Jaipur Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Jaipur with this comprehensive travel guide.


Jaipur Travel Guide

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is a city of colors, tradition, and charm. Located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is known for its rich history, stunning palaces, and incredible landscapes. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Jaipur, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

Introduction to Jaipur

Jaipur is the largest city in Rajasthan, located in the northwestern part of India. The city was founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1727 and was intended to be a center of commerce and culture. The city got its nickname, the Pink City, after the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876. Today, Jaipur is a popular tourist destination and a hub for arts and crafts.

List of Places to Visit in Jaipur

Jaipur has several must-visit attractions that showcase its rich history and culture. Here are some of the top places to visit in Jaipur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hawa Mahal - Also known as the Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal is a five-story palace that has 953 small windows or jharokhas, which are decorated with intricate latticework. The palace was built in 1799 to allow the royal ladies to observe the street festivals without being seen by the public.
  • City Palace - The City Palace is a magnificent palace complex that was established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II between 1729 and 1732. The palace is a blend of Mughal, Rajput, and European architectural styles and houses several museums, galleries, and temples.
  • Jantar Mantar - Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the 18th century. The observatory contains a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments.
  • Amber Fort and Palace - Amber Fort and Palace is a majestic fort located in the picturesque Aravalli Hills. The fort was built in the 16th century and is also known as Amer Fort. The palace complex inside the fort is a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles.
  • Albert Hall Museum - Albert Hall Museum is a museum housed in a 19th-century British colonial building. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and weapons.

Natural Attractions of Jaipur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nahargarh Fort - Nahargarh Fort is a beautiful fort located on the Aravalli Hills overlooking Jaipur. The fort was built in the 18th century and offers stunning views of the city.
  • Central Park - Central Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Jaipur. The park has several jogging and walking tracks, and there is also a small lake where you can hire a paddle boat.
  • Jal Mahal - Jal Mahal is a palace located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. The palace is only accessible by boat and is a popular spot for bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jaipur

Jaipur is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Nahargarh Biological Park - Nahargarh Biological Park is a beautiful park located on the Aravalli Hills. The park has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the city and wildlife sightings.
  • Pushkar to Jaipur Cycling Route - The Pushkar to Jaipur cycling route is a popular cycling trail that covers around 150 kilometers. The route passes through several villages and offers a glimpse of rural life in Rajasthan.
  • Jaipur to Sambhar Salt Lake Trail - The Jaipur to Sambhar Salt Lake Trail is a scenic hiking trail that covers around 90 kilometers. The trail passes through several villages, temples, and salt pans.

Best Things to Do in Jaipur: Activities and Tours

Jaipur has several activities and tours that you should not miss. Here are some of the top things to do in Jaipur:

  • Elephant Ride at Amer Fort - An elephant ride to Amer Fort is a unique and exciting experience that you should not miss. The ride starts from the base of the fort and takes you to the main entrance.
  • Cultural Shows and Folk Music - Jaipur is a hub for performing arts, and you can catch several cultural shows and folk music performances across the city.
  • Tongas and Auto Rickshaw Rides - Tonga and Auto Rickshaw rides are an excellent way to explore the narrow streets of Jaipur’s old city. These rides are a fun and unique way to experience the charm of the city.
  • Cooking Classes and Food Tours - Jaipur is known for its rich culinary heritage, and you can take cooking classes and food tours to learn more about the local cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jaipur

If you’re planning to spend a week in Jaipur, here is a perfect itinerary for you:

Day Activities
1 Visit Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and City Palace. Explore the vibrant markets of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar
2 Visit Amber Fort and Palace. Enjoy an elephant ride to the fort. Afternoon visit to Jal Mahal and Nahargarh Fort.
3 Explore the narrow lanes of the old city, including the famous Pink City. Visit Govind Devji Temple and the Galtaji Temple
4 Visit Albert Hall Museum and explore the shopping areas of Indira Bazaar and Tripolia Bazaar
5 Take a day trip to the nearby Bagru Village and see the traditional textile printing techniques
6 Participate in a cooking class and learn to make some of the local dishes. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show or folk music performance
7 Spend a day at leisure and explore some of the lesser-known attractions in Jaipur, such as Sisodia Rani Garden or Vidyadhar Garden

Food and Drink Scene of Jaipur

Jaipur is a paradise for foodies, and the city’s food scene offers a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Baati Churma - Dal Baati Churma is a traditional Rajasthani dish made with lentils, wheat balls, and sweetened crushed cereals.
  • Kachori - Kachori is a deep-fried flaky pastry filled with seasoned lentils or potatoes. It is a popular snack in Jaipur.
  • Laal Maas - Laal Maas is a spicy meat dish made with tender lamb or mutton and a variety of spices.

Local Beverages

  • Lassi - Lassi is a traditional Indian drink made with yogurt, sugar, and ice. Jaipur’s lassi is famous for its creamy taste.
  • Buttermilk - Buttermilk is a refreshing drink made with yogurt, water, and spices. It is an excellent drink to beat the heat.
  • Masala Chai - Masala Chai is a popular Indian tea made with milk, tea leaves, and spices like cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Jaipur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jaipur has several accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some popular options:

  • Rambagh Palace - Rambagh Palace is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Jaipur. The hotel was once the royal residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur and offers a unique blend of history and luxury.
  • Umaid Bhawan Heritage House Hotel - Umaid Bhawan Heritage House Hotel is a heritage hotel located in the old city. The hotel is a beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture and is an excellent option for those who want to experience the charm of the old city.
  • Zostel Jaipur - Zostel Jaipur is a budget-friendly hostel that offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city. The hostel has friendly staff and offers several amenities, including a rooftop lounge and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Jaipur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jaipur is famous for its textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry. Here are some souvenirs and local products that you should consider buying:

  • Textiles and Fabrics - Jaipur is known for its colorful textiles and fabrics. You can find several markets in the city that offer a wide range of fabrics like Bandhani, Leheriya, and Sanganeri.
  • Handicrafts - Jaipur’s skilled artisans produce a wide range of handicrafts, including pottery, leather goods, and wooden pieces.
  • Jewelry - Jaipur is known as the jewelry capital of India. You can find several markets that offer a wide range of jewelry, including silver, gold, and traditional Kundan and Meenakari jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Jaipur

Jaipur has a unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some of the things you should know:

  • Clothing - Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and sleeveless tops.
  • Greeting Etiquette - It is customary to greet people with a ‘Namaste’ (folded hands) or ‘Sasriakal’ (in Punjabi). It is also common to offer a cup of tea or coffee to guests upon arrival.
  • Religious Practices - Visitors should remove their shoes before entering temples and other religious sites. It is also customary to cover your head with a scarf or a hat.
  • Tipping and Bargaining - Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. When shopping at local markets, bargaining is expected.

Best Time to Visit Jaipur

The best time to visit Jaipur is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The winter months in Jaipur are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, and there are several festivals during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jaipur

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Jaipur:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and attend cultural events.
  • Visit the magnificent palaces and forts.
  • Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs without permission.
  • Don’t litter or disrespect the environment.
  • Don’t purchase goods made from endangered species.
  • Don’t haggle too hard in local markets.

Safety and Health

Jaipur is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take normal precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Jaipur

  • Avoid traveling alone, especially at night.
  • Be cautious of pickpockets and beggars.
  • Use only licensed and authorized taxis and auto-rickshaws.
  • Carry a copy of your passport and other important documents.

Health in Jaipur

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water.
  • Wash your hands frequently, especially before meals.
  • Take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and dengue fever.
  • Get all required vaccinations before traveling.

Getting to Jaipur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Jaipur is well connected by air, road, and rail. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Jaipur

  • Jaipur International Airport - Jaipur International Airport is the primary airport in Jaipur, located around 12 kilometers from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Jaipur

  • Sindhi Camp Bus Stand - Sindhi Camp Bus Stand is the main bus station in Jaipur. The station has regular buses to several destinations across Rajasthan and North India.

Other Options

  • Trains - Jaipur Junction is the primary railway station in Jaipur, and several trains connect Jaipur to major cities across India.
  • Taxis and Auto-rickshaws - Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available in Jaipur and are a convenient way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Jaipur

The best way to get around Jaipur is by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw. These modes of transportation are readily available and relatively cheap. Visitors can also rent bikes or motorcycles to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Jaipur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jaipur is a great base for exploring other destinations in Rajasthan. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you should consider:

  • Pushkar - Pushkar is a holy city located around 150 kilometers from Jaipur. The city is known for its Brahma Temple and the iconic Pushkar Lake.
  • Ajmer - Ajmer is a historical city located around 130 kilometers from Jaipur. The city is known for its Dargah Sharif, a shrine of the legendary Sufi saint, Moinuddin Chishti.
  • Ranthambore National Park - Ranthambore National Park is a tiger reserve located around 180 kilometers from Jaipur. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Conclusion

Jaipur is a city of colors, culture, and history that offers a unique glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich heritage. With this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to plan your perfect trip to Jaipur. Enjoy your visit to the Pink City!

Double Decker 12986 Delhi-Jaipur, at Delhi Sarai Rohilla station, leaving for Jaipur Double Decker 12986 Delhi-Jaipur, at Delhi Sarai Rohilla station, leaving for Jaipur A map of the Jaipur Metro with planned and completed lines. A map of the Jaipur Metro with planned and completed lines. View from Hawa Mahal to one of Jaipur's bustling streets View from Hawa Mahal to one of Jaipur's bustling streets Cycle rickshaws and other traffic Cycle rickshaws and other traffic Amber Fort Amber Fort Hawa Mahal Hawa Mahal A view of Jal Mahal from the road to Amber Fort A view of Jal Mahal from the road to Amber Fort Birla Temple Birla Temple Galtaji Galtaji Jantar Mantar Jantar Mantar The Albert Hall Museum is in the Ram Niwas Garden The Albert Hall Museum is in the Ram Niwas Garden '''The Amber''' sound and light show '''The Amber''' sound and light show Gauri's procession Gauri's procession Flower stall Flower stall Pakoras, snacks of fried chickpea batter Pakoras, snacks of fried chickpea batter Laal-maans, red mutton curry, is a spicy specialty of Rajasthan Laal-maans, red mutton curry, is a spicy specialty of Rajasthan A Rajasthani thali (serving) A Rajasthani thali (serving) Lassi, a non-alcoholic alternative Lassi, a non-alcoholic alternative Traditional dance performance Traditional dance performance Night panorama of Jaipur Night panorama of Jaipur Snake charming Snake charming View from the roof of the Amber Fort View from the roof of the Amber Fort Local fauna visiting the Rajvilas Palace Local fauna visiting the Rajvilas Palace The Blue City of Jodhpur The Blue City of Jodhpur