Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City, is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan. Bursting with colorful markets, impressive palaces, and lively streets, it’s a city where history and culture come alive. From the iconic Amer Fort to the bustling bazaars filled with textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts, Jaipur offers a unique mix of royal heritage and modern energy. Spending a few days here gives you the chance to explore its architectural gems, enjoy Rajasthani cuisine, and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Jaipur is also a popular stop for travelers exploring India, often combined with Delhi and Agra as part of the classic Golden Triangle itinerary.
How to get to Jaipur
✈️ By Plane: Jaipur International Airport connects the city to major Indian cities and some international destinations. From the airport, you can take 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 are slightly cheaper at INR 200-400 (€2-€5). Pre-paid taxis offer a fixed fare, so there is no need to negotiate.
🚆 By Train: Traveling by train is a popular option for reaching Jaipur. The main station, Jaipur Junction, is centrally located, and outside you’ll find plenty of tuk-tuks and taxis to take you to your accommodation. Tuk-tuk rides within the city usually cost INR 50-100 (€0.60-€1.20), so it’s a good idea to negotiate or check if your hostel offers a pick-up service. Train tickets can be booked in advance through 12GO for a smooth experience.
🚌 By Bus: Regular buses connect Jaipur with Delhi, Agra, and other northern cities. Both state-run and private operators offer AC and non-AC buses. The journey from Delhi takes around 5-6 hours depending on traffic.
🚗 By Car or Uber Intercity: Driving from Delhi or Agra is a convenient option if you want flexibility and a more scenic route. Uber Intercity and private car services provide comfortable rides, though tolls may apply along the highways.
What to do in Jaipur
Cook Like a Local
One of the best ways to experience Jaipur is through its flavors. We took a cooking class with Chef Lokesh, where we learned to make dishes like chicken tikka, butter chicken, paneer korma, biryani, naan, and kheer. It was fun to get hands-on, and of course, the best part was tasting everything we made. Cooking alongside locals gave us a real glimpse into Jaipur’s culinary culture, and we left feeling proud of our creations, and very full!
Temples and Palaces
Jaipur is home to some stunning architectural gems:
- Jal Mahal: The Water Palace sits serenely in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. You can’t go inside, but the view from the shore is perfect for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Hawa Mahal: Also called the Palace of Winds, this red and pink sandstone marvel has 953 small windows, originally built so royal women could watch street life unseen. It’s impressive from the outside, and the street views around it are lively and colorful.
- Hanuman Ji Temple (Monkey Temple): Located on a hill, the temple is famous for its playful monkeys. It’s not the most pristine temple you’ll visit in India, but it’s entertaining and gives a taste of local religious life.
Discovering the Majestic Forts of Jaipur
Amer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Highlights include Diwan-e-Aam, Sheesh Mahal, and the extensive courtyards and gardens. Walking through the fort, we loved exploring its passages and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding hills. While elephant rides are offered to reach the fort, we decided against them due to animal welfare concerns. Walking up at our own pace was enjoyable and allowed us to appreciate the fort without feeling rushed. Entry costs INR 500 (€6).
Nahargarh Fort sits atop the Aravalli Hills and offers sweeping views of Jaipur. Built as a royal retreat, its name means “abode of tigers.” We visited in the late afternoon and enjoyed the sunset over the city, which made it a perfect spot for photos and a quiet moment away from the crowds. Entry costs INR 200 (€2.30).
Experiencing Bollywood at Raj Mandir Theatre
Watching a Bollywood movie in Jaipur is an experience like no other, and Raj Mandir Theatre is the perfect place to dive in. Built in 1976, this iconic cinema offers a grand, almost theatrical atmosphere that makes movie-watching an event in itself.
We ended up watching a cheesy romantic comedy since Raj Mandir only shows one film at a time, and it turned out to be a lot of fun. The audience was full of energy—cheering, laughing, and shouting throughout the movie. Phones rang, babies cried, and fans clapped at dramatic scenes, which added to the charm. Even though the film was a mix of Hindi and English and we didn’t catch every word, we loved just soaking in the lively atmosphere.
City Palace
The City Palace, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, is a beautiful mix of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. Inside, you’ll find museums, courtyards, and gardens that give insight into royal life. We particularly enjoyed the museum exhibits—they really bring the history of Jaipur’s rulers to life. Entry is 700 INR (~€8) for foreign tourists.
Jantar Mantar Observatory
Next door to City Palace, Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the world’s largest collection of astronomical instruments. Built in the 18th century, it includes the Samrat Yantra, the world’s largest sundial, which still keeps accurate time. Walking around the instruments, we were amazed at how advanced these tools were centuries ago. Entry is 200 INR (~€2.50) for foreign visitors.
Foodies’ Paradise: Masala Chowk
For street food lovers, Masala Chowk near Albert Hall Museum is perfect. With 21 stalls serving Jaipur specialties like chaat, dosa, and curries, it’s a great way to taste local flavors. Entry is just INR 10 for adults and 5 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.
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