection of 19 architectural astronomical instruments.

History and Significance

Jantar Mantar houses the world’s largest stone sundial, the Samrat Yantra, which measures time with incredible accuracy. The observatory was used to predict eclipses, track stars, and determine celestial altitudes.

The Jal Mahal, or "Water Palace," is a beautiful palace situated in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake. This architectural marvel is partially submerged, with its four lower floors underwater.

History and Architecture

Jal Mahal was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Madho Singh I as a hunting lodge. The palace showcases a mix of Rajput and Mughal styles, with intricately carved balconies and chhatris (cenotaphs).

Perched on the Aravalli hills, the Nahargarh Fort offers breathtaking views of Jaipur. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this fort was originally a retreat for the royal family.

History and Architecture

Nahargarh Fort, meaning "Abode of Tigers," features a series of interconnected rooms with elaborate frescoes and murals. The fort also has a palace complex known as Madhavendra Bhawan.

The Albert Hall Museum, located in Ram Niwas Garden, is the oldest museum in Rajasthan. Built in 1887, this museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and pottery.

History and Collections

Named after the Prince of Wales, Albert Edward, the museum is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It houses collections from various regions of Rajasthan, offering insights into the state's rich cultural heritage.

The Birla Mandir, also known as the Laxmi Narayan Temple, is a modern Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. Built with pure white marble, the temple stands out against the backdrop of lush greenery.

History and Architecture

Constructed by the Birla family in 1988, the temple is known for its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere. The walls are adorned with depictions of various mythological events and figures.

No visit to Jaipur is complete without exploring its vibrant markets. From traditional handicrafts to modern boutiques, Jaipur’s markets offer a unique shopping experience.

Famous Markets