From majestic forts and royal palaces to it’s rich fascinating culture and colourful markets, there are numerous exciting things to do in Jaipur. This vibrant city is sure to sweep you off your feet. Jaipur came to be known as ‘The Pink City’ after Maharaja Ram Singh painted the city, for the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1905-06.
The city is home to the royal family, which is one of the reasons why it reeks of royalty. It is part of the Golden Triangle, which makes it a popular destination among tourists.
Jaipur will most likely be your first stop in Rajasthan! It will be like discovering a gem out of the big box of treasure that you are yet to unfold as your travels continue. As Vinita Kinra rightly said, “Jaipur is a blushing bride draped in pink, dancing in our dreams while the peacocks sing.”
To help you make the most of your time in this city, here’s a list of the top things to do in Jaipur. A list of all the prime highlights to add to your itinerary.
Local handicraft street market in Jaipur (Photo Credit – Jason Rufus)
things to do in Jaipur
1. Amber Fort
Built with white marble, pink and yellow sandstone by Maharaja Man Singh I in 1592, the fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Till today this majestic fort stands tall as a witness to its past and will have you marveling at everything from the minute you walk in.
The fort is divided into 4 sections, each with its own courtyard that includes places like, the Suraj Phol (Sun Gate), the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), the Zanana Dyodhi (women’s quarters), the Diwan-e-Am and the Diwan-e-Khas (the house of commoners and Officials).
While the interior of the fort will captivate you, the stories that come along with it will mesmerize you. So to make sure you don’t miss anything, you can book a guide or choose to avail of the audio guides to lead you through this fascinating building while explaining the history of the place.
The best time to visit the fort would be in the morning when the weather is perfect and is not very crowded. If you explore the fort in the evening or done with the other sights, do go for the evening light and sound show!
VISITING HOURS: 08:00 am to 17:30 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 2-3 hours
COST: INR 25 per person for Indian tourists, INR 10 per person for Indian Students (with ID proof), INR 550 per person for Foreign Tourists, INR 100 per person for Foreign Students (with ID proof)
The majestic Amer/Amber fort in Jaipur
2. City Palace
Located in the heart of Jaipur, City Palace is the perfect blend of Rajasthani, European and Mughal architecture. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh I in 1732 and is now home to the current royal family of Jaipur.
The palace comprises beautiful temples, gardens, balconies, buildings from different eras, museums, and patios that are embellished with stunning architecture, marble carvings, and gemstones! Every door and corner of the palace is picturesque as it has the perfect blend of colors and marvelous architecture.
While the structure itself is magnificent, the history behind it is intriguing. If you are a history enthusiast, you should book a guide or can avail of the audio guides that will take you through this fascinating palace while explaining the history.
VISITING HOURS: 09:30 to 17:30 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 1-2 hours
COST: INR 200 per person for Indian tourists, INR 300 per person for composite tickets for Indian tourists, INR 500 per person for foreign tourists, INR 700 per person for composite tickets for foreign tourists.
Composite tickets are valid for 2 days and include – Hawa Mahal, Amer/Amber fort, Jantar Mantar, Albert Hall, and Nahargarh Fort.
The stunning architecture inside City Palace
3. Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal, also known as the palace of winds, is situated on the main road right on the edge of the city place. This structure is made of red and pink sandstone resembling a crown. It consists of 953 tiny windows, known as ‘Jharokhas’ and embellished with gorgeous latticework.
Being brought up in an orthodox culture, this stunning structure was used by women of the palace to observe daily life and festivals.
If you don’t wish to enter we suggest you visit the rooftop cafe opposite the Mahal, it is the perfect spot to click pictures and marvel at the beautiful structure without interruptions.
VISITING HOURS: 09:00 to 17:00 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 30 – 40 minutes
COST: INR 50 per person for Indian tourists, INR 200 per person for Foreign tourists
If you have a composite ticket there is no need to purchase a ticket again.
Gorgeous latticework on the windows of Hawa Mahal
4. Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar has great historical and scientific value. It is the world’s largest open-air astronomical observatory that is made from sandstone. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes 19 instruments with specific purposes and also the Samrat Yantra which is considered to be the largest sundial of the country.
If you are intrigued by Science, do not skip the Jantar Mantar, it’s extremely impressive!. However, we strongly recommend you get a guide to help explore and give a better and complete understanding.
VISITING HOURS: 09:00 to 17:00 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 40 mins – 1 hour
COST: INR 50 per person for Indian tourists, INR 15 per person for Indian Students (with ID proof), INR 200 per person for Foreign tourists, INR 100 per person for Foreign Students (with ID proof).
If you have a composite ticket there is no need to purchase a ticket again.
Fascinating architectural astronomical instruments in Jantar Mantar (Photo Credit – McKay Savage)
5. Nahargarh Fort
From breathtaking views of the city to intricate carvings and skilled architecture, Nahargarh Fort is worth the visit. This magnificent structure stands tall amidst the Aravalli range and was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as a protection for the city of Jaipur.
It was originally known as the Sudarshangarh Fort and was later changed to Nahargarh fort (Abode of the Tigers).
Do not miss out on this fort as it is the perfect spot to get away from the bustling city and take in the scenic view of the sunset!
VISITING HOURS: 19:00 to 17:30 hours.
ESTIMATED TIME: 1 – 2 hours
COST: INR 50 per person for Indians, INR 5 per person for Indian Students (with ID proof), INR 200 per person for Foreign Tourists, INR 25 per person for Foreign Students (with ID proof)
If you have a composite ticket there is no need to purchase a ticket again.
View from Nahargarh Fort
6. Albert Museum
If you are left with some free time do visit the Albert Hall Museum that is situated inside the Ram Niwas Garden. It is around 130 years old and one of the oldest museums in Rajasthan.
Flanked by lush green gardens, this beautiful museum has a great collection of artifacts like an Egyptian mummy, murals, carpets, and textiles from around the world. While the collection itself is fascinating, the stunning Mughal – Gothic architecture of the museum will mesmerize you!
VISITING HOURS: 09:00 to 17:00 hours and 19:00 to 22:00 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 1 – 2 hours
COST: INR 40 per person for Indian tourists, INR 20 per person for Indian Students (with ID proof), INR 300 per person for Foreign tourists, INR 150 per person for Foreign Students (with ID proof)
If you have a composite ticket there is no need to purchase a ticket again.
Read on: Discovering the Pleasures of India’s Things to Do
When in Jaipur Take A Snapshot At
Gatore ki Chhatriyan
Want to get away from the bustling city and tourist? Head to Gatore ki Chhatriyan, it is the royal crematorium close to Nahargarh. This complex comprises the memorials for the men in the Royal Family, built on raised platforms with open domes and beautiful Hindu – Islamic architecture.
Each of the cenotaphs are fascinating and differ from each other, as they all have unique carvings. The stunning cenotaphs are made from sandstone, white marble, and chhatris (a dome) at the top.
It is well maintained with stunning architecture and it is not only the perfect spot to get away but also a paradise for photo fanatics.
VISITING HOURS: 10:00 to 17:00 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 1-2 hours
COST: INR 25 per person.
Marvelous architecture at Gatore ki Chhatriyan
Panna Meena Ka Kund
This stepwell is around 1000 years old and is an architectural wonder, which is why many locals and foreign tourists visit it. The stepwell was once a source of water for those living around it but now serves as a community center for the people who come here to meet each other and take a dip in the well.
It is also a spot for the classic step well pictures you would find on social media!
VISITING HOURS: 10:00 to 17:00 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 1 hour
COST: Free
Panna Meena Ka Kund
Patrika Gate
Located just 30 km from the city is the Patrika gate. It is an absolute marvel as its facade is painted with a lighter shade of pink and embellished with Jharokhas, Pols, Pavilions, Chhatris, figures of elephants, horses, and soldiers.
However, the most spectacular aspect of this structure is the interior that is flanked with motifs, vibrant coloured walls, and what is even more unique is the hand paintings of the different cities of Rajasthan. So if you don’t have time to visit all the cities, you can get a short preview by strolling through the corridors of Patrika.
It is one of the most popular spots among photographers, Instagrammers, and bloggers, so get your camera out and capture your perfect shot.
VISITING HOURS: Open 24 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 1 hour
COST: Free
The famous Patrika gate that is known for its stunning interior
ACTIVITIES TO DO IN JAIPUR
Elesafari
Looking for a fun yet relaxing way to spend your day? Visit the elephant farm just near Amer fort and play with the rescued elephants. Elesafari is a unique experience you should visit for multiple reasons.
From kids to adults, this activity is for all ages and will be the highlight of your trip. While you care and play with them, have a home-cooked meal for lunch at the farm.
VISITING HOURS: 12:00 to 16:00 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 4 hours
COST: INR 2,500 per person.
Bicycle tour
What better way to explore the city and burn some calories! Cycling in Jaipur offers some great tours that will help you explore the pink city at dawn.
On the four-hour tour, which starts at 6 am, you will visit the most significant sights such as the Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, and vibrant markets. At the end, a delicious local breakfast is also included.
VISITING HOURS: 06:00 to 09:00 hours
ESTIMATED TIME: 4 hours
COST: INR 2,000 per person.
Moving Around in Jaipur
Being the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur has a fair number of reliable options to take you from place to place.
Auto Rickshaw
Auto rickshaws (tuk-tuks) in Jaipur are a convenient mode to move around especially while going sightseeing. The tuk-tuks generally run on a meter
However, most of them refuse to do so and they ask to settle on a fare before starting your trip so always make sure to haggle for the price and do not settle for the first amount told to you.
Cycle Rickshaw
Looking for the best efficient and eco-friendly way to experience the city? We recommend the cycle rickshaws, these tuk-tuks are a very unique experience. However, always make sure to haggle for the price and do not settle for the first amount told to you.
Car
If you wish to book a car, you would have to do the same from your accommodation or a car rental service in advance or book an Uber to explore the city, avoid scams, and travel in comfort.
Learn More: Understanding Travel Costs in India
We hope this list helps you make the best of out of your time while you are in Jaipur! But if you are planning your trip and can decide where to head next, we suggest you read our blog about travel routes in North India. Or you can hit the plan your trip button and get in touch with us!
Also Read: Explore the Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan
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