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Jaipur is a reservoir of the architectural wonders embracing the rich legacy of India. The remnants of the bygone era boast of the royalty of Jaipur. There are many forts and monuments in Jaipur that are worth seeing. Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort and Nahargarh Fort are the three antique forts that provide the spectacular view of the city. In the heart of Jaipur, there lies the stunning City Palace of Jaipur. The Pink city marks its impact with the sight of the amazing Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Statue Circle is a favorite hang-out of Jaipur and celebrates the founder of this city.
Gaitore is a memorial of the Royal kings famed for its beautifully carved cenotaphs. The massive Jantar Mantar of Jaipur still captures the astronomical dream of Raja Sawai Jai Singh, the noble king of Jaipur. People from all over the world come to visit these relics of the former age. Government of Rajasthan is working on these monuments to preserve these priceless monuments of the erstwhile period. These epoch-making monuments of Jaipur are really worth visiting and this article will provide you further information about these relics.
The Amber Fort of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
Amber (pronounced Amer) is situated about 11 kilometres from Jaipur and was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachhawa clan of Amber, before the capital was shifted in the plains to present day Jaipur. The Amber Fort set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Built over the remnants of an earlier structure, the palace complex which stands to this date was commenced under the reign of Raja Man Singh, Commander in Chief of Emperor Akbar’s army and a member of the Emperor's inner circle of nine courtiers in 1592. Amber was modified by successive rulers over the next 150 years, until the Kachwahas shifted their capital to Jaipur during the time of Sawai Jai Singh II. The Amber Fort looks stunning, all-built in white marble and red sandstone. To add to its charm, Maotha Lake makes its foreground. The crystal mirror image of the Fort, on the still waters of the lake, seems to be a beautiful illusion. The rugged forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise with a beautiful fusion of art and architecture. Amber is the classic and romantic fort- palace with a magnificent aura.
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The picturesque situation of Amber at the mouth of a rocky mountain gorge, in which nestles a lovely lake, has attracted the admiration of all travelers. It is seen to be a remarkable example for its combined Rajput-Mughal architecture. The outer appearance of the Fort, being rough and craggy is totally different from its core. The interior of the Fort provides a soothing and warm ambience, which is least expected from its outer appearance. The marvelous decoration of the Amer Fort is influenced by both, the Hindu and Muslim manner of ornamentation. Exquisite paintings of hunting scenes on the walls depict the temperament of the Rajputs, who were adventurous, revolutionary and self-indulgent.
The intricate carvings on the walls and ceilings simply astonish the visitors. The minute mirror work adds to the grand appearance and royalty of the halls. The Amer Fort undoubtedly captivates the tourists with its artistic quality of delicate work. The mighty walls guarantee the protection of the Fort against the invasion of the enemies.
The palace or the royal apartments lies inside the massive Amber fort complex with gateways, gardens, halls, stairways, pillared pavilions, temples and palaces. Some of the noteworthy architectural marvels in the complex are the 'Diwan-E-Khas', the 'Sheesh Mahal' and the 'Jai Mandir' with exquisite mirror work, the 'Diwan-E-Aam', the 'Sukh Niwas', the Shila Mata Temple and Kali temple and the well laid out garden the 'Kesar Kyari'.
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The City Palace of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
The City Palace of Jaipur or the main palace is an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthan and Mughal architecture. City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture. The vast palace complex occupies one seventh of the walled city of Jaipur. City Palace complex covers a huge area, which is divided into a series of gardens, courtyards and buildings. Initially, Raja Jai Singh built the outer wall occupying a huge area. The additional grand buildings were constructed later by the succeeding rulers.
The City Palace of Jaipur was not only a part of the former glory of India, but still serves as home to the former Maharaja. The City Palace complex houses several palatial structures like Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Mukut Mahal, Maharani's Palace, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum. Nakkarkhana-ka-Darwaza, the imposing gateway of the City Palace guarded by stone elephants, is monumental.
In the first courtyard is the 'Mubarak Mahal', built by Maharaja Madho Singh II in the late 19th century to entertain his guests. It has a beautifully carved marble gate with heavy brass doors on either side of this gate. Today, the Mubarak Mahal, or the Auspicious Palace is converted into a costume gallery, which displays royal attires of the Kings. The museum has a rich collection of royal costumes, folk embroidery, rare and invaluable Pashmina (Kashmiri) Shawls, Sanganeri prints and Benaras silk saris. Also on display, are some of the bulky clothes worn by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I, a former ruler.
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Jantar Mantar of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
Jantar Mantar of Jaipur is the biggest stone observatory in the world, which is still in a running condition and stands witness to the wisdom of the former age. Jantar Mantar of Jaipur is one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur and is located close to the gate of the famous City Palace of Jaipur. The Jantar Mantar at Jaipur was conceived as a quest for discovering the mysteries of the Cosmos. It was built not only to verify astronomical observations made at Jaipur, but also to stimulate interest in astronomy, which had become enmeshed in theory, superstition and religious jargon. During the period between 1727 and 1733, Jantar Mantar took its form and structure.
The Man has always been fascinated by the Universe and the Cosmos. With every passing year we think we have come closer to unfolding the secrets of the dark skies. But just as we think we are close to discovering the key or the knowledge, we realize we haven't even crossed the threshold yet. Even our ancestors and the people before us, could not resist the temptation and made attempts to learn more about the mysteries of Time and Space.
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the Rajput ruler of Amber and the founder of Jaipur was a learned man and an astronomer who was deeply interested in the workings of the celestial bodies and so built the Observatory, known as Jantar Mantar. It is modeled after the one that he had built for him at the then Mughal capital of Delhi. He had constructed a total of five such labs at different locations, including the ones at Delhi and Jaipur. The Jaipur observatory is the largest of these. The name is derived from yantra, instrument, and mantra, for chanting; hence the 'the chanting instrument'. It is sometimes said to have been originally yantra mantra, mantra being translated as formula, although there is limited justification for this since in traditional spoken Jaipur language, the locals obfuscate the written 'Y' syllable as 'J'.
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Hawa Mahal of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
Hawa Mahal is a major landmark and a famous tourist attraction of Jaipur. To the north of the Jaipur city's main road intersection, the Badi Chaupad, stands Hawa Mahal - the world famous landmark of Jaipur, the best known specimen of fanciful architecture. Jaipur's signature building, the Hawa Mahal, a multi layered palace, was built by Sawai Pratap Singh (grand son of Sawai Jai Singh and son of Sawai Madhoo Singh) in 1799 AD and Mr. Lal Chand Usta was the architect. This pyramid shaped five storey building along the main street of the old city is in pink splendor with semi octagonal and delicately honey combed sandstone windows with arched roofs. As one looks at this building, one realizes that the rear side of the building is comparatively very plain and lacks much of ornamentation. One is rather surprised at the contrast, since in the front there is intricate carving and much attention has been paid to even minute details yet the backside is more a mass of pillars and passages. Famous for it's beehive like structure, the Hawa Mahal is an interplay of red and pink sand stone, carefully and painstakingly outlined with white borders and motifs. The palaces and forts of yesteryears, which were witness to the royal processions and splendours are now living monuments, accepted quite naturally into the lifestyle of the people of the "Pink City" Jaipur.
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Nahargarh Fort of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
Nahargarh Fort is located on the sheer rugged ridge of Aravali Hills and it forms an impressive northern backdrop of Pink City of Jaipur, the capital city of Indian state of Rajasthan. Nahargarh Fort is the first of the three forts built by Maharaja Jai Sawai Singh of Jaipur. Beyond the hills of Jaigarh, stands the fort of Nahargarh like a watchful sentinel guarding Sawai Jai Singh's beautiful capital. The Fort was constructed mainly in 1734, however further additions were made to it, by the succeeding rulers in the 19th century. In 1734, seven years after his new capital was built Jai Singh II began to build this small fort. Two and a half centuries later it still stands tall on a steep rocky face with massive walls and bastions for company. Jai Singh II named it Sudarshangarh (sudarshan chakra: Lord Vishnu’s discus; garh: fort). Along with Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort it formed a strong defence ring for the city. During the Sepoy revolt of 1857, Nahagarh served as a refuge for Europeans fleeing from the havoc created by mutineers in neighboring states. The term "Nahargarh" refers to "the Abode of Tigers", so it is also known as the Tiger Fort. It overlooks the city from a sheer ridge to the north, and is floodlit at night. Much of the original structures are now in ruins, but the lovely buildings added by Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II in the 19 th century are preserved in a good condition and remind the visitors of the glory of the former age that belonged to kings and Maharajas. This Place was used as a picnic spot for the members of the Royal family.
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Jaigarh Fort of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
At a distance of 15kms from Jaipur, the capital city of Indian state of Rajasthan stands the imposing Jaigarh Fort. Also called the Victory Fort, the Jaigarh Fort stands in the midst of thorn-scrub hills that impart a sterner look to the already forbidding Fort. As one approaches the fort from the steep road that leads to the main gate, the Dungar Darwaza, one cannot help but remark at the amazing view it offers of the city below. The Jaigarh fort was built between the 15th to the 18th century to bolster up the defense of Amer, so one should not be amazed to find that the fort unlike most palaces and forts of Jaipur is quite plain and simple. It has moats and all the features you would expect of a full-fledged citadel.
The Jaigarh fort is the most spectacular of the three-hilltop forts that overlook Jaipur. In Mughal times, the Jaipur region was a major weapon-producing centre for the Mughal and Rajput rulers, several of which are on display in the fort's museum. It is one of the few military structures of medieval India preserved almost intact, retaining its ancient splendour in palaces, gardens , reservoirs, a granary, an armoury, a well planned cannon foundary, several temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban, one of the largest in the country are preserved here. The extensive parkotas (walls), watch tower and gateways of Jaigarh dominate the western skyline. It is a massive fort that has been preserved and maintained well and has bravely faced the tempests of time. Jaigarh Fort is also known as the fort of victory. The display includes a collection of canons, many of which are exquisitely decorated and were used in the Mughal campaigns led by the Rajput King, Raja Man Singh.
Jaigarh Fort was made to tighten the security of Jaipur and Amber. Due to this fact, one may not find this fort as artistic as other forts and palaces, but it certainly has its own charm. The Fort has many structures of medieval India, which are worth exploring. It has several palaces, granary, well-planned cannon foundry, several temples and a tall tower. Jaigarh Fort used to serve as the center of artillery production for the Rajputs.
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Gaitore in Jaipur, Rajasthan
Gaitore is situated on the Jaipur-Amber road, about 15 kms from Jaipur. Gaitore is a royal cremation site of the majestic rulers of Jaipur. There is a cenotaph for each Maharaja, built in his honor. These royal cenotaphs of the Maharajas are commonly known as 'Chhatris'.
Statue Circle in Jaipur, Rajasthan
Statue Circle forms a major landmark of Jaipur. It is situated on a busy crossing of the city. Statue Circle has got its name from the statue, which it portrays. The full-length exquisitely carve statue of Swai Jai Singh in white marble in the centre of the circle was erected under the newly planned scheme area to pay homage to the founder of Jaipur.
Swargasuli (Isar Lat) in Jaipur, Rajasthan
It is the highest tower dominating the skyline of the western side of the Tripolia Bazaar. It was built by Sawai Ishwari Singh in 1749 A.D. to commemorate a grand victory.
BM Birla Planetarium of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
The Planetarium offers unique audio-visual education and entertainment with its modern computerized projection system. For school groups concessions are available. It is closed on last Wednesday of every month. Timing: 12.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs.
Old City of Jaipur in Rajasthan
Once a settlement of nobles,craftsmen and common folks, the city of Amer is now in ruins. The remanants of its rich past are the beautifully carved and planned Jagat Shiromani Temple, a Krishna temple associated with Meerabai, an ancient temple of Narsinghji and a magnificent step-well,Panna Mian-ka-kund.
Temples of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
The cultural roots of Jaipur are reflected in the temples of Jaipur. The city houses several temples, which depict the religious nature of the pink city dwellers. The royalty of Jaipur always encouraged the spirituality and aesthetic sense of admiration in the foundation of the city. It doesn't mean that people are conservative or orthodox in their approach. Here, all religions are equally appreciated, but as Hindus dominate the city, you will find a number of temples in Jaipur.
The artistic temples of Jaipur provide an enthralling view to the visitors. Amongst the others, temples like Birla Mandir, Moti Dungri, Galta ji and Govind Deo Ji are worth mentioning. Birla Mandir gets the limelight of this trip with its wonderful carvings and brilliant architecture. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Temple of Moti Dungri lies on the peak of a hill. Govind Deo ji temple is situated in the beautiful City Palace complex of Jaipur.
Galtaji
Location: Near Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, On Jaipur-Agra Highway
Built by: Diwan Rao Kriparam
Built in: 18th Century
Dedicated to: Sun God, Lord Hanuman/Balaji
Highlights: Fresh Water Springs
How to reach: One can easily reach Galtaji Temple from the city by taking local Buses, Cars and Taxis
Galtaji is a holy pilgrimage of India, located 10 kms away from Jaipur in Rajasthan. Galta Ji Temple is dedicated to sun god and gives a panoramic view of the city of Jaipur. All these temples are known for their architectural styles and craftsmanship of their designers. The spiritual aura, which these temples create, attracts tourists and devotees from both far and near. The vast complex of Galta Ji has several temples in it. The Temple of Galtaji is famous for its natural water springs. Set amidst the beautiful landscape, Galtaji Temple offers a picturesque view of the city. Galtaji is considered holy place, as Saint Galav spent his life meditating here. However, the temple was built mach later by Diwan Rao Kriparam, a courtier of Sawai Jai Singh II, in the 18th Century. The outstanding structure of the Temple looks more like a mansion or Haveli.
The complex of Galtaji has numerous temples, pavilions, natural springs and holy 'kunds'. Built in pink sandstone, Galtaji Temple appeals to the aesthetic sense of the visitors. The temple, dedicated to the Sun God, is the most famous temple built on the top of a hill. The temple is decked with rounded roofs, exquisitely carved pillars and painted walls. Out of all other temples, Hanuman temple stands out, being surrounded by hundreds of monkeys. Besides all other attractions, Natural water springs draw special attention of the visitors.
The water of these springs is accumulated in the tanks or 'kunds'. In all, there are seven tanks, holiest being the Galta Kund, which never goes dry. It is considered auspicious to take bath in the holy waters of Galtaji. Thousands of people come every year to take a dip in the tanks to rinse out their sins. Makar Sankranti is regarded as a special day to take bath in the holy waters of Galtaji.
Galtaji Temple is a prehistoric pilgrimage location, in a lush green landscape of nature. The location of temple is such that it provides awe-inspiring views of the surrounding plains. The Galtaji Temple is a souvenir of the former age and a sacred pilgrimage of the Hindus. The tranquility of the Temple, attracts people from far and near, to visit it again and again.
Birla Temple
Location: In the south of Jaipur, situated just below the famous Moti Dungri Fort
Built by: B.M. Birla Foundation
Built in: 1988
Dedicated to: Lord Laxmi Narayan
Highlights: Rich carvings on pure white marble
How to reach: One can easily reach Birla Temple from the city by taking local Buses, Rickshaws and Taxis
Birla Temple forms one of the major attractions of Jaipur. Birla Temple of Jaipur looks stunning, when it is brightly lit in the night. Birla Mandir, in pure white marble, dominates the skyline of southern part of Jaipur. The enormous temple was built during the year 1988, by Birla Group of Industries, one of the business tycoons of India. The Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the preserver and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth. Due to this reason, Birla Temple is also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple.
The Birla Mandir is situated just below the renowned Moti Dungri Fort. Built in a contemporary manner, Laxmi Narayan Mandir covers the vast lands of the city of Jaipur. The temple stands erect on a raised platform, at the footsteps of the Moti Dungri Hill. Birla Mandir is constructed in the finest quality of white marble. The three huge domes of the temple represent three different approaches to the religion. The beautiful white marble temple mesmerizes the onlookers, when it glows at night.
The attractive stained windows glass windows of the temple depict scenes from Hindu Mythology. The idols of the temple look so real as if, they would utter a word just now. Amongst all the idols, the marble idol of Ganesha is a masterpiece which looks almost-transparent. The idols of Lord Vishnu and his consort, Lakshmi attract the attention, being made out from one piece of marble. The temple also portrays great historical achievers, philosophers and religious saints such as Socrates, Zarathustra, Christ, Buddha, and Confucius.
The Laxmi Narayan Mandir is a modern architectural marvel, surrounded by lush green gardens. The fascinating exteriors of the temple are carved splendidly with beautiful sculptures based of mythological themes, while the interiors have a large marble panel portraying mythological events. The Birla Temple has a museum too, which showcases the ancestral valuables of the Birla family. Birla Mandir / Laxmi Narayan Temple is a masterpiece of art and tourists should not miss this architectural spiritual heritage on their trip to Jaipur.
Govind Dev Ji Temple
Location: In City Palace Complex
Established In: 18th Century by Raja Sawai Jai Singh
Built In: 1890 by Raja Man Singh
Dedicated to: Govind Dev Ji (Lord Krishna)
How to reach: One can easily reach Govind Dev Ji Temple from the city by taking local Buses, Rickshaws and Taxis
Govind Dev Ji Temple is one amongst the major tourist attractions of Jaipur. The Temple represents the royal past of Jaipur. The Temple is dedicated to Govind Dev Ji (Other name of Lord Krishna). Govind Devji Temple of Jaipur is situated in the City Palace complex, between the Chandra Mahal and Badal Mahal. Govind Dev Ji is the principal deity of Amber's Kachawaha Dynasty. In the earlier times, the idol of the lord used to reside in the temple of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh.
According to a legend, Govind Dev Ji appeared in the dream of Raja Sawai Jai Singh and asked him to bring his idol from Vrindavan to Jaipur. As a consequence, Raja Sawai Jai Singh brought the idol and placed in the City Palace complex of Jaipur. After the sad demise of Jai Singh, many successors acquired the throne, but Raja Man Singh took the initiative to build the temple in 1890.
The beautiful image of Radha-Krishna doesn't let people to take off their eyes from the lovely view. Different 'Aartis' and 'Bhog' are offered to the deity at seven different times of the day. Every time, when the idols are revealed to the devotees, they are clothed in a different manner. The Devotees, who come here to get the glance or 'Darshan' of the deities, reverberates the temple with the pious phrase "Jai Govind".
A large number of tourists and devotees visit this temple of special importance. Janmashtmi, the birthday of Lord Krishna, is a special event and is celebrated with full enthusiasm. Govind Dev Ji Temple is a sacred place of the Hindus. The Temple has also become a tourist attraction in the contemporary times.
Moti Dungri
Location: In Jaipur, above the renowned Birla Temple
Dedicated to: Lord Ganesha
How to reach: One can easily reach Moti Dungri Temple from the city by taking Local Buses, Cars and Taxis
Moti Dungri is a small hill, centrally located in the city of Jaipur. The term Moti Dungri means Hill of Pearls or Pearl Hill. The hill is occupied by a palace and a temple. The temple of Moti Doongri is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This ancient temple serves as a tourist attraction for the scenic view it offers. Moti Dungri Temple is significant from the religious point of view. People from far and near often come to this sacred temple to pay their homage to Lord Ganesha.
Close to the Temple, there a beautiful Palace on the hill, this is known as Moti Dungri Palace. The Palace is an imitation of a Scottish Castle. In the ancient times, it was occupied by Maharaja Madho Singh's son. Still, the enchanting Palace belongs to the royal family. Today, it makes home for Rajmata Gayatri Devi and her son, Jagat Singh. However, the palace is not open for public.
Gardens of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
Garden represents greenery, serenity, aesthetic approach, nature and blessing of the Almighty. Gardens in desert lands sound, as if, someone has committed a mistake. But, here we are not making any mistake, the city of Jaipur is located in a desert area, still it has a number of beautiful gardens. When a single thought of garden brings a deep breath of relief to the mind, imagine if, you really get such relief. The royal city has some beautiful landscaped gardens that are truly a visual delight to the eyes of the visitors.
While designing the city of Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Sawai Singh, the far-sighted King of Jaipur, kept in mind to make the city pleasurable and beautiful in its appearance. In order to accomplish the dream, the city was blossomed with gardens. Today, these gardens provide a break to the tangled nerves of the city dwellers. The celebrated gardens of Jaipur include Vidyadhar Gardens, Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh and Kanak Vrindavan. These gardens are certainly green retreats in the barren lands of Rajasthan.
Kanak Vrindavan Valley
Location: Adjoining Amber Fort, On Amber-Jaipur Road
Highlights: Offers breathtaking views
How to reach: One can easily reach Kanak Vrindavan either by taking local buses from the city or by hiring Taxis
Kanak Vrindavan Valley is an exotic place in the desert lands of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Kanak Vrindavan is situated in the bottom of Nahargarh hills adjoining the Amber Fort, on Jaipur-Amber Road. According to past records, the beautiful green valley was labeled as Kanak Vrindavan Valley by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, almost 280-years ago. The valley seemed like a mythological Vrindavan (Land of Lord Krishna) to the King, consequently he installed an idol of Shri Govind Deoji in the complex.
Kanak Valley is also believed to be the blessed place where holy water from several rivers was gathered to carry out the Ashwamedh Yajna. Govind Deoji Temple, with its beautiful and delicate carvings, spreads a holy aura of spirituality all over the valley. The temple looks marvelous with its chhatris, lattice and mirror work. "Garba Griha" is the seat of the lord, which is engraved with exotic 'panni' work.
Kanak valley is encircled by Aravalli ranges and looks amazing from all the three forts of Jaipur. Kanak Valley covers a vast area of land, where gardens are well developed. The beauty of valley, covered with Dhok and Kadama trees, get enhanced at the sight of the scenic water cascades, blossoms, brook, ponds and lotus ponds. On the side of Kanak valley, there flows Dharbawati River which soothes the environment with the cool breeze.
Divided into eight sections, the garden comprises a series of fountains. The fountain by the name of 'Parikrama' is carved out of a single piece of marble. The picture of the garden is amazing and one cannot describe its beauty in words. Kanak valley is simply breathtaking and due to its inexplicable charm, it has made background for many Bollywood movies.
At night, when the temple is brightly lit, it offers a heavenly picture on the earth itself. The sounds of chants and hymns offered to the God complete the celestial picture of the place. Kanak Valley is a divine green oasis that flourishes in a bare land. The evergreen gardens of Kanak Valley offer a perfect place to the weary visitors for sitting and enjoying the nature. If you are on a trip to Jaipur, do not miss this enchanting valley which is always in bloom.
Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh
Location: On Jaipur-Agra Highway, 10 kms from Jaipur
Built by: Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh
Built in: 1728
Highlights: Murals of Radha-Krishna
How to reach: One can easily reach Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh from Jaipur either by taking local Buses, Cars or Taxis
Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh is a beautiful garden, located at a distance of 10 kms from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra Highway. Sisodia Bagh gets a prime attraction in the charming city of Jaipur. The Garden appeals more to the beholder, since it stands as a symbol of love. In 1728, Sisodia Rani Garden was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, with an intention to gift the garden, to his Sisodia Queen from Udaipur. As the name suggests, the Garden was named after the queen, who was adorable to the King.
Sisodia Rani Garden served as a natural sanctum and a getaway for the Maharani of Jaipur. Here, the queen used to spend time in the lap of nature, away from the political machinations of the royal palace. The Garden houses fragrant shrubs and exquisite variety of plants, which exclaims the fact that it made a perfect sanctum for the lady of the royal household. For centuries, the garden offered a retreat to the crowned heads and royal ladies, but at present everybody can enjoy this exotic and refreshing garden.
The structure of the garden is imbibed from the Mughal style of Architecture, which makes it a well-designed garden. Sisodia Rani Garden appears to be designed on the theme of eternal lovers, Radha-Krishna. The garden appeals to the artistic and visual tastes of the spectator with its layered gardens, fascinating fountains, painted pavilions and galleries. The interesting frescos, depicting the exotic scenes of Radha-Krishna, enthrall the visitors for their divine appearance.
Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh captivates the people for its beautiful landscaping and ceaseless charm. Set amidst the desert land, the garden exhibits skill of a human hand and the beauty of nature. If you are planning a trip to Jaipur, don't miss this magnificent garden, which is truly a feast for the eyes.
Vidyadhar Garden
Location: On Jaipur-Agra Highway, 8 km from Jaipur
Highlights: Well-arranged fountains and flower beds
How to reach: One can easily reach Vidyadhar Garden either by taking local buses from the city or by hiring Taxis
Vidyadhar Garden is a beautiful garden that was derived by the Rajputs of Jaipur from the Mughals' definition of Garden. Vidhyadhar Ka Bagh was made in order to bring a sense of relief in the scorched scenery of the desert land. The Garden is situated at a distance of 8 km in the east of Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra Road. Initially, the place served as a vineyard to previous rulers then it was renovated to its present form.
Vidhyadhar Gardens is the only well-planned garden in the Majestic city of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Vidyadhar Garden was built in the memory of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the chief architect and the city planner of Jaipur. The Garden has been designed as per the rules and edicts of Shilpa Shastra, the ancient Indian line of architecture, just as Vidyadhar did while planning Jaipur.
The Garden in a desert area with many watercourses modifies the façade of the cityscape. A single glimpse of this terraced garden with ample greenery refreshes the inhabitants of the city. Vidyadhar ka Bagh is beautifully laid in the valley between two rugged hills consequently adding to the natural beauty of the countryside. Well-arranged fountains, flowerbeds and shady trees enhance the beauty of the Garden.
Arranged in layers, the Garden comprises several galleries, pavilions and splendid frescos depicting Lord Krishna, which is a pleasure to behold. If you are here, you are standing at a perfect spot where you can see peacocks and monkeys. Twilight is considered as the best time to the Gardens, when the setting sun and the lights illumine its outline in the backdrop of the adjoining hills. Vidyadhar Garden is a popular tourist attraction that allures people from both far and near.
Ram Niwas Bagh
Ram Niwas Bagh is a lush spacious garden with a zoo, an aviary, a greenhouse, a herbarlum , a museum and popular sport ground. It was built by Sawai Ram Singh II in the 1868 A.D. as a famine relief project. The Albert Hall-fine example of Indo Sarcenic style of architecture designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, was opened later with an exquisite collection of sculptures, paintings, decorative wares, natural history specimen, and Egyptian mummy and the celebrated Persian carpet.
Ghat ki Guni
Beautifully landscaped gardens, laid out in the 18th and 19th century by king and courtiers dot the narrow gorge in the south eastern corner of the walled city, along the road to Agra.
Excursions around Jaipur in Rajasthan, India
Jaipur is one of the most alluring cities of Rajasthan, India. Every year, people from all over the world come to explore the majestic city of Jaipur. There are numerous tourist attractions in Jaipur; still the city offers many other places in the suburbs to satisfy the appetite of tourists. You can visit Abhaneri, a small town, popular for its astonishing step wells and Harshad Mata Temple. On the other hand, Sanganer is famous for manufacturing the quality hand-made paper in India.
Rajasthan is famous for its traditions and culture. Keeping the traditions, Bagru is a small village, where you can see the traditional block-printing without any modern adulterations in its process. Sambhar Lake is another destination where you can observe the salt-making process. Continuing the excursion list, Samode is alluring with its Heritage Palace. Art lovers would definitely love the Persian and Arabian manuscripts at Tonk. Ramgarh Lake is a huge artificial lake, the other attractions being the hunting lodge and polo grounds in Ramgarh. All these beautiful destinations offer swift excursion from Jaipur.
Abhaneri
Abhaneri is a small town village, situated at a distance of 95 km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by the King Raja Chand.
Bagru
Bagru is a small village, located at a distance of 30 kms from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Ajmer Road. The village town of Bagru is not popular for any palace or fort, but for its typical wooden prints. These prints of Bagru are acclaimed all over India and are particularly known as Bagru prints.
Ramgarh
Ramgarh is located at a distance of 25kms from the city of Jaipur. In the present day, this primeval spot is eminent for its huge artificial lake. This lake has been shaped by raising a high bund amidst the hills covered with trees. While the temple of Jamwa Mata and the ruins of the old fort are some of its antiquities, its beautiful landscape,especially during monsoons,makes it an idyllic picnic spot.
Sanganer
Sanganer is located at a distance of 16 kms from Jaipur on the Tonk road. In addition to its ruined palaces, Sanganer has exquisitely carved Jain temples. The town is entered through the ruins of two tripolias (Triple gateways) The town is an important centre for crafts industry and produces some of the finest hand printed textiles from units of block and screen printers. This textile is popular all over the country and abroad. Sanganer forms a major part of excursion from Jaipur.
Samode
Samode is a great place of tourist interest, located at a distance of 42kms from Jaipur, on the way to Shekhawati in Rajasthan. Samode is renowned for its stunning havelis and forts. Samod makes a perfect destination to enjoy one's holidays.
Sambhar
Sambhar is a small town, located at a distance of 60kms in the west of Jaipur, on Jaipur-Ajmer Highway. Sambhar is famous for the largest saline lake in India. Due to this fact, Sambhar is also known as Salt Lake City. Literally, Sambhar means salt and the lake has been providing salt for over a thousand years.
Tonk
Tonk is a small town, located at a distance of 96 kms from Jaipur. This little town of Tonk is also known as the "Lucknow of Rajasthan" due to its elegance. Tonk is popular among tourists for its magnificent mosques, mansions and havelis.
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