It’s time to take a trip through North-West India and explore the rich history and myriad of stunning historical monuments from different eras. There’s no better way to do so than by travelling through the Golden Triangle, a circuit that consists of three destinations, namely Jaipur, Agra and Delhi. One can start their journey from either Jaipur or Delhi, but we suggest starting at the stunning old sandstone city Jaipur.
The largest city in the desert state of Rajasthan, Jaipur was founded in 1726 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Amer. The unique thing about this wonderful old region is that it is believed to be the first planned city in India. After shifting his capital from Amber to Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Singh took a lot of interest in designing the city. He consulted with numerous architects and scholars and followed the principles of Vastu Shastra while designing the city.
Jaipur was divided into nine blocks with towering walls around the city and seven strong gates. Two of the blocks in the city houses state buildings and palaces while the remaining seven were where the public resided. Jaipur was considered to be one of the most marvellous cities, and to this day it still is.
The legendary name ‘The Pink City’ came into being during the year 1876 when Jaipur was painted pink, the colour of hospitality, to welcome the Prince of Wales, Edward VII. Keeping up with the old world charm, the buildings in the old city are still painted pink and the other sandstone houses give off a natural orangey-pink hue.
When in Jaipur, it’s simply a must to put on your tourist cap and walking shoes and explore the sights. The terracotta city is home to three gargantuan forts, the Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort & Nahargarh Fort, that offer you a breathtaking view of the city. If you don’t have time to visit all three, the Amer fort, also known as the Amber Fort, is the most famous out of the three, and for good reason. Built-in the year 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I, the fort has served as the main residence of the Rajput Rulers and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other must-visit attractions in Jaipur include the serene floating palace Jal Mahal, the five-storey architectural delight Hawa Mahal (Palace of Wind), the phenomenal ancient astronomical observatory Jantar Mantar and a trip through the Nahargarh Biological Park. Also, don’t miss out on walking through the local markets and interacting with the artisans and handicraftsmen who sell their amazing work there!
When in Jaipur, there’s no better place to stay than 28 Kothi. This modern boutique guest-house sits right at the centre of Jaipur, located within the Civil Lines— making it easy to visit all the different sights around town. Even though it’s located at the heart of the city, 28 Kothi offers you an escape from the touristy areas as it is tucked away in a residential neighbourhood.
Run by jeweller Siddharth Kasliwal and ace restaurateur Abhishek Honawar, 28 Kothi is the perfect amalgamation of old Jaipur and minimalism. The space was designed by French architect Georges Floret, while Nur Kaoukji skillfully styled the interiors. The whitewashed walls are the perfect backdrop for antique treasures, old cane furniture and the occasion tropical-theme mural. The native Rajasthani jaali windows allow copious amounts of light to filter into the room creating a very calm and meditative space.
28 Kothi offers you the option to pick from any of their 5 different rooms. Moonstone and Sapphire are their two master suites, while Spinal and Topaz are their two deluxe rooms. If you’re a solo traveller looking for a single room, then cosy Peridot is perfect for you!
If you’re the kind of person who needs to get in touch with their meditative side before heading out to sightsee, you can join their daily morning yoga session. Or if you enjoy an Ayurvedic massage, head over to their spa. When you’re ready to wrap up your day, you can relax and watch the sunset on one of the benches outside in their tranquil courtyard.
From brilliant monuments steeped in history and vibrant culture, the beautiful Pink City has so much to offer a wandering soul. Jaipur simply has to be on your itinerary while travelling in India!
Written by Mohit Gupta
Week 41 October 2021
