by Debbie Ross
Womens Travel Network founder
Day 07 India Tour – Jaipur’s Amber Fort
Today we traveled like maharajahs on the backs of elephants up to the Amber Fort to explore the magnificently preserved complex of palaces, halls, pavilions, gardens and temples and enjoy the spectacular views. As soon as we step off the bus the hawkers are there to sell their trinkets. The shopping begins!
We board the elephants from a large platform and sit in basket type chairs for our scenic ride up to the amber fort.
The construction of this elaborate palace started in the 16th century and was finished in the 1800’s. Many additions were added by each generation. Here you will find the largest mirror palace in the world, second to the Chateau Versailles in France. The garden in the central courtyard was dsigned to look like a persian carpet and back in the time of the Maharaja’s the flowers were selected to create the carpet effect. The view from the palace is magnificent.
Tour finished, we head out of the palace gates and are greeted by snake charmers. The hawkers are watiing for us with their wares. Hand made rugs, musical instrumets, bangles, carved elephants and more. Jeeps are waiting to take us to the Anokhi museum which is run by a local cooperative that creates beautiul fabric deisigns with block printing. During our visit we were given a demonstration by a master carver. What a treat to watch him make one of his masterpieces. Just down the hall another master is using the blocks to print on the fabric.
The drive from the museum to the bus is interesting and of course the hawkers are waiting for us at the bus. The ladies are really enjoying Bus Shopping. We sit on the bus and our guides bring the trinkets to us so we can select. It’s great fun!
Our next stop is back into Jaipur to view the summer palace. As we step off the bus one of the elephants from the fort goes by. He’s going home for the day. The laws have been set to protect the elephants, they can only work from 9am to 11am. The owner is happy to stop for a photo opportunity and he seems very proud of his elephant.
This afternoon we enjoy lunch at alocal restaurant which is ownd by the cousin of our tour guide. The food is delicious. Afterwards we have a quick stop at a pottery shop which has Jaipur’s famous Sanganer Blue Pottery. After a brief visit it’s back to the hotel to get ready for our International Women’s Day celebration. The ladies are excited. Not only will they meet local women they are also wearing saris for this special occasion. We’ve arranged to have a few ladies at the hotel to dress them in their saris. It certainly is a technique to be mastered, wrapping and tying all that fabric into a beautiful dress.
