Joanna James
Just the name Jaipur invokes a sense of mystery and tradition while bringing to mind the vibrant culture we automatically attach to India as a whole; it is truly an amazing place to explore.
Built during the times of the Rajputs the Hawa Mahal is a monument that stands proud at the heart of the hustle and bustle in old-Jaipur. This age-old building is a testament to the amazing aesthetic of the ancient Rajasthan while displaying the prowess in construction and architecture of its people.
This is a sight to just stand and behold silently – it is truly stunning. The large well is intricately set with stairs in organised patterns that form a lattice. It is very pleasing to the eye and again salutes the architectural prowess of the ancient Indians. It is located inside the Panna Mian Ka Kund near the Amber Fort.
If you're a visiting Jaipur please visit the Amber Fort; it is a feast for the eyes. Built of pale yellow and pink sandstone and white marble stunning is insufficient to describe the beauty of this monument. The Amber Fort is not located too far from the hub of the city and is in relative proximity to Alila Fort Bishangarh; a definite contender for the title of the best hotel in Jaipur, India.
This heritage site is often cited as being an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological skills of a scholarly Mughal prince. The Jantar Mantar is the largest stone observatory in the world and is a standing testament to how advanced the ancients Indians were in their knowledge of the cosmos.
Kundan Meena jewellery has a style and aesthetic of its own. First begun by the ancient craftsmen of Rajasthan this style of jewellery once adorned the necks and arms of royalty and has since become a symbol of elegance and beauty.
Pure-cotton Jaipuri razais are known and celebrated the world over. The beautiful block prints and soothing colour are iconic to this style of quilt-making and make the quilts instantly recognizable. So if you travel to Jaipur don't forget to buy yourself one of these amazing quilts to keep you warm through the winter at home.
It may be quite surprising for most of you to hear that Polo is one of the most celebrated and played sports in Rajasthan. The sport is more akin to a religion, to be honest. Jaipur is actually one of the homes of Polo even though the game is played on the backs of camels instead of horses.
What better way back to keep the harsh desert sun at bay than with a cool delicious cup of lassi. This milky drink is found across India but it has deep cultural roots in Rajasthan be sure to try it – you'll love it.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
