Things To Do
in Jaipur
Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan, is a regal blend of royal palaces, bustling bazaars, and sun-kissed forts. It sits in the arid foothills of the Aravalli range, where honey-colored sandstone monuments glow at sunrise and sunset. The city thrives on traditional crafts, vibrant markets, and a rich history tied to its royal heritage and fortress architecture.
Visitors can savor distinctive Rajasthani cuisine, wander wind-filled lanes, and discover centuries of culture in every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Hawa Mahal, known for its stunning facade and intricate latticework. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance while capturing beautiful photographs. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory, to marvel at its impressive instruments.
Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Post-lunch, head to the City Palace, where you can explore the royal museum and see the beautiful courtyards. Spend some time in the adjacent Chandra Mahal, taking in the exquisite architecture and artistic displays.
As the sun sets, visit the vibrant Johari Bazaar, famous for its jewelry and handicrafts. Browse through shops for authentic Rajasthani souvenirs and textiles while enjoying the local hustle and bustle. End your evening with a cultural show at the nearby Raj Mandir Cinema, experiencing a Bollywood film in a lavish setting.
Begin your day by visiting the majestic Amber Fort, located just outside the city. Take an elephant ride up to the fort or opt for a jeep ride if you prefer. Explore the fort’s intricate architecture, stunning courtyards, and the famous Sheesh Mahal.
After touring the fort, enjoy lunch at a nearby café with a view of the fort. Next, visit the Jaigarh Fort, which offers an impressive panorama of Jaipur and houses the world's largest cannon on wheels, the Jaivana. Spend some time wandering through the fort's expansive grounds and learning about its military history.
Return to Jaipur and relax at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Choose a rooftop restaurant with views of the illuminated Amber Fort for a magical dining experience. End the night by enjoying local folk music and dance performances at the restaurant.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🛍️Local market souvenir | $3-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich royal heritage with iconic forts and palaces
- Vibrant markets, textiles, and jewelry shopping
- Delicious, distinctive Rajasthani cuisine and street food
- In peak heat, outdoor sightseeing can be exhausting
- Crowds in the old city can be overwhelming and markets can be bustling
- Some attractions have variable opening hours; plan ahead
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Aapka naam kya hai?" - What is your name?
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Toilet kahaan hai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mujhe samajh nahi aaya" - I don’t understand
- "Aapka din shubh ho" - Have a good day
- "Nahi, shukriya" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Jaipur
Visit one of these nice places.
The Palace of Winds, with its 953 jharokhas, offers a striking facade and sweeping angles for early-morning photos and sunset shots.
A UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory with colossal instruments and geometric perspectives ideal for architectural photography.
Intricate courtyards and ornate courtyards provide regal backdrops against the pink hues of the city.
Massive fortifications and羊guards with sweeping views over Maoter Lake and the surrounding hills; best at golden hour.
Ridgeline vantage points above the city offer panoramic sunset and nightscapes across Jaipur’s pink glow.
Food in Jaipur
Jaipur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A iconic desert dish of baked wheat balls served with lentil curry and a sweet churma; best found at traditional establishments and in thalis across the city.
Must-Try!
Fiery mutton curry dyed red with chili, often enjoyed with bajra rotla or rice; available at many Rajasthan-focused restaurants and at some taverns near Amer.
Crisp onion-filled pastries, a Jaipur street-food staple found in markets like Johari Bazaar and other old-city lanes.
Gram flour dumplings in a spiced curry; a common item in Rajput-style thalis and home-cooked-inspired dishes.
Creamy, yogurt-based drinks that pair well with spicy curries and fried snacks; widely available across cafés and eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market known for jewelry, enamel work, and snacks; a great place to sample street foods like kachori and kulfi while shopping for trinkets.
Ground for textiles, leather goods, and traditional footwear; perfect for bargain shopping and enjoying roving food stalls nearby.
Famed for bandhani fabrics, lac jewelry, and souvenir shopping; a vibrant backdrop for lunch-time bites and chai stops.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest attire is appreciated, especially in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples.
Ask before photographing people, particularly in markets and traditional settings.
A polite nod or 'Namaste' is common; use your right hand for giving/receiving; avoid disrespectful gestures in sacred spaces.
Shoes must often be removed before entering temples; follow posted rules and local guidance.
Safety
Tipping in Jaipur
Ensure a smooth experience
In hotels and fine-dining restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if a service charge isn’t included. For street food and casual eateries, tipping is optional and usually modest.
Cash (INR) is widely accepted; major hotels and many restaurants accept cards and UPI/mobile payments (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm). Carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April to June brings extreme heat (often above 40°C/104°F). Plan outdoor sites for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and seek indoor museums during peak heat.
July to September brings humidity and sporadic showers; air becomes cooler but slick streets and occasional storms can affect outdoor plans. Carry a lightweight rain jacket.
October to February features pleasant days and chilly nights; light jackets are useful. This is a peak season for outdoor sightseeing and night markets.
Jaipur at Night
Hiking in Jaipur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular ridge hikes offering city panoramas, especially at sunrise or sunset; part of the Aravalli foothills surrounding Jaipur.
Moderate trail along historic fortifications with expansive views over Jaipur and the surrounding landscape.
Several less-traveled paths in the Aravalli foothills for those seeking longer, more secluded hikes; check local guides for current access and safety notes.
Airports
How to reach Jaipur by plane.
Domestic and international flights; well-connected to major Indian cities and some international destinations; public transport and rideshare options available to reach the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Rajasthani communities (Marwari, Meena, Bhil) and migrants; a predominantly Hindu population with a significant Muslim minority; a strong craft and business culture.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to forts, markets, and cultural performances; language commonly Hindi with English widely understood in tourist zones.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Rajasthan and India, with many local games and cricket facilities in and around Jaipur.
Rajasthan has a strong polo tradition; some clubs around Jaipur offer demonstrations or casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jaipur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Jaipur’s culinary scene is very vegetarian-friendly; most dishes and street-food options can be enjoyed without meat or eggs. If you avoid ghee, ask for oil-based preparations or request clarification on ingredients.