The history of India is one of invasion and occupation, for they had natural resources that others wanted. In the forever and never ending struggle for power and wealth, India’s abundant supply of spices and precious metals meant their strategically located cities would need to be fortified for, let’s say, the past 16 or 17 centuries.

Here is one day in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.

Leaving Nagaur, home of the Camel Festival

Stopping for lunch at a beautiful, modern restaurant in the middle of nowhere, we came across a Sikh wedding.

Late afternoon arrival in Jaipur with that soft magical light.

Three nights at the Raj Palace, quite literally a palace of the Royal Jaipur family, converted to a fine hotel in the heart of old town.

No digital room keys here, this is the lock on my hotel room!

Leaving the hotel to go explore the city, I glanced over my shoulder at the Royal Jaipur Hotel that we just checked into, and was reminded that India like so many places in the world, is full of contrasts.

World famous for their diamonds, gemstones, and fine textiles, we came across many artisans at work. This guy is cutting emeralds, and if you look closely in the second photograph, you’ll see he is simply holding them in his bare fingers right next to the sawblade.

Block printing textiles, up to seven overlapping layers on fine muslin cotton.

Hand tying wool and silk rugs, fun to bring home the red Jaipur patterned runner below.

Visiting the Amber Fort high on a mountain top.

A quick stop at the Astronomical Center, no surprise that astronomy and astrology play big roles in Hindu culture.

The end of a long and memorable day, taking a break from the photography and enjoying the late afternoon sunshine.