Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan. Jaipur is locally know as the 'Pink City'. It is huge now but you can still see the original walled city as this is the area of the pink tinged buildings.
Mantar Mantar is one of the world's largest observatories. It is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments constructed in 1734 & features the world's largest stone sundial. We had a guide show us around as it is quite daunting wandering around all these huge structures & you really need an explanation as to what they are and what they are used for.
Next stop was the 'City Palace' which houses the world's two largest silver vessels. They were made from 14,000 melted silver coins and have a capacity of 4,000ltrs each. They are bigger than Josh! They were by the Maharaja used to transport holly water as gifts. It also houses clothing from Maharaja's though the years, one of which was 1.2m wide, weighed 250kg & had 108 wives!!
India's health & safety is obviously high priority!!!
The Jal Mahal otherwise knows as the Floating Palace.
Obviously a new installation on the banks of the floating palace lake. Just need a good tidy up now guys!!
Just one of the many 'Step Wells' in India. These were used to replenish water supplies to the household before running water was available. There are many designs throughout India and most are beautifully designed but all with many many steps to climb down & then up with your container of water!!
Hawa Mahal/Palace of the Winds is in the heart of Jaipur.
It is 5 story's high and was built in 1799. Truly beautiful!
Another step well design.
Nahargarh Fort & Palace
It comprises of a suite for the King & 9 apartments, one for each of his wives with a private kings corridor providing direct private acces to each. His favourite wife had a winter suite and a summer suite to ensure her comfort.
Such beautiful elaborate design even on the rooftops!
Out and about in Jaipur.
We had the most fantastic afternoon with the Elephantastic crew. We prepared food, fed our elephant, talked to her & hugged her. We then decorated her with natural paints which tickles them but they don't mind as they know once we have finished they will be having a shower which they love!!
She even decided we needed a wash too!!!!
Once we were all cleaned & dried we headed off for a gentle trek to watch the sun go down.
Such a fantastic experience. The elephants were very well cared for as they had very healthy looking skin & their eyes were bright & shiny. The elephants are cared for by a Mahout who stays with the elephant for their entire life. If their career dies then the son will take over the care. These carers live right next door to their elephants with their family and know everything about them, their temperament & their day to day needs. Once a Mahout dies then his son who has grown up with the elephant takes over the daily care.
No comments:
Post a Comment