In 2008, the readers of Conde Nast Traveller voted Jaipur India the seventh-best place to visit in Asia. And whether you choose to go to the Pink City on holiday or to take advantage of their promising business economy, a vacation to Jaipur can be a truly unforgettable experience.

Jaipur India is the capital and largest city in the state of Rajasthan and has played an important role in the country's history. It was the first planned city in India after Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II decided to move his capital from Amber to Jaipur, seven miles southwest. The population was outgrowing the city of Amber, and water was becoming scarce.

In an effort to create a secure, flourishing city, Singh II studied architecture and consulted mathematicians and scientists during the planning. As the design followed the Indian architecture principles of Shilpa Shastra, which focus on the comfort and good fortune of the citizens, many modern-day architects still consider Jaipur one of the best planned cities in the world. Because of the Maharaja's meticulous planning, Jaipur travel can be easy to navigate, even if you haven't spent time in the city before.

India Map

The first thing you'll notice if you travel to Jaipur is the color of the buildings. They were originally painted red to emulate the sandstone of the Mughal cities. Now the rosy hue goes back to 1843 when the entire city was painted pink to welcome the visiting Prince of Wales. It is important to note that Jaipur has a semi-arid/desert climate, and this should be considered when planning your trip. The best time for a vacation to Jaipur is during their winter season between November and February, safely outside the wet monsoon season and with temperatures averaging comfortably in the mid-60s.

Jaipur's most popular attraction is Amber Fort, a large fortified Kachwaha palace built in a style that blends Hindu architecture with Muslim style. To truly enjoy all the Amber Fort has to offer, arrive early in the morning and pay for an elephant ride into the fort. Other popular spots of Jaipur travel include the never-conquered Jaigarh Fort, boasting the world's largest cannon; the Nahargarh Fort, which provides stunning views of Jaipur; and the City Palace, Maharaja Jai Singh's massive complex that makes up almost one-seventh of the city. The ancient Hindu site of Galtaji also inspires many pilgrims to undertake Jaipur travel.

Many people take a vacation to Jaipur solely for one of the many planned activities that occur there. Indian Premier League and international cricket matches are the pride of the Indian SMS Cricket stadium in Jaipur. Indian festivals abound for many different interests and hobbies, including the Jaipur Literature Festival, the Elephant festival, Jaipur's Kite Festival, and the Jaipur Jewelry Show. Marketplaces and bazaars are also a vibrant place to get a taste of local culture and do some shopping in India. The scents of rich Indian food combines with the sight of local handmade goods such as leather, textures, carpets, jewelry, pottery, brass, marble, and wooden crafts.

Jaipur is in the eastern part of Rajasthan, centrally located and easy to reach from other major cities in India; it's part of the popular Golden Triangle, which also includes Agra and New Delhi. Jaipur India boasts a comprehensive rail system, and the international airport is only eight miles from Jaipur's city center. Like many other Indian cities, auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, or taxis are recommended ways to navigate the city. In addition, many Jaipur hotels are built to impress, such as the Taj Rambagh Palace, a former palace that has been converted into a hotel. These high living standards and developing business and real estate industries continue to draw people from all over the world to travel to Jaipur.