If you're planning a trip to the Pink City Jaipur, this Jaipur travel guide is the best companion you can have as you arrange your itinerary. This bustling Rajasthani city is an ideal weekend destination since it exudes grandeur and charm. The pink-tinged walls that tower tall around the city are a breathtaking sight to behold, while the majestic palaces give a sense of majesty to the modern city. Wide wide roadways with attractive statuary and tree-lined avenues add to the Pink City's allure. This charming city will capture your heart and make you want to return anytime possible.
As you read through this Jaipur travel guide, you will discover that there is a variety of things to do in Jaipur. Jaipur's must-see attractions include the fort and places. These stern forts, which stand towering on the outskirts of Jaipur, are a reminder of the city's military history. The sweeping views of the enormous city and its environs from these forts are breathtaking, as is the history hidden within them. Taking a Jaipur guided tour of Jaipur's notable landmarks is a great opportunity to learn about the city's history, culture and traditions.
However, while seeing Jaipur's heritage monuments, don't miss out on the city's markets. The explosion of colors that greets travelers as they enter the markets is enticing, and you'll quickly find yourself laden with vibrant garments, exquisite parasols, unique artifacts and heavy Rajasthani jewelry. Shopping in Jaipur is a fun experience, to say the least. Visiting Jaipur is enjoyable at any time of year, but if you want to take your vacation to the next level, go during one of the many festivals held there. The city's bustle and cheeriness will provide an ideal setting for a memorable Jaipur holiday.
Amber Fort is one of the most iconic attractions in Jaipur, known for its grandeur and stunning architecture. This 16th-century fort, built by Raja Man Singh I, is a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. The fort’s imposing structure overlooks a beautiful lake, creating picturesque views. Visitors can explore its intricate halls, like the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), where thousands of mirrors adorn the walls. The fort is a testament to Rajasthan's royal history and can be reached by elephant ride or jeep. Don't miss the light and sound show held in the evening, narrating the fort's history. Amber Fort offers a truly immersive experience with its stunning rooms, courtyards, and gardens.
Location: Amer, 11 km from Jaipur city center
The City Palace is a majestic symbol of Rajasthan’s royal heritage, located in the center of Jaipur. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. The palace complex houses several courtyards, gardens, and museums. Key attractions inside include the Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, and the Diwan-i-Khas. The palace also showcases an impressive collection of royal costumes, armory, and miniature paintings. Don’t miss the Peacock Gate, one of the most photogenic spots in the palace. Visitors can also explore the museum inside the City Palace, which houses artifacts and royal memorabilia. The palace offers a glimpse into Jaipur’s opulent past.
Location: City Palace Complex, in the heart of Jaipur
Hawa Mahal, known as the “Palace of Winds,” is one of Jaipur's most famous landmarks. Built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799, it was designed to allow royal women to observe the street life without being seen. The palace is a five-story structure with 953 small windows or jharokhas, which create a unique and visually striking façade. The windows were designed to provide ventilation and cool air during the hot summers, hence the name Hawa Mahal. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the palace. The architecture, made of red and pink sandstone, is a great example of Mughal and Rajput styles.
Location: Badi Choupad, Pink City, Jaipur
Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is an astronomical observatory and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II, it houses a collection of architectural astronomical instruments. The most famous of these is the Samrat Yantra, the world’s largest stone sundial, which can accurately tell time to the nearest second. The observatory was used to measure time, track stars, and study celestial events. Jantar Mantar stands as a testament to India’s ancient scientific knowledge and architectural ingenuity. The instruments are beautifully preserved, and visiting this site offers insight into how ancient astronomers studied the cosmos.
Location: Near City Palace, Jaipur
Jaigarh Fort is a massive hilltop fort built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1726. Located on the Aravalli range, the fort provides spectacular views of Jaipur and its surroundings. The fort is known for housing the world’s largest cannon on wheels, the Jaivana Cannon, which was never used in battle. Visitors can explore the fort’s watchtowers, battlements, and ancient temples. Jaigarh Fort is also home to a museum showcasing weaponry, armor, and artifacts from Rajasthan's royal era. The fort is less crowded than Amber Fort, making it a peaceful spot to learn about the region’s military history.
Location: Amer, 15 km from Jaipur city
Jal Mahal, or the Water Palace, is located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake and is a striking sight. The palace appears to float on the lake, providing a stunning visual contrast with the surrounding hills. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the palace was originally a retreat for the royal family. Although the palace is not open to the public, it can be admired from the roadside or by a boat ride on the lake. The view of the palace with the backdrop of the Aravalli hills is one of Jaipur’s most photographed scenes, especially at sunset.
Location: Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur
The Albert Hall Museum, located in Ram Niwas Garden, is the oldest museum in Rajasthan. Built in 1876, it houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Rajasthan's history. The museum showcases textiles, pottery, sculptures, paintings, and coins, providing insight into the region's rich cultural heritage. A highlight of the museum is the Egyptian mummy, one of the few on display in India. The museum building itself is a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, with intricate carvings, arches, and domes. Albert Hall Museum is a great place for history and culture enthusiasts to learn about Jaipur’s royal past.
Location: Ram Niwas Garden, Jaipur
Nahargarh Fort is perched on the Aravalli Hills and offers panoramic views of Jaipur city. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the fort was initially constructed as a retreat for the royal family. The fort’s architecture is a mix of European and Indian styles, with beautiful frescoes adorning its walls. The step wells and the unique “Madhavendra Bhawan” are major attractions inside the fort. Nahargarh is famous for its sunset views, and it’s a popular spot for evening outings among locals and tourists alike. There’s a café on top where visitors can relax while enjoying the view.
Location: Aravalli Hills, 6 km from Jaipur
Birla Mandir, located at the foot of Moti Dungari Hill, is a stunning white marble temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Built in 1988 by the Birla family, the temple is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, and its serene ambiance makes it a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike. The view of Jaipur city from the temple's elevated position adds to the appeal. The temple also hosts evening prayers and rituals, which attract many visitors seeking spiritual solace.
Location: Kishanpole Bazar, Jaipur
The Jaipur Zoo is situated within the Ram Niwas Garden and is one of the oldest zoos in India. The zoo houses a variety of animals, including Bengal tigers, lions, and numerous species of birds. The zoo is well-maintained and provides an educational experience for visitors, particularly families with children. There is also a separate section for endangered species and a museum showcasing the flora and fauna of the region. The zoo offers a peaceful escape from the busy city life, with lush greenery and scenic spots perfect for a leisurely walk.
Location: Ram Niwas Garden, Jaipur
Jal Mahal is a majestic palace located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, giving the impression of floating on the water. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the 18th century, the palace was initially used as a retreat by the royal family. While the palace is not open to tourists, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the palace from the surrounding areas and take boat rides around the lake for a closer look. The surrounding Aravalli hills and the tranquil waters make it one of the most picturesque spots in Jaipur.
Location: Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur
Sambhar Lake, India’s largest inland saltwater lake, is a beautiful and unique natural attraction located near Jaipur. The lake spans over 230 square kilometers and is surrounded by salt marshes and stunning landscapes. The lake is home to a variety of migratory birds, especially flamingos during the winter months, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. The lake’s salt production process is fascinating, and visitors can learn about this activity at the nearby salt production areas. Sambhar Lake is a peaceful destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility away from the city.
Location: 65 km from Jaipur
Galta Ji, also known as the Monkey Temple, is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Aravalli hills. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is surrounded by natural springs, which feed into a series of sacred pools. The temple is famous for its large population of monkeys, which are considered sacred by devotees. The temple complex also includes several smaller shrines and pavilions, making it a picturesque and serene place to visit. Visitors can enjoy the temple’s peaceful ambiance and explore the surrounding hills.
Location: 10 km from Jaipur city
Sisodia Rani Garden is a beautiful garden built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II for his queen, Sisodia. This tranquil garden, located on the outskirts of Jaipur, is a perfect example of Mughal-style landscaping. It features terraced gardens, fountains, and pavilions, and is surrounded by natural beauty. The garden’s intricate architecture, coupled with the vibrant flowers and plants, makes it a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature. It’s an excellent spot for a leisurely walk and offers a great view of the Aravalli hills.
Location: Agra Road, Jaipur
Gaitor Ki Chhatriyan is a historic cenotaph complex located at the foothills of the Aravalli range. It is the cremation site of Jaipur’s royal family, where several Maharajas and their families are memorialized. The intricate architecture of the chhatris (cenotaphs) is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles, with beautiful carvings, domes, and arches. The peaceful atmosphere and the view of the surrounding hills make Gaitor Ki Chhatriyan a beautiful and quiet place to reflect on Jaipur’s royal history.
Location: Near Amber Fort, Jaipur
The statue in the center is a tribute to Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. This impressive statue stands tall, showcasing the king on a horse, symbolizing his leadership and vision for the city. The area around Statue Circle is well-maintained with beautiful gardens, fountains, and benches, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful sit-down. The circle is also a hub for local life, with shops and eateries around it, offering a chance to experience Jaipur’s vibrant city life. In the evenings, the statue is beautifully lit, adding to the charm of this bustling spot. Statue Circle is a mix of history, beauty, and urban life, offering both locals and tourists a place of reflection and relaxation.
Location: Statue Circle, Jaipur
Vidyadhar Garden is a lesser-known but beautiful garden located near Amber Fort. It is an example of a traditional Rajput garden, with terraced landscaping, intricate pavilions, and water channels. The garden is named after Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the chief architect of Jaipur, who designed the garden. The peaceful environment and the scenic views of the surrounding hills make it an ideal spot for a quiet walk or a picnic. It’s a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the bustling city life.
Location: Near Amber Fort, Jaipur
Moti Dungri Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Situated atop the Moti Dungari Hill, the temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding city. The temple is built in the style of a small fort and is an important religious site for locals. The temple is especially busy during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, attracting thousands of devotees. The temple complex also includes a small museum that displays artifacts related to Lord Ganesha.
Location: Moti Dungari, Jaipur
Panna Meena Ka Kund is an ancient step well located near Amber Fort. This architectural marvel features a unique structure of interconnected steps that lead to a well. The stepwell was used by locals in the past to collect water and was also a place of social gathering. Its symmetrical design and intricate carvings make it a popular spot for photography. Panna Meena Ka Kund offers a peaceful and picturesque view of history.
Location: Near Amber Fort, Jaipur
Elefantastic is a unique and ethical elephant experience located just outside Jaipur. It’s a sanctuary dedicated to the welfare of elephants, where visitors can interact with these majestic creatures in a respectful and loving environment. Elefantastic allows guests to feed, bathe, and even paint the elephants under the supervision of their caretakers, offering an educational experience about elephant care and conservation. Unlike traditional elephant rides, this place focuses on the well-being of the elephants and provides a fun yet responsible way to learn about these animals. It’s an excellent way to experience Rajasthan’s wildlife while supporting ethical tourism.
Location: 11 km from Jaipur city center, near Amber Fort