6 Lesser Known Attractions in India's 'Pink City,' Jaipur

[Rajender Singh]

With a population of around 3.1 million, the desert capital of India in northern Rajasthan state is dubbed the Pink City because of the stone used in its architecture (though arguably the colors are closer to peach or orange), with popular attractions including Amer and Nahagarh Forts, the City Palace, and the Hawa Mahal "Palace of Winds."

There are also lesser known places in Jaipur that are well worth a visit, and here are a half dozen of my favorites:

Galta Ji, the 'Monkey Temple'


This pilgrimage site is a complex of Hindu temples just outside the city (top) sheltered between big granite cliffs and especially venerated as the residence of a 16th-century saint. It's also known for its natural springs, with water collected in seven tanks, one of which is home to rhesus maquaque monkeys which scamper around and swim in it don’t worry, they're friendly!).

 

Jantar Mantar Observatory

Built between 1727 and 1734 under a king named Kai Singh II, this is more than just an intriguing set of structures and sculptures. The actual meaning of Jantar Mantar is “calculation instrument”; and the astronomical architectures in the observatory are highly functional to observe different weather phenomenon and constellation of stars. One of its most extraordinary masterpieces is a huge sundial called Samrat Yantra, whose shadow demonstrates how fast time flies.

 

Albert Hall Museum

Also called the Government Central Museum, it was built in 1887 to resemble London's Victoria and Albert Museum, and its collections span the Gupta, Kushan Delhi Sultanate, Mughal, and British Raj periods. Exhibits include portraits of India’s rulers,  traditional costumes, and various works such as paintings, and woodcarvings. Note that taking photographs inside is strictly prohibited.

 

Elefantastic

If you love animals, especially pachyderms, Elefantastic gives its visitors the chance to be close to and even touch thm personally. Founded in 2012 by a former elephant handler upset about widespread abuse of these majestic creatures, this refuge promotes their well being and welcomes visitors to show them that not all of them are treated unfairly. Experience how to feed and wash the elephants, as well as attend a painting class.

 

Lohagarh Fort Resort

Ensconced in the majestic Aravali Hills 40 minutes north of central Jaipur, this is a peaceful getaway to relax away from the busy city life;  the only sounds you will here are from birds, peacocks, and insects that live in the area. An inviting place for anyone who seeks quality time with the family, it's luxurious, environment-friendly, and offers the best accommodation for every need, including a luxurious Swiss tent, natural aroma tree houses, and White Quartz Suites.

For more good information, check out the Jaipur page of Lonely Planet.

This post is written by the team of La Premier Spa and resort near Jaipur. The resort manager Chaturbhuj Singh is a Rajasthan hospitality industry veteran who has explored almost every city of the desert state.