JAIPUR - THE PINK CITY

Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan state, was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727.

The moment you enter Jaipur, terra-cotta pink catches your attention. In 1876, city was painted in pink to welcome Prince Albert on a royal visit. Since then, all buildings within in city walls must maintain the pink color. This color historically represents welcoming and hospitality.

Around 4hours drive to Delhi, Jaipur city’s main attributes – History, royal heritage, intricate architecture, and, of course, the shopping are good enough to include Jaipur city into your list for wheelchair holidays.

Hawa Mahal (drive pass)

Hawa Mahal, also known as Palace of Winds, was built in 1799 to facilitate the royal ladies to watch any processions and activities on the street without being seen by the public. One of the important landmarks of Jaipur, is famous for its pink color and 953 small latticed windows (called as jharokhas).

Open all days. Visit from vehicle.

Jal Mahal

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast of the Semantics, a large language ocean. A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia. It is a paradisematic country, in which roasted parts of sentences fly into your mouth. Even the all-powerful Pointing has no control about the blind texts it is an almost unorthographic life One day however a small line of blind text by the name of Lorem Ipsum decided to leave for the far World of Grammar. The Big Oxmox advised her not to do so, because there were thousands of bad Commas, wild Question Marks and devious Semikoli.

Jantar Mantar

Adjacent to City Palace complex, the 18th century open-air observatory Jantar Mantar, is designated as UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010. One of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world, was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II who had keen interest in astronomy. There are 16 devices to measure time, to understand planetary motion around the sun and to tract the celestial bodies. Entire site is accessible to Wheelchair users.

Open all days. Wheelchair accessible

City Palace

The lavish City Palace is a spectacular example of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Though a part of it is open for public in a form of museum, a portion is still occupied by erstwhile royal family. Public areas like Diwan-e-Khas showcasing two gigantic silver vessels, Mubark Mahal and the Maharani’s Palace are worth visiting. You will surely enjoy display of personal belongings like garments featuring exquisite embroideries and one of the largest collections of weapons. You can admire the beauty of palace using wheelchair.

Open all days (recheck about Holi). Mostly wheelchair accessible

Govind Devji temple

Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha is part of City Palace complex. As per legends, Govind Devji appeared in the dreams of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, founder of Jaipur, to bring his idol from Vrindavan to Jaipur. Idols are generally behind the curtains but at fixed intervals, curtains are removed to give darshans (blessings) to the devotees. The moment, curtains are removed, entire prayer hall vibrates with prayers and religious songs…magical moment worth experiencing !!

Open all days. Wheelchair accessible (visible from outside).

Amber Fort

Sitting atop a hill, 11 km outside Jaipur, the magnificent Amber Fort was built in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I. Designated as UNESCO World Heritage, grand and opulent Amber Fort proudly houses grand palaces, temple, garden and ornate gates. One can walk uphill or hire a jeep or even ride on elephant back (though we donot recommend this option) to reach the main courtyard called Jaleb Chowk. For wheelchair users, whole fort is not accessible. You will certainly enjoy views from Jaleb Chowk and Diwan-e-Am (hall for a private audience with the king). 

Open all days (recheck about Holi). Partially wheelchair accessible

Panna Meena ka Kund (stepwell)

The beautiful 16th century stepwell lies at the foothills of Amber Fort. Stepwell is surrounded by many beautiful temples with great architecture making this entire place a great spot with perfect setting for photography. Stepwell is a water storage tank where water can be accessed through the steps.

Open all days. Wheelchair accessible

Bathing the Elephants at Dear Amer

Dera Amer, away from hustle and bustle of Jaipur city, is a sanctuary for animals. Its two family members – Laxmi and Rangmala, the gentle giants, as described by the proprietors of Dera Amer, await you to welcome you. They love to bathe and you surely will love bathing them. We recommend you to experience this place for lunch along with some quality time in company of these gentle giants and know more about them.

Open all days. Wheelchair accessible

Shop till you drop

Dera Amer, away from hustle and bustle of Jaipur city, is a sanctuary for animals. Its two family members – Laxmi and Rangmala, the gentle giants, as described by the proprietors of Dera Amer, await you to welcome you. They love to bathe and you surely will love bathing them. We recommend you to experience this place for lunch along with some quality time in company of these gentle giants and know more about them.

Open all days. Wheelchair accessible

Jaipur Literature Festival

JLF, held annually in Jaipur, is described as the “greatest show on Earth”. Every year, it brings together the world’s greatest writers, thinkers, poets, humanitarians, politicians and influencers from across India and the globe. This 5 day annual event in January is set against the backdrop of Rajasthan’s stunning cultural heritage and heritage hotel Diggi Palace. Please be careful that accommodation gets booked quite well in advance if you plan to visit Jaipur during JLF…we would suggest to plan travel well in advance.