"Keeweechic's Jaipur" a Jaipur Travel Page by keeweechic

Jaipur is the largest city in Rajasthan and also part of the Golden Triangle which also takes in the cities of Delhi and Agra. There are several palaces and forts which pay homage to the past ruling Raiputs of the land. Raiputs were a group of warrior clans who once ruled India for some 1000 years. The city is known as the Pink City because in 1876 during the reign of Maharaja Ram Singh, the cities buildings were painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales. Inside the historical area there are regulations in place that require all buildings to be painted pink to retain that same old character.

The city was founded in 1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, rule of Amber, former capital of Rajasthan. The ancient city was founded by the Meenas in 967 AD. In 1037 AD, Amber was seized by the Kachwaha (clan of Rajputs), who held the city until it was deserted.

Jaipur was planned and set in a grid system and is probably one of the best planned cities. There are wide avenues and bazaars line either side of streets and lanes. The city was also planned according to the principles of Hindu architectural theory. It was built to form a nine-part Mandala known as the ‘Pithapada’. During the 19th century Jaipur grew rapidly and prospered. The main industries were in metals and marble.