Work and Play
- Bernadette
- Mar 25, 2018
- 2 min read
IBM's Corporate Service Corps leaders and local NGO partners encourage us to explore our locations and learn more about the country and culture. In keeping with this philosophy, let me share with you some highlights from Jaipur, Rajasthan, India! The team and I spent about 30 hours there (including sleep).
First off, let me say that I had absolutely no expectations of Jaipur. I had no negative ones, but I was so fixated on seeing the Taj Mahal the day prior that I did not focus on the plans for the rest of the trip.
The area of India that makes up Delhi-Agra-Jaipur is known as the Golden Triangle.
I cannot say enough good things about Jaipur. It was a spectacular visit and I only wish that I had a bit more time to enjoy it. Here are a few of highlights.
Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds. In this palace, the women of the royal family could observe everyday life and festivals from behind the intricate lattice work. (Given the cultural significance on women to keep purdah, this kind of structure was common in many of the historical buildings I saw). It is rumored that because of the honeycomb nature of the 1799 building, if the windows were to be closed, the palace would collapse like a house of cards.
Jantar Mantar monument is a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II, and completed in 1734 (see Wikipedia). These are some really amazing feats of science, math, and astronomy! The intricacy and accuracy is astounding!
Amer Fort. Among the top historical places I've ever seen. The detail and opulence still visible in an open air palace are just amazing.
The Jeep ride up to the Fort!
A portion of the Fort's walls from below.
The intricate details of the walls and ceilings.
Tired friends! Quick rest in the shade -- it's getting hotter by the day!
Jal Mahal, the "Water Palace", is a palace in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake
If I have the chance to return to India, I will definitely spend more time in Jaipur!
Lastly, I want to say a big THANK YOU to my colleagues who worked hard to organize numerous travel outings, especially Robert Bince. I truly appreciate your spirit of adventure and your patience to shepherd 15 people with different personalities and interests to many wonderful places.
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