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Jaipur
Settled in the rugged hills of the Aravalis, Jaipur is the pristine
jewel in the desert sands of Rajasthan. Jaipur is as remarkable
for its marvellous architecture and town planning as it is for the
lively spirit of the people who inhabit it.
The city presents a unique synthesis of culture that has to be
experienced in order to be appreciated.
With its origin buried deep into the pages of history, the city
still exudes a magical old world charm; an aroma of chivalry and
romance is evident, despite having evolved into a city that is the
hub of modern commercial activity in the region. Tell-tale signs
of the glorious past and regal splendour of the city lie strewn
across with gay abandon.
Widely known as the 'Pink City', Jaipur is colour washed pink to
welcome Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria of England
who visited India in 1883 A.D. The city was founded in 1727 A.D
by one of the greatest ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded
by hills on three sides, crowned by formidable forts and majestic
palaces, mansions and gardens. Jaipur is the only city in the world,
which is sub-divided in to nine rectangular sectors symbolizing
nine divisions of universe. Jaipur is the first planned city designed
in accordance with 'Shilpa Shastra'- epochal treatise of Hindu architecture.
The lively spirit of fanfare, festivity and celebration of the
people adequately match the colourful and intricately carved monuments.
Even today, one can find weather beaten faces with huge colourful
turbans, fierce moustaches and lips that spontaneously crease into
a heart-warming smile. A city like Jaipur, where modernity and tradition
live hand-in-hand, is truly rare. Perhaps this is what makes it
an attractive destination for tourists who flock to Jaipur, year
after year.
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