Amer Fort, also known as Amber Fort, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Jaipur. This magnificent fort represents the amalgamation of Rajput and Mughal architecture. It consists of various buildings, each with its own unique charm, such as the Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, and Sukh Niwas. There's also a sound and light show every evening, which highlights the history and grandeur of the fort. Don't miss the chance to ride an elephant or jeep to the fort for a royal experience.
Jal Mahal, also known as the Water Palace, is a five-story palace located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. It provides a picturesque view of the Aravalli hills and is a popular spot for taking photographs. Although entry to the palace is not permitted, you can still enjoy the view and beauty of the palace from outside.
The City Palace is the most popular attraction in Jaipur and has served as the residence of the royal family. It consists of two main palaces, the Mubarak Mahal and the Chandra Mahal. Chandra Mahal has now been converted into a museum that showcases the textiles, artwork, and weapons from the royal family. The architecture of the palace is a perfect representation of the fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal styles.
The Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, is a unique five-story building made of pink sandstone. The palace was built in 1799 to allow the royal ladies to observe the street festivals and activities without being seen by the public. The lattice-work on the windows allows a beautiful breeze to flow through the palace, which is why it's called the "Palace of Winds."
The Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that consists of a collection of 19 astronomical instruments. The key attraction is the Samrat Yantra, which is the world's largest sundial. Other instruments include the Jai Prakash Yantra, Ram Yantra, and Nadi Valaya Yantra. It's an excellent place to learn about ancient Indian astronomy and scientific knowledge.
If you have more time, you can also visit other attractions such as the Albert Hall Museum, Nahargarh Fort, and Birla Mandir. However, if you have less time, you can skip Jal Mahal as it can be seen from the outside only. To optimize your time, it's recommended to visit Amer Fort, Jal Mahal, and City Palace on the first day and Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar on the second day. It's also wise to book tickets in advance to avoid standing in long queues.