Jaipur. The city of 1,001 sites. Because Sean and I ended up here in the middle of August, when temperatures topped 100+, we tried not to cram too much sightseeing into one day. Even so, we managed to hit all the must-see spots and not keel over from sunstroke. (Lugging around bottled water and wearing light clothing did help but not that much.)
Below are a few of our favorite historical sites in Jaipur. All are on the “tourist trail” so be prepared for the multitude of male guides waiting at the entrance gates. In some instances having a guide will benefit you but often you will learn just as much by reading the signs posted around the various objects.
Jantar Mahar – Constructed in 1728 by Jai Singh, this outdoor observatory possesses a vast assortment of over-sized astronomical instruments and the world’s largest sundial. Named Brihat Samrat Yantra or “the King of the Instruments,” the sundial is truly a regal sight.
Amber Fort – This 11th century fortified palace lies 11 kilometers northeast of Jaipur. Situated on a rocky mountainside, Amber (pronounced “Amer”) has magnificent apartments, courtyards, public halls and a small temple. Definitely a top tourist attraction.
Jaigarh Fort – One of three forts outside of Jaipur, this 18th century fort has the unique distinction of never being captured. Beyond this unusual aspect Jaigarh boasts of water reservoirs, residential areas, the world’s largest wheeled canon and spectacular views of the Amber Fort and Jaipur below.
Nahargarh Fort – Built in 1734 by Jai Singh, the Nahargarh or “Tiger” Fort displays a lovely assortment of painted apartments and a labyrinth of corridors leading to and from them. It also provides good, albeit hazy, views of Jaipur.
Galta – Known as “The Monkey Temple,” this collection of 250-year-old temples is nestled in the rocky cliff on the outskirts of Jaipur. Two large tanks of spring-fed water draw both the devout and roughly 5,000 monkeys to this site. At Galta they worship, cleanse themselves and, in the case of the monkeys, splash about and beg for snacks.
City Palace – Another Jai Singh creation, City Palace consists of courtyards, gardens, public halls and other buildings exhibiting a successful blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Today, as in the past, the raj (or king) of Jaipur resides here.
Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple – Erected by a wealthy industrial, this marble Hindu temple sits at the foot of the Moti Dungri Fort. The intricate carvings and stained glass windows depict events in Hindu scripture. Beautiful!