Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a dirty and hectic city that offers several worthy sights.  Known as the pink city - the hilltop forts, palaces and an incredible observatory are well worth visiting.

The city was founded, planned and named by Maharaja Jai Singh II after he moved from the cramped hillside fort near Amber.  He laid out the city and built Jantar Mantar, Jaipur's remarkable observatory. Later Maharajah Ram Singh had the entire city painted pink, a color associated with hospitality, to welcome King Edward VII, and the traditional has been maintained.

Sights in Jaipur

• City Palace - The massive complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings, still home to the Maharaja.
• Old City - The old city is encircled by a massive wall with grand arch gates.
• Jantar Mantar -an incredible outdoor observatory housing mammoth and bizarre astrological instruments.
• Hawa Mahal - The extraordinary, fairy tale, pink sandstone five story building.

Accommodation in Jaipur

Hotel Arya Niwas
t: 2372456
w: www.aryaniwas.com
Off a busy road, but a rightfully popular travelers hotel. Rooms are clean, but some are nicer than others.  Has a nice lawn area, sunny balconies, a good vegetarian resturant, and a good travel shop.  Internet, telephone and fax services available. From INR700.

Jaipor Airport

Jaipor airport offers cheap flights to various cities throughout India.  The aiport is well run and offers  much better services than Delhi airport.  There are numerous places for snacks and drinks, money changing, phone calls and WiFi, which are also available in the departure lounge.  The staff are generally very helpful.

For an authentic Indian experience catch an Ambassador taxi to the airport, which should cost INR300, which your hotel can arrange.