The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is
not only the gateway to the state, it is also the most natural place to
begin a discovery of Rajasthan's multifaceted attractions. For visitors
unfamiliar with its history, a little explanation may be necessary,
since it will aid their understanding of one of the most fascinating
cities of India. As a city, Jaipur is fairly young, less than three
centuries old. It was laid out by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of the
Kachchawaha dynasty from Amber which, less than 10-km away, was the
former capital of the state. Markets and residential areas have bridged
this gap so that, for all practical purposes, Jaipur includes Amber
within its sway.
