The North Indian city of Jaipur, surrounded by the desert sands of Rajasthan, is famous for its remarkable town planning and architecture. All the majestic forts and palaces, elegant mansions and beautiful gardens have their own historical stories to tell. Mountains around Jaipur are as well dotted with several architectural treasures. In 1883 the city was painted with a lime-based red colour to welcome Prince Albert of England, and this colour has remained as a trademark of Jaipur, still today known as the Pink City. Jaipur´s colourful local life offers unforgettable experiences. Shopping streets are chaotic in a delightful way - a mixture of noise, dust and smell of roasted nuts is in the air. Bargaining in one of the small shops selling traditional camel leather shoes is an adventure of its own. On the streets it feels like the whole circus has come to town as horse carriages, camels and decorated elephants walk among the traffic. Snake-charmers sit on the pavement with their round baskets and a big group of lazy cows occupy the main square. Beggar children with tangled hair walk barefoot - a heart-rending reminder of another reality in the middle of all the historical glory and elegance. Jaipur shows wealth and poverty, chaos and harmony in a unique and touching way. it is like a powerful, multidimensional story which continues growing in the hearts of those who have once experienced it. PDF version     All Jaipur pictures

WE RECOMMEND IN JAIPUR AND VICINITY:

Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) The ornamental facade of the five-storied Hawa Mahal, Palace of Winds, stands in the very heart of Jaipur. The shape of this architectural beauty, built in 1799, imitates the crown of Lord Krishna. Almost one thousand elaborate balconies and windows used to be places for royal ladies to observe the street life from above, without being seen. Today travellers can do the same - and count how many elephants and camels pass by. Climbing to the top of the palace requires good nerves especially when travelling with a small child, as the consept of safety is nearly non-existent – but the view over the city is magnificent. More information

Amber Fort Palace This glamorous 16th century palace built in red marble and white standstone is situated on rugged hills 11 km outside of Jaipur. Its unbelievably beautiful inner courtyard is surrounded by labyrinth-like corridors. A real gemstone in India! More Information