Places to visit in Jaipur

Also known as the “Pink City”, Jaipur is amongst the most visited tourist destinations in India. In the 2008, Conde Nast Traveller Reader’s Choice Survey, Jaipur was ranked the 7th best place to visit in Asia. It is the capital city of the state of Rajasthan and an important destination of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit with Delhi and Agra being the other two.

Amer Fort / Amber Palace, Jaipur

In the Pink City of Jaipur, cradled on the top of the Aravali Hill lies the Amer Fort, one of the most magnificent palaces in India. Also commonly known as the Amber Fort, this majestic building with its maze-like passages and serpentine staircases is an architectural masterpiece and with significant importance in Indian history. Only 11 kilometres away from the capital city of Jaipur, Amer Fort is clad in pink and yellow sandstone and is a part of an extensive complex. Built by one of the most trusted generals of Akbar, Maharaja Man Singh I in the year 1592, Amer Fort served as the main residence of the Rajput Rulers.

The Amer Fort through its large ramparts, several gateways and paved paths overlooks the Maotha Lake in the town of Amer, which used to serve as the capital of the erstwhile Jaipur princely state. The fort is big enough that it will take you at least two to three hours to explore it in detail, and you can also choose to avail of the audio guides to lead you through this fascinating building while explaining the history of the place. Getting an elephant ride up the stairs to the Amber Fort is also a popular tourist activity. The fort sees over five thousand visitors daily and rightfully, the Amer Fort was inducted into UNESCO World Heritage Site list as part of the “Hill Forts of Rajasthan” along with five other forts. 

City Palace, Jaipur

Located deep within the walled city, the City Palace Complex was conceived and built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. A beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the palace is still home to the last ruling royal family which lives in a private section of the palace. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is credited with building most of the structures, but it was expanded upon by later rulers as well. The City Palace Complex includes the Mubarak Mahal (the palace of reception) and the Maharani’s Palace (the palace of the queen). Mubarak Mahal now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum and displays a vast and unique collection of royal costumes, delicate Pashmina (Kashmiri) shawls, Benaras silk saris, and other dresses with Sanganeri prints and folk embroidery. The clothes of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I are also on display. The Maharani’s Palace, surprisingly, has an interesting display of very well-preserved Rajput weaponry, some dating back to the 15th century. Other than the arms, the palace is adorned with beautiful paintings on the ceiling that are well-maintained.Hawa

Mahal, Jaipur

The massive edifice of Hawa Mahal stands at the intersection of the main road in Jaipur, Badi Chaupad and was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in the year 1799. Hawa Mahal derives its name from its unique structure, which is a mesh of small windows that allowed cool wind to enter the palace and hence kept the palace comfortable during the hot summer months. The main reason behind the palace’s construction was to allow the women of the royal house to observe the festivities on the streets whilst being unseen from the outside as was the custom of the land. It is located right on the edge of the City Palace Jaipur and extends right to the ‘zenana’.

Hawa Mahal is a structure made of red and pink sandstone and has a pyramidal structure which almost resembles a crown. It has been embellished with 953 tiny windows, also known as ‘Jharokhas’ and embellished with gorgeous latticework. From within, the Hawa Mahal palace is based on five floors each of which has a uniquely decorated chamber. A charming fountain welcomes you inside the main palace, from whereon you can make your way up to the different floors. The top of the palace offers a brilliant view of the City Palace, Jantar Mantar and the ever-busy Siredeori Bazar. There is a small museum as well which holds some rich relics and miniature paintings.

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

Located near the City Palace in the regal city of Jaipur, Jantar Mantar is the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world. Owing to its rich cultural, heritage and scientific value, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur has also been featured on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. This ancient study boasts of nineteen instruments built out of stone and brass and was built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727-33. The intelligent construction and placement of these instruments allowed the observers to note the position of heavenly bodies with their naked eye alone. Time has failed to lay dust upon this engineering marvel and it still works as well as it used to in the olden times.

The main objective of building this vast observatory was to study and gather information about space and time. The instruments here pertain to Egyptian study of Ptolemaic astronomy and follows three classical celestial coordinates to track the positions of heavenly bodies- namely horizon-zenith local system, the equatorial system and the ecliptic system. Another fact that makes this destination unique is that the world’s largest sundial is situated here. The observatory in Jaipur is a part of a collection of five other such observatories built by Raja Jai Singh, which are located in New Delhi, Ujjan ,Varanasi and Mathura. The best experience here is undoubtedly the light and sound show that takes place every evening and Jantar Mantar lights up like a firefly! 

Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

Nahargarh Fort is located in the Pink City of Jaipur and is one of the many countless palaces and beautiful historic buildings that speak of the magnificent and rich history of this city. Embellished with delicate carvings and stonework, the Nahargarh Fort is an impregnable structure, that together with its two neighbouring forts – Amer and Jaigarh, once stood as the strong defence of Jaipur city. The Fort was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1734 as a retreat. With some breathtaking views of the city, the Nahargarh Fort is known for its extended wall that connects it to Jaigarh Fort. The fort is located on top of a hill and you can hire a cab or autorickshaw to the foot of the hill and trek the rest of the way.

Nahargarh Fort was primarily used as a retreat for the ladies of the royal household and has a ladies quarters by the name of ‘Zenana’. Also known as the Madhavendra Bhavan, the ‘Zenana’ was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Its counterpart, the ‘Mardana Mahal’ was also constructed in the complex for the royal men. Another attraction in the Nahargarh Fort is the Nahargarh Biological Park, which is an asylum for majestic animals such as tigers, leopards and the Asiatic lions. The Padao Restaurant is also a must-visit if you’re near Nahargarh Fort from where you’re sure to enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Jaipur.

Pink City, Jaipur

Pink City in Jaipur refers to the old walled city that was built in the year 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II. This was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as of June 6th 2019. The wall that marks the boundary of the Pink City is about six metres high and three metres thick and encompasses a number of structures within its confines. In keeping with the magnificence of the structure, there are seven different gates that provide access to the Old City, namely Chand Pol, Suraj Pol, Ajmeri Gate, New Gate, Sanganeri Gate, Ghat Gate, Samrat Gate and Zorawar Singh Gate. Built about 275 years ago, today it presents the glorious past of our country through its culture and architecture. The city is known as ‘Pink City’ as it is built out of Sandstone and reflects the colour pink in the daytime.

Steeped with rich past and heritage, the Pink City of Jaipur is a place of royal heritage, culture and architecture. The city is covered in the tint of pink colour oozing charm and attracting tourists from all over the world. The place offers a feast to its visitors in the form of its historical saga with magnificent palaces and forts and stunning Havelis. A number of important structures such as Badi Chaupar, Jantar Mantar and City Palace are situated in this part of the city. The vibrant bazaars of Jaipur like Bapu Bazaar and Johri Bazaar are paradise for shopping lovers offering beautiful Rajasthani jewellery, fabric, shoes and handicrafts. Bustling with colours, a walk around this old city gives you a glance into is the wealth of handicrafts, the royal legacy of the palace, and a shadow of their rich past.

Chokhi Dhani, Jaipur

Choki Dhani, a well-known tourist attraction in Jaipur is known for its rich Rajasthani heritage and cultural manifesto. The name means ‘Rajasthani Culture’ and this resort village is a fair celebration of it since the time when it was established in 1989 and has been serving International and Local tourists since 1994. This resort comprises of a series of rebuilt village huts with cow dung plasters and decorative wall art.

Choki Dhani is away from the hustle of the city centre where nature is alive and refreshing. The architecture is deeply inspired by the Indo- Saracenic style. Managed under the chairmanship of Mr Gul Vaswani and Director Mr Subhash Vaswani, this place is a reflection of indigenous Rajasthani traditions. Mini village fairs held here attract a lot of tourist attention with colourful art and clothes.

It was established in 1989 and has been serving local and international tourists since 1994. It has machines & different platforms for performing artists. It also holds mini-village fairs occasionally. Alongside, it is also a 5-star luxury hotel with Royal Cottages, Cottage Rooms and Haveli Suits for tourists to choose from, based on their needs. The resort has a royal décor with ancient relics, vintage furnishings and gives the luxurious look and feel of olden day Rajasthan.

Bapu Bazar, Jaipur

Bapu Bazar in Jaipur is one of the most famous markets of the city for buying traditional Jutis, Bangles, Dupattas, Sarees, Scarves etc. Situated in the heart of the Pink City between Sanganer Gate and New Gate, the market is known for its alluring Rajasthani products including textiles, handicrafts, brass works and precious stones. Bapu Bazar attracts tourists from all over India and the world owing to the authenticity, diversity and affordability of the products sold. You can get some stunning bargains as well as all things – traditionally, Rajasthan!

The vivacious market, bustling with shopaholics at all times, is most famous for Mojari- the footwear made from camel skin. Among the myriad shopping options available are traditional Rajasthani lehenga- choli and Bandhej salwar suits as well as sculptures and figurines made from marble and sandalwood, hand-crafted home décor gifts and paintings, conventional block printed bedspreads, cushion covers, fabrics and a lot more.

Albert Hall Museum, Jaipur

Situated in the Ram Niwas Garden of Jaipur, the Albert Hall Museum is the oldest museum in Rajasthan. Built in 1876, it was initially envisioned to be a concert hall and resembles the architecture of the Victoria and Albert Hall Museum in London, hence, the name. It is a standing example of the Indo-Saracenic architecture and is also known as Government Central Museum. Albert Hall Museum has an extensive collection of artefacts brought from the different regions of the world that are divided over a whopping 16 art galleries! The museum takes on a whole new facade as the night falls and the entire building glows with yellow lights, which looks extremely beautiful. You can relax in the gardens with the stunning view of Albert Hall in the backdrop. It is certainly a great place to get a peek into the history and ancient culture of India.

Flanked by lush green gardens, the foundation of Albert Hall was laid on 6 February 1876 when Albert Edward visited India. The galleries of the museum have a collection of antiques and artefacts from the past that will blow away your mind. The ancient coins, marble art, pottery, carpets and especially the Egyptian mummy are a treat to the eyes of history buffs. The building itself from the outside has an alluring architecture. The Indo – Saracenic inspired domes and intricately carved arches constructed from sandstone is mesmerizing.

Galtaji Temple, Jaipur

Located on the outskirts of the regal city of Jaipur, Galtaji Temple is a prehistoric Hindu pilgrimage site. Outlined by the striking Aravalli hills, it consists of several shrines, holy kunds, pavilions and natural springs. This majestic temple is situated at the heart of a hilly terrain that is bounded by a beautiful gorge which attracts tourists here every year. Galtaji Temple was built using pink colour sandstone and is a vast temple complex housing varied shrines. Located inside the City Palace, the walls of this temple are beautifully adorned with carvings and paintings that make this place worth visiting. The Galtaji temple is unique in its architecture and has been constructed like a palace.

It is situated in the Aravalli hills and is bound by thick plush trees and bushes. This remarkable building is decorated with painted walls, round roofs and pillars. Apart from the kunds, this pre-historic Hindu pilgrimage place also has temples of Lord Ram, Lord Krishna and Lord Hanuman within the temple. One of the main tourist destinations of Jaipur, the temple complex boasts of natural freshwater springs and seven holy ‘kunds’ or water tanks. Among these kunds, the ‘Galta Kund’, is the holiest one and is believed never to get dry. Pure and clear water flows from the ‘Gaumukh’, a rock shaped like a cow’s head, into the tanks.
This spectacular temple is designed to look more like a grand palace or ‘haveli’ than a traditional temple. The Galta Monkey Temple has a scenic and gorgeous landscape featuring rich green vegetation and has a spectacular sight of the Jaipur city. This temple is known for the many tribes of monkeys that are found here and the religious hymns and chants, along with the natural setting, offer a peaceful ambience to tourists.

Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur

Jaigarh Fort is a grand structure perched on the top of the ‘Cheel ka Teela’ hills in the Pink City of Jaipur . This magnificent edifice was commissioned by Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1726 to protect Amber Fort . Cradled on the top of the cliff, it is a palatial structure bounded by verdant greenery and massive battlements. This magnificent fort is connected to Amer Fort through subterranean passages and is famously known as the ‘Fort of Victory’ as it was never conquered. The fort currently houses the world’s largest cannon on wheels – ‘Jaivana’ and offers a magnificent view of the Jaipur city.

Conceptualized and designed by a talented architect called Vidhyadhar, Jaigarh fort is said to be the strongest of all the three forts and has never faced any major resistance. The fort reflects the city’s prosperous past and is named after the ruler who got it built – Sawai Jai Singh II. Other than its elaborate architecture, the fort is also known for the huge treasure that was believed to be buried under it. However, it is believed that the treasure was seized by the government of Rajasthan in the 1970s.

Birla Temple, Jaipur

The magnificent Birla Mandir in Jaipur  is a Hindu temple that forms a part of one of the several Birla temples located all around the country. Also known as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the shrine is situated on the Moti Dungari Hill. The temple was built in the year 1988 by the Birlas when the Maharaja of Jaipur gave the land away for a token amount of one rupee. Built purely out of white marble, the edifice of the Birla Temple is an amalgamation of ancient Hindu architecture styles and modern design. The walls of the temple are embellished with intricate carvings of Gods and Goddesses and words of wisdom from the Puranas and Upanishads. The pictures of historical achievers, legends, philosophers and spiritual saints like Socrates, Christ, Buddha, Confucius are also displayed in the temple. Do visit the Birla Temple during Janmashtami, as the temple is abuzz with activity during this time. 

As the name suggests, Laxmi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the preserver and his wife Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth. The commemorated deity of Laxmi Narayan gets a special attention since it is carved out from a single piece of stone. Besides all other idols, the idol of Ganesha is a magnum opus that appears almost-transparent. The walls of the temple bear illustrations of important events and revelations that have been mentioned in Hindu sacred texts, which add to the aura of serenity in the temple. The gentle chanting of the holy mantras, the diffused fragrance of incense sticks and the occasional ringing of the temple bells will certainly transport you into your own version of higher consciousness. Visit Birla Temple for a rendezvous with the Divine.

Moti Dungri Temple, Jaipur

Moti Dungri Temple in Jaipur is located on a small hillock and is bordered by Moti Dungri Palace. In spite of being a cultural landmark, Moti Dungri Palace cannot be viewed by the public as it is privately owned. However, the temple itself is a testimony to the progress of the architecture of Indian subcontinent. It is spread over an area of two kilometres and is adorned by three domes that purportedly represent the three major religions in India.

Apart from the intricate stone carving, the temple is known for its exquisite latticework with mythological images engraved on the marble, which offer a splendid view for art-lovers. The most beautiful part of the structure is that it resembles an old Scottish castle. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and houses the idol of deity that is purportedly 500 years. The temple itself was built in 1761 under the watchful eye of Seth Jai Ram Pallival.

Jal Mahal, Jaipur

Sitting prettily right in the centre of the Man Sagar Lake on the outskirts of Jaipur, lies the splendid and tranquil Jal Mahal. A masterful creation, it is bordered by the Nahargarh Hills. This low rise symmetrical Palace was once a shooting lodge for the Maharajas and now fascinates many visitors from all over the world. Jal Mahal was constructed in the 1750s and was commissioned by Maharaja Madho Singh. It is indeed one of the most photographed monuments in India. The most striking feature of this palace is that while only one storey that appears above the water level, there are in fact 4 storeys submerged underneath.

It is one of the most beautiful architectural palaces built by combining the Mughal and Rajput styles of architecture. The entry inside the fort is prohibited, but the view from a considerable distance while boating is enough to mesmerize you. During the evenings, the fort lights up and the reflection of the fort in the lake is absolutely gorgeous. With its impressive beauty and laid-back ambience, the Jal Mahal has become a true tourist delight.

Abhaneri Stepwell, Jaipur

Located at an approximate distance of 20 km from Jaipur, Abhaneri Stepwell is one of the most intricate pieces of architecture in Rajasthan, India. The Abhaneri Stepwell or the Chand Baori Stepwell is one of the largest stepwells in the entirety of Rajasthan. When it was built, the well not only helped the villagers and the tradesmen to draw water in the time of thirst but also conserved groundwater.

Stepwells are very common structures that you will see in Rajasthan because of the State’s arid climate and scarcity of water. Dedicated to Harshat Mata, the deity of Happiness and Joy, the Chand Baori or the Abhaneri Stepwell is not only one of the grand constructions of Rajasthan, but also a beautiful one. The most stunning factor about these massive structures is that they have remained intact for more than 10 centuries.

Panna Meena Ka Kund, Jaipur

Among the several architectural marvels that the Pink City can boast of, the ancient stepwell called Panna Meena ka Kund is quite an important yet unexplored one. Established in the 16th century, the place is also known by many other names locally, some of which are just derivations of the original name in the local language. A baori or a stepwell is a concept solely originating from the Indian subcontinent and were the most popular source of water during the old times. These are mostly man-made pools of water that can be reached by descending a series of stairwells. Panna Meena ka Kund in Jaipur is one of the many famous stepwells that still stand in the western part of India, where they were mostly constructed. The original purpose of this Baori was to supply the locals with water for drinking and other daily needs, especially during the dry summers, as well as crop irrigation.

The kund also served as a community centre for the societies living around the Kund. People would gather and sit on the multiple levels of stairwell, and exchange conversation. Although Panna Meena ka Kund has now stopped being a source of water, it still serves as a place for locals and tourists alike to gather and spend some time chit-chatting. During summer and monsoon, you can see young local boys competing among themselves by jumping into the pool from the edge of the Kund above. Elderlies sit along the many staircases, and it is also a great place for couples to spend some quality time together, dangling their legs off the edge of the stairwells. Clearly, Panna Meena ka Kund is still upholding its heritage by being the community centre it always was.

Ram Niwas Garden, Jaipur

Ram Niwas Garden is a royal garden built in 1868 by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh in the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur. The beautiful garden is located in the core of the city and is considered as a historical landmark in India. It occupies over 30 acres of land and is the location of the Albert Hall Museum or the Central Museum. Tourists visit Ram Niwas Garden from all over the world to experience the regal vibe of this historical landmark and get a glimpse of the lifestyle of the royalties during the British Era. One can explore the lush green landscaped gardens and or visit the theatre, the Bird Park, the Zoo or the Art Gallery. The location is apt as a picnic spot and locals frequently visit to rejuvenate with friends and family.

The scenic Ram Niwas Bagh also has an exhibition ground reserved for exhibition purposes. There are ample facilities for picnickers as there are some spots meant only for them. There are several cafes located near the quaint garden that tourists can stop by to grab a bite or two of the local delicacies of Rajasthan. The bird park is a treat for bird watchers and nature lovers. Several birds flying together in a group is a mesmerising sight not just for the children but the grown-ups too. The beautifully landscaped garden also has some fountains that add freshness to the serene atmosphere. After sunset, the garden is lit with lamp posts that emit a warm glow and make it look even more fascinating.

Govind Ji Temple, Jaipur

Probably one of the most significant temples for Krishna followers after Vrindavan, Govind Dev Temple is located within the City Palace of Jaipur. Locals believe that the statue of the deity here looks exactly like Krishna’s form during his incarnation of Earth. From early in the morning to the late night, the air is thick with the sounds of Mangala Aarati at dawn and Shayana Aarati at night. Built during the reign of Emperor Akbar by Sawai Man Singh in 1590 and was regarded as being one of the largest temples of the world during its time.

Being dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple sees an upbeat and exciting celebration during the Janmashtami time in August. As the Temple is the part of the City Palace, which was the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur, it has a beautiful coexistence of Hindu, Muslim and Western architectural traits. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Inside it, one can see some beautiful European chandeliers and paintings of Indian art.

World Trade Park Jaipur

World Trade Park is a famous shopping, recreational and entertainment hub in Jaipur. It is owned by Yatharth Varshney and was opened to the public in 2012, after two years of construction. The park occupies over 52 acres of land and required an amount of over 3.5 billion rupees for its establishment. It has two separate blocks on either side of a major street in Jaipur. These blocks are connected by a bridge that can be used by the customers to explore the entire mall which houses over 500 stores, a food court, cinema screens and other recreational zones. The 11 storey tall buildings adorn a blue and silver colour scheme externally and are lit every evening for the guests.

The first and foremost thing that attracts people to the World Trade Park in Jaipur is shopping. With over 500 stores, the mall has a variety of western and ethnic clothing stores for men, women and children. There are also a number of accessory stores, footwear shops, bags, luggage, watches, Jewellery brands, sportswear, handicraft shops, gift shops, beauty, skin care and cosmetic stores. Those looking to buy home décor also have enough options to buy their furniture and other home décor items. The electronics and gadget stores are also a crowd puller because they always have the latest technology for their customers.

Raj Mandir Cinema, Jaipur

Raj Mandir Cinema was conceptualized in the late-1960s by Mehtab Chandra Golcha. The cinema was his dream project. He wanted to build a stylish and elegant Cinema Hall where viewers would get an experience as close to royalty as possible. Raj Mandir Cinema was created with the intention of crossing the boundary of traditional cinema and providing a complete experience along with the movies. Mehtab Chandra Golcha wanted his audiences to feel like royal guests who were invited to a palace to enjoy the regal architecture and entertainment. With Raj Mandir Cinema, a new era of cinema began in Jaipur.

The majestic architecture of the building consists of an artistic quality that gives a sense of mystery and illusion that each person visiting would find appealing. Raj Mandir Cinema is also entitled “Pride of Asia” for its magnificent architecture, the ambience and the surreal experience it provides to its audiences. The Cinema has a massive theatre that can accommodate over 300 people at a time. The seating structure divided into four categories – the Pearl Seats, the Ruby Seats, the Emerald Seats and the Diamond Seats.

Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing Jaipur

The Anokhi Foundation aims to preserve the centuries-old customs and traditions of the artisans in Jaipur. the foundation has been running a museum, Anokhi Museum of Handmade Paintings, where it exhibits various artefacts in relation to the hand and block printing. Exhibiting the oldest forms of Rajasthani art, the Anokhi museum of hand printing houses more than a hundred hand printed garments keeping alive the age-old tradition of printing clothes. Located in the Anokhi haveli or the “Chanwar Palkiwalon ki Haveli”, the museum is a charitable foundation started by the clothing brand named Anokhi. The haveli which once used to a house of the royal palanquin bearers has been turned into a museum wherein you get a glimpse of the lengthy process of hand printing a garment. The restored gorgeous museum holds a UNESCO certification in 2000 for its amazing works in the preservation and interpretation of the art form.

This museum is dedicated to the collection, preservation and interpretation of block printed cloth. If you have an inclination towards art then this is a must for you and if not then a visit to this museum will surely awaken the artist and admirer inside you. The popular museum that opened in 2005 gains its popularity with its on-site demonstration of the art forms by the artisans. On the rooftop of the haveli, you will come across various artisans who showcase their works to the interested visitors.

Chand Baori, Jaipur

Chand Baori is a major tourist attraction site in Abhaneri village that belongs to 10th-century monuments that showcase Rajasthani architectural expertise and talents. It is a humongous step well with flights of steps on the three sides that lead to the water reserve. The step well is more than 13 storeys deep and is adorned with more than 3500 steps. In spite of it being more 1000 years old, the stepwell has remained in a remarkable condition.

Chand Baori is an architectural marvel with thousands of symmetrical steps functioning as a water reservoir in the semi-arid region of Rajasthan. Maintained by the Archeological Survey of India, this beautiful architecture is no longer in use but it still boasts of the amazing mathematical precision and the ancient Indian sculptural style of the bygone eras. This deepest step well of the world attracts many travel junkies from all around for its magnificence that leaves you fascinated for its historical belief and architecture.

Masala Chowk, Jaipur

Masala Chowk is the newest addition to eateries in Jaipur. Located in Ram Niwas Garden, this open-air food court offers 21 flavours of the Pink City under one roof (or sky). Masala translates to spice and chowk in Hindi means an open area or public square. The wordplay perfectly sums up the meaning of the place – a variety of booths serving authentic Indian street food. Initially, the place was meant to attract tourists, given its proximity to the famous Albert Hall Museum in the area. However, Masala Chowk has become the talk of the town amongst the locals too.

Masala Chowk brings the best Jaipur has to offer in street food and assembles it at one place. The place will leave you spoilt with choice. The fact there is no other such restaurant in competition, Masala Chowk gathers a large crowd. The eateries spread all over the town earlier can now be accessed in one place, packing lip-smacking flavours. A wide range of dishes offered at affordable prices makes Masala Chowk even more exceptional. Food items include Pani Puri, samosas, sandwiches, dosas, chaat, and much more. You name it; they have it.

Akshardham Temple, Jaipur

Also known as Swaminarayan Temple, Akshardham Temple in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is dedicated to Lord Narayan or Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural heritage. Although the construction is relatively recent, the gardens and the views are what attract tourists and devotees to this place. It provides a window into the Hindu culture and its development in the region. The complex houses a magnificent temple surrounded by well-kept landscaped gardens. Located in the heart of the city of Jaipur, Akshardham Temple is one of the holiest and most popular places in the region.

Akshardham Temple is one of the nine temples built in some major cities in India. These temples were built by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan under the Sanstha, Swaminarayan Sampraday which was established in the early 20th century by Ramanand Swami. The Akshardham Temple in Jaipur is dedicated to Lord Vishnu while the other temples are dedicated to other Hindu Gods but all the temples are known as the Akshardham Temple, Swaminarayan Temple or Swaminarayan Akshardham in the respective areas.

Chand Pol, Jaipur

Located in the heart of the old and walled city of Jaipur, Chandpole Bazaar is one of the city’s most beloved marketplaces. Creativity and diversity come together in this bazaar to offer the visitors a vast array of things to pick and choose from. Historically, Chandpole is one of the first built markets of the Pink City and is almost three centuries old! No wonder then, that the market has been constructed in the traditional manner – with pink walls along its borders. In fact, there is a beautiful, towering gateway named after the market itself, called Chandpole Gate, that guards one end of the bazaar area, while at the other end there is the Choti Chaupad. Spread over an area of 1 km, the market has more than 350 unique stores selling various kinds of artefacts, clothes, jewellery, and spices.

Chandpole Market is historically famous for amazing and intricate marble sculptures. This is a speciality art form of Rajasthan, and decor items of different sizes and designs are sold in a wide range of prices all-over the market. Other than that, the bazaar is also a hub for doing your last minute souvenir shopping, as well as purchasing some essentials for your further trip.

Johari Bazaar, Jaipur

Painted in pink, Johari Bazaar is the oldest market in Jaipur popular for its vibrant ambiance, delicious food and premium quality Kundan jewellery. Considered a haven for the jewellery junks, the market offers a wide variety of glittering Jaipuri jewellery made in gold, silver, diamonds, emeralds, and rubies. The Hindi word ‘johari’ itself translates to ‘jeweller’ in English. Dotted with compact shops strewn with colourful apparels, flamboyant juttis, and exuberant lehengas, the narrow labyrinthian lanes are bustling with activity all day long. Situated at the Badi Chaupar and Sanganeri Gate, the bazaar is especially popular among people getting ready for weddings.

From textiles to handicrafts, pottery, quilts, apparels and footwear, there is nothing you can not find here. Jaipuri cotton quilt is another one of the top selling products at the bazaar. The market also has some high-end big brand stores but the highlight of Johari Bazaar is the street stalls and stray shops littered with goods at throw-away prices. However, you should remember to bargain the prices before you settle on something.

Amrapali Museum Jaipur

Amrapali Museum is one of the underrated hidden gem of Jaipur that you cannot miss. It has an exclusive display of some of the gorgeous and valuable jewels of ancient days and different styles of Indian jewellery art. You may not be interested in going to a place fully loaded with only jewels but when you will enter the Museum, you will surely be mesmerized by their outstanding collection.You can find a huge collection of tribal jewellery and collections here, which is clearly the main attraction of this place. You will also find items from different fields like Mughal, Rajput, Temple and many others. Moreover, you can even try the jewels on request.

The Amrapali Jewelers was founded by Rajesh Ajmera and Rajiv Arora in the eighties, which made its name in tribal jewellery and exquisite jewellery. The Amrapali Museum was established afterwards, with two floors and showcases nearly every kind of jewellery that is worn by people of India. It is very easy to navigate as well, situated at Ashok Nagar, the Central Part of Jaipur City. The Jaipur Railway station is also very near to the Museum and the airport is also easily accessible from here. The Museum remains open all day of the week from 11 am to 6 pm. It is closed on Sunday.

Central Park, Jaipur

Constructed by the Jaipur Development Authority, the Central Park of Jaipur is the largest park in the most popular city of Rajasthan, Jaipur. Located near the famous statue circle, the park is a prime hangout place for people of all ages and groups. You can have a small picnic with family and just goof around with your friends, the park gives you plenty of lush green landscape to enjoy your day out. The luscious green park is located inn the center of Jaipur city beside the Statue circle on Prithviraj Road, Rambagh.

With its big lush garden and a long-running track, the park also has the tallest and the first day and night national flag that attracts many tourists to spend some time in this park. You may also come across various professional researchers in a lookout for many native and migratory birds that come to cool off in the park. Apart from these, the park is also well-known among the locals for its workout are and yoga sessions

Rambagh Palace Jaipur

Rambagh Palace was originally built in 1835 and has gone through many royal transitions: from the home of the queen’s favorite handmaiden to royal guesthouse and hunting lodge, and later as the residence of the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and his queen, Maharani Gayatri Devi. It is now a heritage hotel run by the Taj Hotels and resorts. The Palace has been playing gracious host to several renowned guests, such as Lord Louis Mountbatten, Prince Charles and Jacqueline Kennedy. The hotel is known as “Jewel Of Jaipur”.

Kanak Vrindavan Garden Jaipur

Kanak Vrindavan Garden is a royal garden located on footsteps of Nahargarh hills near Amber Fort. The garden was built around 280 years ago by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Its layout has been given a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Divided into eight sections, the sprawling garden boasts of the intricate fountain of marble, Parikrama and the exquisite mirror work on the walls of Govind Devji temple built in the premises. The gardens here are often compared with those in Vrindavan where Lord Krishna once lived. There is also a sacred spot inside the garden where several rivers meet. The water in this region is considered to be holy and a temple was built near it to praise Lord Vishnu.

Sargasuli Tower, Jaipur

Sargasuli Tower or Isar Lat is a historical heritage monument situated near Tripolia Gate of City Palace in Jaipur. The seven tiered minaret is built in a fashion similar to that of Qutub Minar in Delhi and Kirti Stambh of Chittorgarh. The tower has a tiny entry with a spiralling staircase and every tier has a balcony outlet.

Khole Ke Hanuman Ji Temple, Jaipur

Located on the Delhi bypass in Jaipur at Lakshman Dungri, Khole Ke Hanuman Ji Temple is a Hindu revered temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is perched on a hillock and offers some panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Besides, the shrine has a spacious sanctum which can accommodate around 500 people at once.

Khole Ke Hanuman Ji Temple was constructed by Pandit Radhe Lal Choubey in 1960. It is said that Radhe Lal ji was on an outing when he spotted a rock with a carving of Lord Hanuman. He thought of it as a sign and decided to build the temple. Some also recognize the area as Narwar Das ki Khol where Baba Nirmal Das spent most of his life worshipping Lord Hanuman centuries ago. When the temple was constructed, it was just a tiny shrine that occupied about 100 square feet of area in the Lakshman Dungri Hills. With time, the complex was expanded and new structures were built around the sanctum sanctorum.  

Digamber Jain Mandir Sanghiji, Jaipur

Digamber Jain Mandir Sanghiji is a Jain temple situated 16 kms away from Jaipur in the town of Sanganer. Built of red sandstone, the temple enshrine Adinath- the first Jain tirthankara in the central shrine. Boasting of Shikhara style architecture, the temple has several carvings on the inner walls of the shrine of lotuses, creepers and elephants

Sisodia Rani Garden, Jaipur

Sisodia Rani Garden is a royal garden built in the premises of the Sisodia Palace in Jaipur. As the name suggests, it was built in 1728 in the honour of the Queen of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as a summer retreat. The step garden, although not too large in area, is considered to be a tranquil escape in the hot and arid region of Jaipur. The landscaped gardens occupy several cascading levels in front of the Sisodia Palace and have a central water fountain with channels running through. It does not take a lot of time to explore this attraction. So, tourists around Lal Dungri or those on their way to Agra can take a pit stop here. The best time to explore this garden is in the mornings or the evenings as the place is not densely covered with trees and the afternoon heat could become unbearable.

Sisodia Rani Garden consists of three levels of lush green lawns with a central fountain area. The topmost level is occupied by the Sisodia Palace. The best part about visiting Sisodia Rani Garden is that it is close to most of the top places to visit in Jaipur such as Moti Dungri Temple, Rusi Rani Village as well as the most famous market to visit in Jaipur – Bapu Bazaar.

Garh Ganesh Temple, Jaipur

Garh Ganesh Temple is an ancient temple built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh before he laid the foundation stone of the city of Jaipur. The temple is located near Jaigarh and Nahargarh Forts on the Aravalli Hills. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesh who is revered in Vigra Purushakriti, which means his child-form is worshipped here. The temple is often a halting spot for trekkers who explore the Aravalli Hills for a fabulous view of the city. The devotees of Lord Ganesha visit frequently to offer prayers for he is the Lord of Education and his name is often chanted before beginning any new venture.

Elefantastic, Jaipur

Elefantastic, situated at the capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur, is a place that will change your perception of an elephant sanctuary forever. The elephants here are treated nicely, and it also boasts of its great hospitality, extreme geography, kaleidoscopic culture, deep-rooted spirituality, photogenic chaos and love for animals.

This place was created by Rahul Choudhary, who once was a mahout (elephant rider) himself. His dream was to set up a rehabilitation centre for the elephants and support their respective mahouts and owners who generally hail from a low-income group. Elefantastic provides a safe house for the elephants and also educates about daily life and the events of elephants.

Jawahar Circle, Jaipur

Jawahar Circle is situated in Malviya Nagar in Jaipur and boasts of being the largest circular park in Asia. The park has a peculiar jogging track and is encircled by a rose garden. Besides, it has play area for kids and kiosks. The main highlight of the park is the dance of the musical fountains which is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city.

Jawahar Circle is located in the middle of a highway in Rajasthan. Although the circle serves the purpose of a roundabout, it is quite a crowd puller for its landscaped gardens with beautifully developed pavements and jogging tracks. Jawahar Circle is a recent addition to the attractions in Jaipur. It was built by the Jaipur Development Authority in 2009 and took INR 17 million to be built. Locals visit Jawahar Garden mostly for their morning/ evening walks and recreational activities. But tourists also find it quite interesting to explore this unique creation in the middle of the hot and arid region of Jaipur. The place also has fountains and often, to see the splendid musical and light fountain show, people flock to Jawahar Circle in the evenings.

Karauli, Jaipur

The ancient town of Karauli was founded in 1348 and is located in the state of Rajasthan. It holds the reputation of being the home of Shri Madan Mohanji, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Krishna. No wonder then, that Karauli is home to more than 300 temples. The rich, vibrant and colourful heritage and culture of Rajasthan can be glimpsed in this town which makes it a perfect place to visit on a vacation. Karauli also has a lot of forts and palaces with splendid architecture that are a must visit. The temple town of Karauli is all the more auspicious as it is believed that the ruling family here, are direct descendants of Lord Krishna. A city, rooted in traditions, it is characterised by the warmth of its people. Located on the ‘Golden Quadrilateral’ of India – on the Jaipur – Agra Highway, it can be easily reached by cars and public transport.

Bhandarej, Jaipur

Bhandarej located in the Duasa district in Rajasthan is a quaint and perfect place to getaway from the hustle bustle of the city. This is a vibrant and colourful place that is beautifully juxtaposed with the intricate stone monuments. Bhandarej is full of scenic beauty and picturesque landscapes. The various flora and fauna that inhabit here makes the place even more mesmerizing. The ancient temples dating back to the Mahabharata period are quite a sight to see and would leave you awestruck. This place is ideal for people who are seeking for serenity and calmness.

Samode Palace, Jaipur

Samode Palace or Samode Haveli is a heritage monument built 175 years ago as a residence of the rulers of Samode and it is still occupied by them who have converted the Palace into a luxury hotel. Samode Palace has been host to royalty, celebrities, artists, and the discerning travellers and the beauty of this Palace has made it a backdrop for numerous national and international movies. Built in a mixture of Mughal and Rajput architectural style this place is home to various kinds of arts and paintings.

Samode was one of the grand places of Jaipur, built in the 19th century. The prominence of the building is the lovely Diwan-i-Khas covered with innovative paintings and mirror work. It’s a perfect spot for hangouts, weddings, and picnics. Samode is famed for Samode Palace and Samode Bagh and Samode is an ideal desert getaway. The place is best suited for organizing events like weddings and other parties. Rajasthani grandeur with rich taste is perfect for family and solo outings.

Hari Mahal Palace, Jaipur

Hari Mahal Palace is one of the best heritage hotels in Jaipur, for experiencing the Heritage of the city. The palace is located in the heart of the city and was built as the residence of Rajadhiraj Hari Singhji of Achrol. Rajadhiraj Mahendra Singh, the descendant of the Achrol family is still living in one part of the palace and the other part of the palace has now been converted into a Heritage Hotel. The architecture of the Palace is mixed up in Rajputana, Mughal, and British styles. Hari Mahal was built in 1930 by the descendants of Maharaja Prithvi Raj of Amber.

Accommodations in Hari Mahal Palace are available in heritage style and luxury. Decorated with traditional designs and patterns, the rooms have been equipped with all modern facilities. The Heritage Wing has 11 rooms with the themes of different regions. The gorgeous furnishings embrace vibrant colours of the princely states that they have been named after. Original artworks and photographs add to the heritage. Apart from these, the resort also has Family and Deluxe Wings.

Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur

Considered to be an idyllic place to spend a romantic vacation together, Rajmahal Palace is one of the oldest and the most beautiful heritage hotels located in the heart of the ‘Pink City’. Reflecting the royal standard of the House of Amber, the palace is enclosed within tall walls amidst verdant green trees. The gorgeous palace was conceived and constructed by the Maharaja of Jaipur- H.H Sawai Jai Singh II in the love and honour of his wife and queen- Chandra Kanwar Ranawat ji, as a private palace and a summer retreat. Boasting of immaculate architecture, mirrored walls, enormous windows and elaborately carved interiors, the palace stands tall as a testimony of the rich culture and heritage of the bygone era. Along with several other features, the highlight of the palace is its rich history of hosting celebrities and notable personalities from all over the world which include Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II herself, other members of the British royal family, Jackie Kennedy, Lord and Lady Mountbatten, and the Shah of Iran etc.