Sunday, August 12, 2018

The Best of Jaipur, India with AirAsia X (Part 2)



Hi all! As promised, here's the continuation post to 'The Best of Jaipur, India with AirAsia X'

Nahargarh Fort
Sun on my face, wind in my hair. If you know me in person, you would know how much I love being in high places. The spectacular views of Jaipur from the fort truly takes my breath away. Nahargarh Fort located in a scenic backdrop of the Aravalli Hills was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as a retreat place. 




Another beautiful corridor.

Jaipur Wax Museum



Jaipur Wax Museum is the world's first wax museum to be located at a heritage site. We were pleasantly impressed with the lifesize wax figures of the legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Bhagat Singh, Marilyn Monroe, Iron Man, Jackie Chan and many more. However, do note that photography is not allowed.

Maharani Gayathri Devi, an extremely beautiful princess and a legendary socialite.

The magnificent Sheesh Mahal was crafted out of 2.5 million glass pieces by over 80 skilled craftsmen. The highlights include floral motif made out of '23 carat' real gold stripes, a mix blend of gems and jewellery, handmade paintings, an antique 'Palkhi' along with other vibrant artifacts.

Jaigarh Fort


One of the famous monuments in Jaipur, the Jaigarh Fort was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as a shield to protect Amber Fort and Jaipur City from invaders attack. The impressive structure of the fort boasts of the opulence of the Rajput rulers. It is also known as the 'Fort of Victory' as the fort was never conquered.

The fort houses the world's largest cannon on wheels.





Albert Hall Museum


One of the oldest museums in the state of Rajasthan, you could get a glimpse of Rajasthani art and culture, plus an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, metal objects, wood crafts, stone and metal sculptures, arms and weapons as well as natural stones and ivory goods. The magnificent building was inspired by the Indo-Sarcenic architecture with the Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone of the building in 1876.




The incredible night view of Albert Hall Museum.

Gaitore
The final resting place of the Maharajas of Jaipur, yes... it's a cemetery but it's so beautiful. The name, Gaitore is derived from Gaye which means those who've gone. 


Located in a small valley tucked away on the Jaipur-Amer road, the royal cremation site with lovely marble carvings and a stunning blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture was indeed a sight to behold. 


There are lots of stunning monuments to explore and we really enjoyed taking pictures here, as it was secluded, less crowded and beautiful.


Sisodia Rani Bagh
Surrounded by lush green landscapes and lovely flowers, the Sisodia Rani Bagh is one of the largest gardens in Jaipur built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1728 as a gift for his second wife, Sisodia Rani.  

The beautifully designed garden incorporated a mixture of Indian and Mughal architecture with lovely wall paintings and decorations.


Gal Taji Temple aka Monkey Temple 
Another famous tourist attraction, the Gal Taji Temple was built in the 18th century by the attendant of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Diwan Rao Kriparam. The temple is surrounded by the majestic hills of the Aravali Range around a natural spring.
 

The locals take bathe in the kund to wash away their sins. 

The natural spring water flowing out through the cow's mouth.

 Devotees carrying the wooden pole with pots of holy water, walk barefoot to another temple.



Adorable monkeys frolicking around the temple. Don't worry, they are harmless unless provoked.

Jal Mahal aka Water Palace
Situated right in the heart of the 'Man Sagar Lake', the Jal Mahal's unique location makes a lovely backdrop. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh, 300 years ago.


SHOPPING
The art and craft of the state are amazing especially the fashioned jewellery, the multi-coloured 'bandhini' fabrics, richly decorated handlooms and other trinkets available at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.


FOOD
A visit to Jaipur is not complete if you didn't try the Rajasthani cuisine such as Dal Batti Churma, Laal maas, Ghewar, lassi and many more.


Semiyan Kheer, mouth-watering dessert. 




  The amazing Thali platter which comes with never-ending varieties is not to be missed too!

Typical traditional afternoon tea offerings served with masala tea or coffee.


Kulfi ice cream, India's most popular ice cream was really amazing too, so rich and creamy.


Must try, creamy and delicious savoury lassi!


Travel squad!



The auto rickshaws (tuk-tuk) is one of the cheapest and best ways to move around in Jaipur, but the ride can be frightening at times. Lol


You know, capturing a good Instagram photo is often harder than it looks! Special thanks to Amanda for being the best travel mate I could ever ask for.



All in all, I really had a great time in Jaipur and hope to be back sometime soon! To be honest, initially, I had low expectations, but Jaipur had proved me wrong. The people are friendly and warm and how can you not love Jaipur's rich cultural heritage? Once again, thank you, AirAsia X, for the amazing trip, really appreciate being well taken care of by AirAsia AllStars's Shahinaz and Budiee. Can't wait till our next trip! XOXO

Life is short, book the ticket and go on an adventure!


AirAsia X is proud to be the only long haul, low-cost affiliate carrier of the AirAsia Group to fly direct from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Jaipur, India with four times weekly flight. Guests can opt for the premium service on the airline such as a seat which reclines to a full flatbed, complimentary 40kg baggage allowance, in-flight meal, pillow and duvet, a dedicated counter for check-in, as well as access to the AirAsia Premium Red Lounge when departing from Kuala Lumpur (klia2). Pre-book your Santan Combo Meal 48hours before flight departure for AirAsia X (D7) flights to enjoy a wide selection of Asean in-flight meals. Every combo meal comes with a complimentary beverage cost only RM15 for AirAsia X (D7) flights. Meanwhile, you could opt for Hot Seats if you're yearning for extra legroom for that extra comfort or the Quiet Zone which is ideal for guests who need that extra peace and quiet (for guests aged 10 and above) All these are available under the Pick-A-Seat option in AirAsia's 'Manage My Booking' function on the website before conducting web check-in at www.airasia.com.

Flight schedule for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (KUL) - Jaipur, India (JAI)

Kuala Lumpur - Jaipur D7 184 (Flight No)  1850hrs (STD) 2150hrs (ETA) Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
Jaipur - Kuala Lumpur D7 185 (Flight No)  2250hrs (STD) 0635hrs (ETA) Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

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