City/town information
Attractive monuments and landmarks where one can breathe the fragrance of history is a feast in store for tourists at Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Named after the founder, Maharaja Jai Singh, earlier it was known as Amber (Amer). The Kachhwaha Rajputs conquered the hilly terrain of Amber from the Meena tribesmen and much later because of its close ties with the Mughal Emperor Akbar it continued to prosper.
It was Raja Man Singh, the chief of Mughal armies who erected the remarkable Amber Fort which was enlarged and embellished by his successors all through the 17 and the 18-centuries. Sawai Jai Singh who inherited the throne at a tender age of 12 years was a scholar, architect, astronomer and mathematician, a talented researcher. He united the Rajputs to form a formidable front after his differences with Bahadur Shah Zafar and reconsolidate his rule.
Sawai Jai Singh decided to move his flourishing capital to the open plains to accommodate the increasing population, merchants and traders. Visualised by Sawai Jai Singh, the foundation of the new city planned by Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya, a Bengali architect based on shilpa shastra (traditional Hindu treatise on building and architecture) was laid in 1727.
Following the death of Sawai Jai Singh in 1744, and starting early 18 century the Jaipur state slowly allowed itself into the British fold. In 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh had the entire city painted in pink in honour of the visiting Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). Since then Jaipur is called the Pink City - a colour associated with hospitality.
The 1930’s saw the beginning of a new era under Sawai Man Singh II - a celebrated polo player and husband to Maharani Gayatri Devi. During his reign, hospitals, a vast secretariat complex and other civil buildings and schools were constructed outside the original walls. Following independence in 1947, Jaipur became the capital of the state of Rajasthan in 1956. Jaipur was also referred to as the city of polo, played on horseback, also on camels and now on elephants in present times.
Providing backdrops to the mega city of today are the forts of Amber, Nahargarh, Jaigarh and Moti Doongri. The old city is a bustling place with colours depicting the typical lifestyle spread all over lending a romantic touch to the environs. The broad streets accommodate cars and motors alongside camel carts and rickshaws. Beyond the city, the modern Jaipur continues to grow as new arcades, multiplexes, malls, gardens, hotels, industrial units, hospitals, flyovers are being laid out. Jaipur is also popular destination for film shootings given its mesmerizing locales in and around and not to forget the royal weddings organized here. The bio-reserves in Nahargarh, Jhalana and Aravali hills have some exotic wildlife. Visitors can also now experience taking hot air balloon rides.
The heart of the city - the old walled city is in the northeast of Jaipur and the newly expanding area is mainly confined to the south and the west. Mirza Ismail Road or the M I Road, Sansar Chandra Road and Station Road adjoining the city are the main areas on and around which situated are most of the shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, tourist offices and money changers.
Air There are regular flights connecting Jaipur to Delhi and Mumbai, Jodhpur, and Udaipur in Rajasthan and also important destinations like Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai, and Pune operated by domestic carriers The Terminal-II is about 12 km from the city centre and a taxi should charge Rs. 400-500 for transfer.
Train Regular rail service connects Jaipur to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Agra, Varanasi and Ahmedabad etc. There is a daily Shatabdi service to Jaipur from Delhi.Both the luxury trains Palace on Wheels and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels halt at Jaipur. The computerised railway reservation office is just outside the railway station, open from 0800-2000 hr on Monday-Saturday and 0800-1400 hr on Sunday.
Road Delhi (260km) is connected to Jaipur via Dharuhera, Behror, Kotputli and Shahpura on NH 8. Jaipur is further linked to Mumbai via Ajmer (133km), Udaipur (407km), and Ahmedabad (657km) on NH 8. NH 12 links to Kota (240km) and NH11 from Bikaner connects it to Agra (230 km. The route to Jodhpur (330km) is from Beawar till Barr on NH112 and onwards on NH65. State owned RSRTC operates bus service to all the parts of Rajasthan and New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
For contact details on airlines, rail, buses, and car hire see local directory
Local transport
Within the city, cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws and city buses are the most common means of transport. Taxis or cars can be hired for a half day or a full day sightseeing, about Rs. 1200-1500 for 6-8 hr, maximum 80 km by car.
Travel by auto rickshaw is very popular, full day sightseeing should cost Rs 800-900 (6-8 hr). For a cycle rickshaw, an indicative charge is about Rs 5 per km or Rs 70-80 per hr. It is always advisable to fix the price before boarding.
From outside the railway station, Ajmeri Gate and near the Hawa Mahal private mini buses and state owned city buses operated by JCTSL ply for all the popular centres in Jaipur. Charges are fixed. A rapid transit rail project by the name Jaipur Metro is under progress.
Places of Interest
Amber Fort Complex
11 km from Jaipur amidst the dry wrinkled hills raises Amber or Amer, the former capital of the old state of Dhundhar for seven centuries built by Raja Man Singh in the 16 century and added to by Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh.
The palace complex is approached through a steep path, popularly traversed by tourists on elephant back up to the Jai Pol the first gateway then to a huge courtyard Jaleb Chowk and the Singh Pol (Lion Gate). Two flights of stairs rise from one end of the Jaleb Chowk, one leading to the Shila Mata Temple and other to the Palace Complex. The temple has huge doors made of silver and displays nine forms of Durga and ten forms of Saraswati.
The front of the Palace Complex is dominated by the spectacular pillared Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience). The double storied painted gateway Ganesh Pol is the pride of the palace. The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private) has delicate mosaic work in glass. The Jas Mandir in the upper floor has intricately carved screens, delicate mirror, and stucco works, painted and carved doors. The mirror work motifs in Sukh Niwas are so delicately designed, that a single lit matchstick gives an impression of a starlit site T 0141-2530293. Timing 0800-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 25/Rs 200. Audio Guide/Tablet Rs 150 Elephant Ride Rs 900 for two persons; Timing 0700-1000 and 1530-1700 hr.
Sound and Light Show has been introduced at Kesar Kyari Complex, Amer. The 50 minute programme showcases the legendry past of 600 years and 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty; control room T 2530844 English 1830 hr, Rs 200; Hindi 1930 hr, Rs 100.
Jaigarh Fort
Named after Jai Singh II and built in 1726, the fort is perched on a cliff surrounded by huge battlements with inside walkways. It is one of the few military structures of meadieval India preserved almost intact, containing palaces, an armoury, a granary, a well planned cannon factory, temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban (Jaivan), the largest cannon with a 6.1 m long barrel. Jaigarh Fort offers panoramic and imposing view of Amber and the neighbouring area from a watch tower. The central courtyard has three enormous underground water tanks, one of which was said to hold the gold and the jewels. There are 10 century temple of Ram Harihar and 12 century temple of Kal Bhairav. T 0141-2672848. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indians/foreigners
Rs 35/Rs 85; camera Rs 50 and video Rs 200; vehicle entry Rs 50.
Nahargarh Fort
Beyond the hills of Jaigarh, the fort of Nahargarh, built in 1737 looks at the city from a sheer ridge in the north. The densely forested site was originally the forte of fierce Meena Tribe, eventually wrested by Sawai Jai Singh to bolster the defense of Amber. The suites in the palace are noteworthy for the unique plasterwork called arayish with a finish so smooth that it is almost indistinguishable from marble.
The run up to the fort is traversed on road through the hills. T 0141-5182957 Timing 1000-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigner Rs 20/Rs 50.
Located in a valley just below Nahargarh, Gaitor is the funeral ground of the rulers of Jaipur. The most impressive is the white marble cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, whose large dome is supported by twenty columns and has some exquisitely carved panels with mythological figures.
On way to Amber, in the middle of Man Sagar Lake is Jal Mahal built in the 18 century by Madho Singh I. The palace can be reached by boat and a Mughal garden on the terrace of this 5 storey palace is its highlight. The lake is a bird watcher’s paradise when local and migratory birds flock here in the months of winter.
Nahargarh Biological Park
Located on the Jaipur-Delhi highway and situated along sides of the Aravalli Hills range its main attraction is 2 km long safari by jeep in day time. The reserve area of 52.40 sq km is habituated by dry deciduous forests.
Wild animals known to inhabit the park include leopard, panther, sloth bear, caracal, deer, gharial, crocodile, pangolin, jackal, wild dog, wolf, hyena, civet, ratel, otter, fox, rhesus monkey and langur and in winter the area is visited by a number of migratory water birds ACF T 0141- 2530576
City Palace Complex
Lying in the heart of the city in a sprawling walled enclosure is the City Palace, a blend of the Mughal and the Rajasthan architecture with a ceremonial Tripolia Gate. Most visitors are ushered to the Mubarak Mahal (Welcome Palace) right before the palace proper. This graceful 19 century pavilion built by the Maharaja Madho Singh-II now forms part of the palace museum containing Toshakhana (Royal Wardrobe Section). The Maharani’s Palace (Queen Palace) is now the Selah Khana (Armory Section) having many priceless collections of antique weapons. Opposite the Mubarak Mahal is the Singh Pol (Lion Gate) and beyond it lies the Diwan-i-Khas. In its marble paved gallery one can see a 1.5 m tall vessel supposed to be the largest silver objects in the world. To its right is the Diwan-i-Aam housing a major part of the City Museum. Outstanding examples of Rajasthani art like jewellery, enamelware, carpets, miniature paintings, ancient manuscripts, and photographs is preserved here.
Among the series of beautiful buildings marked by projected balconies, arches on slender pillars and ornate entrances, is the present-day residential complex the Chandra Mahal of the Maharaja, though closed to the public.
T 0141-4088888 Timing 0900-1700 hr; entry foreigners Rs 380 including Audio Guide and entry to Jaigarh Fort, video camera Rs 200; entry Indian Rs 75 and Rs 75 for camera. Guide Rs 100-200, for one hour. Audio Guide facility in Hindi, English, French, and German is available.
Composit ticket Amber, Nahargarh, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall Indian/foreigner Rs70/ Rs 350 Within the complex is the revered Govind Devji Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna built by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1730.
Conducted RTDC tours by bus:
Full Day Tour: 0900-1800 hr Fare Rs 300*.
Itinerary - Observatory, City Palace, Amber Palace, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Birla Planetarium, Hawa Mahal, Gaitore and Jal Mahal.
Half Day Tour: 0800-1300, 1130-1630, 1330-1830 hr Fare Rs 250*.
Itinerary - Observatory, City Palace, Amber Palace, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Hawa Mahal, Gaitore and Jal Mahal.
Pink City by Night Tour: 1830-2230 hr Fare Rs 375 includes veg dinner at Nahargarh.
Itinerary - Amar Jawan Jyoti, Vidhan Sabha, Birla Mandir, Albert Hall, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Kanak Vrindavan, Amber Fort, Raj Mandir Cinema, Statue Circle
*Fare does not include entry fee for the monuments.
Booking at Jaipur–
Tourist Information Bureau, Railway Station T 2315714 and Central Bus Stand T 2206720; Transport Unit, Govt. Hostel Campus T 2375466; Hotel Gangaur T 2371648; CRO, Govt. Hostel T 5114768-69
Pick up points : RTDC Hotel Gangaur, RTDC Hotel Teej, TIB Railway Station, TIB Bus Stand.
RTDC Transport Unit also provides taxis, coaches and buses for local sight seeing and outstation tours from Jaipur. Contact T 2375466, 2375835.
Tourist Information
Tourist Reception Centre :
Govt. Hostel Campus, M. I. Road T 5110598
Tourist Information Bureau :
Railway Station T 2315714
Central Bus Stand T 2206720
Sanganer Airport T 2722647
Near Elephant Stand, Amer T 2530264.
Govt. of India Tourist Office :
Khasa Kothi T 1363, 2372200
Tourist Assistance Force TAFT7597612347
Guide Service
Govt. of India, Tourist Office at Khasa Kothi
T 2372200 provides guide service, which are approved by Govt. of India.
Charges for a group 1-5/6-14/15-40 pax
Half day (4 hr) : Rs 750/`950/` 1260
Full day (8 hr) : Rs 950/Rs 1225/Rs 1650
Local State Guides Charges for a group 1-4/ 5-15/16-35 pax
Half day (4 hr) : Rs 280 / Rs 400 / Rs 530
Full day (8 hr) Rs 400 / Rs 530 / Rs 865
French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish speaking guides are also available for extra charge.
The Observatory-Jantar Mantar
Part of the City Palace Complex, Jantar Mantar, the astronomic observatory of Sawai Jai Singh is now a World Heritage Site. Himself a keen astronomer, he invented his own gigantic instruments, fashioned out of marble and stone and using these made amazingly accurate observations about the movement of the sun, the moon, the stars, and the celestial bodies.
One of the most striking instruments is his great Samrat Yantra, Sun Dial used to measure local and meridian pass time and various observations related to celestial bodies. Sawai Jai Singh II invented 15 different instruments and the most impressive of all Ram Yantra used to calculate the altitude and azimuth of the heavenly bodies. T 0141-2610494 Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Rs 40; foreigners Rs 200. The Light and Sound Programme is the highlight of this place. Timing English 1830 Hindi 1930 hr; Rs 100.
Hawa Mahal
This edifice was built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 for the women of the royal household to watch the royal and religious processions without being seen. The five storied pyramidal building crowned with latticed balconies and miniature domes and covered with delicately sculpted stone jalis (screens), 953 in all. Its pink little wind vanes moving in every direction with the slightest gust of wind gave the palace its popular name. T 0141-2618862. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 100.
Albert Hall
Situated in Ram Niwas Bagh, the museum building designed by Sir Swinton Jacob in 1886 has a rare collection of artifacts and craft items such as metalwork, ivory carvings, pieces of jewellery, textile, pottery and paintings.
T 0141-2570099 Timing 0900 to 1700 hr, open all days; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 150.
Statue Circle
In the heart of the city it is a memorial built to pay tribute to the founder of Jaipur city, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Across the Statute Circle is a Planetarium in the B. M. Birla Science and Technology Centre T 2385367. Showtime 1100, 1300, 1500, 1700, 1900 (Hindi) hr; entry Rs 40. Existing in close proximity is the Central Park, a vast expanse of green spread.
Further straight to the north is Amar Jawan Jyoti, a memorial dedicated to the brave martyr of the state and close to it is the Vidhan Sabha.
Birla Mandir
A magnificent white marble structure, Laxmi Narayan Temple or Birla Mandir dots the southern horizon of the city with the famous Ganesh Temple nearby. Perched on a hilltop is a small Moti Doongri Fort, the replica of a Scottish Castle, however closed to the tourists.
About 2 km from here is Jawahar Kala Kendra (JKK) on JLN Marg. It plays host to several drama and music performances, craft fairs, seminars and film screenings. .
Galtaji/Gardens
About 6 km from city centre on way to Galta on Agra Road is Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, a terraced garden, the top of which is occupied by a palace. About half a km before it lays another terrace garden, Vidhyadhar ka Bagh built in the memory of the principal architect of Jaipur
10 km to the east of city centre is Galtaji-a holy pond lying in a gorge. The Rishi Galav performed his penance here. The tank is perennially fed by a never failing spring of water falling from an outlet shaped like the mouth of cow.
Sanganer
12 km on the Tonk Road, it is absorbing to see here hand block printers printing over fabric with hand blocks and also the community of handmade paper makers, the Kagzis,. The 15 century Digamber Jain Temple here has very intricately carved figures.
Nearly 20 km west of Sanganer is a small village of Bagru notable for hand printed textiles famous for their bold and colourful geo-metrical patterns.
Chokhi Dhani
Chokhi Dhani Village has been the mirror of Rajasthani culture since its inception in the year 1989. Capturing the true spirit of Rajasthan the village spread over 10 acres of land is a one-stop destination for fun, food and entertainment. Chokhi Dhani village brings to life, a colorful Rajasthani heritage that leaves you awestruck with all the attractions and elements of ethnic culture and tradition. The mandir, village bazaar, folk entertainment, animal rides for children, bioscope, village style photo studio, astrologer, mehendi, cots in the open to relax will leave you awestruck. The live dance and music will be irresistible for the young and old to join and shake a leg too. The splendid evening ends at the village theme restaurant that serves authentic Rajasthani vegetarian cuisine. Timing 1730-1100 hr; entry with meals Rs 500
Local Directory STD Code0141
Rajasthan Tourism Office 5110598
Govt. of India Tourist Office 2372200
Emergency
Police Control Room 100/ 2567238
Ambulance Control Room102, 108
EHCC766502224
Fortis Escorts2547000
Narayana Multispecialty
T - 7122222
SDMH2566252
SMS Hospital2560291
Women Police2601360
Woman Helpline 7891091111
Red Cross2617214
Swasthya Kalyan Blood Bank2721771
24 hr Pharmacy
Fortis Escorts JLN Mg4097000
Narayana Multispecialty
T - 7122222
Zenana Sanganeri Gt 2372323
SMS Hospital Campus2564222
Vardhman SDMH Campus 2571301
Hospitals
Govt SMS Hospital 2560291
J. K. Lone2619827
Govt Zenana Hospital2378721
Fortis Escorts Hospital2547000
Narayana Multispecialty
T - 7122222
SDMH2566251
Soni Hospital2562028
Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital2700107
Ayurveda Centres
Chakrapani Ayurved Clinic & Research Center
T - 2624003
National Institute of Ayurveda 2635816
Air/Rail/Bus
Airport Station Mgr 2725284
Air India 18001801407/2725997
Go Air 1800 222111Indigo 18001803838/ 5119993
Jet Airways 22389333/5112222
Spicejet 18001803333/5119882
Railway Enquiry 139
Durgapura Rly Stn 2721787
Gandhinagar Rly Stn 2707416
Roadways Enquiry 2205790/2204445
Narain Singh Cir Bus Stn 2574645
Durgapura Bus Stn 2172488
Delhi Bikaner House 011-23383469
Private Bus Operators
Kalpana Travels 5100800
Mahavir Travels 2200099
Milan Travels 2206388
Shrinath Travel Agency 2368561
Zamindara Travels 2374957
Call Taxi
Jaipur Cab4644444
Meri Car4188888
Metro Cabs 4244444
Meru 4422442
My Cab 5000000
Flag fall Rs 100 and then Rs 12-18 per km for AC, between 0500 to 2200 hr, waiting Rs 2 per minute,25% extra between 2200-0500 hr.
Car Rental
Siyaram City Cabs 2722227
International Travel House 4012020
Marudhar Tours 2371768
RTDC 2375466
Travel Agents
Cox T Kings 2220060
Crown Tours 2363310
Four Seasons (India) 5112605
Kuoni 4024242
Le Passage to India 5115415
Mercury Travels 4033641
Rajasthan Tours 2385168
Rajputana Holiday 2353934
Riya Travels T Tour 4004000
Thomas Cook (India) 5102344
Travel Corporation 2363246
Travel Plan 2222332
Post/Courier
General Post Office 2368740
DHL Express 1800 111 345
DTDC 33004444
FedEx 18002096161
First Flight Couriers 2281973
Overnite Express 2363912
The Professional Couriers 4020806
Trackon 6501939
Foreign Exchange
Frequent Forex 2389259
FRR Forex 2371533
Pinky Forex 2389200
Paul Merchants 2388626
SP Securities 2361491
Thomas Cook 2367114
Transcorp 2379422
UAE Exchange2369200
Punjab National Bank 2366152
SBBJ 2313840
State Bank of India 4096232
Shopping Malls
City Pulse Narain Singh Cir
Crystal Palm Sahkar Cir
Ganpati Plaza M I Road Gaurav Towers Malviya Ngr
Gold Souk Jawahar Cir
MGF Metropolitan Sahkar Cir
Pink Square Adarsh Ngr
Triton Mall Jhotwara Rd
World Trade Park JLN Marg
Cinema / Multiplex
Raj Mandir Panch Batti 2374694
Cinepolis World Trade Park
EP Jawahar Circle 5127591
Fun CinemaTriton Mall 9982335600
Golcha Chaura Rasta 2577071
Inox 5116511
Amusement/Fun
Paintball Games 9983830006
Choki Dhani 2770554
Kanchan Kesri 5133313
Pink Pearl 5183000
Purple 2224663
Viking 5156741
Book Shops
Books & News Mart 2370252
Books Corner 2366323
Bookwise 2364755
Crossword 2379400
Universal Books 5105640
Art Galleries
Juneja Art Gallery
T - 4034964
Gallery Artchill
T - 2530025/15
www.artchill.com
Other Important no.
Collector & DM 2209000
Commissioner Police 2362100
Conservator of Forest 2227391
ASI 2784533
Rambagh Golf Club 5143421
Jawahar Kala Kendra 2706560
Dainik Bhaskar 2711356
Rajasthan Patrika 2561582
Times of India 2743186
Jaipur Doordarshan 2710331
FRRO 2618508
Passport Office 2710884
28 abantu bendawo batusa
Jaipur
Attractive monuments and landmarks where one can breathe the fragrance of history is a feast in store for tourists at Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Named after the founder, Maharaja Jai Singh, earlier it was known as Amber (Amer). The Kachhwaha Rajputs conquered the hilly terrain of Amber from the Meena tribesmen and much later because of its close ties with the Mughal Emperor Akbar it continued to prosper.
It was Raja Man Singh, the chief of Mughal armies who erected the remarkable Amber Fort which was enlarged and embellished by his successors all through the 17 and the 18-centuries. Sawai Jai Singh who inherited the throne at a tender age of 12 years was a scholar, architect, astronomer and mathematician, a talented researcher. He united the Rajputs to form a formidable front after his differences with Bahadur Shah Zafar and reconsolidate his rule.
Sawai Jai Singh decided to move his flourishing capital to the open plains to accommodate the increasing population, merchants and traders. Visualised by Sawai Jai Singh, the foundation of the new city planned by Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya, a Bengali architect based on shilpa shastra (traditional Hindu treatise on building and architecture) was laid in 1727.
Following the death of Sawai Jai Singh in 1744, and starting early 18 century the Jaipur state slowly allowed itself into the British fold. In 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh had the entire city painted in pink in honour of the visiting Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). Since then Jaipur is called the Pink City - a colour associated with hospitality.
The 1930’s saw the beginning of a new era under Sawai Man Singh II - a celebrated polo player and husband to Maharani Gayatri Devi. During his reign, hospitals, a vast secretariat complex and other civil buildings and schools were constructed outside the original walls. Following independence in 1947, Jaipur became the capital of the state of Rajasthan in 1956. Jaipur was also referred to as the city of polo, played on horseback, also on camels and now on elephants in present times.
Providing backdrops to the mega city of today are the forts of Amber, Nahargarh, Jaigarh and Moti Doongri. The old city is a bustling place with colours depicting the typical lifestyle spread all over lending a romantic touch to the environs. The broad streets accommodate cars and motors alongside camel carts and rickshaws. Beyond the city, the modern Jaipur continues to grow as new arcades, multiplexes, malls, gardens, hotels, industrial units, hospitals, flyovers are being laid out. Jaipur is also popular destination for film shootings given its mesmerizing locales in and around and not to forget the royal weddings organized here. The bio-reserves in Nahargarh, Jhalana and Aravali hills have some exotic wildlife. Visitors can also now experience taking hot air balloon rides.
The heart of the city - the old walled city is in the northeast of Jaipur and the newly expanding area is mainly confined to the south and the west. Mirza Ismail Road or the M I Road, Sansar Chandra Road and Station Road adjoining the city are the main areas on and around which situated are most of the shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, tourist offices and money changers.
Air There are regular flights connecting Jaipur to Delhi and Mumbai, Jodhpur, and Udaipur in Rajasthan and also important destinations like Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai, and Pune operated by domestic carriers The Terminal-II is about 12 km from the city centre and a taxi should charge Rs. 400-500 for transfer.
Train Regular rail service connects Jaipur to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Agra, Varanasi and Ahmedabad etc. There is a daily Shatabdi service to Jaipur from Delhi.Both the luxury trains Palace on Wheels and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels halt at Jaipur. The computerised railway reservation office is just outside the railway station, open from 0800-2000 hr on Monday-Saturday and 0800-1400 hr on Sunday.
Road Delhi (260km) is connected to Jaipur via Dharuhera, Behror, Kotputli and Shahpura on NH 8. Jaipur is further linked to Mumbai via Ajmer (133km), Udaipur (407km), and Ahmedabad (657km) on NH 8. NH 12 links to Kota (240km) and NH11 from Bikaner connects it to Agra (230 km. The route to Jodhpur (330km) is from Beawar till Barr on NH112 and onwards on NH65. State owned RSRTC operates bus service to all the parts of Rajasthan and New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
For contact details on airlines, rail, buses, and car hire see local directory
Local transport
Within the city, cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws and city buses are the most common means of transport. Taxis or cars can be hired for a half day or a full day sightseeing, about Rs. 1200-1500 for 6-8 hr, maximum 80 km by car.
Travel by auto rickshaw is very popular, full day sightseeing should cost Rs 800-900 (6-8 hr). For a cycle rickshaw, an indicative charge is about Rs 5 per km or Rs 70-80 per hr. It is always advisable to fix the price before boarding.
From outside the railway station, Ajmeri Gate and near the Hawa Mahal private mini buses and state owned city buses operated by JCTSL ply for all the popular centres in Jaipur. Charges are fixed. A rapid transit rail project by the name Jaipur Metro is under progress.
Places of Interest
Amber Fort Complex
11 km from Jaipur amidst the dry wrinkled hills raises Amber or Amer, the former capital of the old state of Dhundhar for seven centuries built by Raja Man Singh in the 16 century and added to by Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh.
The palace complex is approached through a steep path, popularly traversed by tourists on elephant back up to the Jai Pol the first gateway then to a huge courtyard Jaleb Chowk and the Singh Pol (Lion Gate). Two flights of stairs rise from one end of the Jaleb Chowk, one leading to the Shila Mata Temple and other to the Palace Complex. The temple has huge doors made of silver and displays nine forms of Durga and ten forms of Saraswati.
The front of the Palace Complex is dominated by the spectacular pillared Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience). The double storied painted gateway Ganesh Pol is the pride of the palace. The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private) has delicate mosaic work in glass. The Jas Mandir in the upper floor has intricately carved screens, delicate mirror, and stucco works, painted and carved doors. The mirror work motifs in Sukh Niwas are so delicately designed, that a single lit matchstick gives an impression of a starlit site T 0141-2530293. Timing 0800-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 25/Rs 200. Audio Guide/Tablet Rs 150 Elephant Ride Rs 900 for two persons; Timing 0700-1000 and 1530-1700 hr.
Sound and Light Show has been introduced at Kesar Kyari Complex, Amer. The 50 minute programme showcases the legendry past of 600 years and 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty; control room T 2530844 English 1830 hr, Rs 200; Hindi 1930 hr, Rs 100.
Jaigarh Fort
Named after Jai Singh II and built in 1726, the fort is perched on a cliff surrounded by huge battlements with inside walkways. It is one of the few military structures of meadieval India preserved almost intact, containing palaces, an armoury, a granary, a well planned cannon factory, temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban (Jaivan), the largest cannon with a 6.1 m long barrel. Jaigarh Fort offers panoramic and imposing view of Amber and the neighbouring area from a watch tower. The central courtyard has three enormous underground water tanks, one of which was said to hold the gold and the jewels. There are 10 century temple of Ram Harihar and 12 century temple of Kal Bhairav. T 0141-2672848. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indians/foreigners
Rs 35/Rs 85; camera Rs 50 and video Rs 200; vehicle entry Rs 50.
Nahargarh Fort
Beyond the hills of Jaigarh, the fort of Nahargarh, built in 1737 looks at the city from a sheer ridge in the north. The densely forested site was originally the forte of fierce Meena Tribe, eventually wrested by Sawai Jai Singh to bolster the defense of Amber. The suites in the palace are noteworthy for the unique plasterwork called arayish with a finish so smooth that it is almost indistinguishable from marble.
The run up to the fort is traversed on road through the hills. T 0141-5182957 Timing 1000-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigner Rs 20/Rs 50.
Located in a valley just below Nahargarh, Gaitor is the funeral ground of the rulers of Jaipur. The most impressive is the white marble cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, whose large dome is supported by twenty columns and has some exquisitely carved panels with mythological figures.
On way to Amber, in the middle of Man Sagar Lake is Jal Mahal built in the 18 century by Madho Singh I. The palace can be reached by boat and a Mughal garden on the terrace of this 5 storey palace is its highlight. The lake is a bird watcher’s paradise when local and migratory birds flock here in the months of winter.
Nahargarh Biological Park
Located on the Jaipur-Delhi highway and situated along sides of the Aravalli Hills range its main attraction is 2 km long safari by jeep in day time. The reserve area of 52.40 sq km is habituated by dry deciduous forests.
Wild animals known to inhabit the park include leopard, panther, sloth bear, caracal, deer, gharial, crocodile, pangolin, jackal, wild dog, wolf, hyena, civet, ratel, otter, fox, rhesus monkey and langur and in winter the area is visited by a number of migratory water birds ACF T 0141- 2530576
City Palace Complex
Lying in the heart of the city in a sprawling walled enclosure is the City Palace, a blend of the Mughal and the Rajasthan architecture with a ceremonial Tripolia Gate. Most visitors are ushered to the Mubarak Mahal (Welcome Palace) right before the palace proper. This graceful 19 century pavilion built by the Maharaja Madho Singh-II now forms part of the palace museum containing Toshakhana (Royal Wardrobe Section). The Maharani’s Palace (Queen Palace) is now the Selah Khana (Armory Section) having many priceless collections of antique weapons. Opposite the Mubarak Mahal is the Singh Pol (Lion Gate) and beyond it lies the Diwan-i-Khas. In its marble paved gallery one can see a 1.5 m tall vessel supposed to be the largest silver objects in the world. To its right is the Diwan-i-Aam housing a major part of the City Museum. Outstanding examples of Rajasthani art like jewellery, enamelware, carpets, miniature paintings, ancient manuscripts, and photographs is preserved here.
Among the series of beautiful buildings marked by projected balconies, arches on slender pillars and ornate entrances, is the present-day residential complex the Chandra Mahal of the Maharaja, though closed to the public.
T 0141-4088888 Timing 0900-1700 hr; entry foreigners Rs 380 including Audio Guide and entry to Jaigarh Fort, video camera Rs 200; entry Indian Rs 75 and Rs 75 for camera. Guide Rs 100-200, for one hour. Audio Guide facility in Hindi, English, French, and German is available.
Composit ticket Amber, Nahargarh, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall Indian/foreigner Rs70/ Rs 350 Within the complex is the revered Govind Devji Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna built by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1730.
Conducted RTDC tours by bus:
Full Day Tour: 0900-1800 hr Fare Rs 300*.
Itinerary - Observatory, City Palace, Amber Palace, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Birla Planetarium, Hawa Mahal, Gaitore and Jal Mahal.
Half Day Tour: 0800-1300, 1130-1630, 1330-1830 hr Fare Rs 250*.
Itinerary - Observatory, City Palace, Amber Palace, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Hawa Mahal, Gaitore and Jal Mahal.
Pink City by Night Tour: 1830-2230 hr Fare Rs 375 includes veg dinner at Nahargarh.
Itinerary - Amar Jawan Jyoti, Vidhan Sabha, Birla Mandir, Albert Hall, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Kanak Vrindavan, Amber Fort, Raj Mandir Cinema, Statue Circle
*Fare does not include entry fee for the monuments.
Booking at Jaipur–
Tourist Information Bureau, Railway Station T 2315714 and Central Bus Stand T 2206720; Transport Unit, Govt. Hostel Campus T 2375466; Hotel Gangaur T 2371648; CRO, Govt. Hostel T 5114768-69
Pick up points : RTDC Hotel Gangaur, RTDC Hotel Teej, TIB Railway Station, TIB Bus Stand.
RTDC Transport Unit also provides taxis, coaches and buses for local sight seeing and outstation tours from Jaipur. Contact T 2375466, 2375835.
Tourist Information
Tourist Reception Centre :
Govt. Hostel Campus, M. I. Road T 5110598
Tourist Information Bureau :
Railway Station T 2315714
Central Bus Stand T 2206720
Sanganer Airport T 2722647
Near Elephant Stand, Amer T 2530264.
Govt. of India Tourist Office :
Khasa Kothi T 1363, 2372200
Tourist Assistance Force TAFT7597612347
Guide Service
Govt. of India, Tourist Office at Khasa Kothi
T 2372200 provides guide service, which are approved by Govt. of India.
Charges for a group 1-5/6-14/15-40 pax
Half day (4 hr) : Rs 750/`950/` 1260
Full day (8 hr) : Rs 950/Rs 1225/Rs 1650
Local State Guides Charges for a group 1-4/ 5-15/16-35 pax
Half day (4 hr) : Rs 280 / Rs 400 / Rs 530
Full day (8 hr) Rs 400 / Rs 530 / Rs 865
French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish speaking guides are also available for extra charge.
The Observatory-Jantar Mantar
Part of the City Palace Complex, Jantar Mantar, the astronomic observatory of Sawai Jai Singh is now a World Heritage Site. Himself a keen astronomer, he invented his own gigantic instruments, fashioned out of marble and stone and using these made amazingly accurate observations about the movement of the sun, the moon, the stars, and the celestial bodies.
One of the most striking instruments is his great Samrat Yantra, Sun Dial used to measure local and meridian pass time and various observations related to celestial bodies. Sawai Jai Singh II invented 15 different instruments and the most impressive of all Ram Yantra used to calculate the altitude and azimuth of the heavenly bodies. T 0141-2610494 Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Rs 40; foreigners Rs 200. The Light and Sound Programme is the highlight of this place. Timing English 1830 Hindi 1930 hr; Rs 100.
Hawa Mahal
This edifice was built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 for the women of the royal household to watch the royal and religious processions without being seen. The five storied pyramidal building crowned with latticed balconies and miniature domes and covered with delicately sculpted stone jalis (screens), 953 in all. Its pink little wind vanes moving in every direction with the slightest gust of wind gave the palace its popular name. T 0141-2618862. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 100.
Albert Hall
Situated in Ram Niwas Bagh, the museum building designed by Sir Swinton Jacob in 1886 has a rare collection of artifacts and craft items such as metalwork, ivory carvings, pieces of jewellery, textile, pottery and paintings.
T 0141-2570099 Timing 0900 to 1700 hr, open all days; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 150.
Statue Circle
In the heart of the city it is a memorial built to pay tribute to the founder of Jaipur city, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Across the Statute Circle is a Planetarium in the B. M. Birla Science and Technology Centre T 2385367. Showtime 1100, 1300, 1500, 1700, 1900 (Hindi) hr; entry Rs 40. Existing in close proximity is the Central Park, a vast expanse of green spread.
Further straight to the north is Amar Jawan Jyoti, a memorial dedicated to the brave martyr of the state and close to it is the Vidhan Sabha.
Birla Mandir
A magnificent white marble structure, Laxmi Narayan Temple or Birla Mandir dots the southern horizon of the city with the famous Ganesh Temple nearby. Perched on a hilltop is a small Moti Doongri Fort, the replica of a Scottish Castle, however closed to the tourists.
About 2 km from here is Jawahar Kala Kendra (JKK) on JLN Marg. It plays host to several drama and music performances, craft fairs, seminars and film screenings. .
Galtaji/Gardens
About 6 km from city centre on way to Galta on Agra Road is Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, a terraced garden, the top of which is occupied by a palace. About half a km before it lays another terrace garden, Vidhyadhar ka Bagh built in the memory of the principal architect of Jaipur
10 km to the east of city centre is Galtaji-a holy pond lying in a gorge. The Rishi Galav performed his penance here. The tank is perennially fed by a never failing spring of water falling from an outlet shaped like the mouth of cow.
Sanganer
12 km on the Tonk Road, it is absorbing to see here hand block printers printing over fabric with hand blocks and also the community of handmade paper makers, the Kagzis,. The 15 century Digamber Jain Temple here has very intricately carved figures.
Nearly 20 km west of Sanganer is a small village of Bagru notable for hand printed textiles famous for their bold and colourful geo-metrical patterns.
Chokhi Dhani
Chokhi Dhani Village has been the mirror of Rajasthani culture since its inception in the year 1989. Capturing the true spirit of Rajasthan the village spread over 10 acres of land is a one-stop destination for fun, food and entertainment. Chokhi Dhani village brings to life, a colorful Rajasthani heritage that leaves you awestruck with all the attractions and elements of ethnic culture and tradition. The mandir, village bazaar, folk entertainment, animal rides for children, bioscope, village style photo studio, astrologer, mehendi, cots in the open to relax will leave you awestruck. The live dance and music will be irresistible for the young and old to join and shake a leg too. The splendid evening ends at the village theme restaurant that serves authentic Rajasthani vegetarian cuisine. Timing 1730-1100 hr; entry with meals Rs 500
Local Directory STD Code0141
Rajasthan Tourism Office 5110598
Govt. of India Tourist Office 2372200
Emergency
Police Control Room 100/ 2567238
Ambulance Control Room102, 108
EHCC766502224
Fortis Escorts2547000
Narayana Multispecialty
T - 7122222
SDMH2566252
SMS Hospital2560291
Women Police2601360
Woman Helpline 7891091111
Red Cross2617214
Swasthya Kalyan Blood Bank2721771
24 hr Pharmacy
Fortis Escorts JLN Mg4097000
Narayana Multispecialty
T - 7122222
Zenana Sanganeri Gt 2372323
SMS Hospital Campus2564222
Vardhman SDMH Campus 2571301
Hospitals
Govt SMS Hospital 2560291
J. K. Lone2619827
Govt Zenana Hospital2378721
Fortis Escorts Hospital2547000
Narayana Multispecialty
T - 7122222
SDMH2566251
Soni Hospital2562028
Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital2700107
Ayurveda Centres
Chakrapani Ayurved Clinic & Research Center
T - 2624003
National Institute of Ayurveda 2635816
Air/Rail/Bus
Airport Station Mgr 2725284
Air India 18001801407/2725997
Go Air 1800 222111Indigo 18001803838/ 5119993
Jet Airways 22389333/5112222
Spicejet 18001803333/5119882
Railway Enquiry 139
Durgapura Rly Stn 2721787
Gandhinagar Rly Stn 2707416
Roadways Enquiry 2205790/2204445
Narain Singh Cir Bus Stn 2574645
Durgapura Bus Stn 2172488
Delhi Bikaner House 011-23383469
Private Bus Operators
Kalpana Travels 5100800
Mahavir Travels 2200099
Milan Travels 2206388
Shrinath Travel Agency 2368561
Zamindara Travels 2374957
Call Taxi
Jaipur Cab4644444
Meri Car4188888
Metro Cabs 4244444
Meru 4422442
My Cab 5000000
Flag fall Rs 100 and then Rs 12-18 per km for AC, between 0500 to 2200 hr, waiting Rs 2 per minute,25% extra between 2200-0500 hr.
Car Rental
Siyaram City Cabs 2722227
International Travel House 4012020
Marudhar Tours 2371768
RTDC 2375466
Travel Agents
Cox T Kings 2220060
Crown Tours 2363310
Four Seasons (India) 5112605
Kuoni 4024242
Le Passage to India 5115415
Mercury Travels 4033641
Rajasthan Tours 2385168
Rajputana Holiday 2353934
Riya Travels T Tour 4004000
Thomas Cook (India) 5102344
Travel Corporation 2363246
Travel Plan 2222332
Post/Courier
General Post Office 2368740
DHL Express 1800 111 345
DTDC 33004444
FedEx 18002096161
First Flight Couriers 2281973
Overnite Express 2363912
The Professional Couriers 4020806
Trackon 6501939
Foreign Exchange
Frequent Forex 2389259
FRR Forex 2371533
Pinky Forex 2389200
Paul Merchants 2388626
SP Securities 2361491
Thomas Cook 2367114
Transcorp 2379422
UAE Exchange2369200
Punjab National Bank 2366152
SBBJ 2313840
State Bank of India 4096232
Shopping Malls
City Pulse Narain Singh Cir
Crystal Palm Sahkar Cir
Ganpati Plaza M I Road Gaurav Towers Malviya Ngr
Gold Souk Jawahar Cir
MGF Metropolitan Sahkar Cir
Pink Square Adarsh Ngr
Triton Mall Jhotwara Rd
World Trade Park JLN Marg
Cinema / Multiplex
Raj Mandir Panch Batti 2374694
Cinepolis World Trade Park
EP Jawahar Circle 5127591
Fun CinemaTriton Mall 9982335600
Golcha Chaura Rasta 2577071
Inox 5116511
Amusement/Fun
Paintball Games 9983830006
Choki Dhani 2770554
Kanchan Kesri 5133313
Pink Pearl 5183000
Purple 2224663
Viking 5156741
Book Shops
Books & News Mart 2370252
Books Corner 2366323
Bookwise 2364755
Crossword 2379400
Universal Books 5105640
Art Galleries
Juneja Art Gallery
T - 4034964
Gallery Artchill
T - 2530025/15
www.artchill.com
Other Important no.
Collector & DM 2209000
Commissioner Police 2362100
Conservator of Forest 2227391
ASI 2784533
Rambagh Golf Club 5143421
Jawahar Kala Kendra 2706560
Dainik Bhaskar 2711356
Rajasthan Patrika 2561582
Times of India 2743186
Jaipur Doordarshan 2710331
FRRO 2618508
Passport Office 2710884
Sightseeing
11 km from Jaipur amidst the dry wrinkled hills raises Amber or Amer, the former capital of the old state of Dhundhar for seven centuries built by Raja Man Singh in the 16 century and added to by Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh.
The palace complex is approached through a steep path, popularly traversed by tourists on elephant back up to the Jai Pol the first gateway then to a huge courtyard Jaleb Chowk and the Singh Pol (Lion Gate). Two flights of stairs rise from one end of the Jaleb Chowk, one leading to the Shila Mata Temple and other to the Palace Complex. The temple has huge doors made of silver and displays nine forms of Durga and ten forms of Saraswati.
The front of the Palace Complex is dominated by the spectacular pillared Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience). The double storied painted gateway Ganesh Pol is the pride of the palace. The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private) has delicate mosaic work in glass. The Jas Mandir in the upper floor has intricately carved screens, delicate mirror, and stucco works, painted and carved doors. The mirror work motifs in Sukh Niwas are so delicately designed, that a single lit matchstick gives an impression of a starlit site T 2530293. Timing 0800-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 100/Rs 200. Audio Guide/Tablet Rs 150 Elephant Ride Rs 900 for two persons; Timing 0700-1000 and 1530-1700 hr.
Sound and Light Show has been introduced at Kesar Kyari Complex, Amer. The 50 minute programme showcases the legendry past of 600 years and 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty; control room T 2530844 English 1830 hr, Rs 200; Hindi 1930 hr, Rs 100.
Entry Fee: 100/- Indian Adult, Entry Tickets can Be book Online at - bookrajmonuments .in
19 abantu bendawo batusa
Amer
11 km from Jaipur amidst the dry wrinkled hills raises Amber or Amer, the former capital of the old state of Dhundhar for seven centuries built by Raja Man Singh in the 16 century and added to by Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh.
The palace complex is approached through a steep path, popularly traversed by tourists on elephant back up to the Jai Pol the first gateway then to a huge courtyard Jaleb Chowk and the Singh Pol (Lion Gate). Two flights of stairs rise from one end of the Jaleb Chowk, one leading to the Shila Mata Temple and other to the Palace Complex. The temple has huge doors made of silver and displays nine forms of Durga and ten forms of Saraswati.
The front of the Palace Complex is dominated by the spectacular pillared Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience). The double storied painted gateway Ganesh Pol is the pride of the palace. The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private) has delicate mosaic work in glass. The Jas Mandir in the upper floor has intricately carved screens, delicate mirror, and stucco works, painted and carved doors. The mirror work motifs in Sukh Niwas are so delicately designed, that a single lit matchstick gives an impression of a starlit site T 2530293. Timing 0800-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 100/Rs 200. Audio Guide/Tablet Rs 150 Elephant Ride Rs 900 for two persons; Timing 0700-1000 and 1530-1700 hr.
Sound and Light Show has been introduced at Kesar Kyari Complex, Amer. The 50 minute programme showcases the legendry past of 600 years and 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty; control room T 2530844 English 1830 hr, Rs 200; Hindi 1930 hr, Rs 100.
Entry Fee: 100/- Indian Adult, Entry Tickets can Be book Online at - bookrajmonuments .in
Jaigarh Fort
Named after Jai Singh II and built in 1726, the fort is perched on a cliff surrounded by huge battlements with inside walkways. It is one of the few military structures of meadieval India preserved almost intact, containing palaces, an armoury, a granary, a well planned cannon factory, temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban (Jaivan), the largest cannon with a 6.1 m long barrel. Jaigarh Fort offers panoramic and imposing view of Amber and the neighbouring area from a watch tower. The central courtyard has three enormous underground water tanks, one of which was said to hold the gold and the jewels. There are 10 century temple of Ram Harihar and 12 century temple of Kal Bhairav. T 0141-2672848. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indians/foreigners
Rs 35/Rs 85; camera Rs 50 and video Rs 200; vehicle entry Rs 50.
JAIGARH FORT
Jaigarh Fort
Named after Jai Singh II and built in 1726, the fort is perched on a cliff surrounded by huge battlements with inside walkways. It is one of the few military structures of meadieval India preserved almost intact, containing palaces, an armoury, a granary, a well planned cannon factory, temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban (Jaivan), the largest cannon with a 6.1 m long barrel. Jaigarh Fort offers panoramic and imposing view of Amber and the neighbouring area from a watch tower. The central courtyard has three enormous underground water tanks, one of which was said to hold the gold and the jewels. There are 10 century temple of Ram Harihar and 12 century temple of Kal Bhairav. T 0141-2672848. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indians/foreigners
Rs 35/Rs 85; camera Rs 50 and video Rs 200; vehicle entry Rs 50.
Nahargarh Fort
Beyond the hills of Jaigarh, the fort of Nahargarh, built in 1737 looks at the city from a sheer ridge in the north. The densely forested site was originally the forte of fierce Meena Tribe, eventually wrested by Sawai Jai Singh to bolster the defense of Amber. The suites in the palace are noteworthy for the unique plasterwork called arayish with a finish so smooth that it is almost indistinguishable from marble.
The run up to the fort is traversed on road through the hills. T 0141-5182957 Timing 1000-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigner Rs 20/Rs 50.
Located in a valley just below Nahargarh, Gaitor is the funeral ground of the rulers of Jaipur. The most impressive is the white marble cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, whose large dome is supported by twenty columns and has some exquisitely carved panels with mythological figures.
On way to Amber, in the middle of Man Sagar Lake is Jal Mahal built in the 18 century by Madho Singh I. The palace can be reached by boat and a Mughal garden on the terrace of this 5 storey palace is its highlight. The lake is a bird watcher’s paradise when local and migratory birds flock here in the months of winter.
114 abantu bendawo batusa
Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort
Beyond the hills of Jaigarh, the fort of Nahargarh, built in 1737 looks at the city from a sheer ridge in the north. The densely forested site was originally the forte of fierce Meena Tribe, eventually wrested by Sawai Jai Singh to bolster the defense of Amber. The suites in the palace are noteworthy for the unique plasterwork called arayish with a finish so smooth that it is almost indistinguishable from marble.
The run up to the fort is traversed on road through the hills. T 0141-5182957 Timing 1000-1730 hr; entry Indian/foreigner Rs 20/Rs 50.
Located in a valley just below Nahargarh, Gaitor is the funeral ground of the rulers of Jaipur. The most impressive is the white marble cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, whose large dome is supported by twenty columns and has some exquisitely carved panels with mythological figures.
On way to Amber, in the middle of Man Sagar Lake is Jal Mahal built in the 18 century by Madho Singh I. The palace can be reached by boat and a Mughal garden on the terrace of this 5 storey palace is its highlight. The lake is a bird watcher’s paradise when local and migratory birds flock here in the months of winter.
City Palace Complex
Lying in the heart of the city in a sprawling walled enclosure is the City Palace, a blend of the Mughal and the Rajasthan architecture with a ceremonial Tripolia Gate. Most visitors are ushered to the Mubarak Mahal (Welcome Palace) right before the palace proper. This graceful 19 century pavilion built by the Maharaja Madho Singh-II now forms part of the palace museum containing Toshakhana (Royal Wardrobe Section). The Maharani’s Palace (Queen Palace) is now the Selah Khana (Armory Section) having many priceless collections of antique weapons. Opposite the Mubarak Mahal is the Singh Pol (Lion Gate) and beyond it lies the Diwan-i-Khas. In its marble paved gallery one can see a 1.5 m tall vessel supposed to be the largest silver objects in the world. To its right is the Diwan-i-Aam housing a major part of the City Museum. Outstanding examples of Rajasthani art like jewellery, enamelware, carpets, miniature paintings, ancient manuscripts, and photographs is preserved here.
Among the series of beautiful buildings marked by projected balconies, arches on slender pillars and ornate entrances, is the present-day residential complex the Chandra Mahal of the Maharaja, though closed to the public.
T 0141-4088888 Timing 0900-1700 hr; entry foreigners Rs 380 including Audio Guide and entry to Jaigarh Fort, video camera Rs 200; entry Indian Rs 75 and Rs 75 for camera. Guide Rs 100-200, for one hour. Audio Guide facility in Hindi, English, French, and German is available.
Composit ticket Amber, Nahargarh, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall Indian/foreigner Rs70/ Rs 350 Within the complex is the revered Govind Devji Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna built by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1730.
39 abantu bendawo batusa
City Palace
City Palace Complex
Lying in the heart of the city in a sprawling walled enclosure is the City Palace, a blend of the Mughal and the Rajasthan architecture with a ceremonial Tripolia Gate. Most visitors are ushered to the Mubarak Mahal (Welcome Palace) right before the palace proper. This graceful 19 century pavilion built by the Maharaja Madho Singh-II now forms part of the palace museum containing Toshakhana (Royal Wardrobe Section). The Maharani’s Palace (Queen Palace) is now the Selah Khana (Armory Section) having many priceless collections of antique weapons. Opposite the Mubarak Mahal is the Singh Pol (Lion Gate) and beyond it lies the Diwan-i-Khas. In its marble paved gallery one can see a 1.5 m tall vessel supposed to be the largest silver objects in the world. To its right is the Diwan-i-Aam housing a major part of the City Museum. Outstanding examples of Rajasthani art like jewellery, enamelware, carpets, miniature paintings, ancient manuscripts, and photographs is preserved here.
Among the series of beautiful buildings marked by projected balconies, arches on slender pillars and ornate entrances, is the present-day residential complex the Chandra Mahal of the Maharaja, though closed to the public.
T 0141-4088888 Timing 0900-1700 hr; entry foreigners Rs 380 including Audio Guide and entry to Jaigarh Fort, video camera Rs 200; entry Indian Rs 75 and Rs 75 for camera. Guide Rs 100-200, for one hour. Audio Guide facility in Hindi, English, French, and German is available.
Composit ticket Amber, Nahargarh, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall Indian/foreigner Rs70/ Rs 350 Within the complex is the revered Govind Devji Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna built by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1730.
The Observatory-Jantar Mantar
Part of the City Palace Complex, Jantar Mantar, the astronomic observatory of Sawai Jai Singh is now a World Heritage Site. Himself a keen astronomer, he invented his own gigantic instruments, fashioned out of marble and stone and using these made amazingly accurate observations about the movement of the sun, the moon, the stars, and the celestial bodies.
One of the most striking instruments is his great Samrat Yantra, Sun Dial used to measure local and meridian pass time and various observations related to celestial bodies. Sawai Jai Singh II invented 15 different instruments and the most impressive of all Ram Yantra used to calculate the altitude and azimuth of the heavenly bodies. T 0141-2610494 Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Rs 40; foreigners Rs 200. The Light and Sound Programme is the highlight of this place. Timing English 1830 Hindi 1930 hr; Rs 100.
83 abantu bendawo batusa
Jantar Mantar - Jaipur
The Observatory-Jantar Mantar
Part of the City Palace Complex, Jantar Mantar, the astronomic observatory of Sawai Jai Singh is now a World Heritage Site. Himself a keen astronomer, he invented his own gigantic instruments, fashioned out of marble and stone and using these made amazingly accurate observations about the movement of the sun, the moon, the stars, and the celestial bodies.
One of the most striking instruments is his great Samrat Yantra, Sun Dial used to measure local and meridian pass time and various observations related to celestial bodies. Sawai Jai Singh II invented 15 different instruments and the most impressive of all Ram Yantra used to calculate the altitude and azimuth of the heavenly bodies. T 0141-2610494 Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Rs 40; foreigners Rs 200. The Light and Sound Programme is the highlight of this place. Timing English 1830 Hindi 1930 hr; Rs 100.
Hawa Mahal
This edifice was built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 for the women of the royal household to watch the royal and religious processions without being seen. The five storied pyramidal building crowned with latticed balconies and miniature domes and covered with delicately sculpted stone jalis (screens), 953 in all. Its pink little wind vanes moving in every direction with the slightest gust of wind gave the palace its popular name. T 0141-2618862. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 100.
130 abantu bendawo batusa
Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal RoadHawa Mahal
This edifice was built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 for the women of the royal household to watch the royal and religious processions without being seen. The five storied pyramidal building crowned with latticed balconies and miniature domes and covered with delicately sculpted stone jalis (screens), 953 in all. Its pink little wind vanes moving in every direction with the slightest gust of wind gave the palace its popular name. T 0141-2618862. Timing 0900-1630 hr; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 100.
Albert Hall
Situated in Ram Niwas Bagh, the museum building designed by Sir Swinton Jacob in 1886 has a rare collection of artifacts and craft items such as metalwork, ivory carvings, pieces of jewellery, textile, pottery and paintings.
T 0141-2570099 Timing 0900 to 1700 hr, open all days; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 150.
89 abantu bendawo batusa
I-Albert Hall Museum
99 Museum RdAlbert Hall
Situated in Ram Niwas Bagh, the museum building designed by Sir Swinton Jacob in 1886 has a rare collection of artifacts and craft items such as metalwork, ivory carvings, pieces of jewellery, textile, pottery and paintings.
T 0141-2570099 Timing 0900 to 1700 hr, open all days; entry Indian/foreigners Rs 20/Rs 150.
History of Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur
A Rajput dynasty Kachwaha that reigned at Gatore Ki Chhatriyan was responsible for maintaining the royal crematorium grounds. Maharaja Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, chose the site in the 18th century. Since 1733, every Kachhwaha king has been cremated here. The only missing cenotaph is Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh, whose burial took place at Jaipur's city palace complex.
Architecture of Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur
The Gatore compound follows Vedic architectural guidelines with Indo-Persian structural and arcuate building influences. Crematoriums are located north of the hamlet and sloping southwards, according to Vedic norms. A body of water, particularly a river, provides an ideal setting for the memorials. Furthermore, the Rajas built the crematoriums and monuments in remote places not seen from afar.
The cenotaphs of the royals are distributed around the complex, resulting in what appears to be a mix of tiny open-air palaces and beautiful towers. The structures indicate the locations of prior leaders' cremations.
They are stunning works of architecture to see! An umbrella-shaped dome called a 'chhatri' tops each Indian monument and crematorium. The Maharajas built the other monuments in sandstone. Elephants, combat scenes, etc., are intricately carved into several of them.
Memorials at Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur
The courtyard has three portions, the oldest being the farthest from the entrance. The chhatri of Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, stands in the courtyard's center. As per legend, it is made of Taj marble or white Makrana marble, the highest quality.
The most beautiful memorial is of Sawai Jai Singhji. It is eloquently constructed using white marble. It has sculptures of Hindu Gods, maids, musicians, and other individuals and truly validates the reign of Jaipur's greatest emperor. Twenty pillars support the dome.
Sawai Ram Singh's memorial is located just behind the chhatri of Sawai Jai Singh. It mimics his chhatri and contains an exact depiction of the regal games of army scenes made of Italian marble.The next chhatri, Sawai Madho Singh, is the most intricate and magnificent of all chhatris. Sawai Pratap Singh commissioned the chhatri in his honor, and it is a one-of-a-kind blend of stone and marble work. Its layout is similar to that of the Taj Mahal to some extent. The two stone lions guarding the entryway appear to be the watch guard. As soon as you take a step forward, you observe the incredible and detailed carvings and decorations.
The pillars in this chhatri are in an octagonal pattern. Furthermore, it has vented octagon windows. Standing in the middle, you can see the open verandas on all four sides. The stairs leading to the top of the mausoleum stand on its north. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the chhatris all around you from here. They are twelve in number. On each of the four corners stand four enormous chhatris and eight tiny chhatris.
This memorial exemplifies Jaipur's architectural significance and beauty. The stone is a rare Redstone from Karauli and 'Raay wale ki khan' near Ramgarh. Over the marble panels outside the chhatri, scenes of the traditional procession of elephants, horses, and other animals from Janani Deori to Sanganeri Gate represent eloquence.
The Hanumanji temple stands near the Sanganeri gate, and you can see the grand Hawa Mahal from here.
#Trivia- One intriguing fact about this lovely spot is that people gathered to light lamps here to honor their rulers until a few years ago, as the sun went down and twilight fell over the beautiful surroundings. Lighting lights represented paying homage to their kings. But, as time passed, this enjoyable activity faded away.
Gatore Ki Chhatriyan
History of Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur
A Rajput dynasty Kachwaha that reigned at Gatore Ki Chhatriyan was responsible for maintaining the royal crematorium grounds. Maharaja Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, chose the site in the 18th century. Since 1733, every Kachhwaha king has been cremated here. The only missing cenotaph is Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh, whose burial took place at Jaipur's city palace complex.
Architecture of Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur
The Gatore compound follows Vedic architectural guidelines with Indo-Persian structural and arcuate building influences. Crematoriums are located north of the hamlet and sloping southwards, according to Vedic norms. A body of water, particularly a river, provides an ideal setting for the memorials. Furthermore, the Rajas built the crematoriums and monuments in remote places not seen from afar.
The cenotaphs of the royals are distributed around the complex, resulting in what appears to be a mix of tiny open-air palaces and beautiful towers. The structures indicate the locations of prior leaders' cremations.
They are stunning works of architecture to see! An umbrella-shaped dome called a 'chhatri' tops each Indian monument and crematorium. The Maharajas built the other monuments in sandstone. Elephants, combat scenes, etc., are intricately carved into several of them.
Memorials at Gatore Ki Chhatriyan Jaipur
The courtyard has three portions, the oldest being the farthest from the entrance. The chhatri of Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, stands in the courtyard's center. As per legend, it is made of Taj marble or white Makrana marble, the highest quality.
The most beautiful memorial is of Sawai Jai Singhji. It is eloquently constructed using white marble. It has sculptures of Hindu Gods, maids, musicians, and other individuals and truly validates the reign of Jaipur's greatest emperor. Twenty pillars support the dome.
Sawai Ram Singh's memorial is located just behind the chhatri of Sawai Jai Singh. It mimics his chhatri and contains an exact depiction of the regal games of army scenes made of Italian marble.The next chhatri, Sawai Madho Singh, is the most intricate and magnificent of all chhatris. Sawai Pratap Singh commissioned the chhatri in his honor, and it is a one-of-a-kind blend of stone and marble work. Its layout is similar to that of the Taj Mahal to some extent. The two stone lions guarding the entryway appear to be the watch guard. As soon as you take a step forward, you observe the incredible and detailed carvings and decorations.
The pillars in this chhatri are in an octagonal pattern. Furthermore, it has vented octagon windows. Standing in the middle, you can see the open verandas on all four sides. The stairs leading to the top of the mausoleum stand on its north. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the chhatris all around you from here. They are twelve in number. On each of the four corners stand four enormous chhatris and eight tiny chhatris.
This memorial exemplifies Jaipur's architectural significance and beauty. The stone is a rare Redstone from Karauli and 'Raay wale ki khan' near Ramgarh. Over the marble panels outside the chhatri, scenes of the traditional procession of elephants, horses, and other animals from Janani Deori to Sanganeri Gate represent eloquence.
The Hanumanji temple stands near the Sanganeri gate, and you can see the grand Hawa Mahal from here.
#Trivia- One intriguing fact about this lovely spot is that people gathered to light lamps here to honor their rulers until a few years ago, as the sun went down and twilight fell over the beautiful surroundings. Lighting lights represented paying homage to their kings. But, as time passed, this enjoyable activity faded away.