The ‘pink city’ of Jaipur, is the gateway to the magical state of Rajasthan. Its historical landmarks lie amid the overwhelming sprawl which characterizes most large Indian metropolises.

The city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II and took four years to build. Its design was based on a grid of nine squares symbolising the ancient Hindu map of the universe, although the design was modified to allow the hill fort of Nahargarh (Tiger Fort) to overlook and protect the capital. The City Palace complex occupies the centre of Jaipur and covers one seventh of its area. Behind its high wall are numerous palaces and museums. Around the palace, the old city, with its bazars and intricate shops is a haven for haggling and bargain hunting – and you can quite literally buy anything here.

Outside the city there are many hunting lodges, palaces, and forts. The most famous of these forts is Amber Fort, one of Jaipur’s biggest draws. The 17th-century palace clings to the side of the rocky hill, with a small village at its base. Nearby, on a hill top stands the gigantic bulk of Jaigarh Fort, its walls, bastions, gateways and watchtowers a testimony of the power of the Jaipur rulers.