Jaipur is the capital city of the desert state, Rajasthan, and one of the most sought after tourist destinations as well. Having Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan just approaching, and a long weekend ahead, travelers must be planning their long weekend trip to Jaipur. This 3-day itinerary will whisk you away to magnificent forts, awe-inspiring palaces, bustling bazaars, and the magic of Jaipur goes far beyond its color palette, all while indulging in the city’s delectable cuisine. So, get ready to be overwhelmed by Jaipur, the “Pink City” in the heart of Rajasthan! Here’s everything you need to know for your long weekend trip to Jaipur.
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An ultimate 3-day Jaipur itinerary
This 3-Day itinerary is JAM PACKED, but a mix of cultural, historical and culinary experience. You will be exploring landmark monuments, eating the best of traditional food, soaking in the natural beauty as well as shopping in the markets of Jaipur. It is created in the best order for you to be in the right place at the right time.
Jaipur Itinerary Day 1
- Sunrise at Amer Fort
- Get clicked at Panna Meena ka Kund
- Spot the largest canon at Jaigarh fort
- Sunset with cityscape at Nahargarh Fort
- Admire Beauty at Jal Mahal
Sunrise at Amer fort
An incredible way to start your time in Jaipur is to begin your trip by visiting the iconic Amber Fort (also known as Amer Fort), a gorgeous spot in Amer, a little town 20 minutes away from Jaipur. It’s best to visit in the morning when it opens as it is super quiet that time making it the perfect place to watch the sunrise. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has numerous courtyards, palaces, halls and gardens. It will take approximately 1.5-2 hours to wander through the grounds.
Get clicked at Panna Meena Ka Kund (Stepwell)
Panna Meena Stepwell is a beautiful spot that is no longer in use, situated in Amer. It’s muted pink colors and gorgeous symmetry makes for a really unique spot! Depending on the day, you may or may not be able to visit the steps as it’s meant to be no longer open to tourists. It’s a little confusing here and depends on the guard in charge as to whether or not you can have a quick picture on the steps. But even if you can’t, it’s a beautiful spot to view from ground level as well.
Spot the largest canon at Jaigarh fort
Follow this up with a trip to the nearby Jaigarh Fort. Jaigarh Fort and Amer Fort are connected by subterranean passages and are typically considered as one complex. Despite its ancient construction, it still retains most of its imposing citadel appearance. Visitors can see the Jaivana cannon, the world’s largest when it was built in the 18th century.
Sunset with cityscape at Nahargarh fort
Next up is Nahargarh Fort (“abode of tigers”) on the edge of the Aravallis. Along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh once formed a strong defensive ring around Jaipur. The fort looks particularly brilliant when it is lit up at night. It is one of the most popular spots to catch sunset in Jaipur. Hundreds of people come here at night for the breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset. Enjoy the vibrant city lights, grab a bite to eat, and soak in the incredible scale of Jaipur from this iconic spot.
Admire Beauty at Jal Mahal
End your day with a glimpse of the enchanting Jal Mahal. This hidden palace sits mysteriously in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. While you can’t go inside, its stunning reflection on the water makes it a must-see. Originally built as a hunting lodge, it was transformed by a flood into a water palace. The mere sight of this scintillating palace in water seems like a golden jewel at night.
Jaipur Itinerary Day 2
- Instaworthy pics at Patrika Gate
- Learn Astronomy at Jantar Mantar
- Witness Architecture at City Palace
- Shopping your heart out
Instaworthy pics at Patrika Gate
Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise at Patrika Gate. This colorful landmark, leading into a beautiful park, is adorned with stunning murals showcasing Rajasthan’s rich history and culture. While it’s a photographer’s dream, be prepared for crowds, especially early morning when locals and couples flock to the spot.
Learn astronomy at Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is a remarkable 18th-century observatory in Jaipur. Built by a brilliant king, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with giant tools used to study the stars. These impressive structures, including the world’s largest sundial, offer a glimpse into India’s rich scientific past.
Witness architecture at City palace
The City Palace in Jaipur is a magnificent 18th-century royal residence turned museum. Once home to Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, it’s now a popular tourist spot showcasing stunning artwork, textiles, weapons, and royal halls, all set against a backdrop of impressive architecture.
Shopping your heart out
One of the things that can’t go unnoticed is shopping in jaipur. Jaipur’s bustling markets are a sensory overload. Overflowing with shops, tourists, locals, and endless products, they offer a vibrant shopping experience. With so much to see and buy, it’s easy to get lost in the excitement. The city is loud, and vibrant, and if you blink for just a second, you might miss something incredible.
Jaipur Itinerary Day 3
- Enjoy the backdrop at Albert Hall
- Soak in the holiness Monkey Temple
- Go adventurous at Jhalana Leopard Safari
- Feel the wind at Hawa Mahal
Enjoy the backdrop at Albert Hall
The Albert Hall Museum is the oldest museum of Rajasthan and one of the most popular photography sites of Jaipur. It is also famous for its numerous pigeons out the front. Watching the sunrise at this beautiful spot and taking a few snaps would definitely make your day. Many locals come here to take pre-wedding photos with the birds.
Soak in the holiness at Monkey temple
Follow this up with a trip to Galtaji next, an ancient pilgrimage center set among low hills. The place has temples, pavilions, and holy kunds (natural springs and water tanks) where pilgrims bathe. The main interest here is the Monkey Temple, also known as the Galwar Bagh due to a large group of resident monkeys. Atop the hill is a small shrine devoted to the sun god called the Surya Mandir. Spend some time in this peaceful place before moving on.
Go adventurous at Jhalana Leopard Safari
Near Galtaji is the Jhalana Leopard Safari Park. It is home to around 30-35 leopards out of which six to seven animals travel across the tourist zone. Besides leopards, there are also an estimated 20 panthers in the forest area, as well as striped hyenas, desert foxes, golden jackals, chital, Indian palm civets, blue bulls, jungle cats, Indian pitta, dusky eagles, owls, Indian rollers, and hawks, among many other species. You won’t forget your safari experience for days to come.
Feel the wind at Hawa Mahal
If you still have some time left over after your safari ride, head to Hawa mahal. This iconic pink sandstone palace is famous for its hundreds of tiny windows. Built for royal women to watch the city without being seen, it’s a stunning example of Rajput architecture.
Wrap up your Jaipur trip dining at one of the best restaurants of Jaipur to enjoy the royal vibe of the city. There are rooftop restaurants, restaurants with regal settings, and places that serve authentic traditional cuisine.
How to Get to Jaipur
By Plane: The Sanganer Airport is the nearest domestic and international airbase to Jaipur. The airport has one terminal, namely Terminal 2 that serves both domestic and international carriers. After reaching the airport, travelers can hire a taxi or cab to reach anywhere in the city.
By Train: The beautiful city has its own railhead, Jaipur Railway Station, which is well linked with major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Kolkata, Ludhiana, Bhopal, Lucknow, Hyderabad and Goa, among others. Apart from this, visitors must also try the very famous luxury train, Palace on Wheels.
By Road: Jaipur is connected with NH8, NH11 and NH12. Both AC Volvo and Non-AC Deluxe buses are available which were operated by The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) and private agencies as well, to and fro from Jaipur.
Where to stay in Jaipur
Because Jaipur is quite large and the attractions are all spread out, there is not one perfectly central location that would make sightseeing the most convenient. You may opt to stay at Airbnb in Jaipur or the historic heritage havelis or you may also choose luxury hotels to budget hotels in Jaipur for your accommodation.
What to eat in Jaipur
The best experience one can have is engaging in Jaipur’s culinary heritage. This long weekend trip to Jaipur will give you enough time to try on each and every delight of this city. Don’t miss trying out the traditional Rajasthani thali made up of ker sangri, gatte ki sabzi; Rajasthani kadhi, and panchmel dal. Besides this, dal baati churma, and laal maas are also mainstays of the region’s cuisine. Know everything about Rajasthani food and explore the best places to eat traditional food. Trying out sweets and street food in Jaipur is also a must.
How to get around Jaipur
There are many best ways to explore Jaipur. There’s a prepaid taxi counter at Jaipur airport, and a prepaid auto rickshaw counter at the railway station. App-based cab services Uber and Ola also operate in Jaipur. It’s possible to book cab services for all-day sightseeing and even for the whole long weekend trip to Jaipur. There are many reputable cab services in Jaipur you can hire.
The Ultimate Jaipur Travel Packing Checklist
Waterproof jacket or raincoat and umbrella is an absolute must during this time as it is raining a lot. Also don’t forget to bring a waterproof pouch or bag to protect your essentials from rain.
Opt for quick-dry clothing like polyester or nylon for tops and bottoms as they dry quickly. Also, quick-dry shoes are ideal.
Dress modestly when visiting temples and follow local customs.
Carry lightweight sweaters or sweatshirts as evenings may get cooler or for the air-conditioned spaces.
You’ll need to climb some steep steps or walk on slopes. It is definitely recommended bringing some well-soled shoes like a pair of sneakers.
Mosquitoes can be a problem during the rainy season. So do carry insect repellents with you. Also carry moisturizer and wet wipes as humid weather can dry out your skin or you may also need quick freshen-ups.
Electronic gadgets like cameras and accessories, Smartphones and chargers, and power banks for on-the-go charging so that you are never at pause on your long weekend trip to Jaipur.
Popular Scams and Advice and Tips For The Jaipur
Jaipur offers a plethora of experiences for every kind of traveler. However, like any popular tourist destination, Jaipur has its share of scams targeting unsuspecting visitors. Being aware of these scams and knowing how to avoid them can ensure that your long weekend trip to Jaipur is safe, enjoyable, and memorable for all the right reasons.
Fake ticket booking: Scammers often set up fake ticket offices or near tourist attractions, offering overpriced or counterfeit tickets. So book your tickets through reputable websites or travel agencies or from official counters or websites.
Gem and Jewelry Scams: Jaipur is renowned for its exquisite gems and jewelry, but it’s also a hotspot for scams. Be wary of unsolicited offers, especially from friendly locals. They might lure you into fake shops, where you’ll be pressured into buying overpriced or counterfeit items.
Taxi and Auto-rickshaw Scams: Drivers may quote exorbitant prices, take longer routes, or claim that your hotel is closed or fully booked to take you to a different hotel, where they receive a commission. Always agree on the fare beforehand and use prepaid and reputable taxi services available at airports and major train stations.
Temple Scams: Some temples might have people offering to assist you with rituals or blessings for a fee. These are often scams. Be cautious and respectful of religious practices without feeling pressured.
Pickpocketing: Like any tourist destination, Jaipur can experience pickpocketing. Be mindful of your belongings,especially in crowded areas.
Tips to Stay Safe
Bargaining: Haggling is common in Jaipur markets, but be firm and reasonable. Avoid getting carried away by aggressive sellers.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
Use Reputable Guides and Services: Research and book tours or transportation through reputable companies.
Carry Essential Documents Safely: Keep your passport, visa, and other important documents in a secure place.
Be Cautious with Photography: Some locals might ask for money to take photos with them. Be clear about your intentions before agreeing.
And that brings us to the end of a very lengthy but hopefully helpful 3-day itinerary for your long weekend trip to Jaipur.
