Welcome to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Jaipur, also referred to as the “Pink City,” is a well-known tourist attraction and also forms a part of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit along with Delhi and Agra. With its extraordinarily rich art and history, beautiful forts and palaces, distinctive wildlife, delectable food and traditional music, the royal city offer you a comprehensive view of Rajasthan.
Let’s begin a fascinating journey to Jaipur, Rajasthan.
- City Palace
- Jantar Mantar
- Hawa Mahal
- Jal Mahal
- Gardens
- Forts
- Temples
- Trekking
- Wildlife
- Shopping
- Food
- Music and Dance
- Unique things to do
City Palace, Jaipur.
The City Palace in Jaipur was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who founded the city. The last royal family still resides there. This palace is in the form of a complex with several interior structures, courtyards, gardens, and temples. The Maharani’s Palace, Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II Museum, and Shri Govind Dev Temple are the most well-known buildings to see inside the complex. Each building has unique architectural traits and is finely carved. U can spend quality time here and can watch the eminent collection of paintings, artefacts, outfits, armoury and royal coaches.
Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
Located adjacent to City Palace and the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has 19 fixed sets of astronomical equipment and is a masterpiece of architecture. It is said to be the largest open-air astronomy observatory ever built to study the multiple events and temporal changes caused by the movement of astronomical objects in space. There is a spectacular sound and light show every evening to educate about the place and is certainly a visual treat to your eyes.
Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
A blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, the five-story Hawa Mahal is visible around 700 metres from Jantar Mantar. It contains 953 tiny windows with elaborate latticework or jharokhas. They were used back then so that the royal women could observe the processions and other events outside the Mahal without being seen by the general people. Due to the cool breeze that flows through the jharokhas and the fountains that are located in the middle of each chamber, it is also known as the Palace of Wind or the Summer Palace. An open terrace on each side of the top level, known as Prakash Mandir, provides a stunning view of the city.
Jal Mahal, Jaipur
Jal Mahal, also known as the Water Palace, is a famous landmark in India and is located amid Man Sagar Lake. The reflection of the palace in the peaceful water of the lake surrounded by Aravalli hills offers a mesmerizing view to look upon. Even though the palace is off limits to guests, one can take a boat ride, watch a flock of birds, and undoubtedly take some great photos that will last a lifetime.
Beautiful Architecture built underwater, Jal Mahal, Jaipur.
Gardens
There are various gardens in Jaipur city to relax and rejuvenate;
Ram Nivas Garden:
This garden is a great place for a picnic and to spend quality time with the family. The garden also features a theatre, art gallery, and an exhibition area.
Sisodia Rani Ka Baug:
Built for the queen Sisodia, the garden retains beautiful ambience, architecture, flower beds and fountains.
VidyaVihar Garden:
The garden created in a Mughal and Rajput style in honour of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the chief architect of Jaipur, is the ideal location to admire the natural beauty of lush green meadows and watch the sunset. Additionally, it features numerous galleries, royal pavilions, and mural paintings of Lord Krishna.
Kanak Vrindavan, Nehru Bal Udyaan, and Jawahar Circle Garden are three other lovely gardens that welcome visitors.
Sisodia Rani Bhag, Vidyavihar Baug and Ram Nivas Baug.
Forts:
The three royal and magnificent forts to explore in Jaipur are;
Amber Fort:
Popularly known as Amer Fort, it is made of red sandstone and marble. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beauty of this place is enhanced by the breathtaking view of Moata Lake in the front. The scenes of the popular Bollywood films Jodha Akbar and Bajirao Mastani were shot at Amer Fort.
Jaigarh Fort:
Famously known as Fort Of Victory, it houses the world’s largest cannon- Jaivana.The fort also has a garden, armoury and a museum.
Nahargarh Fort:
Nahargarh, which means Abode of Tigers offers a magnificent view of the pink city as it is located at the ridge of the Aravalli hills. It shares an extended wall which connects it to the Jaigarh fort.
Other prominent forts to visit are Taragarh Fort, Laxmangarh Fort, Bhangarh Fort, and City Palace Fort.
Temples:
Along with impressive forts and lovely gardens, Jaipur also has well-known temples that are true endeavors of both ancient and contemporary architecture.
Galtaji Temple:
Considered a sacred pilgrimage, Galtaji or MonkeyTemple consists of the shrine of saint Rishi Galav and several holy kunds (water tanks). The most sacred of them all is Galta Kund since it is said to have never dried up until this point. Rhesus macaques and langurs, two species of monkeys, are abundant here. Thousands of pilgrims visit here during Makar Sankranti and Kartik Purnima to take a dip in the holy Kund.
Birla Mandir:
This temple honours the Hindu deities Laxmi and Lord Vishnu, also known as Narayan, and is entirely constructed of white marble. Janmashtami and Diwali are the festivals celebrated in this temple. The temple is constructed on an elevated platform and looks spectacular when illuminated at night.
Kale Hanumanji Temple:
Located at Chandi Ki Taksal, is believed to be older than 1000 years. It is a must-see attraction in Jaipur because the principal god, Lord Hanuman, is represented by a black idol instead of his usual orange or red counterpart. Numerous followers go to the temple because it is believed to fulfill desires and ward off evil spirits.
Sanghiji- Shri Digambar Jain Temple:
One of the most prominent Jain temples, it is built of red stone and enshrines lord Rishabanatha (Adinatha)- the first Jain Tirthankara. Three summits are present in the inner temple of which the middle idol is of the lord Parshwanath with the seven snake hoods.
Famous Temples to visit in Jaipur.
In addition to these, there are other additional well-known temples to see in Jaipur, including the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Mandir, the Moti Dungri Temple, the Govind Dev Temple, and the Pataleshwar Mandir.
Trekking:
There are plenty of options for trekking in Jaipur. Some of the famous trekking and hiking places are;
- Hatni Kund (starts from Charan Mandir near Nahargarh Fort)
- Bhuteshwar Nath Mahadev Trek (starts from Nahargarh Biological Park or Sagar Lake)
- Chour Ghati Trek (Galtaji Gate)
- Chulgiri Trail (stairs ascending to Jain Temple or Agra Road)
- Jhalana Treks
- Amer Fort Wall ( Staircase facing Amer Fort / Maota Lake)
- Achrol Fort Trek with rappelling (starts from Birla Mandir)
Along with these thrilling trails, we enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and the enchanting beauty of nature.
Famous treks in Jaipur
Wild Life:
There is nothing like the euphoric experience of walking through the jungle looking for a tiger or a leopard or cheetah!! Jaipur is known for its bio-diverse wildlife, rare species of animals and a wide range of flora and fauna. The tourists here not only explore the rich wildlife but also enjoy the nature and scenic beauty of the forests.
Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary:
Sariska is one of the oldest and most visited national reserves in the world. Surrounded by Aravalli hills and sharp cliffs, the park has deciduous trees, and farms hence several birds and carnivores like tigers, wild dogs, Leopards, wild boar, langur and Sambhar dwell here. Also, the lakes in the sanctuary are home to crocodiles, water snakes and other aquatic animals.
Ranthambore National Park:
Located 180kms away from Jaipur, Ranthambore Park is India’s most popular reserve to witness Tigers. Other than that the forest is home to diverse species of reptiles, mammals, butterflies, exotic birds, and rare plants. The best time to visit the National Park is from November to March when all safari gates are open.
Nahargarh Biological Park:
The park is located 12kms from Jaipur amidst the hills and forest near Amer. It carries out research, teaches, and preserves the current flora and fauna. 285 different bird species, Bengal tigers, sloth bears, Asiatic lions, hyenas, Panthers, etc. are all expected to be seen there. Also, you can take a two-kilometre-long Elephant Safari and enjoy a unique experience.
Jhalana Safari Park:
The Jhalana area of Jaipur is renowned for its leopard population. As the first leopard reserve in India, the Jhalana Leopard Safari is distinct in that it allows tourists to see the cunning cats in their native environment. In addition to this, we may find panther, striped hyena, desert fox, golden jackal, blue bull, and numerous other wild animals here.
Wildlife and Safari in Jaipur.
Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuary and Ramgarh Vishdhari Sanctuary are some other wildlife sanctuaries worth visiting.
Shopping:
Jaipur can be a remarkable shopping experience for shopaholics with a wide variety of stuff with a traditional glimmer. Let’s go shopping,
- Johari Bazaar- Rajasthani jewellery.
- Bangles at Tripolia Bazaar.
- Chandpole Bazaar- For Handicrafts.
- Textiles can be found at Kishanpole Bazaar.
- Nehru Bazaar- Customary Jootis.
- Street shopping- Sireh Deori Bazaar.
- All Jaipuri Items- Bapu Bazaar.
- Tibbati Market on Mirza Ismail Road (MI Road) is a good place to find regional souvenirs.
- Anokhi – For Vibrant Clothes.
- GT Bazaar’s Gaurav Tower- Local Products.
- For vintage charms- The Gem Palace.
- For Blue Pottery- Kripal Kumbh
- Aravali Bazaar – For Items for Home Decor.
- For wedding-related items- Purohit Ji Ka Katla.
- Stylish multi-brand store- Teatro Dhora.
- A Designer Souvenir Shop- Jaipur Pink.
Best shopping places in Jaipur
Food
The cuisine in Jaipur is as opulent as its architecture and is spicy, tangy, and rich in ghee. It surely gives your taste buds a royal and surreal feel with every bite. The most well-known joints when cited in Rajasthani fashion include;
- Rawat ki kachori
- Bhagat Ke laddoo
- Sambhar ki feeni
- Lassiwala ki lassi
- Nandlal ki patashe(Gol gappe)
- Sanjay Omelette
- Pandit ki Pav Bhaji
- Al Bake Kathi’s Role
- Gulab Ji ki Masala Chai
- LMB ke Ghewar
- Old GVD ki Cold Coffee
- Old take away ka tandoori chicken
Famous Local food joints of Jaipur.
Other than that, a few highly recommended eateries that offer delectable cuisine, excellent hospitality and great ambience;
- Interiors and delicious meals: Jaipur Adda.
- Taste The Royalty: The Rajput Room.
- Zolocrust: Eco Friendly and for Organic food lovers.
- Veggie’s Paradise: RJ 14.
- Chao Chinese Bistro: Real Chinese food.
- Best North Indian Food: Handi.
- A must-stop for fans of Chinese and Thai cuisine: The Dragon House.
- 1135 AD: Magnificent interiors, live music, and great food.
- Cinnamon: Scrumptious Indian food
- Steam: Elegant lounge bar serves the best Mediterranean cuisine.
- Blackout: Take some time to unwind with your loved ones.
- Best Non-Vegetarian Food: Sheesha
- Traditional Rajasthani food experience: Chokhi Dhani.
- On The Bar, OTB BQ: Restro lounge features a buffet, live entertainment, and music.
- Baluchi: For Indian and fusion cuisine.
- Masala Chowk: All of the well-known street foods from Jaipur found in one location at this open-air food court.
Well-known Royal Restaurants in Jaipur.
Music and Dance:
Ghoomar is a traditional dance form performed by Rajasthani women. Additionally, Kathputli, Bhavai, Kalbelia, Kachi ghodi, and Kathak are some well-known dance styles.
Every region of Jaipur has its distinctive music, which is quite traditional. The primary musical instruments here are the ghungroo, sarangi, and ektara.
Popular Dance Forms and Musical Instruments of Jaipur.
Unique things to do in Jaipur:
Hot Air Balloon Ride:
A thrilling experience of flying and witnessing the mesmerizing beauty of the iconic city is a must on every tourist’s bucket list. It is an hour flight conducted from various locations depending on the wind and weather conditions.
Elefantastic:
If you love elephants, then this place is for you. You can indulge in activities such as showering, feeding, touring and painting with your elephant buddy. Additionally, there is a night camp where you can sleep in a tent while your elephant companion serves as a guard for your rest.
Puppet Show:
Puppet (kathputli) shows are an integral part of Rajasthan. The tour is incomplete without visiting one. The wooden dolls are fastened together with rope and adorned in colourful Rajasthani clothing. In perfect time with the melodies and drum rhythms produced for a specific theme or play, the puppeteer moves the strings. The shows are enjoyed by people belonging to all age groups.
Jawahar Kala Kendra:
The famous art, craft and music Centre in Jaipur is a must-visit place for art enthusiasts. Great art exhibits, theatrical festivals, workshops, musical performances, and conferences are continually taking place here. The complex also houses a library and a museum.
Nightlife:
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jaipur with dance, music, and refreshing beverages at some of the most happening nightclubs and lounge bars such as Amigos Bar and Discotheque, Grunge, F Bar and Lounge, 3D’s Restro Lounge and Duplay.
Some Amazing stuff to do in Jaipur.
This comes to the end of our tour.
All we can say is that Jaipur, the first planned city in India, is the ideal combination of traditional architecture and contemporary metropolitan amenities and It was truly a memorable and ecstatic experience worth sharing.