Hawa Mahal
built
in 1799, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, is the most
recognizable monument of Jaipur. The 5 storied stunning
semi-octagonal monument having 152 windows with over
hanging latticed balconies is a fine piece of Rajput
architecture. Originally designed for the royal ladies
to watch and enjoy the processions and other activities,
on the street below. Now it houses a well laid out museum.
The display “Jaipur past and present” is the special
feature of this newly setup museum.Birla Mandir
Birla
Temple forms one of the major attractions of Jaipur.
Birla Temple of Jaipur looks stunning, when it is brightly
lit in the night. Birla Mandir, in pure white marble,
dominates the skyline of southern part of Jaipur. The
enormous temple was built during the year 1988, by Birla
Group of Industries, one of the business tycoons of
India. The Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan),
the preserver and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of
wealth. Due to this reason, Birla Temple is also known
as Laxmi Narayan Temple. Ram Niwas Garden
Ram
Niwas Garden was constructed by Maharaja Swai Ram Singh
in 1868 and designed by Surgeon Major De-Faback, located
in the center of modern Jaipur which covers an area
of 33 acres. The Garden consists a bird park, the Zoo,
the museum, also known as the Albert Hall Museum, Ravindra
Manch Theatre, art gallery and several cafes and picnic
spots. The gardens are open to the public all days of
the week. The small zoo here attracts the children.
Within the garden a huge complex covered with small
pools and fountains, flourishing lawns and beautiful
flower.. Jantar Mantar
built
in 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the
huge masonary instruments were used to study the movement
of constellations and stars in the sky. Enormous sun-dial
still provide accurate time, which are subject to daily
corrections.City Palace and SMS Museum
situated
in the heart of the old City, it occupies about one
seventh of the old city area. The palace is a blend
of Rajput and Mughal architecture, it houses a Seven
storeyed Chandra Mahal in the centre, which affords
a fine view of the gardens and the city. Diwan-E-Am
(Hall of public audience) has intricate decorations
and collection of manuscripts, Diwan-E-Khas (Hall of
private audience) has a marble pawed gallery Mubarak
Mahal has a rich collection of costumes and textiles.
There is a Clock Tower near Mubarak Mahal. Sileh Khana
has a collection of armory and weapons. Central Museum
situated
in the Ram Niwas Garden. This graceful building was
founded in 1876 by Prince Albert (also known as Albert
Hall). It has a rare collection of archaeological and
handicraft pieces.Jal Mahal
(6
kms) on the way to Amer, this small palace is set in
the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Renovation around the
lake is in progress.Amer
The old capital of the Kachhwahas stands atop a range
of craggy hills. The fort is remarkable as much for
the majestic grandeur of its surroundings as for its
sturdy battlements and beautiful palaces. It is a fine
blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. The solemn dignity
of it red sandstone and white marble pavilions, when
reflected in the lake at the foot hill, is a sight to
behold. The original palace was built by Raja Man Singh,
the additional extensions were built by Maharaja Mirja
Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh lIthe last Maharaja
of Amer, who built a new city called Jaipur, where he
shfted his capital in 1727.The palace complex is lavishly ornamented and displays the riches of Amer. Sheesh Mahal chamber of Mirrors. Diwan-e-Am or the Hall of Public Audience is a beautifully proportioned hall open on three sides and stands on two rows of ornamented pillars. Diwan e-Khas or the Hall of Private Audience has delicate mosaic work in glass. Sukh mandir is guarded by sandalwood doors inlaid with ivory. Throughout the massive fort finely carved lattice windows, exquisitely painted doorways, halls and finely sculptured pillars crave for attention. The old city of Amer was the seat of power and bustling with life and prosperity. Other worth seeing sites are Jagat Shiromani Temple, Narsinghji temple, the stepwell of Panna Meena and fine carved royal cenotaphs on the road to Delhi.


