Rajasthan’s capital of Jaipur certainly lives up to its nickname of The Pink City. Upon arrival, you can see the distinctive salmon hue all across the city’s skyline. But beyond appearance, it’s also a place that is steeped in heritage. Traditional folk song and dance, textile markets, handmade designer shopping, and local cuisine are all just part of Jaipur’s rich culture.
Newer additions to the streets of Jaipur are the bright pink, custom-designed and eco-friendly rickshaws driven by local women. What better way to see the sights of the city? However, more than just a fun way to explore Jaipur, the Pink City Rickshaw offers a unique opportunity to help support more than 200 local women from low-income households.
Employing women from low-income neighborhoods, many of whom have no work opportunities prior to guiding Jaipur tours, Pink City Rickshaw equips its employees with professional training, and opportunities for economic empowerment among their communities.
Now does that sound like your kind of ride? Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on our Essence of India with Ranthambore luxury guided tour, meet these women for yourself and learn all about the initiative. Hop in, share stories and see the magnificent sights of Jaipur.
“Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are a beautiful exchange of values between our guests and the people that we meet,” explains Lucie Dalila, Sustainability Manager, Travel Experiences at Luxury Gold “This is a two-way experience – a sharing of stories, ideas and knowledge that shines a whole new light on your destination. We all leave feeling empowered, inspired and keen to contribute even more.”
Empowering local women
Puja Gour, Vice President of ACCESS Development Services, a nonprofit organization based in Jaipur, that partners with Pink City Rickshaw tells us: “Empowering women is our main initiative but creating an engaging and curated experience on our sightseeing tours is a top priority as well. Tourism meets philanthropy as you are guided through the medieval mystique of the walled city, seeing the local culture and sites through the eyes of the smart, enthusiastic and knowledgeable women who navigate Jaipur’s streets.”
A modern icon since the 1880s
“The presence of rickshaws in India has played an important role, from the electric cities to the smaller towns of rural regions,” explains Puja. “Growing up in Patna in Bihar, we didn’t have a public transportation system. Hopping on a rickshaw (usually hired by a family or friend) for weekly outings with other neighborhood children continues to hold a warm place in my heart. While the city’s rickshaw industry has traditionally been dominated by men, the societal backdrop is adapting to the transition of new drivers — giving women the power to gain professional experience and income, while also giving you a fuller experience compared to the standard point A-to-B taxi service.”
Soaking up the sites
Sites like the 16th-century Amber Palace, known for its cobbled paths and views of Maota Lake, and UNESCO world heritage site Jantar Mantar observatory, are part of what draw in so many visitors to the magic of Jaipur. The magnificent City Palace is home to Mughal and Jajput architecture and is the present residence to the last ruling royal family, which lives in a private section of the palace.
You’ll also get lost in some more off-the-beaten path destinations, like the partially hidden lower level of Mansagar, a beautiful place of solitude often overlooked by the masses. By taking a tour with the women of Jaipur, not only are you making a personal impact on the local community and contributing to a cleaner environment, you’re also experiencing the magic of one of India’s most dynamic cities.
Feeling inspired to rickshaw around Jaipur?
Jaipur is a featured destination on our Essence of India with Ranthambore and Spirit of North & South India luxury guided tours.
Travel with us on these tours and enjoy the opulent rooms of the 5-star Jai Mahal Palace, located in the heart of the Pink City. This magnificent hotel is set in 18 acres of Mughal style gardens and showcases Rajasthan’s stunning heritage.
Sample the best of the city’s exquisite food as you dine at the sumptuous 1135 AD, with its royal interior, traditional music and breathtaking sunset views. And, celebrate the final night of your voyage at the Cinnamon Restaurant in Jai Mahal Palace. Here the chef expertly blends traditional and contemporary cuisine from the four princely states of India, leading to an unforgettable feast.
Visit our website for more information on all our luxury guided tours to India. Download our interactive brochure for 2022 & 2023 Worldwide tours. And learn more about our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences.
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