Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City, was founded in 1727 AD by one of the greatest rulers of the Kachhawaha clan, the astronomer king Sawai Jai Singh and designed by the brilliant young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya. The pink color was used at the time of making to create an impression of red sandstone buildings of Mughal cities - and repainted in 1876, during the visit of the Prince of Wales.

It has, long been established, on tourist itineraries as the third corner of India's Golden Triangle, just 300 kilometers southwest of Delhi, and 200 kilometers west of Agra.

The old city of Jaipur is partially encircled with seven gates - the major gates are Chandpol, Sanganeri, and Ajmeri.

Designed in accordance with Shilp Shastra - an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture - Jaipur follows a grid system. The wide straight bazaars, raastaas (streets), galis (lanes), mohallas and uniform rows of shops on either side of main bazaars are arranged in nine rectangular city sectors called chaukris. Encircled by a formidable wall, Jaipur was the only planned city of its time. Places of interest include:

The City Palace

The City Palace complex is the most important landmark with its numerous outbuildings, courtyards, impressive gateways and temples. The museum in the palace is a fascinating mirror of its glorious past.

Jantar Mantar

Across the road from the palace is the Jantar Mantar, one of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh. A collection of complex astronomical instruments, chiseled out of stone- most of which continue to provide fairly accurate information to this day - is the highlight of this observatory.

Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, adjoins the outside of the palace wall. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the Hawa Mahal is a remarkable structure which overlooks one of the main streets and also provides some excellent views of the city.

Amer Fort

Amer Fort is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh, it sprawls on the hillside. Fascinating apartments in the Fort include Jai Mandir, Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas and Ganesh Pole.

Jaigarh

Jaigarh, or the Fort of Victory, is a rugged fort built in 1726 and hosts the world's largest cannon on wheels. The fort houses a museum and provides some excellent views of the Amer Palace.

Nahargarh

Built in 1734, this fort provides some stunning views of the city down below both during daytime and at night.

Nearby points:

Jal Mahal

A picturesque palace amidst the Man Sagar Lake, it was built for royal duck shooting parties. The Mahal is a great place to visit during the monsoons.

Kanak Vrindavan

A newly restored temple on the foothills of Nahargarh, the landscaped gardens have made it a popular picnic spot.

Galta

A pilgrimage center with several pavilions and natural springs, it is host to the only sun temple in this part of India.

Sisodia Palace and Vidyadhar Garden

On the way to Galta, these gardens are laid out in tiers. These house several galleries, pavilions and beautiful murals depicting scenes from the life of Lord Krishna which are a visual delight. An ideal location for watching peacocks.

Samod

The old palace, renovated and rebuilt in the 19th century provides one of the most gorgeously decorated and painted examples of Rajput haveli architecture. Located 40 km northwest of Jaipur, amidst the quiet of protective hills, this palace is a visual treat.