Family Adventure in Jaipur: Exploring the Pink City

A Day of Reflection and Royal Grandeur

Today was a day of exploring Jaipur beyond its bustling city center, venturing into serene spaces that whispered tales of devotion, love, and legacy. It was a journey that took Greta, Lila and I through tranquil gardens, ancient temples, and the final resting places of Jaipur's royalty. Each location offered a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Rajasthan's history and culture.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at House of Han. While the name might suggest otherwise, this restaurant offered a delightful start to our day. Lila was particularly thrilled with the tropical punch. After a satisfying meal, we set off to our first destination: the Galta Ji Temple.


Discover the spiritual serenity and architectural beauty of Galta Ji Temple in Jaipur, a unique oasis amidst the vibrant culture of Rajasthan.

Galta Ji Temple, often referred to as the Monkey Temple, was an experience unlike any other. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a rugged, hilly terrain, a stark contrast to the city's organized chaos. The temple itself is nestled between Aravalli hills, constructed from pink sandstone that seemed to glow under the morning sun. The architecture was fascinating, resembling a palace more than a traditional temple, with painted walls and carved pillars.

What struck me most about Galta Ji was its unique atmosphere. The temple complex houses several shrines, each dedicated to different deities, including Lord Hanuman, Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. The natural springs and holy kunds (water tanks) are believed to have curative properties, adding to the temple's spiritual significance. And, of course, there were the monkeys – hundreds of them! They roamed freely, interacting with visitors, adding a playful energy to the sacred space. Lila was absolutely mesmerized, though Greta was a bit more cautious, remembering our experience with the monkeys in Thailand many years ago. I must admit, it felt a bit like stepping into a scene from *The Jungle Book*!

The echoes of devotion resonate through the stones and the playful spirits of the monkeys, reminding us of the intricate dance between nature and faith.

After spending a few hours at Galta Ji, soaking in the spiritual ambiance and enjoying the unique monkey interactions, we headed to our next stop: Sisodia Rani ka Bagh.


Experience the serenity and historical charm of Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, a beautiful garden in Jaipur, Rajasthan, perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

This royal garden, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1728 for his queen from the Sisodia Rajput clan, offered a tranquil escape from the ruggedness of the temple. As we drove along the Jaipur-Agra highway, the landscape gradually shifted, revealing a lush, green oasis.

Sisodia Rani ka Bagh is a multi-tiered garden, a beautiful blend of Mughal and traditional Indian architectural styles. Fountains, watercourses, and painted pavilions adorned the terraces, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere. The garden is filled with various plant species, lush green shrubs, and scented flowers, a welcome sight in the arid landscape of Rajasthan. The walls are decorated with murals depicting the love story of Radha and Krishna, adding a touch of romance and history to the setting. Greta was particularly taken with the intricate details of the paintings, while Lila enjoyed running through the gardens, chasing butterflies.

As we strolled through the garden, I couldn't help but imagine the queen for whom it was built, finding solace and peace in this beautiful retreat, away from the court politics and the hustle and bustle of royal life. It was easy to see why Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II chose this place for his beloved queen; the garden exuded tranquility and beauty, a perfect sanctuary for love and reflection.

For lunch, we stopped at Govindam Retreat.


Discover authentic Rajasthani vegetarian cuisine at Govindam Retreat in Jaipur - a family-friendly restaurant with delightful breakfast options.

This restaurant is known for its pure vegetarian Rajasthani food and traditional ambiance. It was quite busy when we arrived, a testament to its popularity. Fortunately, we managed to get a table. The food was delicious, and the staff were courteous, making our dining experience truly enjoyable. Lila particularly enjoyed the Paneer Lababdar, while Greta and I savored the flavors of the Rajasthani Thali.

Our final destination for the day was Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan.


Discover the enchanting Gaitor Ki Chhatriyan in Jaipur, where royal cenotaphs tell tales of a glorious past amidst serene landscapes.

The royal crematorium grounds for the Kachwaha Rajputs. Located a short distance from the city center, at the foothills of Nahargarh Fort, this site offered a contemplative quietness that was a stark contrast to the city's more popular attractions. As we entered the complex, we were greeted by a cluster of royal tombs, each topped with an umbrella-shaped dome called a chhatri. These cenotaphs marked the spots where former rulers were cremated, each uniquely designed to reflect the personality and achievements of the Maharaja it commemorated.

The structures were made of marble and sandstone, adorned with intricate carvings of elephants, battle scenes, and nature. Walking through the complex, I felt a sense of reverence and respect for the rulers who had shaped the history of Jaipur. It was a reminder of the impermanence of life and the enduring legacy of those who came before us. The quiet atmosphere and the beautiful architecture made it a perfect place for reflection and contemplation.

Before heading back to our hotel, we made a quick stop at Bapu Bazaar.


Explore Bapu Bazaar, Jaipur's lively marketplace, where vibrant handicrafts, delicious street food, and cultural experiences await every traveler.

This bustling marketplace is known for its affordable prices and a wide array of goods, from traditional Rajasthani fabrics and jewelry to everyday essentials. Lila was excited to pick out some colorful bangles, while Greta searched for block-printed fabrics. I, on the other hand, was on the lookout for a traditional Rajasthani turban. Bargaining is a common practice here, and with a little skill, you can usually get a substantial discount. I managed to snag a beautiful turban at a reasonable price, much to my satisfaction.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Hotel Kalyan, tired but content.


Experience the vibrant culture of Jaipur while enjoying a relaxing stay at Hotel Kalyan, where comfort meets local hospitality in a prime location.

Today was a day of contrasts – from the playful energy of the Monkey Temple to the serene beauty of Sisodia Rani ka Bagh and the contemplative quietness of Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan. Each location offered a unique perspective on Jaipur's rich history and culture, leaving us with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting city.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Jhalana Leopard Safari Park and EleSafari. I am particularly excited about the leopard safari, as I have always been fascinated by these majestic creatures. Lila is thrilled about the prospect of interacting with elephants, something she has been looking forward to since we planned this trip. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. For dinner, we are thinking of trying SKY BEACH, a rooftop restaurant that promises stunning views of the city. I've heard great things about their ambiance and food, and I'm eager to experience it firsthand.

Jaipur continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, offering something for everyone. As I reflect on our experiences today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these moments with my family. These are the memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

As I sit here, penning down the events of the day, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And so, I continue to share my stories, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty and wonder that our world has to offer. Good night from the Pink City!