Hawa Mahal - Palace of Winds

The first stop of the Palace on Wheels is Jaipur, one of the most well planned cities of the world of its times. This capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City, was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727 A.D.

To explore the city, an air-conditioned coach takes you to Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds, which is a remarkable five storied building along the main street of the old city in pink splendor, with semioctagonal and delicately honey combed sandstone windows. This is followed by a visit to Amber Fort, eight kms. away, where rides on caparisoned elephants add to the ambiance.

Shop for Jaipur's famous jewelry, handicrafts, carpets, blue pottery and textiles. Near Ajmeri Gate is located Rajasthali - the only Rajasthan Govt. Emporium selling genuine handicrafts at fixed prices. After lunch at a Palace Hotel, you are off to the City Palace, home of the erstwhile royal family. Right across the road from the palace is the Jantar Mantar, the largest observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh II.