Jaipur Tourism - History And Culture


Jaipur, popularly known as Pink City is capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Jaipur has a rich and varied historical and cultural heritage. The city itself was founded in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jaisingh II who was a great mathematician as well as astrologer, astronomer and well known warrior of that time. Jaipur is dotted with famous palaces and forts that were once residences of various Indian rajas and maharajas of the princely state. Jaipur is one of the cities of India that is on the agenda of most tourists visiting the country. Well known for its rich heritage, tourists like to experience its palaces, forts, national parks, five star hotels, as well as village life, fairs, festivals and temples.

Jaipur is located approximately 262 kms from India's capital New Delhi. It is well connected by roads, railways and an international airport. Jaipur was the first planned city in North India and has well planned roads, bridges, gardens and is divided into the old and new city. Jaipur owes its rich heritage to the Kachchwaha clan of Rajputs who originally landed in the ancient city situated in Aravali hills. From then on the city has been developed by various rulers and kings who have all contributed in various ways to make Jaipur what it is today.

It was after Independence that cities of Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner and Jaisalmer were founded with Jaipur being nominated as the capital. Jaipur still has a look of the old rustic world and the city is a bustling capital with various cultural activities such as fairs, religious festivals, bazaars and sporting events being held from time to time. Opulence and lavishness intermingle with poverty and simplicity. You will find a heady mix of red turbaned puppet sellers and tribal folk in brightly colored attire dancing the Ghoomar which is a traditional dance of performers who carry earthen ware pots on their heads dancing in adept movements in groups.

maharani's viewpoint

Jaipur can be reached by road as it has good motorable roads which connect Jaipur to Delhi, Agra, Ajmer, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Mumbai. One can also reach Jaipur by rail as it is a major railway junction and the railway station is centrally located. Indian Airlines as well as other airlines operate on a daily basis and connect Jaipur to most of the cities of India.

Jaipur has a large population. At an altitude of 431 meters above sea level, the city sees its summer temperatures vary from 40 degrees centigrade to a minimum of 25 degrees centigrade while its winters vary from a maximum of 22 degrees centigrade to a minimum of 8 degrees centigrade. It is best to visit during September and March when temperatures are fairly mild and dry. It would be advisable to carry some warm clothing during winter months as the city gets quite cold and warm woolen attire would be necessary. Carrying a pair of sturdy walking shoes would also be advisable for city walks as well as for hot air ballooning for which the city is famous. Ensure that you travel light when sightseeing as additional weight will weigh you down at the end of the day.