Jaipur is called as Pink City, Jodhpur is called as Blue City and Jaisalmer is called as Golden City. Rajasthan, often associated with its royal palaces, mighty forts and flashes of color, has been luring tourists from across the world in three cities which are known for their three striking shades in particular.
Jaipur – Pink City
Spread through the desert territory, the “Pink City” of Jaipur, the “Blue City” of Jodhpur and the “Gold City” of Jaisalmer has been winnning millions of hearts with their immaculate beauty and glory as they narrate their own historical tales.
The Pink City-Jaipur is famous for its salmon-hued buildings and meticulous city planning.
The city was given a rosy hue during a highly anticipated visit from Prince Albert in 1876. The city was painted with pink shade, which symbolizes hospitality in Indian culture.
The building department mixed up a natural dye made of lime and red soil to paint the city pink. Even today, the government repaints the buildings every two years in keeping with tradition.
The pink Old Town area, accommodates the pretty terracotta pink Hawa Mahal palace, City Palace, the Palace of the Winds and Jantar Mantar astronomy observatory.
Another highlight is the Amber Fort, located about six miles outside of the city. Once the residence of the Rajput Maharajas, this red sandstone fort complex features grand courtyards, ornate wall mosaics and opulent halls.
Jodhpur – Blue City
Jodhpur stands synonymous with another color: sky blue.
Now, if you have a question that why it is called as the Blue City, there are many reasons for it.
Firstly, the city has a very high temperature because it’s surrounded by desert, so people have painted their houses with blue colour to keep things cool inside.
Secondly, Jodhpur is home to Brahmins who worship Lord Shiva. As Shiva is often associated with the color blue, worshipers paint their homes and temples this sacred and soothing shade.
The best place to see the ‘Blue City’ is from atop Mehrangarh Fort. From here, you can see the bright blue clusters and a beautiful sky blue.
Jaisalmer – Golden City
Established in 1156, Jaisalmer got its nickname from the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort which shines with a honey-gold hue during dusk.
Although the fort is made with local sandstone, however, it is cut in a way that it comes out identical to gold and the city gets its name as golden city.
Also, the sand spread around gives a golden hue and hence comes the name!
Take the trip to beautiful havelis (mansions) — such as Salim Singh ki Haveli and Patwon Ki Haveli — with exquisite ornate carvings and open-air courtyards. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is a place to experience camel safaris and desert camps.