Private Custom Tour: Jaipur Sightseeing with guide

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is considered to be the largest of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. It contains sixteen geometric devices, designed to measure time, track celestial bodies and observe the orbits of the planets around the sun. It also houses an Interpretation Centre that helps tourists understand the working principles and chronology of the observatory.

Hawa Mahal, literally the Palace of Winds was built using pink sandstone in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and is the most recognizable monument of Jaipur. This unique five-storey structure with small latticed windows (called jharokhas) is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture. Originally designed for the royal ladies to watch and enjoy the processions and other activities on the street below, it now houses a well laid out museum.

Amber (pronounced Amer) is at a distance of about 11 kilometres from Jaipur. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the bastion of the Kachwahas of Amber, until the capital was moved to the plains, to what is today Jaipur. The palace, located in craggy hills, is a beautiful melange of Hindu and Mughal styles. Raja Man Singh I began construction in 1592 and the palace, which was built as a strong, safe haven against attacking enemies, was completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh. The contrast between the harsh exterior and the inviting interior couldn’t be more surprising. Made entirely of red sandstone and white marble, visitors are left spellbound by the magnificence of the palace that utilises carvings, precious stones and mirrors. The splendour of the palace is enhanced by the breath-taking vista of the Maota Lake in front. The palace is nearly seven centuries old and has a legendary past.

Located within the walled city, the City Palace Complex was conceived and built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. A beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the palace is still home to the last ruling royal family which lives in a private section of the palace. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is credited with building most of the structures, but it was expanded upon by later rulers as well. The City Palace Complex includes the Diwan-E-Am (Hall of public audience), Diwan-E-Khas (Hall of private audience), Mubarak Mahal (the palace of reception) and the Maharani’s Palace (the palace of the queen). Mubarak Mahal now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum and displays a vast and unique collection of royal costumes. The clothes of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I are also on display. The Maharani's Palace, surprisingly, has an interesting display of very well-preserved Rajput weaponry. Other than the arms, the palace is adorned with beautiful paintings on the ceiling that are well-maintained.

Standing on a hilltop, 15 Km. from Jaipur, is Jaigarh Fort, built by Sawai Jai Singh II.. Despite its ancient construction, it still retains most of its imposing citadel appearance. Visitors to the Fort can see the world’s largest cannon – Jaiban placed here.