Introducción
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
En avión
- 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.
En tren
- Jaipur Junction (JP): A major railhead with connections to Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.
Por carretera
- 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
Atracciones imprescindibles
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
Palacio de la ciudad
- 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
Fuerte de Nahargarh
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)
- Highlights: Sunset views over the city, rooftop cafes
Atracciones fuera de lo común
- 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
Los mejores lugares para comer
- 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 y 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
- Bazar de Johari: 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
Festivales y eventos
- 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
Medidas de seguridad del Gobierno para turistas extranjeros
- Policía Turística: Present in major tourist areas and markets
- Línea de ayuda de emergencia: 112 (India-wide), 1363 (tourist helpline)
- Women’s Safety: Pink autos, female patrol units, women-only hostels
- Centros de Asistencia Turística: Located near City Palace and airport
- Prepaid Taxis & Verified Guides: Use government-authorized services
What to Wear in Jaipur
- Para hombres y mujeres:
- Cotton clothes in summer; layers in winter (mornings/evenings get cold)
- Comfortable shoes for fort visits and walking tours
- Cotton clothes in summer; layers in winter (mornings/evenings get cold)
- Para mujeres:
- Long skirts, kurtis, or dresses that cover the shoulders and knees
- Scarf for temples and conservative areas
- Long skirts, kurtis, or dresses that cover the shoulders and knees
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.
Mejor época para visitar
- Octubre a marzo: Pleasant weather and festival season
- Abril a junio: Very hot (up to 45°C); travel early morning/evening
- Julio a septiembre: Monsoon brings occasional rain and greenery
Conclusión
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.
