Jaipur – A Guide to the Pink City

How to get to Jaipur

Arrival by train

Traveling by train is a popular way to reach Jaipur. You can book your train tickets up front through 12GO. The main station, Jaipur Junction, is centrally located. Outside the station, you’ll find plenty of tuk-tuks and taxis to take you to your accommodation. It’s essential to negotiate the fare beforehand or check if your hostel offers a pick-up service. Tuk-tuk rides within the city typically cost INR 50-100 (€0.60-€1.20).

Arrival by plane

Jaipur International Airport connects the city to major Indian and international destinations. From the airport, you can choose between a taxi, Uber, Ola, or a pre-paid taxi to reach the city center. Taxi rides cost around INR 400-600 (€5-€7), while Uber and Ola rides are slightly cheaper at INR 200-400 (€2-€5). Pre-paid taxis offer a fixed fare, eliminating the need for negotiation.

Discover Authentic Indian Cuisine with a Cooking Class in Jaipur

Experience the flavors of India by taking a cooking class in Jaipur. We recommend Jaipur Cooking Classes with Chef Lokesh, where you’ll learn to make dishes like chicken tikka, butter chicken, and paneer korma. The class is both fun and educational, and the best part is tasting the delicious food you’ve made.

We created a custom menu with chicken tikka, butter chicken, paneer korma, biryani, naan and kheer. However, there are plenty of dishes to choose from, ensuring a unique culinary experience tailored to your preferences.

Discovering the Majestic Forts of Jaipur

Two famous forts in the city, NahargJaipur’s forts offer a glimpse into its rich history:

Nahargarh Fort: Located on the Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort provides panoramic views of the city. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the fort was initially constructed as a retreat. Its name means “abode of tigers,” reflecting the many tigers that once roamed the hills. The fort has seen several expansions and modifications over the years. Visitors can explore various structures within the fort, such as temples, palaces, and step-wells. Entry to Nahargarh Fort costs INR 200 (~€2.30), and it’s best visited on clear days to enjoy the stunning views.

Amer Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Amer Fort is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Built by Raja Man Singh I in 1592, the fort is a blend of Hindu and Mughal styles. Notable sections include the Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), and Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure). The fort’s intricate carvings, expansive courtyards, and beautiful gardens offer a glimpse into royal life. Entry to Amer Fort is INR 500 (€6.10).

While elephant rides are a popular tourist attraction at Amer Fort, we do not recommend them due to concerns about the welfare and treatment of the elephants. These animals often endure harsh conditions and are subjected to training methods that can be cruel. Instead, consider walking or taking a jeep ride up to the fort to ensure a more humane experience. Walking up to Amer Fort is perfectly doable on foot, allowing you to appreciate the surroundings at your own pace.

Experiencing Bollywood: A Visit to Raj Mandir Theatre

If you’re visiting India, watching a Bollywood movie is a must-do experience. We decided to catch a movie at the famous Raj Mandir theatre in Jaipur, which is a popular spot for tourists. Built in 1976, the theatre promises to give you an authentic Bollywood experience where anything is possible.

What makes the experience even more enjoyable is the fact that Indian moviegoers are known for their lively reactions during films. From screaming during kissing scenes to making comments throughout the movie, the audience truly gets involved. You may even hear babies crying and phones ringing in the theatre, but that’s all part of the experience.

The only downside is that Raj Mandir only shows one movie at a time, so you don’t have a choice of films. We ended up watching a cheesy romantic comedy, but the overall experience was so fun that we didn’t even mind. Keep in mind that Bollywood movies are usually in a mix of English and Hindi, so you may not understand everything. Some tourists left early because they didn’t realize this, so be prepared for some language barriers.

City Palace

The City Palace, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace complex includes museums and gardens, with an entrance fee of 700 INR (~€8) for foreign tourists.

Jantar Mantar Observatory

Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses the world’s largest collection of astronomical instruments. Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this observatory offers fascinating insights into historical astronomical practices. The complex features nineteen instruments for measuring time, predicting eclipses, and tracking stars’ positions, among other celestial observations. Its highlight, the Samrat Yantra, is the world’s largest sundial, which still provides accurate time readings. A visit to Jantar Mantar not only showcases the scientific advancements of the past but also provides a unique look into the astronomical expertise of ancient India. The entry price for foreign tourists is 200 INR (~€2.50).

Masala Chowk: An Open-Air Street Food Court in Jaipur

Masala Chowk is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. This open-air food court near Albert Hall Museum features 21 stalls offering the best street food in Jaipur, including chaat, dosa, and various curries. The entrance fee is only 10 INR for adults and 5 INR for children.

Where to eat in Jaipur

Jaipur is a haven for food lovers, especially vegetarians. Here are some top dining spots:

• Cooking Class: Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Indian dishes like chicken tikka and paneer korma. It’s a fun way to discover the secrets of Indian cuisine and enjoy a delicious meal afterward.
• Masala Chowk: Masala Chowk, located near Albert Hall Museum, is a paradise for food lovers. It’s an open-air food court where you can try various street foods from different stalls. With options like chaat, biryani, and more, you can taste the diverse flavors of Jaipur’s street food scene.
• Topaz at Hotel Natraj: Topaz, inside Hotel Natraj, offers a delightful dining experience. Whether you prefer vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes, Topaz has something for everyone. You can enjoy your meal indoors or on the skydeck with a view of Jaipur’s skyline.
• Peacock Restaurant at Hotel Pearl Palace: Experience the relaxed atmosphere of Peacock Restaurant at Hotel Pearl Palace. Sit on the lower terrace and enjoy the view while you feast on delicious food. With live music and friendly staff, it’s the perfect place for a memorable evening.

Where to stay in Jaipur

Accommodation options in Jaipur range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels:

Raj Palace: Former Maharaja residence turned luxurious hotel. Features beautiful gardens, a pool, and top-notch service. Double rooms start at 13,500 INR (~€150) per night.

Pearl Palace Heritage: Family-run hotel in a serene neighborhood close to the city center. Offers clean, comfortable rooms and a rooftop restaurant with city views. Double rooms available from 1000 INR (~€11) per night.

Hostels: Moustache Hostel, The Hosteller Jaipur, and Zostel Jaipur offer budget-friendly accommodations with various amenities. Dorm beds typically start at 500 INR (~€5), while double rooms are around 1700 INR (~€20) per night.