Are you going to explore Rajasthan and its wonderful capital soon? Discover the best things to do in Jaipur!
Known by its charming nickname “Pink City”, Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, a state in northwest India. The city is located some 260 kilometers southwest of the Indian capital, New Delhi. Unlike other cities in the country, the history of Jaipur is very recent: the city was founded in 1727 under the order of Maharaja Jai Singh II. Originally, it was not uniformly pink; it was only during Prince Albert’s visit in 1876 that it was entirely painted in pink: this color is traditionally that of welcome. Since then, it has kept this usage and has taken the pretty nickname of the pink city.
Visiting Jaipur will plunge you into the heart of incredible heritage, an unforgettable adventure, animations, and vibrant scents. Recognized worldwide for its local crafts, your walks will take you through markets and lively and colorful streets, amidst superb historic buildings. What to discover and what to see in priority?
To help you live a memorable trip, discover now the 9 essential things and more to visit in Jaipur, the breathtaking capital of Rajasthan!
The City Palace
Composed of two palaces, Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal, the City Palace is a complex of sublime buildings, courtyards and flower gardens. Built at the behest of Maharaja Jai Singh II, the city’s founder, the palace complex is beautifully ornate, with ornate pillars; walls covered with intricate and colorful patterns, and carved doors. It is located northeast of the city and is a must to visit in Jaipur!
Amber Fort
The main attraction of the city, it is a perfect and magnificent example of Hindu architecture. Originally built in beautiful white and red stones, Amber Fort overlooks the city from Eagle Hill, in the Aravalli range. At Fort d’Amber, after passing the superb Ganesh Gate, you will discover beautifully decorated rooms, where members of the royal family lived, as well as the striking Palace of Mirrors or Jai Mandir: the ceilings and walls of this building are inlaid with glass panels and mirrors to reflect the candle lights – a wonderful sight!
The forts of Jaigarh and Nahargarh
Neighboring the Amber Fort, the Jaigarh (to the North) and Nahargarh (to the South) forts form a superb defensive complex: we recommend that you visit these two palace fortresses too! Each will give you a superb view of the region from their ramparts. In Jargarh, a former cannon production center, you can also admire huge 50-ton cannon, the Jaivana.
Hawa Mahal – The Palace of Winds
The Hawa Mahal is one of the most beautiful monument pink city! Built-in red and pink sandstone, the palace is not far from the City Palace, on the edge of the royal harem. Its original purpose was to allow its ladies to observe life and festivities on the street without being seen: they thus respected the practice of “purdah” – a practice that prevents men from seeing women.
Panna Meena Ka Kund
Located in the neighboring town of Amer, a stone’s throw from the Forts, Panna Meena Ka Kund has a hypnotic effect on the traveler! Like an Escher painting, the stairs are constructed in a symmetrical shape, which almost forms an optical illusion If it is forbidden to go down the stairs to the swimming pool below, you can still take advantage of your visit to take perfect shots with your camera!
Local Markets
Impossible to visit Jaipur without getting lost in its streets and bazaars teeming with life! It is only there that you can experience local crafts. Your walks will allow you to acquire superb memories: jewelry, sculptures, or handmade clothes! Among the bazaars to discover is Johari Bazaar, Tripolia Bazaar, or Chandpol. The greediest can enjoy a gastronomic city tour where, according to the best addresses in Jaipur and on the advice of a culinary guide, they will discover the typical dishes of the city: a walk rich in flavors and in discoveries!
Jal Mahal or the Palace on the water
Built on Lake Mansagar, this superb palace combines Mughal and Rajput architecture. At sunset, you can admire wonderful scenes with the palace that stands out on the water, as if it emerged, almost engulfed. The lake and the palace are tinged with gold, purple, and ocher: this is the best time of day to take beautiful photos.
Discover the temples of Jaipur and its region
Jaipur and its region are full of wonderful temples to discover during your adventures. We invite you, in particular, to go to Galtaji, an ancient sacred pilgrimage site, and in particular to the monkey temple. Visit the temples of Garh Ganesh, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, and Birla Mandir in Jaipur – local wonders!
See also in and around Jaipur
If you are still wondering what to do in Jaipur, here are more attractions to visit and activities to enjoy in and around the city:
- Visit the Albert Hall Museum: a white marble palace built for the coming of Prince Albert, it houses collections of local arts and crafts.
- Discover the Jantar Mantar, an 18th century astronomical and astrological observatory!
- Taste the delicious Rajasthani cuisine, with emblematic dishes such as Dal-baati-churma, Mawa Kachori, or Mirchi Bada.
