Jaipur
Jaipur is a massive city that seemed to include a bit of everything: colorful regal palaces, glistening modern buildings, lush green parks, smooth efficient highways and meandering alley ways.
In one day, you could feel like you traveled both back and forward in time.
We would visit dusty ancient forts in the morning and then stop in to ultra-futuristic shopping malls like The World Trade Park, in the afternoon.
We left Pushkar and rode 100 miles northeast to Jaipur, “The Pink City”.
Whenever we stopped for gas, a small crowd always formed around Scott. I don’t think a lot of New Zealanders frequent these gas stations.
Red eyes, full hearts, can’t drink the water.
Pit stop.
Arriving in Jaipur.
Hawa Mahal, built in 1779.
It was built for Rajput women (a social class that adopted the custom of “purdah”, the practice of female seclusion). The women were not allowed to appear in public places but could hang out in the fort be able to watch the royal processions and see what’s going on in the city from the windows and small balconies. It was said to give the women a sense of freedom, without appearing in public.
The city was painted pink in 1876 for the arrival of the Price of Wales, who later became the Emperor of India.
I think it’s actually more of a “terra cotta” but what a welcome.
