Jaipur

Jaipur is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, it was planned by Vidyadhar Bhatt, a Bengali architect, with a grid-based layout organized around the central City Palace. The city earned the nickname the Pink City after streets and buildings in the old town were painted terracotta pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876, a color that continues to define much of the core area.

Key landmarks include the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), the City Palace complex, and the Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory. Nearby forts such as Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort and Nahargarh Fort are prominent historic sites. Jaipur’s markets are known for handicrafts such as block-printed textiles, blue pottery, and jewelry including meenakari enamel work.

Jaipur is a major tourist destination and a center for culture, history, and crafts in North India. The economy is driven by tourism, textiles, gemstones and jewelry manufacturing, and traditional crafts. The city hosts events such as the Jaipur Literature Festival, which draws visitors from around the world. The climate is hot in summer, semi-arid with a monsoon season, and mild in winter; the most comfortable visiting period is typically October through March.

Transportation links connect Jaipur to the rest of India by air, rail, and road. Jaipur International Airport serves domestic and international flights, while Jaipur Junction provides broad-gauge rail connections to major cities. National highways connect the city with other regional centers, supporting both commerce and tourism.