The main attractions of the state of Rajasthan are, undeniably, it's numerous monuments. Right from the massive forts to fascinating palaces to the huge havelis (mansions) to the amazing temples, all add to the magnetism of Rajasthan. Rajasthan monuments are a living proof of the royal bygone era of the state. A monuments tour of Rajasthan brings alive the romance, culture and glory of the past days. These monuments are a visual treat to the eyes, with the architecture ranging from Mughal to Rajput to European.
Hawa Mahal
The 'Hawa Mahal' or the Palace of Wind is one of the main landmarks of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. The Hawa Mahal is a five storey building of remarkable architecture and a spectacular example of the Rajput style of architecture made of red and pink sand stone, beautifully outlined with white borders and motif's done (painted) with quick lime. You can get a spectacular view of the Jaipur city from the Hawa Mahal. It is believed that the Hawa Mahal was originally conceived with the aim of enabling ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and royal processions in the city without being seen.
The main entrance to the Hawa Mahal is from the City Palace side, through a door that opens into a spacious courtyard. This courtyard has a double storeyed building on three sides. A small archeological museum is housed here. There are only the ramps to reach the upper floors of the Hawa Mahal, and not the usual stairs. The best time to explore the beauty of the Hawa Mahal is sunrise when sunlight pierces the latticed windows giving it a wonderful glow.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar of Jaipur is one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1728. There is a story behind this observatory also. The Maharaja, ruler of Ajmer and founder of Jaipur, was a scholarly man interested in the workings of the celestial bodies. Emperor Muhammad Shah, once, asked him to make corrections in the astronomical tables and to confirm the already available planetary positions data. For the purpose, he built two observatories, one at Delhi (in 1724) and one at Jaipur (in 1724). It took him approximately 7 years to finish the task assigned by Muhammad Shah.
Located near the gate of the City Palace, Jantar Mantar of Jaipur, Rajasthan is the biggest stone observatory in the world, still in a running condition. Make sure to visit this observatory while on a trip to Jaipur.
City Palace Jaipur
Built by Sawai Jai Singh, the City Palace of Jaipur still houses the royal family. The royal family of Jaipur lives in the Chandra Mahal Palace, inside the City Palace complex. However, the ground floor of this palace is open to the public. Here, you can see some rare exhibits that are on display. You can also have a look at the exquisite peacock in the courtyard outside the palace. A blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, the Jaipur City Palace is situated in the center of the walled city.
The first sight you see on entering the palace complex is Mubarak Mahal (palace), constructed by Sawai Madho Singh. The palace dated back to 19th Century. The main purpose behind the palace was to serve as a reception center for the persons visiting the nobles. This palace now houses the museum of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. The museum has a rich collection of royal costumes, folk embroidery, rare and invaluable Pashmina (Kashmiri) Shawls, Sanganeri prints and Benaras silk saris. Also on display, are some of the bulky clothes worn by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I, a former ruler.
