A trail of temples and traditions in Jaipur

Who would not be drawn to the temple bells, that clang with devotional praises rising to a crescendo, over a burning camphor? Would you resist exploring the secret chambers that were designed to make up the walled city of Jaipur? Take to this walking tour to explore the ancient temples of the Pink City - through the lanes, the palace trails, the temple paths, and the bustling streets, you will see the picture of a vibrant heritage.

The 2.5-hour tour starts at 7:30 in the morning and 05:00 in the evening at Choti Chopad, a popular marketplace in the city. You will be accompanied by a local guide well-versed in the sights and sounds of Jaipur. You will get to engage with the temple priests, artisans, and the locals, as your guide offers insights into the place, the occupation, and the history. You would be visiting the Vishnu temple, which is beautifully adorned with frescoes and paintings depicting Hindu mythology. Nearly as old as the city, the temple is a window to Jaipur’s vibrant past. For a culture renowned for its hospitality, you will be treated with a warm welcome by a local family residing in a beautifully renovated haveli. Settle down for some tea, snacks and snippets of interesting conversations with the family who are patrons of traditional art and architecture.

Refuelled, you will be paying obeisance to the prominent Shiva temple, whose intricately carved doors will leave you spell-bound. The temple is believed to be the seat of tantric rituals during ancient times. From the mystics and mysteries of the divine, you will step into the ‘light’ of the Shri Gopinath Ji Krishna temple, a popular temple that's always abuzz with devotees. The 'aarti' ceremony, a customary temple ritual takes you through the tradition of offering prayers. Brass plates with burning camphor and the resounding tinkles of bells mark the culmination of the prayers. There is a spiritual aspect to it, where the burning camphor signifies – annihilation of one’s ego “Aham” and surrendering to the higher power.

Off the spiritual trails, you will be headed to the local streets and bustling bazaars of Jaipur. The heart of Jaipur pulsates in the lanes, as you see trinkets, fragrances, clothing, spices and the art in galore. You could make a pick of any of these, and you will observe the heirloom tradition as old as the city itself.

The development of Jaipur was necessitated by Sawai Jai Singh II, who wanted to set right the balance between a rising populace and limited resources. The city was raised in blocks or 'chowkries', intertwined by roads and lanes, and encircled by an impenetrable wall. As the walking tour ends at Ram Chandra temple, you will take home the souvenirs of heritage, culture, and spirituality of a city that is ever aglow in its tradition and vibrancy!