Visiting Jaipur was in my travel cart since I had studied about Rajasthan and its rich culture during my school days. Luckily enough, I had got a chance to explore the pink City on a Sunday (though it was not sufficient). If you live in Delhi, it is very easy to reach Jaipur. You can opt for trains, cabs, buses, flights or you can go on your own. Since I prefer travelling in cars if it is nearby, I left for Jaipur at 7 a.m. You should leave early if you are on a one-day visit.
Siddhivinayak Ganesh Temple
I reached Jaipur around 12.30 p.m. and headed to Siddhivinayak Mandir first which is located in Surajpole Bazar, Narayanpuri. I thought it best to start my trip after offering my prayers to Ganpati Bappa. I bought some prasad from the shop outside the entrance and entered into the temple. The golden work around the statues looks eye-catching. After offering my prayers and prasad to Bappa, I left for the place which is Jaipur known for; The Hawa Mahal.
Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is located near Badi Chupad, on Hawa Mahal road. This beautiful building is located just beside the road and it is easily seen. After entering into its premises, you can find some shops selling handicrafts goods there which are really beautiful. The ticket counter is right there. You can keep your luggage in the cloakroom there. Once you enter into the building, you will be fascinated by its built design and beauty. The rich heritage of Rajasthan can be felt here. There is a museum inside, which is quite interesting.
Amer Fort
After I had spent 1 hour in Hawa Mahal, I was literally hungry. I decided to taste the famous Dal Bati Churma, so without any delay, I got into a restaurant nearby and ordered it. It was really a finger licking food. You must not miss this dish if you are on a tour of Rajasthan.
After I had done with my lunch, I moved towards Amer fort which is located in Devisinghpura, Amer. The road leading to the fort is very beautiful as there is much greenary along the road. The fort is widely popular for its artistic style building. It has been constructed with beautiful red sandstone and marble.
It took me around 2 hours to explore most of the places inside the fort and was left with very little time. The clock had struck 4 p.m. and I had to reach Delhi by that night only. I took a look back to the fort and left for my city. In the way, I stopped at the Jal Mahal for a few minutes. You must take a walk along the Jal Mahal if you have time and you are nearby to it. It has a picturesque view and many beautiful birds can be seen here.
Since I didn't have any more time with me to explore other places of this city, with a determination to visit the city again, and the beauty of the pink City in my heart, I accelerated my car towards home. While my hands were busy controlling the car steering and eyes enjoying the beauty of the city, somewhere from the deep inside my heart, someone was singing:
शाम गुलाबी, सहर गुलाबी
पहर गुलाबी है, गुलाबी ये शहर
मैं भी गुलाबी, तू है गुलाबी
दिन भी गुलाबी है, गुलाबी ये कहर!