Jaipur

Introduction

Jaipur, famously known as the “Pink City,” is a vibrant fusion of royal heritage and Rajasthani culture. With its grand forts, intricate palaces, bustling bazaars, and colorful festivals, Jaipur delivers a sensory overload that’s equal parts history and spectacle. As the capital of Rajasthan, it’s also part of the Golden Triangle circuit alongside Delhi and Agra, making it a must-visit for international travelers.

This travel guide is your detailed companion for exploring Jaipur—covering everything from iconic attractions to food, shopping, local customs, and practical tips for a smooth, safe journey.

Understanding Jaipur

Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur was India’s first planned city. Designed with Vastu Shastra principles, the city is laid out in a grid and painted in terracotta pink—a color symbolizing hospitality, introduced during a royal visit by Prince Albert in 1876.

Today, Jaipur stands as a gateway to Rajasthan’s desert kingdoms and offers a rich blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, traditional arts, and a thriving tourism scene.

Getting to Jaipur

By Air

• Jaipur International Airport (JAI): Located about 13 km from the city center. Well-connected with domestic and international flights, especially from Delhi, Mumbai, and Dubai. 

By Train

• Jaipur Junction (JP): A major railhead with connections to Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. 

By Road

• NH48 and NH21: Connect Jaipur to Delhi (280 km, ~5-6 hours by car)
  
• Frequent Volvo and government buses run from Delhi and other cities 

Navigating Around Jaipur

• Auto-rickshaws and E-rickshaws: Common and budget-friendly; negotiate fare in advance
  
• Ola/Uber: Widely available for both cars and autos
  
• Tourist Cabs: Ideal for day tours to Amer Fort, Nahargarh, and beyond
  
• Walking: Great for exploring Old City bazaars and monuments 

Must-Visit Attractions

Amber Fort (Amer Fort)

• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹100 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Rajput architecture, Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), elephant rides

City Palace

• Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹200 (Indians), ₹700 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Courtyards, Chandra Mahal, museums showcasing royal costumes and weapons

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Iconic honeycomb structure with 953 windows

Jantar Mantar

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Astronomical instruments from the 18th century; UNESCO site 

  Nahargarh Fort
  

• Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
  
• Highlights: Sunset views over the city, rooftop cafes

Offbeat Attractions

• Panna Meena ka Kund: Stepwell near Amber Fort, great for photos
• Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing: Showcases Jaipur’s block-printing heritage
• Galta Ji (Monkey Temple): Temple complex with natural water springs
• Jawahar Kala Kendra: Cultural center hosting exhibitions, plays, and workshops

Theatres & Cultural Shows

• Jawahar Kala Kendra: Regular art exhibitions, music, and theatre performances
• Ravindra Manch: State-run auditorium with folk and classical performances
• Chokhi Dhani: A themed village resort offering folk dances, puppet shows, camel rides, and traditional Rajasthani thalis
• Hawa Mahal Sound & Light Show (coming soon): Check local listings

Best Places to Eat

• Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar (LMB): For Rajasthani thali and sweets
• Rawat Mishthan Bhandar: Famous for pyaaz kachori and mawa kachori
• Spice Court: Great ambiance and laal maas (fiery red mutton curry)
• 1135 AD (Amber Fort): Royal dining experience within a heritage setting
  
• Tapri Central: Rooftop cafe popular for tea, snacks, and city views
  

Street snacks to try: Mirchi vada, ghewar, dal baati churma, kulfi faluda

Nightlife and Evening Experiences

• Light & Sound Show at Amber Fort: A dramatic retelling of Jaipur’s royal past with visuals and music—perfect for history lovers.

• Dinner at Chokhi Dhani: Enjoy Rajasthani thalis, folk dance, camel rides, and puppet shows in a recreated village atmosphere.

• Rooftop Cafes and Bars in C-Scheme and MI Road: Head to Bar Palladio for a royal colonial vibe, or Peacock Rooftop Restaurant for relaxed rooftop dining under the stars.

• Evening Walk at Albert Hall Museum: The building is stunningly illuminated at night—ideal for photography.

• Tapri Central & Padao (Nahargarh Fort): Tapri offers hip café vibes, while Padao gives panoramic sunset views with snacks and drinks.

• Skyfall by Replay and Club Naila: Popular nightlife spots offering cocktails, DJs, and lively crowds.

• Open-air Folk Performances: Check hotels like Narain Niwas Palace and ITC Rajputana for evening events.

Shopping in Jaipur

• Johari Bazaar: Precious and semi-precious stones, traditional jewelry
• Bapu Bazaar: Mojaris (leather shoes), bandhani fabrics, souvenirs
• Tripolia Bazaar: Lac bangles, brassware
  

• Anokhi and FabIndia: Sustainable fashion and home décor
  

Tip: Bargain at local markets but pay fairly to support artisans

Festivals & Events

• Jaipur Literature Festival (January): One of the world’s largest literary events
• Teej Festival (July-August): Celebrated with swings, songs, and processions
• Elephant Festival (Holi): Decorated elephants, games, and dances
  
• Diwali: The city glows with lights, fireworks, and shopping fairs

Government Safety Measures for Foreign Tourists

1. Tourist Police: Present in major tourist areas and markets
   
2. Emergency Helpline: 112 (India-wide), 1363 (tourist helpline)
   
3. Women’s Safety: Pink autos, female patrol units, women-only hostels
   
4. Tourist Assistance Centers: Located near City Palace and airport
   
5. Prepaid Taxis & Verified Guides: Use government-authorized services 

What to Wear in Jaipur

• For Men & Women: 
  • Cotton clothes in summer; layers in winter (mornings/evenings get cold)
    
  • Comfortable shoes for fort visits and walking tours 
• For Women: 
  • Long skirts, kurtis, or dresses that cover the shoulders and knees
    
  • Scarf for temples and conservative areas 

Traditional Attire:

• Men: Can try a kurta-pajama or dhoti-kurta combo with a colorful safa (turban), often worn during festivals and cultural evenings.
  
• Women: Lehengas, salwar-kameez, and sarees in vibrant Rajasthani prints and mirror work are both beautiful and culturally immersive. Available for rent or purchase at local boutiques. 

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Pleasant weather and festival season
  
• April to June: Very hot (up to 45°C); travel early morning/evening
  
• July to September: Monsoon brings occasional rain and greenery 

Conclusion

Jaipur is where time slows down, and every corner tells a royal story. Whether you’re exploring ancient forts, shopping for handmade treasures, or tasting spicy Rajasthani dishes, Jaipur offers an immersive, unforgettable experience. It’s a visual and cultural feast tailor-made for travelers seeking depth and beauty.

Make Jaipur your next stop with Experencia India. Let us help you discover the Pink City’s regal soul, one palace at a time.