Jaisalmer

The colour pink is associated with hospitality in Rajasthan. So it is only appropriate that Jaipur the capital of the state be washed in this shade- spreading out the Pink carpet for visitors. Planned by a young Bengali architect, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, Jaipur was built by Maharaja Swai Jai Singh II in 1 727 A.D. 

Laid in a grid system, with straight avenues, roads, streets, lanes criss cross the city with rows of shops on either side of main bazaars arranged in nine rectangular city sectors (Chowkris). The planning of the city followed the principles of Shilpaslastra, an epochal treatise on Hindu architecture.

Displaying remarkable harmony, the heart of the Pink City still beats in its fairy tale palaces, rugged fortresses perched on hills. The only planned city of its time, Jaipur is encircled by a formidable wall. Jaipur today is a blend of tradition and modernity. Beautifully laid out gardens and parks intersperse the timeless appeal of its colourful bazaars where one can shop for Rajasthani handlooms and trinkets. A night spent at the marvellous heritage hotel, once the residence of Maharajas transports you to the days of royalty of yore.

Mingle with the people, let ambling camels pass you by. Make your trip to the Pink City a truly memorable one.