Jaipur
| Jaipur | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Pink City, Paris of India |
| State | Rajasthan |
| Country | India |
| District | Jaipur |
| Official Language | Hindi, Rajasthani |
| Area | 467 km² |
| Population | 30 lakh (approx.) |
| Founded | 18 November 1727 |
Jaipur is the capital and largest city of Rajasthan, India. Popularly known as the Pink City due to the distinctive pink-coloured buildings of its old city, Jaipur was founded on 18 November 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of the Kachhwaha Rajput clan. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in India and forms part of the famous Golden Triangle tourist circuit along with Delhi and Agra.
History
Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727, making it one of the first planned cities in India. The city was designed by the Bengali architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya following the principles of Vastu Shastra and ancient Hindu town planning texts. The city was divided into nine rectangular sectors, a design that remains largely intact today.
The pink colour of the old city's buildings dates back to 1876, when the entire city was painted pink to welcome the visit of Prince Albert and Queen Victoria. The tradition has been maintained since then, giving the city its iconic identity.
Jaipur served as the capital of the princely state of Jaipur during British rule and became the capital of Rajasthan after Indian independence in 1947.
Geography
Jaipur is located in the eastern part of Rajasthan, surrounded by the Aravalli Hills to the north and west. The city lies on a relatively flat plain at an elevation of approximately 431 metres above sea level. The Mansagar Lake, on which the famous Jal Mahal palace is situated, lies to the north of the city.
Economy
Jaipur is the economic hub of Rajasthan. Key sectors include:
- Gemstone and Jewellery – Jaipur is one of the world's largest gemstone cutting, polishing and jewellery manufacturing centres
- Textiles and Handicrafts – Block printing, Bandhej, Leheriya and blue pottery are major industries
- Tourism – A major contributor to the city's economy
- Information Technology – Several IT companies and BPO firms operate in Jaipur
- Marble and Stone – Trading and processing of Rajasthan's famous marble and sandstone
Tourism
Jaipur is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and iconic landmarks:
- Amber Fort – A magnificent Rajput fort palace situated on the Aravalli Hills overlooking Maota Lake
- Hawa Mahal – The Palace of Winds, an iconic five-storey pink sandstone facade with 953 small windows
- City Palace – A grand royal palace complex in the heart of the old city, still partially occupied by the royal family
- Jantar Mantar – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II
- Jal Mahal – A palace situated in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake
- Nahargarh Fort – A fort overlooking the city offering panoramic views of Jaipur
- Albert Hall Museum – The oldest museum in Rajasthan housing a rich collection of art and artefacts
Culture
Jaipur is a vibrant cultural city known for its royal heritage, colourful bazaars and traditional craftsmanship. The city hosts several major cultural events including the Jaipur Literature Festival, one of the largest literary festivals in the world, and the Jaipur International Film Festival.
Jaipur is famous for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine including Dal Baati Churma, Ghevar, Pyaaz Kachori and Laal Maas. The city's bazaars such as Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar and Tripolia Bazaar are renowned for jewellery, textiles, handicrafts and traditional Rajasthani items.
Education
Jaipur has several prominent educational institutions:
- University of Rajasthan, Jaipur
- Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT), Jaipur
- Rajasthan University of Health Sciences
- JECRC University, Jaipur
- Manipal University, Jaipur
Transport
Jaipur has a well-connected transport network:
- Jaipur International Airport – Connecting Jaipur to major domestic and international destinations
- Jaipur Metro – A modern metro rail system serving the city
- Railways – Jaipur Junction is a major railway station on the Indian Railways network
- Roads – Well connected by national highways to Delhi, Agra, Jodhpur and other major cities