I never knew when this wanderlust became an integral part of me. Each trip has always added a different facet to my persona and has made me a person more earthy and more content with myself. Each journey, including this one to Rajasthan in general and Jaipur, in Particular, has enriched with an amazing amount of knowledge, enlightened with the facts unknown to me before, opened an extra window to the world and moreover, infused me the sense of real, practical world.
Ever seen a kid experiencing something that he dreamt of? The excitement and gleaming eyes say it all that yes I finally made it!!! Same were my feelings when I got a chance to visit the magnificent Pink city and its monuments.
It’s charisma left me overwhelmed right from the beginning. Yup, the moment I saw a glimpse of it, from my cab, I was like “OMG!!! It’s so huge and beautiful”. The lake flowing beside it, and the pigeons flying in heap made it look even more magical.
Soon after I reached near the huge entrance of the fort, I felt like some sort of festivity was going on. No, really. Lots of vendors there were selling the souvenirs of the magical land and tourists were going gaga over the handicraft showcased by them. And I got to mention the melodious Iktara (single string instrument) sound, which I can still remember. Musicians playing it really loved their art, as none demanded any money in return but it was your wish if you liked the soulful melody played by them you can reward them.
Built in the 16th century by Raja Maan Singh, the fort has four separate entrances. The main entry to the fort is through, Surai pol or the Sun Gate (probably because it faced the east).
Made up of pale yellow and pink sandstones and marbles, the fort has four courtyards namely Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, Jaleb Chowk (this is the main chowk, where you will reach soon you enter the fort) and the Jai Mandir (the hall of victory).
Though expressing the beauty and grandeur of the palace in words is a big deal but still, I tried. The other attractions there is the elephant ride, which can make you feel like a royal if you try it and the 1135 AD restaurant in the Fort, where you can enjoy food in regal ambiance.