Jaipur

When great warrior-astronomer Jai Singh II, the Raja of Amer, noticed a growing population and increasing scarcity of water, he planned to create a new capital. Under the architectural guidance of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, Jaipur was built from scratch based on the ancient principles of Vastu shastra and Shilpa Shastra, becoming northern India’s first planned city. Today it’s the capital and largest city in the state of Rajasthan, but the Pink City will always stand out for its rich social legacy.

The majestic town planning and architectural heritage can be seen in world-famous landmarks such as the City Palace, Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal as well as its diverse neighborhoods and historic bazaars. While somewhat chaotic, the streets of Jaipur are overflowing with life as throngs of cycle rickshaws, motorbikes and camels vie to get to their destination. The rose-hued coat of salmon was applied in the 19th century when India was still a British colony and today residents of the Old City are obligated to do their part in preservation.

Auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are interesting ways to move around the city while traditional taxis are ubiquitous as well. Whatever you choose, be prepared to bargain hard. April to early July provides the hot and humid temperatures before the monsoon months bring heavy showers until around September. Between November and February can be a pleasant time to visit with daily highs of around 18ºC with high humidity. Street food is a way of life in India and there are endless places to devour local specialties. The newly opened Masala Chowk in Ram Niwas Garden is Jaipur’s answer to the open-air food court and makes for a great one-stop shop to authentic cuisine.