Jaipur is a hidden gem of North India… After being in a more sensible Delhi, I am surprised to discover this whimsical and kaleidoscopic city. The capital of Rajasthan greets us with wide roads and sun-lit streets…
The first glance at the city, and I fall in love with the pink walls of the old town…
The terracotta pink is the reason Jaipur is called the “Pink City”… The city walls were painted in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales (Albert); the prince is long gone but the pink walls remain…
This colorful city makes me want to wear colors, too…
In the evening, we take a windy road to Nahargarth Fort – one of several forts that protected Jaipur from invaders in the past… The view from the Roof Terrace is breathtaking… Enjoy hot chai while you’re taking in the magic of the moment!
After spending some time in surreal heights, we descend to reality… The Albert Hall Museum (named after that same Prince of Wales) welcomes us back…
Next day, we head to the Amer Fort (also known as the Amber Fort), one of the most famous attractions in Jaipur. The ever-present colors lift my spirits; I realize that I am in for a treat…
A view at the nearby Jaigarh Fort as we get ready to climb up the Aravalli hills…
Spectacular views…
…and a curious spectator…
The history of Amer dates back to 11th century… In 1592, Raja Man Singh expanded the fort. It became the state’s capital until 1727, when this title was given to Jaipur.
I half-expect Raja Man Singh to come through the doors, demanding my attention and trepidation…
Could this man be a descendant of Maharaja’s jawans?
The inner spaces of the fort are so airy, opening to the astounding views of surrounding hills… So this is what it felt to live like a Maharaja 400 years ago!
You can almost feel the brilliance of light as it travels through the starry patterns of the windows…
Spotting an image of Ganesh – a god who removes all obstacles in life – at the gate into the inner Maharaja palaces…
The walls are full of depictions of the years past…
On the way back, we spot another snake-charmer enchanting the crowd…
Walking the streets of Jaipur, it is impossible to miss local improvised bazaars, where you can buy anything your heart desires…
…and then discuss your buys with other patrons 
This looks like a good place to eat!
Seeing our food prepared in front of us…
… translates into succulent mutton rogan josh – one of the best meals I’ve had in India, in one of the most unpretentious places!
Our visit to Jaipur culminates with a trip to Chokhi Dhani, a themed resort that features traditional Rajasthani lifestyle, culture, and food…
Sitar player creating an out-of-this-world atmosphere with his music…
Thali dinner with eight different dishes and a halwa to die for…
Among other things in Chokhi Dhani: mehndi applications and a painted elephant tail…
Happiness… And the end of a journey…
gorgeous pictures, especially all that food. yumm!
Thank you
The food was indeed delicious, but you know that better than me!
Lovely shots of Jaipur. I particularly like the night shot with the white, twinkly lights. I never saw that building while in Jaipuar.
And those of the food are making my mouth water. How I miss thalis at less than $1!
Did you have any mehndi applied?
I did! That last photo in the post is of my friend’s and my hands
The artist that applied it was so skillful! It was a magical experience and made me fall in love with India even more…
It turned out quite well!
I’m also a mehndi / henna fan – I’ve tried it in India and Morocco and it was such a fun souvenir from the travels.
They say that the darker the henna on your skin, the more your husband loves you
I hadn’t heard that – funny… I was single when I had the henna applied
Great post. I’ve always wanted to go to Jaipur. Well…one day soon.:)
Hi Sharifah! Thank you for your kind words and for following
I hope you can make that trip too – Jaipur is so lovely! Have you been to other places in Rajasthan? I haven’t, but heard that the entire state is worth exploring.
Yulia
Hi Yulia. Some years back, I was in India and visited Bangalore, Delhi and Pondicherry. My grandfather’s ancestry is from Pondicherry, but unfortunately, we
have lost touch with relatives there.
It was a wonderful trip. Looking forward to see more of the country in future, and maybe be able to trace our roots there.
That would be great – and we can read about your travels then!
As jaipur is the pink city .. we have jodhpur as the Blue city too .. Te houses there are painted all in sky blue .. i m sure you’ll love them besides the amazing food that they have ..Moreover u can find yourself lost in the Thar desert almost 5-6 hours from there . Splendid place..
I have heard about Jodhpur, and yes – it is on my list to visit next time. I feel like you can come to India many many times and every time discover something new.
It is remarkable when I see my country through your eyes a foreigner . The pics give a varying perception of my nation very different to one I was raised on.
Thank you for the pics and visiting India
Thank you – it was an amazing trip to an amazing country.
Wow! It’s so vibrant.
It is indeed, this city is a golden mine for photography lovers!