With its royal heritage, colorful bazaars, and timeless architecture, Jaipur offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is Rajasthan’s capital and an important stop on any tour of India’s famed Golden Triangle.
From ancient forts to modern restaurants, this buzzing metropolis celebrates both history and progress. Nicknamed the “Pink City” for its trademark pink-hued buildings, Jaipur charms visitors with its vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Getting around is easy with abundant taxi services in Jaipur, allowing you to conveniently visit the top attractions. Hiring a taxi service gives you the flexibility to customize your own itinerary and explore at your own pace. With knowledgeable local drivers in Jaipur help you maximize your time to soak in the magic of this captivating destination.
Here are the 20 most famous places to visit on your Jaipur tour:
1. City Palace
The magnificent City Palace exemplifies royal Rajput architecture. The sprawling complex houses the Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal palaces along with lush gardens, courtyards, and temples. Don’t miss the Palace Museum showcasing royal costumes, carpets, and manuscripts.
2. Hawa Mahal
Jaipur’s iconic “Palace of Winds” boasts a mesmerizing five-story, beehive-like pyramidal facade with 953 intricately carved windows. Built in 1799 to enable royal ladies to view street festivals, it’s an exemplary model of Rajput artistry.
3. Jantar Mantar
Constructed in the early 1700s, Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO World Heritage astronomical observatory boasting the world’s largest stone sundial. This ancient scientific site has 19 large instruments that were used to study the movement of celestial bodies.
4. Jaigarh Fort
Perched on the Aravalli Hills, 15th century Jaigarh Fort safeguards Jaipur city. Explore the well-preserved palaces, gardens, and halls along with the world’s largest wheeled cannon – Jaivana. The fort offers sweeping views over Amber Fort and Maota Lake.
5. Nahargarh Fort
Crowning the edge of the Aravallis, Nahargarh or “Tiger Fort” showcases splendid Indo-European architecture. Madhavendra Bhawan, built here for King Sawai Madho Singh, provides a breathtaking panorama over the city.
6. Amber Fort
Jaipur’s must-see attraction, Amber Fort is an immense hilltop fortress showcasing a unique blend of Hindu and Mughal design elements. Don’t miss the Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas gardens, and light and sound shows in the evenings.
7. Jal Mahal
Located in the heart of Man Sagar Lake, the “Water Palace” Jal Mahal is an architectural delight built in red sandstone. At sunset, its image shimmering in the lake waters is truly magical.
8. Albert Hall Museum
Built in 1876 to welcome King Edward VII, Albert Hall Museum (Central Museum) is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic style. Explore the rare collection of sculptures, paintings, artifacts, natural history specimens, and Egyptian mummy.
9. Birla Mandir
Constructed in pristine white marble, this lovely Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi features ornate carvings and shrines. The temple glows magically at night when lit up.
10. Jawahar Circle Garden
Located near Jaipur International Airport, this landscaped public park is a popular recreation spot. The huge floral clock at the garden’s centre is a highlight. Visitors can also enjoy toy train rides and light & sound shows.
11. Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
Located near Amber Fort, this museum guides visitors through 5000 years of Indian hand-printed textile history via artisan demonstrations, exhibits and a charming café. The museum store sells some of the finest hand-block printed Indian textiles.
12. Central Park
Spread over 75 acres, Central Park provides a peaceful green haven amidst Jaipur’s busy streets. Visitors can enjoy lush gardens, scenic jogging tracks and boating on the lake. The interactive dinosaur museum is a hit with kids.
13. Chokhi Dhani Village
Just 22 km from Jaipur, Chokhi Dhani is a mock Rajasthani village resort showcasing local art, cuisine and culture. Experience village life through activities like pottery making, camel rides and folk dances. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal at the resort.
14. Sisodia Rani Garden
Located near Ghat ki Guni tunnel way, these stunning gardens were constructed in the 18th century for Queen Sisodia. The multi-level gardens feature musical fountains, lush greenery, galleries, and murals.
15. Galtaji Temple
Nestled amidst the Aravalli hills, this ancient Hindu pilgrimage site features a series of temples and sacred kunds (water tanks). The natural springs and scenic setting give it a sublime ambiance.
16. Johari Bazaar
Jaipur’s popular Johari Bazaar is every shopper’s paradise. From glittering gems, jewelry, handicrafts and textiles to blue pottery, ethnic jootis and more, it’s the go-to place to buy Rajasthani souvenirs.
17. Bapu Bazaar
Extending from Johari Bazaar, this lively local market in the walled city sells colorful textiles, mojris, perfumes and traditional tie-and-dye textiles. Bargain hard while shopping here for the best deals.
18. Kanak Vrindavan Valley
Located near Amber Fort, this picturesque valley temple complex has intricately carved shrines, walls, and fountains. The Garden of Eden recreates scenes like the Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, and valleys of different countries beautifully using flowers.
19. Raj Mandir Cinema
Built in Art Moderne style, Raj Mandir Cinema is considered one of Asia’s best movie theaters. Catching the latest Bollywood flicks here is a fun experience thanks to the lavish interiors.
20. Nahargarh Biological Park
Home to Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, leopards and more, Nahargarh Biological Park was built to promote conservation. Safari rides through the sanctuary offer visitors a chance to spot exotic wildlife.
More Must-See Sights in Jaipur
Beyond the most popular tourist sites, Jaipur has many hidden gems waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers:
- Sandesh Kharchiyan Museum: This quirky museum showcases a vast collection of string telephones built by an ordinary lineman over 50 years.
- Jaipur Wax Museum: Located near Nahargarh Fort, this wax museum brings alive influential personalities related to Rajasthan through lifelike sculptures.
- Doll Museum: Nestled within Jaipur’s iconic City Palace complex, this museum houses a one-of-a-kind collection of dolls and puppets from around the world.
- Anokhi Textile Museum: Learn about the rich legacy of hand-block printing at this museum run by Anokhi store. Watch artisans at work and enjoy the café.
- Statue Circle: This lively public square is marked by life-size statues depicting Rajasthani culture. People watch as you take in the bustling activity.
- Govind Devji Temple: Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple is said to house his footprint and has intricate marble carvings and paintings.
- Vidyadhar Garden: Named after the architect of Jaipur, this garden near Sikar Road has stunning frescos, pavilions and stepwell-style gardens.
- Amrapali Museum: Housed in a historic haveli, it displays jewelry collections tracing Jaipur’s gem trade and royal connections.
- Royal Gaitor: This royal crematorium has elegant cenotaphs or chhatris of Jaipur rulers like Sawai Jai Singh II.
Outskirts Worth Visiting
Along with places in the city, the areas around Jaipur offer some intriguing spots:
- Amber Palace: Usually visited as a day trip from Jaipur, the magnificent Amber Palace is a must-see.
- Abhaneri Step Well: Called Chand Baori, this 13-story deep stepwell is a marvel of architecture with over 3000 narrow steps arranged geometrically.
- Bhangarh Fort: Rajasthan’s most haunted fort, partly ruined Bhangarh and its surrounding temples make an intriguing day trip.
- Sariska National Park: Famed for tigers, Sariska National Park offers jeep safaris to spot wildlife like nilgais, leopards and more.
- Siliserh Lake Palace: This scenic lake palace used by royals for duck hunting expeditions offers tranquil views and a serene ambiance.
- Samode Palace: The 475-year-old Samode Palace showcases Rajput and Mughal design with antique interiors, secret passages and a historic Durbar Hall.
- Neemrana Fort Palace: Located 2 hours from Jaipur, this 15th century fort is now an upscale heritage hotel offering zip-lining adventures and hilltop views.
Key Events and Festivals
Visiting Jaipur during vibrant festivals allows you to immerse in local culture:
- Jaipur Literature Festival: Asia’s largest free literature festival held in January features readings, debates, music and award ceremonies.
- Elephant Festival: Observe elephant processions, races, dances and even cricket matches with pachyderms during this annual festival in March/April.
- Gangaur Festival: Jaipur celebrates the union of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva during this colorful festival with folk music and dances in March/April.
- Teej Festival: Celebrating the monsoon and marriage, Teej brings cultural performances, bazaars and women dressed in bright green outfits in August.
- Jaipur International Film Festival: Enjoy world cinema, industry workshops and lavish parties at this annual 5-day event in January.
With hidden gems, fantastic festivals and side trips waiting to be explored, Jaipur offers much beyond the iconic attractions. Discover the Pink City’s secrets for a truly unforgettable visit.
