“Padharo
sa Mhare Desh” – Welcome to my Land (in Rajasthani)
If you want to
experience Rajasthani culture at its best, look no further than the
capital city itself, that is Jaipur. Whether you are a cultural
enthusiast or a history buff, the vibrant city has everything and
more than what you’re looking for. This travel guide talks about
all the unique places to visit if you’re a traveling enthusiast and
like to explore the tiny gems of a city.
Traveling to
Jaipur
If one is in the
capital city of Delhi, one can take an air-conditioned bus straight
to the city of Jaipur. This bus would leave you right in the heart of
the city. After getting off from the bus stop Sindhi Camp, which is
the biggest bus stand, one can head straight to their hotel.
Craving some
mouth-watering delicacies?
Head straight to
Rawat Mishthan Bhandar, famous for its Onion Kachori, which is
hygienic and freshly made at all times. You could also try the
traditionally made Ghewar, a disc-shaped sweet made from flour. After
these luscious delicacies, head straight to MI Road, to the
Lassiwala, for a thick, blended curd drink, flavoured heavily with
cardamom.
Another popular
eatery amongst locals is the Laxmi Misthan Bhandar, famous for their
thalis that can be quite a heavy meal. Wash it down with some piping
hot coffee at Indian Coffee House. This place has an old-world charm,
with the waiters dressed in traditional attire. You are sure to have
a memorable experience in this place and will be served with a smile.
Want to watch a
Movie?
Raj Mandir, a
cinema hall which was built in 1976, is a popular symbol of Jaipur.
It is situated at Bhagwan Das Road, near MI Road. You could catch the
latest movie in this cinema hall, at all times.
The historic
Amber Fort
Before you enter
Jaipur, your local tour guide will point out a beautiful fort appears
on your right. From afar, you can see curved structures in sandstone.
This fort is on the outskirts of the city, and one needs at least
half a day to visit Amber Fort. Since this fort is on a hilltop, you
will either need to walk uphill, by jeep, golf cart or go on an
elephant back. The beautiful light and sound show bring the fort to
life, and it happens every day in the evenings. The rocky walls of
the fort give a great backdrop for the light effects. It is a major
tourist attraction, during winters and summers, taking place at 6.30
pm from October to February, 7.00 pm from March to April and 7.30 pm
from May to September. After visiting the fort, you can have dinner
at the decent restaurants near it.
In the mood for
shopping?
Amber fort also
houses a number of vendors selling accessories, like earrings and
bracelets in all shapes and sizes, which are reasonably priced and go
well with Indian as well as Western outfits.
Shop for Bandhini
chunni, traditional wear at Gulab Chand Prints, at Mall 21, which is
a shopper’s delight. They have all kinds of Rajasthani traditional
wear, from suits to anarkalis and saris, in all colours and prints
that you would think of. They have reasonable rates and the helpful
staff will be able to help you out with choosing the clothes for you
and your companions.
If you are
looking to buy Jewellery, head straight to Johari Bazaar for
resplendent ornaments. There are multiple showrooms that are decades
old, one being Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas Jewellers, who are famous for
their gold and diamond jewellery.
Jaipur also has a
great collection of leather and cloth bags that are embroidered with
traditional elements. You can find these at the shops in Badi
Chaupar. Ask your guide In
Jaipur(https://www.tourhq.com/india/jaipur-guides)
to take you to this hidden gem.
If you are an
accessories person, take a stroll around in Bapu Bazar for all kinds
of silver and artificial jewellery. However, if bed linen is what
you’re looking for, then head straight to Jaipurwala, which has the
greatest variety of prints that you can possibly find.
Jaipur Metro
The Jaipur Metro
is the latest addition to this culturally rich city. It has made the
connectivity better, though nothing beats hopping onto the
extra-large autos that roam about the city. Jaipur metro connects the
outskirts of this city, in Mansarovar to the Badi Chaupar or the
Manak Chowk, which is the public square. This is the hub of artisans,
jewelers, and craftsmen. If you want to explore the outskirts of the
city, namely the KL Saini Ground which is the home of the Rajasthani
cricket team.
Camel Ride
Being in the
middle of the desert, it is a good idea to hop on the back of a camel
and enjoy a camel ride. Don’t forget to get clicked, as this would
be an experience to remember. The camel rides in Jaipur are very
famous, your tourist guide in
Jaipur(https://www.tourhq.com/india/jaipur-guides?url=companies)
will help you to find the best spot to ride a camel. They are a good
way to explore this Pink city of Jaipur.
Choki Dhani
Choki Dhani
offers luxury with the tantalising mix of culture; its main
attractions is the performances that take place in the evenings and
the traditional Rajasthani food, which includes Dal Bati Churma, a
delicacy that Rajasthan is famous for. This is the place to be if
you want to witness true Rajasthani décor and Bani Thani paintings.
It is not too far to reach, just a few kilometres off from the
national highway.
I hope you will
find these places interesting and will want to come back to this
culturally rich city.
