The largest city in Rajasthan and apparently the first planned city in India, Jaipur is a tourism hotbed - for both locals and foreigner; flush with history and culture, Jaipur is the perfect holiday destination for anyone.
How Do I Get There?
By Air: Jaipur International Airport is located in Sanganer, about 12 km from the centre of the city. With both domestic and international terminals, it is easy to fly down to Jaipur comfortably in the airline of your choice. Once on the ground, you can hire a taxi of your choice to your hotel, from the many transport services offered outside the airport.
By Road: Jaipur is not much of a road trip given its distance from most metropolitan cities, but those who really wish to enjoy a drive and see the country up close can do so from Delhi (6 hours), Ahmedabad (9 hours) or Ludhiana (8 hours).
By Rail: With enough and more stations - Sanganer, Gandhinagar and Civil Lines just to name a few - it is easy to plan a train trip to Jaipur from any major city. An overnight or an early morning trip will see you in Jaipur in time for breakfast or lunch (however you have it) and fresh enough to begin your vacation.
How Do I Get Around?
Traveling around Jaipur has become easier over the years, with the local metro being constructed (Phase A1 is currently operational, Pink Line), and added to the preexisting modes of transport - auto rickshaws, taxis (both public and app-based services), rent-a-car, buses, etc.
When's The Best Time To Visit?
While the summers usually do get quite hot, Jaipur remains a year-round round tourist destination. The evenings are pleasant and breezy, while the mornings remain bright and waking.
What Are The Attractions & Things To Do?
Jaipur has always historically and culturally flourished. With a variety of landmarks to visit, a day in Jaipur is easily packed with fun-filled trips from one end of the city to the other; trips on which you can grab a drink and grub, and shop on the way.
Birla Mandir: One of many Hindu temples in India, built by the Birla family, this iteration of the Birla Mandir is a beautiful white marble, stained glass gem located at the foot of the Moti Dungri Fort in Tilak Nagar. The marble keeps the building cool at all times making a visit not just spiritually appealing, but physically too.
Amer Fort: Overlooking the Maota Lake in Devi Singhpura, the Amber Fort is a 400+ year old fort built by Raja Man Singh I, a famous historical figure. With four distinct gates that open into large courtyards, expansive halls, open rooms, tall windows, and park space, Amer fort is a must visit.
Sheesh Mahal: The hall of mirrors is located within the Amer Fort. Built on 40 pillars, all decorated with tiny mirrors that become natural candles reflecting the sun's rays that fall into the hall, this is quite a sight. Thought of as the royal family's winter retreat, the Sheesh Mahal has a romantic history, that you could relive with your significant other.
Hawa Mahal: Doubtlessly, Jaipur's most famous symbol, the Hawa Mahal is known for the windows that make up its facade. Built for the women of the royal household to view street processions/happenings with security, the Mahal sits at the edge of the City Palace. Built out of sandstone, it features over 953 jharokhas ("windows") and intricate latticework that decorate the entire five storey structure.
Jal Mahal: A very unique palace, the Jal Mahal is located in off the shores of the the Man Sagar Lake. While most of it is submerged, it is still worth seeing. A boat ride takes you to the structure, where you can view the natural beauty of Jaipur (the surrounding hills, the clear skies, the migratory birds etc.) within the beautifully decorated palace.
Jaivana: It is said that 4 elephants were required to swivel it in order to target enemies. The Jaivana is a massive 20+ ft, floral designed canon that was fired only once, designed by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1720. Currently located at Jaigarh Fort, it is a sight to see.
Statue Circle: Right in the centre of the city, the Statue Circle is a popular hangout spot. Built as a tribute to Raja Sawai Jai Singh II, the structure consists of a grass garden and a marble statue at the center of it, shielded by a decorative pagoda above. Not much of a planning is required before a visit, at least all of the population passes this structure once in the day while navigating the city.
Jantar Mantar: Another Jaipur icon, Jantar Mantar is a gigantic sundial built out of pure stone by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1734. A UNESCO Heritage sight, this large sundial is present in everybody's textbooks, go see it for real.
Where Do I Eat?
Jaipur is a foodie haven that is bound to blow your mind away! The gastronomical depth that comes with the Indian, Mughal and colonial influences makes Jaipur perfect.
A trip to the Pink City without visiting Chokhi Dhani would be incomplete. Experience ultimate Rajasthani hospitality and savour authentic delicacies such as dal baati churma, kachoris, Ghevar, gatte ki sabzi and jalebis.
There are also a bunch of other restaurants that offer sumptuous meals and allow you to enjoy Jaipur's food scene. Few of our recommendations are:
Fine Dining
Okra (Indian/Chinese Fusion)
Baluchi (Indian/Mughlai)
Peshwari (Indian/Mughlai)
Cinnamon (Asian/Indian)
1135 A.D. (Asian/Indian)
Street Food
Sreenath Lassiwala (Indian)
Old Takeaway (BBQ Indian)
Hanuman Dhaba (Punjabi)
Sanjay Omelette (Breakfast/Fast Food)
The Tattoo Cafe (Fast Food)