Jaipur - capital of Rajasthan
Jaipur, the 'Pink City' is the majestic capital of Rajasthan and coins it's nickname from fairly recent history. In 1876 Maharjah Ram Sing ordered that the walls of the city be painted in an earthy pink as a mark of honour to another royal visitor – the then Prince of Wales, son of Queen Victoria, Empress of India.
Today Jaipur maintains a fine balance between it's history and the need to develop in to a modern city and commercial centre.
In the heart of the old walled city, you will find the City Palace which seems to blend in to the backdrop of the hustle and bustle of the streets, but hides behind it's walls some of the most lavish living quarters. Life in the city seems relentless and as a visitor there is always something new catching your eye, whether it's the multitude of markets and stalls or the handicrafts on sale.
A visit to the Amber Fort and the neighbouring Jai Garh and Tiger Forts will give you a true impression of the grandeur of Jaipur in the era of the Rajput Clans. The spirals of expansive buildings around beautiful courtyards are testament to the mark left by each consecutive ruler on these strategic buildings, and to the ingenuity and ambition required to construct such colossal and breathtaking edifices. While visiting the Tiger Fort be sure to take in the almost 360 degree panoramic views which give you a real feel for just how sprawling modern Jaipur is.
