In the land of kings
> The many forts and palaces in and around Jaipur are testaments to the royal past and wealth of this capital city of Rajasthan
IT IS fitting that Rajasthan, a northern Indian state bordering Pakistan, is known as the land of the kings. In and around its capital, Jaipur, can be found the many forts and magnificent palaces which stand as a testament to its royal past and opulence as one of the most powerful kingdoms of pre-Independence India.
The city was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of the medieval Rajput Kingdom of Amer in 1727.
It is also known as the Pink City, coined after the terracottacoloured, red standstone and clay buildings of Old Jaipur.
When it comes to the city’s many forts and palaces, the Amer Fort stands out instantly, simply because of its strategic location up a hill on the Aravalli range, which overlooks the city.
Inside the fort, which is also a Unesco world heritage site, lies the magnificent palace of Amer’s rulers.
This grand structure’s elaborate courtyards adorned with opulent frescoes, glass and mirror works, marble walls and sculptures as well as gardens are a reflection of the kingdom’s wealth and power in its heyday.
Those wanting to know the history of the Rajput kingdoms, as well as the tale of Jaipur’s founding, should not miss the light and sound show held at the foot of the hill under the starry night sky.
For a breathtaking 360° bird’seye view of Jaipur, head to Nahargarh fort or Tiger Fort, a former 18th century defence fortress located in close proximity to Amer Fort.
At the entrance to this fortress is the Jaipur Wax Museum which displays a vast array of wax figurines of celebrities and important personalities, as well as Rajput rulers including the famous classic beauty, Maharani Gayatri Devi, the last maharani of Jaipur.
While no cameras are allowed in the premise, visitors can request for their photos to be taken by the museum’s in-house photographers for INR250 (RM15).
Another landmark of the Pink City is the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Breeze, a unique honeycomb-shaped coralcoloured, five-storey structure.
It derives its name from the number of windows the structure has – a breathtaking 953!
Constructed in 1799, the palace served as the literal ‘window to the city’ for royal women who were not allowed in public during that era. Its rooftop balcony offers an aerial view of Jaipur.
A stone’s throw away from Hawa Mahal is the City Palace, which was also built by the city’s founder, and features Rajput, Mughal, European, and Mediterranean influences.
This palace is the official residence of the current royal family (who no longer holds any power), and also houses a museum showcasing its royal past.
Across the road from the City Palace is a 19th century astronomy, mathematics, and astrology research centre known as Jantar Mantar.
It houses several astronomy and astrology equipment, including the world’s largest sundial, allowing a glimpse into how time and planetary movements were measured in the past.
For another view of the city, take a hot-air balloon ride. At US$265 (RM1,038) per person, the experience is worth the money, as it affords a view of the countryside at the break of dawn, from 1,000 metres up.
The ride will take visitors to a village called Roondal, some 55km from Jaipur, where visitors can catch a glimpse into Rajasthani village life.
It’s a world’s apart from the hustle and bustle of Jaipur city, with vast, lush green farmlands, welcoming villagers, clean air, and a tranquil atmosphere.
For a taste of Rajasthani village life and cuisine, check out the cultural village of Chokhi Dhani.
Here, visitors can enjoy a full three-course Rajasthani thali (platter) in an authentic villagestyle setting.
The spicy lal mash or red mutton curry, made from a few types of chillies, is a must-try for those who like it hot, while paneer or cottage cheese, naan, and gulab jamun are among some of the desserts to be found in an authentic Rajasthani meal.
For buffets and three-course meals, Narain Niwas, Hotel Grand Uniara, and Hotel Rockwell are some good options.
While there are a lot of havelis, or mansions, converted into heritage hotels, my recommendation would be Mandawa Haveli. It provides good lodging and food from RM122.
Of course, shopping is a must, and knowing some Hindi could work to your advantage when it comes to bargaining.
Sarees and souvenirs are sold at affordable prices, ranging from as low as INR100 (RM6.60). But for a one-stop centre for everything, Jhori Bazaar is the place to be.
Plan to go to Jaipur during the winter months (between December and March) as the temperature is cool and pleasant, ranging from 11°C to 24°C.
Take note that the scorching heat of summer (April-June) in this India’s driest state can be quite harsh, with temperature hovering at 45°C.
And travelling to Jaipur is made so much easier with AirAsia X flying direct from Kuala Lumpur to Jaipur four times a week. For more, visit the AirAsia website.