Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and part of the Golden Triangle: New Delhi-Agra-Jaipur popular with most tourist. This city overwhelms your senses with all the colors, smells, sounds and taste!
SEE:
Amber Fort- the most popular way to arrive to the fort is by ‘controversial’ elephant ride, you will be hounded by vendors and photographers on the way up and be prepared to tip the mahout(driver). The fort is mainly a palace and has some of the best views along with wonderful architecture.
Hawa Mahal- or the Palace of the Winds is a landmark that can be viewed and snapped from the street, I advise going early and ticking it off your list before the crowds get there. *Also the morning light is said to be the best.
City Palace- still used as a royal residence today this is a must in Jaipur. Of course my favorite area is the Pitam Niwas Chowk which is the inner courtyard housing four incredible doorways representing the seasons: Summer- Lotus Gate, Autumn- Peacock Gate, Spring – Green Gate & Winter- Rose Gate.
SHOP:
Shoes- Jute footwear is known in Jaipur and a must for all you ladies- they range in price but you can pick up a well made pair for about $30 in the markets
Jewelry- Gem Palace…ruby and emeralds and diamonds oh my! Enamel is popular too.
Carpet & Textiles- you can not beat the prices on hand knotted carpets in India, I picked up a small wool elephant rug for $50! The real fun was playing dress up with a sari- they showed me about 8 different ways to wear them which was just fascinating. *If a sari is not a wardrobe staple like me you can choose a fabric and have a bespoke outfit of pants, shirt & scarf completed and delivered to your hotel same day!
EAT:
Best way to try it all is by ordering Thali- which simply means a variety of dishes served together, 6 different flavors of sweet, salt, bitter, sour, astringent and spicy on one single plate. I also could eat butter chicken & garlic naan forever.
STAY:
Oberoi Rajvilas- See here.
