Rajasthan is a colourful state, and Jaipur brings a touch of pink to it. This unique location, also referred to as the "Pink City of India," is perfect for a luxurious vacation. Jaipur, which is brimming with opulence and warmth, is the ideal location for travellers from around the world to delight. Travellers with a variety of interests can pass the time for days enjoying the unique mix of historic and contemporary sights.
The warm and lively Pink city is a great location to learn about Rajasthani heritage and culture. The magnificent forts, palaces, and Havelis that are strewn across the city allow you to relive the rich lives of the Rajputana kings as you stroll through its narrow streets. To experience monarchy and put yourself in the royal shoes of notable monarchs of the past, visit their memorials and museums.
Along with visiting Jaipur's biggest attractions, like the beautiful Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort, and Hawa Mahal, you can savour delectable Rajasthani food and shop at the city's lively bazaars. Embroidered leather shoes, embellished handicrafts, regal blue pottery, dazzling tie-dye scarves, camel hide products, and jazzy handcrafted clothing are all abundant at the markets of Johari Bazar, Bapu Bazar, and MI Road. Also available are thrilling camel safaris in the Thar Desert and immersion in the vibrant Rajasthani culture during festivals like Dhulandi, Teej, and Gangaur.
Those seeking a luxurious vacation and a restorative journey while delving deeply into Indian culture and heritage are drawn to Jaipur. The main attractions in Jaipur include:
11 km away from Jaipur is the fabled Amber Fort, a Rajputana palace dating back seven centuries. It is one of India's most stunning architectural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Amber fort, also known as Amer Fort, was built on the Aravalli hills by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and finished by Mirja Raja Jai Singh. The magnificent stronghold, which was constructed from red, yellow, and white sandstone and white marble, provides a breathtaking perspective of Maota Lake.
The magnificent palace comprises four courtyards and features landmarks like the Sheesh Mahal, Siladevi Temple, Diwan-e-Aam, and Diwan-e-Khas. Suraj Pol and Chand Pol, the palace's two principal gates, both lead to the Jaleb Chowk, the palace's central courtyard. To get to the fort entrance, you can either take a car or enjoy an elephant ride. Explore the fort's history with the stunning light and sound spectacular after spending three to four hours doing so.
Jaigarh Fort was constructed on "Cheel ka Teela," also known as the Hill of Eagles, to protect the Amber Fort. The fort, which is 500 feet above sea level, has sweeping views of the Amber Fort and its verdant surrounds.
The fort was built in 1726 under the direction of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and features an exquisite fusion of Indo-Persian design. The cyclopean walls of the fort are decorated with intricate lattice work windows that provide unhindered views of the surrounding area. You can stroll through the majestic fort made of red sandstone and picture life as it was during the time of the warrior monarchs who once called it home.
The "Jaivana Cannon," the largest cannon on wheels in the world that has only been fired once, is one of the fort's main draws. The main observation tower, the water heritage path, Shubhat Niwas (the warriors' assembly hall), and the armoury are other attractions. The complex is also home to a number of well-known temples, including Vilas Mandir, Lalit Mandir, Aram Mandir, and Kal Bhairav Temple.
The Aravalli Hills' Nahargarh Fort was constructed to protect the imperial Amber Palace, the home of the Rajput warriors. For 300 years, this magnificent building has commanded a view of the charming city of Jaipur. As a getaway palace for the monarchs and queens, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built it in 1734. Intriguing Indo-European architecture and an illustrious past have drawn visitors from all over the world.
Important historical occurrences of the 18th century were witnessed at the Fort. As you explore the magnificent Sheesh Mahal, the wax museum, the shrine dedicated to the Jaipur Kings, and take pictures close to Jal Mahal, you learn more about the past.
The "Madhavendra Bhawan," constructed by Sawai Madho Singh, and the temple of Rathore ruler Nahar Singh Bhomia, whose ghost plagued the construction site until the fort was consecrated to him, are other must-see sights.
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II constructed the astronomical observatory known as Jantar Mantar in the centre of Jaipur between 1728 and 1734. The observatory connected political, social, and religious practises to cosmology and served as a meeting place for scientific civilizations from all over the world.
The largest of the five such structures created in Northern India, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has enormous stone tools for viewing celestial bodies with the naked eye that have remarkable geometric form combinations. Since the beginning of time, architects, mathematicians, painters, and historians have been drawn to the precision and accuracy of these astronomical instruments.
The observatory also has the largest stone sundial in the world, which manages to draw tourists' interest to this day while calculating local time. You must visit Jantar Mantar at midday in order to get a good understanding of how planetary movements are discovered through observation and maths, as the instruments' readings are correct then.
The City Palace, which is in the centre of the old city, is home to exquisite courtyards, gardens, cenotaphs, and royal structures. The Rajput King Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who founded Jaipur, designed and built it. Later rulers who resided there enlarged it.
The palace is an exquisite fusion of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles that exudes luxury. In a separate area of the palace, members of the previous governing royal family continue to live. Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Maharani's Palace, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, and Bhaggi Khana are the palace's most notable buildings.
The museum displays a rare collection of royal attire, including Pashmina shawls, Benaras silk sarees, and other items from the wardrobe of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. The walls and ceilings of the palace are decorated with Rajput weaponry from the fifteenth century as well as beautifully preserved Rajputana paintings, Sanganeri prints, and folk needlework items.
The Hawa Mahal, a 200-year-old monument in the middle of the city, is the most recognisable feature in Jaipur. The five-story palace, known for its distinctive honeycomb shape and Indo-Islamic architecture, contains 953 lattice work windows. It was constructed in 1799 as a summer palace by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and was pink in colour with floral decorations, dome-shaped arches, and patterned pillars.
The City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Sireh Deori Bazaar can all be seen clearly from the palace. The royal ladies were able to enjoy royal processions and regular market activities on the street without being seen by the general public because to the finely crafted windows, known as "Jharokhas."
The Sharad Mandir, the first floor, was used for royal festivities; the Ratan Mandir, the second floor, was adorned with vibrant glass work; the other two floors were known as Vichitra Mandir and Hawa Mandir. On each side of the top level, known as Prakash Mandir, there was an open terrace with stunning city views. The paintings and ceremonial armour on display at the complex's museum let visitors appreciate the depth of Rajputana culture while seeing their daily lives through the fretwork windows.
The Laxmi Narayan Temple, also known as the Birla Mandir, was constructed in 1988 by the B.M. Birla Foundation and is situated at the base of Moti Doongri. The Maharaja of Jaipur donated land for the temple in exchange for a token payment of one rupee. Birla Mandir is well known for its exquisite architecture created from pure white marble.
The temple, which is dedicated to Laxmi (the goddess of riches) and Narayan (Lord Vishnu), contains hand-sculpted marble idols of the gods. The Laxmi Narayan temple, like the other Birla temples spread throughout the nation, represents the diversity and richness of Indian culture as well as Hinduism's all-encompassing outlook.
Its three-dome structure serves as a symbol of India's commitment to religious pluralism. The domes, ceilings, and walls of the temple are decorated with elaborate patterns and carvings inspired by mythology. The presence of monuments of revered religious leaders and intellectuals from all over the world symbolises the inclusivity of contemporary Indian culture.
The temple's elegant architectural design is complemented by the beautiful green grounds, which also bring peace to the spiritual ambiance. Visitors from a wide range of religious backgrounds go to the temple to admire its captivating beauty.
One of the most respected Ganesh temples in Jaipur is the Moti Doongri Ganesh Temple. Seth Jai Ram Paliwal and Mahant Shiv Narain constructed it in 1761.
The narrative of the King of Mewar riding back to his palace on a bullock cart pulling a huge idol of Lord Ganesh is what the locals relate it to. According to the legend, the king made the decision to construct a temple at the bullock cart's initial stop. According to locals, the temple was built on the site where the bullock cart stopped at the foot of Moti Doongri Hill.
For the son of Maharaja Madho Singh, an extravagant mansion was erected on the grounds around the temple. Maharaja Sawai Man Singh lived in the palace, which resembles a Scottish castle from the outside. As the royal family still resides there, you can seek blessings at the Ganesh Temple and marvel at the palace's exteriors.
One of Vrindavan Thakur Ji's seven famous temples is the Govind Dev Ji Temple in Jaipur. It is well known among Lord Krishna devotees and is situated within the City Palace complex. The temple's exteriors and ceilings are artistically designed and covered with gold.
The idol of Govind Dev Ji, also referred to as "Bajrakrit," is kept in the shrine. It was created by his great-grandson Bajranabh and is said to resemble Lord Krishna. Raja Sawai Jai Singh, a follower of Lord Krishna, carried the 5000-year-old idol from Vrindavan to Jaipur.
To allow the pious king to see the idol from his home, the temple was erected in the compound between Chandra Mahal and Badal Mahal. 'Aartis' and 'Prasad' or 'Bhogs' are currently served seven times during the day. To take in the festivities of the festival, you can schedule your trip to the temple around Janmashtami.
Ram Niwas Garden is a royal garden that is situated in the centre of the pink city. In 1868, Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh constructed it. It draws visitors from all around the world thanks to its 30 acres of property. The fountain-adorned, lush green garden exudes a majestic atmosphere. Since the British era, both people and visitors have flocked there.
Additionally, visitors can go bird watching or attend exhibitions organised in the park. Additionally, the park has a zoo, a theatre, and an art gallery that draw a diverse range of visitors. After a long day of shopping in the nearby Bapu Bazaar, you may unwind at the park or simply revitalise by going on a family picnic. Along with the peaceful ambiance, the park is surrounded by charming cafes that sell mouthwatering Rajasthani food.
A resort with a Rajasthani motif called Chokhi Dhani is situated 28 kilometres from the city. It was founded in 1989 to provide visitors a taste of the simple village life and real Rajasthani lifestyle. The resort offers a classic feel to it with its mud huts adorned with ethnic designs, Rajasthani folk entertainers entertaining the guests with singing and dancing, and real Rajasthani cuisine.
The resort's evenings are lively and enjoyable. Live folk song and dance performances (Chaupal Nach Gan Re), acrobatics (Nat Ro Kartab), puppet performances (Kathputali Ro Nach), and magic performances (Jadu Ro Khel) are among the entertainment options. At the artisan fair, you may browse local products and enjoy leisurely rides on camels, ponies, and elephants.
Chokhi Dhani has been recognised by the Ministry of Tourism as a 5-star luxury hotel. The resort's Royal Cottages and Haveli Suites have regal décor made up of historical artefacts, antique furniture, and handmade objects for guests who want to indulge in Rajasthan's royal culture.
One of Jaipur's most well-known landmarks is the Jal Mahal, which is 4 kilometres outside the city centre. Maharaja Madho Singh constructed it around 1750 as a hunting lodge. The palace's five-story, symmetrical building is situated in the centre of Man Sagar Lake, a man-made body of water.
Numerous people from all over the world are attracted by the mesmerising vista of the stunning palace against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills and its reflection in the tranquil lake waters. The Jal Mahal is acknowledged as India's most photographed building.
A boat ride on the lake allows you to view the palace's magnificence even though admission is restricted. The lake is a great place to spend a relaxing evening watching local and migrating birds. On your journey to the Amber Fort, stop by Jal Mahal, a magnificent structure that is situated on the major Amer-Jaipur road.
Sisodia Rani ka Bagh is a garden created by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1728 and honours his loving second wife, the Princess of the Sisodia Rajput clan of Udaipur. The beautiful gardens, which are just 10 kilometres from Jaipur, provide a restorative escape from the busy metropolis.
The garden features Indo-Mughal architectural features including water channels surrounded by lovely flowerbeds and walking paths around the parks. The park is embellished with fountains and natural springs, and a Hindu deity shrine adds a touch of mysticism to the atmosphere. Several scenes from the Lord Krishna and Radha narrative are painted on the garden's walls. Spend a day in the great outdoors and relax in the serene atmosphere of the park.
In 1988, Vidyadhar Garden, a memorial to Jaipur's principal architect, was constructed. In the court of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya was a highly esteemed architect. He was skilled at using the 'Shilpa Shastra', or Hindu architectural principles.
The Rajasthan government looks after Vidyadhar Garden, which is located around 8 kilometres from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Agra route and away from the hubbub of the city. The garden's architecture is a fusion of traditional Indian and Mughal styles, with hints of Hindu mythology shown in murals on pavilion walls.
The verdant gardens, which contain lovely flowerbeds, terraced lawns, and fountains with Mughal-inspired designs, are the ideal location for a picnic. You may unwind in the midst of nature while spending time in the garden viewing peacocks and other migratory birds. The complex's contemporary restaurant offers opulent Rajasthani dishes as well as quick nibbles.
The greatest way to learn about Jaipur's rich legacy and historical journey is to visit its museums. The city's most well-known museums, like the Albert Hall Museum, are known for their distinctive architecture. It was constructed in 1876 as a music hall, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London can clearly be seen in its architecture.
The Prince of Wales lay the cornerstone for the building in Jaipur in 1876, and the city's Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II converted it into a museum in 1881. Red sandstone was used to create the lovely Indo-Saracenic dome structure with delicately etched arches.
16 galleries at this museum allow you to study Rajasthani culture. The museum's collection includes paintings, portraits, rugs, musical instruments, jewellery, firearms, woodwork, brassware, antique coins, regional pottery, handicrafts, and sculptures. An aviary, a greenhouse, and a zoo are some of the complex's additional points of interest.
Diwan Rao Kriparam constructed the famed Hindu shrine known as Galtaji Temple in the 18th century and it is dedicated to Saint Galav. The temple, which was built in a mysterious setting in the Aravalli hills some 10 km outside of the city, attracts visitors of all stripes.
Around the Galtaji Temple, there are a number of shrines dedicated to the Hindu deities Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Hanuman. The grand temple constructed in pink sandstone and intended as a palace is charmingly embellished with holy kunds, pavilions, and natural springs.
Seven holy "kunds," or water reservoirs, in the temple complex receive water from natural freshwater springs in the Aravalli highlands. The 'Galta Kund', which is regarded as the most sacred of all kunds, is said to be filled with water throughout the year. The respectful water that comes from the "Gaumukh," a rock in the shape of a cow's head, fills the tanks while pilgrims take a soak in it. The magnificence of the temple in its stunning natural surroundings offers for the ideal photo opportunity.
The tallest tower in Jaipur, Swargsuli Tower or SargaSuli, was constructed in 1749 to honour Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh's victory at the Battle of Rajmahal. The 140-foot tower, which can be found near the Aatish market, was created by royal craftsman Ganesh Khowan by combining parts from Chittorgarh's Kirti Stambh and Delhi's Qutub Minar.
The tower stood out against the pink colour of the rest of the city thanks to its contrast of yellow. The seven-story minaret provides stunning 360-degree views of Jaipur. 264 stairs will take you to the top level, where you may take in the breathtaking view of Jaipur.
The heart of Jaipur is home to the arts and crafts facility known as Jawahar Kala Kendra. According to the scheme created by Charles Correa based on the Indian architectural principles of Vaastu and Shilpa Shastra, construction work was started in 1986. The centre was opened by the state government in 1991 and dedicated to Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, the country's first prime minister.
The Jawahar Kala Kendra upholds the spiritual and cultural values of Rajasthan. The monument made of red sandstone honours the late Indian prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru. To learn more about India's rich cultural past, stop by the library, the theatre, the galleries, and the auditoriums.
In the Amber Fort compound is where you'll find Sheesh Mahal. It is frequently referred to as "The Palace of Mirrors" and has drawn numerous visitors from all over the world. The lavish palace, which Maharaja Man Singh built in 1727, includes elaborate precious stone and mirror work on its walls and ceilings.
The odd mirror configuration brightens the entire space with a single ray of light. You may see the beautiful mirror work and be in awe of the designers' and architects' skill back then.
Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, a one-of-a-kind museum located barely one km from Amber Fort, is devoted to the age-old Rajasthani craft of hand-block printing. The goal of it was to continue the long-standing practise of carving designs onto wooden blocks and printing them onto textiles.
The Chanwar Palki Walon ki Haveli, a 400-year-old two-story haveli that has been renovated to preserve the art of hand printing with natural dyes, serves as the headquarters of the philanthropic organisation. In 2000, UNESCO recognised the project with a "Cultural Heritage Conservation" award.
You may experience the traditional tradition in its entirety and observe the tools and processes used to make the blocks and textiles with modern designs. The administration also offers workshops in block carving and hand printing upon request. The museum's gift shop sells handcrafted 'Anokhi' items like clothing, furniture, jewellery, and playing cards.
Elefun is a sanctuary for elephants with a focus on the protection of the species. The facility, which opened in 2013, is run by a family of mahouts (elephant carers). The location offers guests engaging opportunities to engage with animals while providing elephants with natural living conditions.
In order to give the elephants at the sanctuary a loving and natural home, several of them have been rescued from zoos and circuses. You can engage in entertaining activities including strolling, feeding, bathing, and conversing with elephants. Natural hues and conventional designs can also be used to adorn an elephant. A nice site to visit with family and children is Elefun.
Hindu temple Khole Ke Hanuman Ji Temple was built by Pandit Radhe Lal Choubey in 1960 and is devoted to Lord Hanuman. The temple, which is at Lakshman Dungri on the Delhi Bypass in Jaipur, offers sweeping vistas of the serene and lush environs.
After Pt. Choubey discovered a rock with a carving of Lord Hanuman and began praying there, the Khole Ke Hanuman Ji temple was constructed. At that location, he erected a modest temple, which was subsequently progressively developed to its present size. The temple is greatly revered by the people, and on Tuesdays and Saturdays, it is crowded with believers. Traditional offerings like Dal-Bati Churma and Swamani Prashads are made with raw materials provided by devotees.
A section of the City Palace built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II was transformed into a museum known as the City Palace Museum by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II in 1959. Later, the museum acquired a number of additional palace wing additions, and its name was changed to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum.
The Textile Gallery, Sarvatobhadra, Sabha Niwas, Sileh Khana, and the Painting & Photography Gallery are its five gallery divisions. The Museum features regal attire, furnishings, and artefacts from the last three centuries. Your curiosity about the regal lifestyle of the Jaipur monarchs and the illustrious Rajputana heritage will be sated by a stroll through the museum's exhibits.
Traditional artwork and royal family portraits are also on display. The warrior clan's arsenal of weapons and armour consists of arrows, axes, shields, spears, daggers, and guns. At the City Palace Complex's Baradari restaurant, you may eat royal delights and purchase mementos at the Palace Atelier museum store.
Rajasthan's commercial centre, Jaipur, is well-known for its handicrafts and locally produced goods. The oldest and most vibrant market in Jaipur is Johari Bazaar, which is close to the Hawa Mahal. A shopper's paradise, it offers colourful handmade goods, delectable regional cuisine, and exquisite Kundan jewellery.
Genuine Jaipuri jewellery fashioned of gold and silver and set with diamonds, emeralds, and rubies is available for purchase. The market's winding aisles are crammed with vibrant traditional clothing, embroidered juttis, and iridescent lehengas.
Famous Jaipuri textiles, traditional blue pottery, cotton blankets, and home décor items are all available for purchase at the tiny stalls. Make careful to haggle hard because prices are frequently increased for tourists.
Between Jaipur's Sanganer Gate and New Gate is where you'll find Bapu Bazaar. It is one of Pink City's most well-known markets and the ideal location to get everything Rajasthani. Shoppers from all over the world are drawn to the vibrant market.
Genuine camel-hide mojari footwear, lac bangles, bandhani dupattas, leheriya sarees, potli purses, vibrant puppets, ethnic jewellery, luxurious cotton blankets, and handmade textiles are all available for purchase at affordable costs. As gifts for your loved ones and as mementos, you can purchase stunning showpieces, artefacts, ornaments, pen stands, and keychains with mirror work.
Authentic foods and regional delicacies like chat, samosas, dal-baati-churma, masala chai, and pyaaz kachori should not be missed. Bapu market is known for its delicious falooda kulfi, which will keep you cool while you shop.