Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, holds the distinguished title of being India's first planned city. Established in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is a marvel of urban planning and architectural brilliance. Designed by the renowned Bengali architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the city was meticulously laid out according to ancient Indian principles of Vastu Shastra and Shilpa Shastra. Known as the "Pink City" for its signature terracotta-colored buildings, Jaipur stands as a symbol of India's rich heritage, blending historical significance with innovative urban design. Today, Jaipur is not only a cultural and economic hub but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its well-preserved historical landmarks and vibrant cultural life.

Grid System: Jaipur was designed based on the principles of Vastu Shastra and Shilpa Shastra, incorporating a grid system with streets and blocks in a grid-like pattern, which was innovative for its time. The city is divided into nine blocks (known as chowkris), with broad streets running from east to west and north to south.

City Layout: The city is structured into sectors separated by wide streets, and each sector has its own market and residential areas, following a systematic layout.

Gates and Fortifications: The city is surrounded by walls with seven fortified gates, providing security and adding to its grandeur. The gates are named Ajmeri Gate, Sanganeri Gate, Chandpole Gate, etc.

Cultural Hub: Jaipur is a vibrant cultural hub, known for its traditional crafts, textiles, jewelry, and arts. It hosts numerous festivals like the Jaipur Literature Festival and Teej.

Economic Growth: Over the years, Jaipur has grown into a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. It's also an important center for gemstone cutting, jewelry manufacturing, and handloom industries.

Urban Expansion: While the old city of Jaipur retains its historic charm and architectural integrity, the city has expanded beyond its original walls with modern infrastructure, educational institutions, and industrial areas.

Tourism: Jaipur is a key part of the "Golden Triangle" tourist circuit, along with Delhi and Agra, making it one of the most visited cities in India.

Planned City Status: Jaipur's planning and architecture have earned it a unique place in history as India's first planned city, a title that continues to influence urban planning in India.

UNESCO World Heritage: In 2019, Jaipur's walled city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and architectural significance.

Jaipur remains a testament to visionary urban planning, blending tradition with modernity, and continues to be a model for city planning in India and beyond.

Jaipur, India's first planned city, is a testament to the vision and foresight of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Its meticulously designed layout, inspired by ancient Indian architectural principles, has earned it the nickname "Pink City" and a place in the annals of history as a model of urban planning. With its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and blend of tradition and modernity, Jaipur continues to captivate visitors from around the world. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jaipur stands as a proud symbol of India's architectural genius and cultural richness, serving as an inspiration for urban development across the country.