Vacation Time: Jaipur!
The Pink City
ONE OF NORTHERN INDIA'S most colourful and captivating cities, Jaipur combines grand palaces, ancient forts and bustling bazaars with the energy of a modern metropolis. Founded in 1727, the Rajasthani capital is famed for its rich royal heritage and pink paintwork - since 1877, it has been illegal to paint buildings in the Old City any other colour.
DISCOVER THE CITY PALACE in the heart of the walled city, a magnificent blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, characterised by domed pavilions, ornate balconies, elegant courtyards and manicured gardens. Still partly home to Jaipur's former ruling family, the complex houses museums filled with royal costumes, textiles, paintings and historic weaponry.
MAKE LIKE A MAHARAJA at Amber Fort, one of Jaipur's most spectacular sights, perched on a hill about 11 kilometres from the city. The sprawling palace complex is home to a dazzling Sheesh Mahal, or Hall of Mirrors decorated with thousands of tiny pieces of glass. Take time to explore the restored tunnels linking Amber with nearby Jaigarh Fort.
WANDER THROUGH THE BAZAARS of the Old City, where Jaipur's traditional crafts and colours come alive. Browse for sparkling gemstones and silver jewellery, embroidered textiles and block-printed fabrics, while taking in the lively rhythm of everyday life. Pick up stacks of colourful resin bangles, hand-stitched leather juttis and the city's distinctive blue pottery.
PAUSE AT JAL MAHAL, the elegant Water Palace seemingly floating in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Built as a summer retreat and hunting lodge, the sandstone palace is now one of Jaipur's most atmospheric photo stops. When the lake is full, its lower floor is submerged, leaving only the upper storeys visible above the water.
CLIMB TO MAHARGARH FORT, perched high on the Aravalli Hills overlooking Jaipur. Built in 1734 as part of the city's defensive fortifications, it later became a royal retreat. Explore the elegant Madhavendra Bhawan, a series of interconnected suites decorated with delicate frescoes and colourful murals, then take in sweeping views across the Pink City.
GAZE UP AT HAWA MAHAL, Jaipurs unmistakable Palace of Winds, which connects to the outer wall of the City Palace, Built in 1799, the five-storey pink sandstone façade is covered with hundreds of delicate latticed windows, originally designed to allow royal women in purdah to watch city life while remaining unseen.
