Jaipur, the state capital of Rajasthan, is rich in culture and history. Jaipur is a prominent tourist destination for visitors from all over the world. However, beyond the pink facade, there are plenty of other locations to visit in Jaipur that are worth discovering. Jaipur is a beautiful place full of enchanting architecture, vibrant culture and mouth-watering local cuisine. The city is dotted with numerous forts, palaces and religious sites which makes it an ideal place for people who are looking for a short but interesting visit.
The most famous tourist attraction in Jaipur is Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds – an arched five-storey fort built in 1799 A.D. It was designed to allow royal ladies to watch processions through its 953 small window openings. This magnificent building has become one of the iconic symbols of Rajasthan.
Another must-visit site is Amber Fort - located 11 km away from Jaipur city centre and home to Maharajas since 1037 AD., this fort complex offers stunning views of Moata Lake and lush greenery around it. There are several sections in the fort, including Sheesh Mahal (Mirrored Hall), Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure) etc., all beautifully decorated with precious stones, sculptures and wall paintings depicting stories from Hindu mythology.
Jantar Mantar Observatory is another famous attraction, built between 1727 -1734 under instructions by Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh II for scientific studies related to astronomy and astrology purposes which are still valid today. The complex consists of instruments made out stone blocks carved precisely measuring time up to seconds accurately, altitude difference between two places etc.,
The City Palace of Jaipur displays typical north Indian style architecture featuring courtyards, gardens and gates leading into various halls featuring superb painted artworks on ceilings and walls representing traditional Rajput style.