Sunday: A Day of Forts, Festivals, and Fabrics in Jaipur
The alarm buzzed early again, and by 7:30 a.m., we were out the door, ready to embrace another adventure-packed day. Our first stop? The majestic Amber Fort. Our adventure to the iconic Amber Fort began with a quick photo op at the base, the fort’s imposing silhouette already hinting at the grandeur that awaited us. To reach the top, we hopped into a rugged jeep for a thrilling ride up the steep, winding hill—thankfully sparing us the sweat and effort of a hike! The ride itself was an exhilarating start to the day, with the wind in our hair and the anticipation building as we climbed higher.
The Amber Fort’s history is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh I, it stands as a testament to the opulence and strategic brilliance of the Rajput rulers. As we wandered through its courtyards, palaces, and hidden passages, we couldn’t help but feel transported back in time. The Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) was a particular highlight, its walls adorned with thousands of tiny mirrors that shimmered like stars.
The fort’s towering walls offered breathtaking panoramic views of Jaipur’s cityscape, with the Aravalli Hills stretching out in the distance. It was the perfect spot to pause, soak in the beauty, and reflect on the rich history surrounding us.
Visiting the Amber Fort was more than just a sightseeing stop—it was a journey through time, a celebration of artistry, and a reminder of the enduring legacy of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. If you ever find yourself in Jaipur, this majestic fort is an absolute must-see. Trust me, it’s worth every moment!
Next, we visited a traditional carpet factory called Paliwal Carpet and Textiles, where we got an insider’s look at the intricate art of block stamping and carpet weaving. The craftsmanship was mesmerizing, and I couldn’t resist snapping a photo of the carpet I secretly wished I could take home. (Fingers crossed I can save up enough for it—I even pocketed the business card, just in case!) We also sampled Rajasthan’s traditional rum and tried *Pakora*, a delicious Indian snack, though I’m still not entirely sure what it’s made of.
The textile factory was another highlight. We watched a fascinating demonstration on how to drape a saris and browsed through their stunning collection of fabrics. I couldn’t leave without buying a beautifully crafted scarf—it was too gorgeous to resist.
Lunch was at another group-friendly spot, though we hit a minor snag when we realized it was cash-only. Thankfully, a quick cash borrow saved the day, and we were back on the road in no time.
Our visit to the Krishna Govind Deviji Temple was nothing short of magical. Nestled in the heart of Jaipur, this temple is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna, attracting devotees and visitors from all over the world.
We arrived just in time for a holy festival celebration, and the atmosphere was electric. The temple complex was alive with the sounds of devotional songs, the rhythmic clanging of bells, and the hum of thousands of voices chanting prayers. The air was thick with the scent of incense and flowers, creating an almost otherworldly ambiance.
As we entered, we were greeted by a sea of devotees, their faces glowing with devotion and joy. The highlight of the festival was the ritual of being covered in coloured dust—a symbol of blessings and divine grace. The vibrant hues of pink, yellow, and green dust filled the air, coating everyone in a kaleidoscope of colours. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way, and I felt completely immersed in the spiritual energy of the moment.
The temple itself is a stunning example of Rajasthani architecture, with intricate carvings, domed roofs, and beautifully painted walls. The inner sanctum houses the idol of Lord Krishna, adorned with exquisite jewellery and vibrant garments. The sight of the deity, bathed in the soft glow of oil lamps, was profoundly moving.
What struck me most was the sheer scale of the celebration. As we were leaving, thousands more devotees were streaming in, their faces filled with anticipation and reverence. The temple grounds were a hive of activity, with stalls selling offerings, priests conducting rituals, and families gathering to celebrate together.
The Krishna Govind Deviji Temple is not just a place of worship—it’s a living, breathing testament to the deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a curious traveller, this temple offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Indian devotion. Visiting during a festival, like we did, is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Next we visited the Jantar Mantar which was nothing short of awe-inspiring. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, is not just an observatory but a testament to the brilliance of ancient Indian astronomy and architecture.
As we stepped into the complex, we were greeted by a collection of massive, geometric structures—each one a precise astronomical instrument crafted from stone and marble. The sheer scale and precision of these instruments left me marvelling at the ingenuity of their creators.
The Samrat Yantra, the world’s largest stone sundial, was the star of the show. Standing at 27 meters tall, it can measure time with an accuracy of just two seconds. Watching its shadow move across the calibrated scales felt like witnessing time itself in motion.
Another highlight was the Jai Prakash Yantra, a hemispherical instrument used to track the positions of celestial bodies. Its intricate design allows astronomers to map the heavens with remarkable precision.
The Rashivalaya Yantra, a group of 12 instruments, each corresponding to a zodiac sign, was equally fascinating. It’s used to determine the sun’s position relative to the constellations—a concept that felt both ancient and timeless.
What struck me most was how these instruments, built centuries ago, still function flawlessly today. Walking through the observatory felt like stepping into a space where science, art, and spirituality converge. The Maharaja’s vision was not just to study the stars but to connect humanity with the cosmos, and standing there, I could feel that connection.
Jantar Mantar is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a reminder of how advanced Indian astronomy was long before modern technology. If you’re ever in Jaipur, this celestial wonder is an absolute must-see.
Next we had a short stroll through Jaipur’s old town, indulging in some shopping and bartering. Pens and another scarf made their way into our bag, before we had to return to the bus.
Our adventure in Jaipur took a delicious turn with a cooking demonstration at the magnificent Hari Mahal Palace, a heritage hotel that whispers tales of royalty and grandeur. Situated in the tranquil heart of Jaipur, Rajasthan, this architectural gem was originally built in 1930 as the city residence of Rajadhiraj Hari Singhji of Achrol. The Achrol royal family, revered as one of the "Barah Kothri" (twelve leading chiefs of Jaipur), played a pivotal role in the region’s history. Today, the palace remains a living testament to its regal past, with the current Rajadhiraj Mahendra Singh still residing in one wing, while the other has been gracefully transformed into a heritage hotel, offering guests a chance to step into the shoes of royalty.
The cooking demonstration was an immersive experience, blending tradition, culture, and flavour. Guided by expert chefs, we rolled up our sleeves and learned to prepare five exquisite dishes, each bursting with the vibrant spices and aromas of Indian cuisine:
Chicken Masala: A luscious, spiced curry that tantalized the taste buds with its depth of flavour.
Paneer (Cottage Cheese) or Tofu: A creamy, indulgent dish that showcased the versatility of Indian cooking.
Lentil Dal: A comforting and nourishing staple, simmered to perfection.
Spiced Potatoes: A simple yet flavorful dish that highlighted the magic of Indian spices.
Cumin Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, with the warm, earthy notes of roasted cumin seeds.
After the demonstration, we gathered for a lavish dinner, savouring the dishes we had prepared in the opulent surroundings of the palace. The ambiance, steeped in history and elegance, made the meal even more memorable. Glenn even ate everything we cooked.
This evening at Hari Mahal Palace was more than just a cooking class—it was a journey through time, culture, and flavour. If you’re visiting Jaipur, don’t miss the chance to experience this royal culinary adventure. It’s a feast for the senses and a story you’ll cherish forever.
It was a day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable moments—Jaipur, you’ve outdone yourself!
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