Pink City (Old Jaipur)

Overview

The Pink City is Jaipur's historic walled quarter, painted in its signature terracotta-pink since 1876 when Maharaja Ram Singh II ordered the city decorated to welcome the Prince of Wales. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, its grid-plan streets, bazaars, and palace gateways offer a sensory experience unique in India.

Highlights

• UNESCO Heritage: The entire walled city was listed in 2019 for its exceptional urban planning.
• Pink Buildings: By law, all buildings within the walled city must maintain their pink-terracotta facades.
• Grid Plan: One of the first planned cities in India, designed according to Vedic architectural principles (Vastu Shastra).
• Bazaar Life: The major markets — Johari, Bapu, Tripolia — are all within the walled quarter.

History

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II founded the city in 1727, shifting his capital from nearby Amber. The grid pattern was designed by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya following Vastu Shastra and the Shilpa Shastra. In 1876, the entire old city was painted pink for the visit of the Prince of Wales — and has remained so by municipal decree.

Visitor Tips

• Walking tour: The best way to experience the Pink City is on foot — many guided walking tours are available.
• Early morning: Start before 9 AM to see shopkeepers opening their stalls.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.