The Forts of the Pink City

Posted on December 27, 2008 - Filed Under Travel

The city of Jaipur is the largest in the Indian state of Rajasthan. This was the first planned city in India and was designed in the form of the Pithapada, which is a Mandala of eight parts. The city is really known for its distinctly pink buildings which were originally colored to match the red sandstone of Mughal architecture and were repainted in 1876 for the visiting Prince of Wales. The city is quickly expanding and serves as an entry point to the Indian desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.

Travelers will find a few things to keep them busy while stopping in Jaipur. Visit the bazaars to haggle over treasures or to watch a snake charmer mesmerize his cobra. Enjoy the incredible local cuisine, tour the various historic sites. Or simply relax at the perfect hotel – the city offers everything from five star Jaipur hotels to budget lodgings. Be sure to tour at least one of the famous Jaipur forts while you’re in town.

The Jaigarh Fort is the site of the world’s largest canon, the Jaivana, which legend says has only been fired once. It’s easy to believe that this fort was never conquered in battle and is the strongest of the Jaipur fortresses. Today Jaigarh offers stunning views of the Amber Fort and the surrounding hills as well as scenic gardens.

The Amber Fort is a complex of both palace and fort. It served as the royal palace from 1600 until 1727 and was designed in a blending of Hindu and Muslim styles. The Sheesh Mahal within the fort is covered with thousands and thousands of mirror tiles on the ceiling and walls. A memorable tourist experience is hiring an elephant to ride up to the fort.

The smallest of Jaipur’s forts is Nahargarh Fort. Inside the fortress walls is the Madhavendra Bhawan palace. Nahargarh offers spectacular views of Man Sagar lake as well as the sprawling cityscape. One of the fun trivia facts about Nahargarh Fort is that the movie “Rang de Basanti” shot some of its scenes here.

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