A UNESCO-acclaimed World Heritage Site, the walled city of Jaipur, is an immersive window into the vision of an enlightened ruler. The grand dream of Maharaja Swai Jai Singh II for his new capital Jaipur, which replaced the old Kachwaha bastion of Amber, still holds streams of visitors in thrall today, as they explore the old bazaars, temples and palaces— all of which had its designated place in his planned city.

A walk with the past

In 1727 when Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Chakravorty was overseeing the new capital of Jaipur, the design was along the most promising Vedic lines. One of the things to do is stroll through the walled city, which is pretty much rooted in its grid format with nine blocks (chaupars), comprehensive and straight streets, set in the embrace of a protective wall. There was dedicated space for residences, and the bazaars were laid with streets for different crafts and commercial activities. So even today, it's pretty easy to navigate one's way around what is now the 'old city of Jaipur. You will love to sample the amazing street food when you take a break from the whirlwind of shopping in the 'wedding market' or picking up lac bangles directly from a local artisan or casual Kurtis and skirts in traditional Rajasthani prints and embroideries. Gaze upon old Havelis with spacious courtyards or great gateways and fettered windows in delicate marble work.

Street eats are great treats.

Tradition still dies hard in the Old Quarter of the Pink City when it comes to showcasing its extraordinary culinary pursuits. The immense variety of snacks, savouries, and sweetmeats speak of a rich and longstanding tryst with foodies. When you are wandering around in this part of Jaipur, the things to do are to wend your way into Chatorio Ki Gali, which is famous across the country for its name and street food. These non-touristy food joints have to be good because you can barely get a leg in for the crowding locals!

Crafting fantasies

Since its founding in 1727, the royalty and nobility of Jaipur has been patronizing various craftsmen and artisans in the Pink City. In 2015 UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) designated Jaipur as a 'City of Crafts and Folk Arts', which is amply illustrated by its bazaars which are chock-full of goods coming in from different parts of the state. The things to do in Jaipur also involve checking out the spanking new malls, government-run emporiums, and classy upmarket boutiques, all of which are a veritable treasure trove of shopping allurements.

The magic of Jaipur lies in the countless number of things you can do to delve into the city’s fantastic heritage and history any time of the year.