This exotic destination, known as the ‘Pink City of India’, adds a touch of pink to Rajasthan’s colorful landscape. Travelers from around the world flock to Jaipur in search of luxury and hospitality. Travelers of all interests will be entertained for days by an eclectic mix of traditional and modern attractions.
Rajasthani culture and heritage are best explored in the welcoming and vibrant pink city. Through the splendid forts, palaces, and havelis scattered throughout the city, you can experience the opulent lives of the Rajputana kings as you walk through its lanes. You can also visit the museums and memorials of prominent kings of the land to step into their shoes and experience royalty.
In addition to visiting popular destinations like the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort, and Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, there are opportunities to sample tasty Rajasthani dishes and shop at lively bazaars. The markets at Johari Bazar, Bapu Bazar, and MI Road offer a variety of items including embroidered leather shoes, embellished handicrafts, blue pottery, tie and dye scarves, camel hide products, and handmade clothing. For a unique experience, you can also take a camel safari through the Thar desert or immerse yourself in the vibrant Rajasthani culture by participating in local festivals such as Dhulandi Teej and Gangaur.
Best Places to Visit in Jaipur
There are many places to visit in Jaipur that will appeal to those planning a grand holiday and a rejuvenating trip while delved deep into Indian culture and heritage.
1. The Amber Fort | Places to visit in Jaipur
UNESCO World Heritage Site Amber Fort is a seven centuries old Rajputana palace located around 11 kilometers from Jaipur.
Amer Fort (also known as Amber Fort) was constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 on the Aravalli hills, and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh in 1593. The magnificent fortress, built in red and yellow sandstone and white marble, offers a breathtaking view of the Maota Lake.
Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, Siladevi Temple, and the Sheesh Mahal are among the attractions in the magnificent palace, which is divided into four courtyards. Suraj Pol and Chand Pol, both of which lead to the main courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, are the main entrances to the palace. It is possible to take an elephant ride to the fort entrance or take a car. The stunning light and sound show will provide insight into the fort’s history after spending three to four hours exploring it.
2. The Jaigarh Fort | Places to visit in Jaipur
In order to secure the Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort was built on ‘Cheel ka Teela’ or the Hill of Eagles. The fort offers panoramic views of the Amber Fort and its lush surroundings.
With a splendid blend of Indo-Persian architecture, the fort was built in 1726 by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. A magnificent red sandstone fort with intricate latticework windows offers unobstructed views of the surrounding area as it is adorned by intricate latticework windows. You can walk through the magnificent red sandstone fort and imagine life in the era of the warrior kings that inhabited it ages ago.
This fort is home to the world’s largest cannon on wheels, ‘Jaivana Cannon’, which has been fired only once since it was built. In addition to the central watchtower, the water heritage walk, Shubhat Niwas (the assembly hall of warriors), and armory are other attractions. Kal Bhairav Temple, Ram Harihar Temple, Lalit Mandir, Aram Mandir, and Vilas Mandir are some of the prominent temples within the complex.
3. The Nahargarh Fort | Places to visit in Jaipur
Amidst the Aravalli Hills, the Nahargarh Fort was built to protect the Amber Palace, the royal residence of the Rajput warriors. For 300 years, this majestic structure dominated Jaipur. In 1734, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built it as a retreat palace for kings and queens. It has attracted tourists from all over the world with its Indo-European architecture and glorious past.
During the 18th Century, the Fort witnessed important historical events. Explore the temple dedicated to the Kings of Jaipur, visit the wax museum, and take photos near the Jal Mahal for a deeper look into history.
4. Jaipur’s Jantar Mantar | Places to visit in Jaipur
Between 1728-1734, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory in Jaipur. In addition to connecting political, social, and religious practices to cosmology, the observatory served as a meeting point for scientists from around the world.
There are five similar stone instruments in Northern India that can be seen through naked eyes, including large stone instruments with striking geometric forms. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Since time immemorial, architects, mathematicians, artists, and historians have been captivated by the precision and accuracy of these astronomical instruments.
Additionally, the observatory boasts the largest stone sundial in the world, which calculates local time and attracts tourists every day. The instruments at Jantar Mantar are accurate when the sun is overhead, so you must visit at noon to see how planetary movements are determined through observation and calculation.
5. Jaipur City Palace | Places to visit in Jaipur
Located in the heart of Jaipur’s old city, the City Palace consists of beautiful courtyards, gardens, cenotaphs, and royal buildings. It was constructed and expanded by the Rajput ruler Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and later inhabited by other rulers.
In a private section of the palace, members of the last ruling royal family still reside. The palace is intricately designed with elements of Rajput, Mughal, and European architecture. Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Maharani’s Palace, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, and Bhaggi Khana are the most prominent sections of the palace.
The museum houses a unique collection of royal costumes, including Pashmina shawls, Benaras silk sarees, and other garments worn by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. The walls and ceilings of the palace are decorated with Rajput weaponry dating back to the 15th century as well as Rajputana paintings, Sanganeri prints, and folk embroidery pieces.
6. Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal | Places to visit in Jaipur
The most iconic landmark of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal is a 200-year-old monument in the heart of the city. The five-storeyed palace features 953 lattice windows and is famous for its unique honeycomb design and Indo-Islamic architecture. As a summer palace, it was painted in pink and decorated with floral motifs, dome-shaped arches, and patterned pillars in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh.
There are unobstructed views of Jantar Mantar, the City Palace, and Sireh Deori Bazaar from the palace. During royal processions and daily market activities on the street, the royal ladies could enjoy the intricately designed windows referred to as ‘Jharokhas’ without being seen by the public.
The royal celebrations were held at the Sharad Mandir on the first floor, while the second floor, known as the Ratan Mandir, was adorned with vibrant glass decorations. The remaining two floors were named Vichitra Mandir and Hawa Mandir, each with its own unique charm. On the top floor, also referred to as Prakash Mandir, you can admire stunning views of the city from the open terraces on all sides. Through the intricately designed windows, one can imagine their lavish lifestyles and gain a deeper understanding of Rajputana culture by viewing the preserved paintings and ceremonial armor at the museum within the complex.
7. Birla Mandir/Laxmi Narayan Temple | Places to visit in Jaipur
Its three-dome design symbolizes secularism among different religions in India. The domes, ceilings, and walls of the temple are decorated with intricate designs and mythology-based carvings. A monument to great philosophers and religious teachers from all over the world symbolizes the inclusiveness of modern Indian culture.
Its mesmerizing beauty attracts tourists of diverse religious beliefs who flock to view its lush green gardens.
8. The Moti Doongri Ganesh Temple | Places to visit in Jaipur
In 1761, Seth Jai Ram Paliwal and Mahant Shiv Narain built Moti Doongri Ganesh Temple, one of the most revered temples of Lord Ganesh in Jaipur.
There is a legend that the King of Mewar had a massive idol of Lord Ganesh riding on a bullock cart on his way back to his palace. At the first stoppage of the bullock cart, the king built a temple, according to the legend. According to locals, the bullock cart stopped on the foot of Moti Doongri Hill and the temple was built there.
The site encompassing the temple was home to an exotic palace built by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh for his son. The palace has exteriors resembling those of a Scottish castle and served as the royal residence. You can seek blessings at the Ganesh Temple and marvel at the exteriors of the palace, which is still occupied by the royal family today.
9. Jaipur Govind Dev Ji Temple | Places to visit in Jaipur
A popular temple among devotees of Lord Krishna, Govind Dev Ji Temple in Jaipur is among the seven revered temples of Vrindavan Thakur Ji.
Govind Dev Ji’s idol is called Bajrakrit and was sculpted by his great-grandson Bajranabh. The idol was brought to Jaipur from Vrindavan by Raja Sawai Jai Singh, who was a devotee of Krishna.
The temple was strategically placed between Chandra Mahal and Badal Mahal in the complex to ensure the devout king could view the idol from his residence. There are seven different times during the day when ‘Aartis’ and ‘Prasad’ or ‘Bhogs’ are served. You can visit the temple during Janmashtami to enjoy the festivities.
10. Jaipur’s Ram Niwas Garden | Places to visit in Jaipur
Ram Niwas Garden is a royal garden located in the pink city. The garden was built by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh in 1868. It spreads over 30 acres of land and attracts tourists from all over the globe. It has a regal ambiance, with fountains and lush greenery. Since the British Era, locals and tourists have flocked there.
It was established in 1989 to offer tourists a glimpse of Rajasthani village life and the authentic Rajasthani lifestyle. Chokhi Dhani is a Rajasthani theme-based resort located 28 kilometers from the city. A traditional Rajasthani vibe permeates the resort, with mud huts decorated with ethnic motifs and folk performers singing and dancing to entertain visitors.
At the resort, evenings are filled with fun and activities, such as live folk music and dance (Chaupal Nach Gan Re), acrobatics (Nat Ro Kartab), puppet shows (Kathputali Ro Nach), and magic shows (Jadu Ro Khel). The craft bazaar offers local handicrafts and rides on camels, horses, and elephants.
A five-star luxury hotel, Chokhi Dhani has been accredited by the Ministry of Tourism. The resort has Royal Cottages and Haveli Suites that flaunt their regal décor of historical relics, vintage furnishings, and handmade artifacts for those who wish to immerse themselves in the royal culture of Rajasthan.
11. Jaipur’s Jal Mahal | Places to visit in Jaipur
In 1750, Maharaja Madho Singh built the Jal Mahal as a hunting retreat and lodge 4 kilometers from Jaipur. It is a prominent landmark in the city. An artificial lake known as Man Sagar Lake surrounds the five-story structure of the palace, which is symmetrical in design.
The view of the beautiful palace against the backdrop of the Aravalli mountains and its reflection in the serene waters of the lake attracts thousands of tourists every year, making Jal Mahal the most photographed structure in the world.
You can explore the palace’s beauty while taking a boat ride on the lake, even though entry is reserved. As you travel to the Amber Fort, you can visit the Jal Mahal, a splendid monument located on the main Amer-Jaipur road, which offers a chance to watch local and migratory birds.
12. Jaipur’s Sisodia Rani ka Bagh | Places to visit in Jaipur
In 1728, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh built Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, a garden that was dedicated to his beloved second wife, the princess of the Sisodia Rajput clan. A rejuvenating respite from the hustle and bustle of Jaipur, the lush gardens are approximately 10 kilometers away.
13. Jaipur Albert Hall Museum | Places to visit in Jaipur
One of the best ways to explore Jaipur’s rich history and heritage is through its museums. The Albert Hall Museum is a prominent museum renowned for its well-blended architecture. It was built in 1876 as a concert hall and has a striking resemblance to the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Its foundation was laid by the Prince of Wales during his Jaipur visit in 1876, and it was converted into a museum by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II in 1881.
In this museum, you can explore the culture of Rajasthan through 16 galleries. Among the museum’s exhibits are paintings, portraits, carpets, musical instruments, jewelry, ammunition, woodwork, brassware, antique coins, local pottery, handicrafts, and sculptures. The complex also has an aviary, greenhouse, and zoo.
14. Jaipur’s Galtaji Temple | Places to visit in Jaipur
A revered Hindu pilgrimage dedicated to Saint Galav, the Galtaji Temple was built by Diwan Rao Kriparam in the 18th century. Constructed around 10 kilometers from the city in a mystical setting, the temple attracts visitors from all over the world.
A majestic temple built in pink sandstone and designed as a palace, the Galtaji Temple has shrines dedicated to Hindu gods Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Hanuman. Holy kunds, pavilions, and natural springs enhance the temple’s charm.
Water is supplied to seven holy water tanks in the temple complex by natural springs from the Aravalli hills. It is believed that the ‘Galta Kund’ is constantly filled with water and is considered the holiest of all water tanks. As the water flows from a rock shaped like a cow’s head, pilgrims take a dip in it and fill the tanks. The temple is a picture-perfect spot because of its grandeur and beautiful surroundings.
15. The Swargsuli Tower | Places to visit in Jaipur
It is the tallest tower in Jaipur, built in 1749 to commemorate the victory of Maharaja Sawai Ishwari Singh in the battle of Rajmahal. In designing the 140-foot tower at the Aatish market, Ganesh Khowan incorporated elements from Delhi’s Qutub Minar and Chittorgarh’s Kirti Stambh.
The tower had a contrasting yellow color which made it stand out against the pink color across the city. The seven-storeyed minaret offers breathtaking panoramic views of Jaipur. It takes 264 steps to reach the top floor where you can view Jaipur city from a distance.
16. Jaipur’s Sheesh Mahal | Places to visit in Jaipur
Sheesh Mahal is located in the Amber Fort complex. It is also known as the Palace of Mirrors and has attracted scores of tourists from around the world. The opulent palace was built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1727 and features intricate mirror and precious stone carvings on its walls and ceilings.
It is quite peculiar to have a mirror arrangement as it reflects a single ray of light to brighten up the entire room. You can observe the exquisite mirror work and marvel at the expertise of designers and architects in those days.
17. The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing in Jaipur | Places to visit in Jaipur
Just one kilometer away from Amber Fort, the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing preserves the age-old tradition of carving designs on wooden blocks and printing them on fabrics.
The charitable foundation operates from a 400-year-old two-story haveli known as Chanwar Palki Walon ki Haveli, which has been restored to perpetuate the craft of hand printing using natural dyes. In 2000, UNESCO awarded the project the award ‘Cultural Heritage Conservation’.
You can have a holistic experience of the old tradition and see the tools and techniques used to create the blocks and fabrics with contemporary designs. The management also conducts workshops on block carving and hand printing upon special request. In the museum souvenir shop, you can buy handcrafted ‘Anokhi’ items like textiles, furniture, jewelry, and greeting cards.
18. Jaipur Elefun | Places to visit in Jaipur
An elephant sanctuary started in 2013 by a family of mahouts (elephant keepers) offers natural living conditions to elephants and interesting animal interaction experiences for visitors.
In order for them to live in a loving and natural environment at the sanctuary, some have been rescued from circuses and zoos. You can enjoy fun activities such as learning to talk to elephants, walking with them, feeding them, and bathing them. You can also decorate an elephant using natural colors and traditional patterns. Elefun is a great place to visit with family and kids.
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