The capital city of the state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is color washed pink ? the color associated with hospitality in Rajput culture.

The city owes its name, foundation and careful planning to the great warrior, astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II (1699-1744). Built in 1727, Jaipur displays a remarkable harmony and architectural splendour. The ancient heart of the Pink city still beats in its fairy tale palaces, rugged fortresses perched on barren hills and broad avenues that dot the entire city. The only planned city of its time, Jaipur is encircled by a formidable wall.

City Palace, is located in the heart of the old city is the former royal residence built in a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. Two carved elephants in marble guard the entrance. The palace houses a museum with a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armoury of Mughals and Rajputs. The palace also has an art gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets and rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit acquired by Sawai Jai Singh II to study astronomy in detail.