Jaipur India: Explore Pink City of India & Amber Fort

Jaipur India holds the unique honor of being India’s first planned city. The capital of Rajasthan, globally renowned for its colored gemstones, offers a mesmerizing blend of ancient history and modern metropolis. Jaipur is a key point of the famous Golden Triangle tourist circuit, which also includes Delhi and Agra.

In 1876, when the Prince of Wales visited India, Maharaja Ram Singh painted the city pink to welcome him, as the color symbolizes hospitality. Today, the pink hue that bathes the city adds to the allure of its architectural marvels and grand forts like Nahargarh, Jaigarh, and Garh Ganesh Temple.

Jaipur India was founded in 1727 by Jai Singh II, the city was designed based on the principles of Vastu Shastra to accommodate Jaipur’s growing population and water demands, shifting the capital from Amber.

Jaipur Amber Fort

A must-visit attraction in Jaipur Amber fort, the Amber Palace Fort (also known as Jaipur Amer Fort) sits majestically atop a small hill, approximately 11 km from the city center. This grand palace complex is a masterpiece of Rajasthani architecture, constructed with pale yellow and pink sandstone, along with gleaming white marble.

The fort is divided into four main sections, each with its own courtyard, offering a glimpse into the royal life of ancient Rajasthan. Visitors can explore the King’s quarters, the zenana (women’s quarters), beautiful gardens, and ancient temples.

Key Attractions of Jaipur Amber Fort

Suraj Pol and Chand Pol: If you’re not arriving by car, you’ll enter through Suraj Pol, the sun gate, while those arriving by vehicle enter through Chand Pol. Both gates lead to Jaleb Chowk, the main courtyard where victorious armies once paraded their plunder.
Diwan-e-Aam: The public audience hall, where the king addressed the common people.
Sheesh Mahal: The renowned Mirror Palace, adorned with intricate mirror work that reflects light in a mesmerizing fashion.
Underground Tunnels: Amer Fort is connected to Jaigarh Fort via a series of underground tunnels. A part of this network has been restored and is open to the public.

The fort also hosts a light and sound show in the evening, showcasing the rich history and grandeur of Amer Fort through an immersive visual spectacle.

How to Reach Amber Palace

By Bus: Buses to Amber Palace leave from Ajmeri Gate and MI Road, taking approximately 40 minutes to reach.
By Auto-Rickshaw or Car: A more convenient option, autos and cars are available for hire throughout Jaipur to take you directly to Amber Fort.

Jaipur Amber fort is an architectural marvel, embodying the grandeur and history of Rajasthan, and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Jaipur.

Top Festivals in Jaipur India

Gangaur Festival

Celebrated in the month of Chaitra (March-April), Gangaur is one of Rajasthan’s most important festivals. Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Gan) and Goddess Parvati (Gauri), it symbolizes marital happiness and is particularly significant for women. The festival sees colorful processions, starting from Zanani-Deodhi at City Palace, passing through Tripolia Bazaar and concluding near Talkatora.

Kite Festival: Jaipur India

On Makar Sankranti, 14th January, Jaipur’s sky fills with vibrant kites. This spectacular Kite Festival is celebrated statewide, but Jaipur’s skyline stands out, especially at night when fireworks and light-embedded kites dazzle the horizon. The Department of Tourism also organizes kite-flying events with cultural performances.

Rajasthan Festival: Jaipur India

The Rajasthan Festival, celebrated in March, marks the state’s foundation day with a grand 3-day celebration. Visitors can enjoy events ranging from morning chants to musical concerts, army pageants, fashion shows, and a spectacular closing ceremony.

Teej Festival: Jaipur India

Celebrating the monsoon and nature’s bounty, Teej is an important women’s festival held in the month of Shravana. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, it involves vibrant rituals, including applying henna, swinging on decorated swings, and dressing in colorful lehariya saris. A grand procession of Teej Mata is held, featuring camels, palanquins, and folk performances through Tripolia Bazaar.

Dhulandi Festival: Jaipur India

Jaipur’s Dhulandi (Holi) is celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm. A day after Holika Dahan, locals and tourists gather to play with colors and dance to the tunes of Rajasthani folk music. The Department of Tourism organizes special events for foreign visitors at Khasa Kothi, making it a unique cultural experience.

International Jazz & Blues Festival: Jaipur India

Held in Central Park, this international festival brings together Jazz and Blues musicians from across the globe. Aimed at expanding the audience for these genres, the festival features performances from international and Indian artists, drawing on various subgenres that reflect global musical diversity.

How to Reach Jaipur India

By Air: The Sanganer Airport in Jaipur offers both domestic and international connections, with flights to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Dubai, Singapore, and more.
By Road: Jaipur is well-connected by AC and Deluxe buses from cities like Delhi, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.
By Train: Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad have direct rail links to Jaipur.