Jaipur is known as the Pink City because of the color of the stone used mostly everywhere in the walled city. It is the colorful capital of Rajasthan and it is filled with culture old and new, including dawdling camels and leisurely cycle and auto rickshaws. The city of Jaipur is India’s tenth-most populous, with at least three million inhabitants at last count. It is also viewed both within India and beyond as a city that manages to balance a long and rich history with modernity that marks it out among its competitors. Historians will, of course, be more interested in the former, and you can be assured that any visit to Jaipur will offer plenty of opportunities to visit incredible palaces and sight-seeing spots that give a real sense of the city’s past. From the religious pilgrimage spots, through a few nods to its educational history, there’s something here for every visitor. Below, we’ll explore that element of this Rajasthani city in greater depth, with a look into the best things to do in Jaipur, India, so read on.
Good to know:
- According to Weather Spark, the best time to visit the city is from late March to early May and from mid-September to late October.
- Jaipur plays host to many vibrant festivals throughout the year, which you'll find a list of on the Rajasthan Tourism website. If you'd like to experience the culture firsthand, be sure to check which festival lines up with your visit.
1. Take some selfies at the iconic Hawa Mahal
Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, tourists, couples
Hawa Mahal is known as the “Palace of Winds” and it is the most iconic landmark of Jaipur. Built as a high screen for the women of the royal household, this Mahal is made of red and pink sandstone. It stands right at the edge of the City Palace and extends to the women’s chambers. Interestingly, it was built with a lattice framework to allow royal ladies to look at parades and celebrations without breaking strict purdah rules.
At five stories tall, it is the highest building ever completed without a foundation. Due to the curvature of the building, it can stay up without one.
Hawa Mahal
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
Website: Hawa Mahal
Tip from tour guide
The Palace of Winds is an interesting structure. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh built it in 1799 so the court harem could view the royal processions and street life. The exquisite pink and red sandstone ‘mahal’ has stunning architecture, and the beautiful ‘jhaali’ works on its 953 windows.
2. Take plenty of photos at Jantar Mantar
Best for: Families, history enthusiasts
Jantar Mantar is an observatory and, among many other interesting instruments, it contains the world’s biggest sundial. It is located just a stone’s throw away from the City Palace and Hawa Mahal. You can observe astronomical positions with the naked eye, using the instruments present here. This place is a fine example of Ptolemaic positional astronomy.
This remarkable 18th-century observatory is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is well worth seeing for that among other reasons.
Jantar Mantar
Address: Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Website: UNESCO - Jantar Mantar
3. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of Birla Mandir
Best for: Spiritual people, families
The beautiful and imposing Birla Mandir - also known as the Laxmi Narayan Temple, in reference to a manifestation of the Hindu deity Vishnu - is one of a number of Temples of the same name built across India by the Birla family. Like other examples in the chain, the Jaipur Birla Mandir is built in white marble and features an ornate entry staircase with beautifully carved pillars. The site is a frequent pilgrimage destination for Hindu worshippers.
Birla Mandir Jaipur
Address: Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, Tilak Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004
4. Listen to popular writers at Jaipur Literature Fest
Best for: Literature enthusiasts, groups
Jaipur is a heaven in disguise for literature lovers. The Jaipur Literature Festival has been hosted by ZEE for the past 10 years and is the world’s largest free event. It is a great opportunity for people across India and the globe to come together on a common platform to discuss views and ideas with contemporary literary authors and critics.
Address: Diggi Palace Jaipur
Registration Fee: Free
Website: Jaipur Literature Festival
Jaipur Tour Guide
Farman Guia Turstico
Hello Travelers! People call me Farman. I am an experienced freelance tour guide. I work with several Free Tours company and we would love to show you around and give you the best tips and recommendations. If you travel to India you will discover a new aspect of this wonderful city. If it is your first visit i warn you of just one thing: you will fall in love with India and will end up comi... Read more
Tours by Farman guia turstico
Jaipur Tour Guide
Narender Kumar
I have been a tour guide/ escort for more than 10 years and have guided tourists pan India to historical and cultural heritage sites, national parks & bird sancturies, monuments places like- Delhi , Agra, Jaipur, Khajuraho Exotic Temples, Ranthambore National Park, Mumbai, Nashik , Aurangabad ( Ajanta Rockcut Caves & Ellora Rockcut Temples ), Goa etc. I am proficient in English, Rus... Read more
Tours by Narender
5. Explore the beautiful City Palace
Best for: History lovers, families
The City Palace is located right next to the Hawa Mahal, and a fun fact is that part of the City Palace is out of bounds to the general public because it continues to serve as the home of the royal family of Jaipur. This Palace also has a museum that displays a wide array of royal costumes, some very exquisite and precious Pashmina shawls, Benaras silk saris and folk embroidery, as well as weaponry used by the Rajputs.
City Palace was built upon the establishment of the city itself, in 1727. The Palace was the city seat of the Maharajah of Jaipur until 1949, shortly after India’s independence, and contains galleries aplenty as well as sweeping courtyards.
City Palace
Address: Jaleb Chowk, Near Jantar Mantar, Tripolia Bazar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
Website: City Palace
6. Attend a block printing workshop
Best for: Tourists, culture enthusiasts
The unique art of block printing comes from the small town, Bagru, near Jaipur. The organization called Vedic Walks, helps in promoting this unique art by organising half and full day workshops at Bagru. The workshop exhibits various skills such as making natural dyes, carving designs on wooden blocks, printing the blocks on cloth, and boiling the cloth after the printing process.
Address: 36 & 37, 2nd Floor, Chandpole Bazar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
Entry Fee: Approximately 50 USD
Opening Hours: 10 am to 7 pm
Website: Jai Texart
7. Admire the art at Jaipur Centre for Art
Best for: art enthusiasts, tourists
Jaipur Centre for Art is the newest art gallery in the city, having been opened in November 2024. The art center aims to showcase Jaipur’s rich art and cultural heritage through film screenings and art installations. It also features works of art from local and international artists, bringing together talents frm around the world.
Centrally located, Jaipur Centre for Art is near different hotels and accommodations, including Airbnb rentals, making it easy for tourists and art lovers to visit the space.
Address: Gate No. 1, City Palace, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
Entry Fee: Approximately 4 USD
Opening Hours: 2 pm to 8 pm
Website: Jaipur Centre for Art
8. Pamper your hands and feet at White Orchid Spa
Posted by White orchid spa on Tuesday, 14 March 2017
Best for: Couples
If you’re feeling tired from your travelling, rest at White Orchid Spa. This spa house offers full body massages, scrubs, hot tub baths. Choose the pressure you prefer(Swedish, Balinese, or deep tissue), as well as the oils you like, be it invigorating peppermint or soothing lavender. Total relaxation awaits here!
White Orchid Spa
Address: D 228A, Tulsi Marg | Near Madho Singh Circle, Jaipur 302016, India
Website: White Orchid Spa
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 10 am - 9 pm
Price: 60-120 USD
9. Admire the artifacts in Albert Hall Museum
Best for: Families, history lovers
The Albert Hall Museum is one of the oldest museums in Rajasthan and it can be found on the outskirts of the traditional market area of Jaipur. It exhibits a collection of rare paintings, chiseled brass-ware, pottery, ivory goods and crystal works.
Read more about Jaipur’s Albert Hall Museum here.
Albert Hall Museum
Address: Ram Niwas Bagh, Ajmeri Gate, Kailash Puri, Ashok Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
Website: Albert Hall Museum
10. Shop your heart out at MGF Metropolitan Mall
Best for: Foodies, shoppers, families
The Metropolitan Mall is a huge mall with many famous international brands. Marks and Spencer, Nike, Reebok are some of the shops that are tenants here. Situated next to the Holiday Inn Hotel, it is one of the largest malls in Jaipur. The many restaurants and food courts also draw in crowds.
MGF Metropolitan Mall
Address: MGF Metropolitan Mall, 22 Godam Cir, Durgadas Colony, C Scheme, Ashok Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001, India
Website: MGF Metropolitan Mall
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 10 am - 9 pm
11. Enjoy a puppet show
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, families
The Rajasthan puppet show is the most famous form of entertainment coming from the state. Performed by the community of agricultural labourers known as Bhats, the puppet show is usually performed following a basic theme.
The loud beat of the dhokal is used to announce the show’s start, and the content commonly narrates the dialogues of Amar Singh Rathore of Nagaur. These shows are generally organized by hotels during the tourist seasons or at Chokhi Dhani, an entertainment center.
Where: City Palace and other different areas around the city.
Entry Fee: Approximately 1 USD
12. Relax at Rambagh Palace
Best for: Tourists, couples, history lovers
This palace is often called the Jewel of Jaipur and it doesn’t take much to see why it has earned this name. If you’ve ever looked at a grand royal palace and felt that fleeting moment of envy for the people who got to live there, then the Rambagh Palace might be very much to your liking.
Built originally in 1835 as a palace for the Rajasthani royal family, it has in recent years been internally converted into a hotel where you can book a stay and enjoy the views and the opulence that 19th-century royalty once indulged in. Within the hotel, you can also enjoy the Albert Hall Museum with its wide-ranging collection of art and historical exhibits.
Rambagh Palace
Address: Bhawani Singh Rd, Rambagh, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302005
13. Hit the bull's eye at the Legend Shooting Range
Best for: Groups, sports enthusiasts
The Legend Shooting Range is a well-known shooting range in Raja Park. Located near Mayur Studio, it is easily accessible by public transport and is an institute for those who want to learn how to use an air rifle.
The Legend Shooting Range
Address: 92 Guru Nanakpura, Rajapark, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004, India
Website: The Legend Shooting Range
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 6 am-11 pm
14. Take plenty of photos at Jal Mahal
Best for: Couples, tourists
The Jal Mahal is located in the middle of the artificial Man Sagar Lake. It looks like the building is floating on the water and it is inspired by the Lake Palace of Udaipur. Though boat rides were available before, the place is used only for photographs, now.
The name “Jal Mahal” literally means “Water Palace”. This incredible monument was built - on an island in the middle of the lake - at the end of the 18th century for the Maharajah Jai Singh and offers wondrous views of the surrounding Nahargarh Hills. Renovation work has been carried out on the palace, which has included the building of several stories that are technically beneath the waterline of the lake, anchored into the bedrock of the island on which it sits.
Jal Mahal
Address: Amer Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan
15. Tour the city walls and ornate gates
Best for: History lovers, photographers
The City Wall comprises seven ornate city gates, all painted with a terra cotta pink color to represent power. The welcoming nature of the city can easily be seen when walking between the City Palace and the Hawa Mahal.
Seven Gates of Jaipur:
- Dhruv Pol
- Chandra Pol
- Ajmeri Darwaza / Kishan Pol
- Naya Pol
- Sanganeri Darwaza / Shiv Pol
- Ghat Darwaza / Ram Pol
There are various other smaller gates spread through the city such as the Char Darwaza, Samrat Pol, Ganga Pol, Ganesh Pol, Chanpori Pol, Tripolia, Naqqarwala, to name a few. These are internal gates but each has a story of its own.
16. Enjoy a golf practice session at Army Golf Club
Best for: Golfers
This golf club has 18 holes. A small, compact golf club with a putting green, a driving range, a bar, a pro shop, and a locker room, reviewers have commented that this is one of the most well-kept clubs around.
Army Golf Club
Address: Khatipura, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302032, India
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 6:30 am-12 pm, 2:30 pm-8 pm
17. Gorge on global dishes at Peacock Rooftop Restaurant
Best for: Couples
This casual dining restaurant located at Gopalbari serves delicious multi-cuisine delicacies. Dine alfresco at the windy rooftop seating, or seat indoors in this brightly lit restaurant. Reviewers recommend the pepperoni pizza, the double cheeseburger, and the barbecue sizzler. Satisfy your hunger here at the Peacock Rooftop Restaurant!
Peacock Rooftop Restaurant
Address: 51 Hathroi Fort, Hari Kishan Somani Marg, Jaipur
Website: Peacock
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:30 am-11 pm
Price: 900 INR (13 USD)
18. Tour around Amber Fort
Best for: History lovers, families, Instagrammers
This fort is 13 km (8.1 miles) away from the city and proudly stands on the outskirts of Jaipur. It brings together the elements of Hindu and Mughal architecture. It’s less of a military fortress and more of a pleasure palace. Precious stones were once embedded in the walls and ceilings.
This fort has tunnels for the Royal family to escape, in case of trouble. It is certainly one of the most visually striking forts in the state, constructed from marble and red sandstone, and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort was built, to something close to how we would recognise it now, in the 16th Century by Man Singh I - it has been added to and renovated since, but what you see when you visit will be much what was seen all those centuries ago.
The 50-minute Light and Sound Show at the Amer Fort should be on the priority list for every visitor. It’s a striking light show set to music, detailing the highlights of Jaipur’s rich folk culture and legends that will immerse you in culture.
Amber Fort
Address: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
Website: Amber Fort
19. Visit Nahargarh Fort
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, families
Nahargarh Fort was originally called Sudarshangarh and it is a newer fort, compared to the Amber Fort. Along with the other two forts, it acted as a circular defense of the city. It was renamed after Nahar Singh Bhomia, whose spirit reportedly haunted the region and obstructed the fort’s construction. It is said that only after a temple was built inside the fort, the spirit went away.
Nahargarh Fort, along with its distinguished military history, also has another claim to fame, being the site of a wax museum that commemorates stars from fields as diverse as the world of sport, freedom fighters, and Bollywood celebrities. Although the fort never came under direct attack, its place in history is secured as it was where peace treaties were signed with forces at war with Jaipur.
Read more about Nahargarh Fort here.
Nahargarh Fort
Address: Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
Website: Nahargarh Fort
20. Drink till you drop at 100% ROCK
Best for: Groups, couples
This is a pub for you to gather with friends and unwind. There is indoor seating with dim lighting and outdoor seating as well. The favourites here are spicy cheesy fries, hot and sour soup, and the 100% Manchurian with noodles. If you are vegetarian, try the Grilled Vegetable Pizza. Check out their Instagram page to know when are the happy hour timings and ladies’ nights!
100% Rock
Address: R 14, Yudhishthir Marg, C Scheme, Jaipur
Website: 100% Rock
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 11 am-12 am
Price: 1300 INR (19 USD)
21. Explore Jaigarh Fort
Best for: History lovers, families
This fort is one of the rare military structures built in medieval India and one that remains intact, even today. The main attraction of Jaigarh Fort is the Jaivana. It is the world’s largest cannon on wheels and was manufactured in the foundry of Jaigarh, famous for making cannons for the Mughal Empire. Jaigarh was never invaded and the Jaivana was used only to test its firing capabilities.
The kingdom’s ruler Jai Singh II ordered its construction in 1726, and as a result, both the fort and its surrounding palace complex are named after him. Interestingly, it is possible to make your way from Jaigarh to Amer Fort, and vice versa, by means of an underground tunnel specifically constructed for that purpose.
Jaigarh Fort
Address: Above Amber Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
22. Browse around and shop at local bazaars
Best for: Shoppers, tourists, art lovers
Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise and people come from all over the world to purchase items, which Jaipur is famous for. The market is spread out around the Hawa Mahal and is divided into specific quarters that sell specific goods. Bapu Bazaar is a great place to shop for sarees and fabrics, It is also famous for products made with camel leather and mojaris (handcrafted shoes).
Siredeori Bazaar and Johari Bazaar house jewelry stores and are especially known for Meenakari jewelry, which is a specialty of Jaipur and made with glazed enamel work. Manigaron Ka Rasta is a great place to go shopping for bangles and the Rajasthali Emporium sells all things Rajasthani. Other famous bazaars include Tripolia Bazaar, Chaura Rasta, Nehru Bazaar, Kishanpole Bazaar, and Chanpole Bazaar.
Bapu Bazaar
Address: Bapu Bazar, Biseswarji, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302007
Johari Bazaar
Address: Johari Bazaar Road, Jaipur 302001
Traveler's tips
You've got to check out the local markets near the super picturesque Sanganeri Gate where you can find stunning Chikankari clothes and cool handcrafted Kolahpuri chappals. You can also discover all sorts of traditional lifestyle goodies such as jewellery, bags, footwear, and a bunch of other cool stuff.
Just a little heads up, this place can get pretty crowded, especially during festivals. So, brace yourself for some hustle and bustle while you hunt for your favourite items in the Pink City.
23. Head out on a cycling tour of Jaipur
Best for: Sports enthusiasts, couples, groups
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan state is one of India’s biggest city with an estimated population of 3.7 million in 2018. It is known as the ‘Pink City’ because of the pink walls and pink structures that surrounded the city. The Hawa Mahal, City Palace and Jantar Mantar are just some examples of the fine architectures that are painted in light pink.
Join a local tour guide on a Pink City Cycle Tour and understand why the city takes so much pride with its rich cultural heritage. This is a slow-paced cycling with an average duration of 3.5 hours. You can choose from three route options: Pink Royal, Pink Sensation and Pink Inside.
The tour package includes cycle with basket, safety helmet and a bottle of water. You’ll have rest stops in between so you can sample local delights like vegetable samosas, kachori and lassi. At the end of the tour, you will dine with either an old Haveli or with an Indian family for a full vegetarian breakfast. It is a fantastic opportunity to meet some locals, listen to their stories, and see the affection they have for their city. And with all of that for the price? It surely is a great deal! The tour departs from Karnot Mahal Hotel, Ramganj Chaupar at 6:30 am in summer time and 7:00 am in winter time.
Pink City Cycle Tour
Price: 29 USD
Duration: 3.5 hours
24. Hit the dance floor at Duplay
Best for: Groups, couples
Duplay is a stylish, spacious, neon-theme nightclub situated in the Radisson Jaipur City Centre hotel. It has a large dance floor, with comfortable seating. A point to note is that, unlike many night clubs, casual attire is allowed at this club.
Duplay
Address: M I Road Radisson Jaipur City Center, Khasa Kothi Circle, Jaipur 302001 India
Website: Duplay
Opening hours: Friday-Saturday 9:30 pm-1 am
Price: 3100 INR (45 USD)
25. Go on the Craft, Bazaar & Cuisine Walk
Best for: Team building, couples, groups
When everyone goes to big shopping malls, you should join this tour for the experience! Enjoy the hustle and bustle unique to the local markets tucked in hidden lanes of the Walled City. Walk through the markets and enjoy the culture. A fun-filled adventure for bargain hunters. You can find whatever you are looking for at great prices. From a variety of colourful traditional dresses, jewelleries & accessories, perfumery, spices, flowers, arts & crafts, and so much more await you here. You will go crazy with the choices.
Also, don’t forget to come hungry. The tour includes sampling of samosas & kachories and local sweets such as mal pua & rabri. Blend with the locals as you visit a 150-year old private residence and join a family for a cup of tea. The tour also includes a visit to a historic Haveli tastefully decorated with traditional frescos. The tour starts at 4:00 pm.
Craft, Bazaar & Cuisine Walk
Price: 23 USD
Duration: 2.5 hours
26. Enjoy a hot air balloon ride
Best for: Thrill seekers, couples
Hot air balloons rides are set up in different areas of Rajasthan, one of which is Jaipur. Taking a hot air balloon ride is a breathtaking experience for any visitor in the city. One can witness the mesmerizing beauty and the heart throbbing landscapes of Jaipur. The ride usually begins from your hotel itself and takes you around, over the city, visiting almost all the tourist destinations of Jaipur.
These rides are usually scheduled for early mornings or late afternoons when the winds are favorable. Costing around 6,500 to 12,000 INR (97.75 USD to 180.50 USD) for an hour, a hot air balloon safari is especially mesmerizing in Jaipur compared with any other location, owing to the lake and forts you can see from above. If you want a bird’s-eye view of the city, this is the activity for you.
Address: Sharma Farm House Sukhal Pura Road | Kukas, Jaipur 302020, India
Fee: Approximately 97.75 to 180.50 USD
Opening Hours: 6 am to 9 am; 4 pm to 7 pm
Website: Sky Waltz
27. Learn martial arts at Shri Ram Martial Arts School Of India
#shrirammartialarts #pinkcity
Posted by Shriram Martial Arts Jaipur on Sunday, November 17, 2024
Best for: Kids, solo travelers, groups
This martial arts school was founded in 2001. The institute has won several national and international competitions, and it is here that students can learn how to protect themselves. If you are a solo traveller in need of self-defence tactics, this is a school you should enrol in.
Shri Ram Martial Arts School Of India
Address: Post Office, Krishna Mandir Complex Krishna Mandir, Bees Dukan, Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004, India
Website: Shri Ram Martial Arts School Of India
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 10 am-8 pm
28. Bowl the ball at Mastiii Zone
Best for: Couples, groups
Mastiii Zone is a state-of-the-art entertainment zone. With a multi-dimensional theatre and a bowling alley, this is a one-stop family entertainment centre. The fully equipped bowling alley is a place where you can pit against your opponents in different bowling challenges. If bowling is not what you enjoy, the arcade is equipped with all kinds of fun, high tech games to test your skills.
Mastiii Zone
Address: plot no 1, Pink Square Mall, Raja Park, 2, Govind Marg, Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 11 am-10 pm
29. Watch a movie with your loved ones at Raj Mandir Cinema
Best for: Families, couples, groups
The Raj Mandir Cinema is a famous movie theatre that is known as the pride of Jaipur. A meringue-shaped auditorium situated on the Bhagwan Das Road near M.I Road, it has premiered over 1000 Hindi films here.
Raj Mandir Cinema
Address: Bhagwan Das Rd, C Scheme, Jaipur 302001, India
Website: Raj Mandir Cinema
Opening hours: 12:30 pm - 1 am
Price: 6 USD
Get ready to travel to the past
Jaipur is an architectural gem that has a lot to offer its visitors, from festivals, a wealth of handicrafts, a royal legacy of palaces and sightseeing that will make the most of your time. I recommend visitors to simply stroll the streets of this old city. The pictures do not do justice to the places. Visit this breathtaking city and you will know what you have been missing all these years!
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