Are you looking for the best things to do in Jaipur? You’re not alone! Many of us love travelling, so naturally we’re always on the hunt to find the most popular spots anytime we travel. And when it’s about the pink city, merely the name brings up images of extravagant architecture, colourful fabrics, awesome handicrafts, delicious food and amazing festivities. It’s a lively city that offers the right mix of modern city luxuries along with great heritage places. There is an endless list of things to do in Jaipur. Jaipur conjures of traditions, trendiness, class, majesty, freedom, and newness. This confuses us even more on what to explore. We’ve gathered up top things to do in Jaipur that will help you uncover the beauty this city holds up.
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Explore the popular monuments
There are lots of attractions in the form of magnificent forts, palatial palaces, historical monuments, heritage sites, terrific temples, gorgeous gardens, lively local bazaars, etc. Tourists love to explore these astonishing places in Jaipur. There are numerous spots to visit in Jaipur.
1. Visit the World Heritage Sight – Amer Palace
The impressive Amer Fort and Palace on a hill outside Jaipur is a beautiful blend of Indian and Mughal architectural style. Carved arches, decorated doors, colorful designs on the walls, shiny rooms, picture-perfect gardens and stunning courtyards are spread throughout the fort. It also has several underground tunnels to explore and a huge lake welcomes you to the fort before you enter the courtyard.
2. Panoramic view at Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort is a beautiful fort built in a lovely combination of Indian and European architectural styles.
Earlier it was a point of defense, but today, it is a place that offers a spectacular viewpoint of Jaipur. From the fort, past the walls, you get a scenic view of the extensive, quiet Pink City. Go for short cycling trips to the fort and explore the serene surroundings during the morning hours.
3. Soak in the view of Pink city from Jaigarh Fort
Also known as Victory Fort, Jaigarh Fort is one of the majestic forts in Jaipur built to protect Amer Fort. Both these forts are adjoined through a secretive tunnel-type passage. The highlight of Jaigarh Fort is the Jaivana cannon, the giant cannon on wheels. This cannon was never used in a battle and was fired only once, during the trial run, and the cannonball landed about 35 km away. You get a beautiful view of Jaipur and the surrounding region from Jaigarh Fort.
4. Check out the iconic Hawa Mahal
A visit to the Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal is among the most popular things to do in Jaipur city. This astounding 5-floor structure built of red and pink sandstone has hundreds of small windows and these windows allow a refreshing breeze to pass through the building. During the ancient era, the windows allowed the ladies of the royal family to observe the street without stepping out or having seen. Its beauty becomes even more notable when it gleams with the evening lights.
5. See the present abode of Jaipur King, City Palace
City Palace built mainly with red and pink sandstone is among the most popular places to visit in Jaipur. It is in the heart of the city, and the descendants of the royal family still live here. Known for its architectural style, you’ll find grand courtyards, beautiful gardens and elaborate temples inside the palace. The complex also has different buildings, including two palaces – Chandra Mahal the residence for the royal family and Mubarak Mahal, a museum where royal belongings, clothing and weapons are put for display.
6. Take a look at cosmos at Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built in the 18th century having the World’s Largest stone SunDial. It also has several other instruments which function on the principle of the sun and shadow. The instruments in Jantar Mantar were used to predict the precise time during the day. The devices here can even foresee eclipses and track the location of prominent stars. As the sun sets, you can watch the evening sky filled with stars and other planets and the moon rising up in view.
7. Know the history of Albert Hall Museum
Go speechless at Jaipur Albert Hall Museum, the oldest museum in Rajasthan with its extensive collection of ancient artefacts. The museum has various art galleries, and these galleries exhibit different ancient art pieces, coins and pottery items. You will find carpets, jewellery and marble art, from distinct corners of the world, displayed here. The museum has an Egyptian mummy too. This grand museum within Ram Niwas garden is also a popular photography spot. In the evening, you can unwind in the park watching the museum gleaming with lights.
8. See the vivid colors at Patrika Gate, an Insta-worthy place
Patrika Gate is a grand entrance gate to the circular parks in Asia, Jawahar circle. This rainbow-colored towering gate is bathed in the signature pink color of jaipur. The structure attracts visitors due to its fun color scheme, striking design and a rich architectural design. The gate features gorgeous designs inside and out having nine gorgeously decorated arches that represent the diverse artistic styles of the state, including scenic paintings and spectacular details. Head further the wonders beyond, Jawahar Circle Garden having jogging tracks, fountains and rose gardens and enjoy captivating surroundings and scenic views.
9. Discover Intricate dommed royal cenotaphs at Gaitor
Gaitor Ki Chhatriyan offers beautiful architecture and a wonderful glimpse into the history of the royal family.
This elaborate crematorium features tributes to many members of the Rajput dynasty, including Maharaja Jai SIngh II, who founded the city of Jaipur. In addition to some amazing statues, you will see the tombs of rulers past, engraved with beautiful symbolic designs of their own. The sandstone carvings throughout the building, which depict rural scenes and military conflicts.
10. Witness the beautiful Step well Panna-Meena Kund
Panna Meena ka Kund, also known as the most Instagrammable stepwell is actually also a hidden gem in Jaipur. This peculiar place is located only 10 minutes driving from Amer Fort and that’s why most tourists completely forget about it. It is believed to have been the primary source of water for villagers and temple events. This architectural masterpiece has to be on your list of things to do and see in Jaipur. The zigzag structure of the stairs and pools give it something of a surreal look. You can visit and admire its design and enjoy the cool stone coves.
11. Meet famous personalities at Jaipur wax museum
Jaipur wax museum is the first wax museum in the world set up at a heritage site with 32 wax exhibits in total. This museum is located in the Nahargarh Fort. The museum showcases wax and silicon statues of iconic personalities who have given the best in their fields. The unique features of the statues are the life-like feel of the sculptures with a background to complement the celebrated history of the personality. The 10-foot long bullet ‘Gati Gamini’ at the entrance is a head turner. There are statues of Amitabh Bachchan, Rabindranath Tagore, Maharani Gayatri Devi, Mahatma Gandhi and Deepika Padukone.
ADVENTURE ON THE HILLS
12. Zipline amidst the hills
Tourists can enjoy the Zipline Ride through the treetops, and Aravalli hills. These are connected by an inclined wire sliding at high speed to a height of about 50 feet above the ground. About an hour away from Jaipur is the adventure resort Tao Experiences. It offers various adventure and recreational activities like ATV ride, paintball. You can enjoy ziplining in the backdrop of panoramic hills and get a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
13. Watch the sunrise from Hot Air Balloon
A hot-air balloon safari by skywaltz is among the best things to do in Jaipur. These rides take place two hours before sunrise or two hours before sunset. Each ride is one hour long. But the total time taken, including preparation, is around three hours. So, you’re taken to the outskirts of the city and the balloon takes off. The hot-air balloon passes over fields, lakes and the surrounding villages. It provides a bird’s-eye view of the forts, palaces and other places in the city.
14. Hathni Kund trek
It is also a preferred activity among nature lovers. Embark on an adventurous journey to the Hathni Kund by traversing various terrains on the Aravalli Hills. Walk past moderate jungle, on a mix of rocky and hilly trail crossing old relics of temples now in ruins, and dense jungles as you trek up to the summit at 265 feet. Have an informative tour and learn interesting tales about Jaipur’s history and culture from the professional representative, visit Charan Mandir on your way back home.
15. Enjoy Elephant Polo
Close to the Amer Fort, Dera Amer is a luxurious and gorgeous campsite that is set in a stunning location. The campsite is run by a local family and is based right out of their ancestral home. You can also enjoy an Elephant Polo Match here. The game of the royals, polo originated right here in Jaipur and is played on elephants. While the original rules of the game remain the same, the pitch is two thirds of a traditional Polo pitch.
16. Trek to Bhuteshwar Nath Mahadev
Bhuteshwar Nath Mahadev is an old temple in Jaipur. Trekking at Bhuteshwar Nath Mahadev is one of the best things to do in Jaipur. The trekking trail takes you through the forests present on the hill ranges around the city. The experience is a combination of adventure and spirituality. Enjoy moving ahead on the hill with the help of an experienced guide and immerse yourself in the scenic views of the surroundings. You will also spend a memorable time in the tranquil ambiance as you reach to your destination.
WILDLIFE SAFARI
17. Nahargarh Biological Park
Nahargarh Biological Park in Jaipur is a wonderful place settled around the Aravali mountain range where one can witness a variety of wildlife and enjoy a day out along with friends and family. This sanctuary is a natural habitat of royal animals like lions and a tiger! A once in a lifetime opportunity to witness the great wildlife that one can find in Rajasthan.
18. Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park near Jaipur is one of the most famous wildlife destinations of India. It has several things that provide adventure in Jaipur. It is a Tiger Reserve and boasts of a good density of tiger population. A variety of other wildlife species are also spotted here. It is also home to several species of birds. It remains open from 1st October to 30th June. Sprawling over an area of 392 sq km, the Park also has a wonderful fort inside it. Go on a Jeep safari for wildlife sighting in the park.
19. Jhalana leopard safari
Jhalana leopard safari tour with your friends or family. You can spot leopards, cheetahs and other wildlife creatures. Spread across an area of 23 sq km, the Jhalana Safari park is the first leopard reserve in India located in Jaipur. It is home to 30-35 leopards, spotted deer, blue bulls, wild boars, and migratory birds. Once used to be the hunting grounds of the royals, Jhalana Wildlife Sanctuary is now a great spot to enjoy a safari in the middle of Jaipur city.
20. A Village jeep safari
A real Rajputana royal glory could be felt in Jaipur with Village jeep safari that takes one to visit local villages. One can notice village houses, occupations, agriculture farms, the life of people and visit school and local panchayats.
Be the king today and take some time out either in the morning or evening to witness the real culture.
REJUVENATE IN THE NATURE
21. Appreciate the serenity at Jal Mahal waterfront
Jal Mahal is a five-storey palace surrounded by Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur. Only the top floor is visible of this architectural beauty with the rest submerged in the water. The backdrop of hills and the nature around makes this place worth admiring. Entry to Jal Mahal isn’t permitted but you can admire it from the lakeside. You must visit here when the sun sets and rays fall on this structure and its reflection on the water is breathtaking. The beauty of this water palace is at its peak in the evening when it is illuminated with lights.
22. Sisodia rani ka bagh
Another excellent place that is a beautiful blend of architecture and nature is Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, featuring stunning artworks and bountiful plant life. The garden was originally built by the Maharaja as a gift for his wife, and it still offers a sense of peace and tranquility. It resembles the Charbagh garden, having four sections of garden with a network of walking paths running between them. The beautiful murals and frescoes depicting scenes from history and Hindu theology in its architecture are worth admiring.
23. Smriti Van
This park with a beautiful, tranquil atmosphere, lets you experience serenity and ecstasy in its true essence. It has peaceful trails, dense forests, the reservoir, with its series of lovely ponds filled with fish and lotus flowers, picturesque walking paths through a series of gardens, with a wide variety of native plants and birds for visitors to enjoy. Check out the excellent museum featuring photos and descriptions of the local flora and fauna; and don’t miss the plant nursery. You may catch a glimpse of some avian residents, from free-roaming peacocks to migratory birds.
24. Ramgarh lake
Situated in Sanganer at a distance of 35 km from the main city, Ramgarh lake is a serene site that will definitely take you away from the hustle bustle and tourist crowds of the main city. You can appreciate the true beauty of this lake as you indulge in the wonderful experience of boating along its surface. The area around also makes for an ideal spot to enjoy a picnic or try your hand at angling and fishing!
FEEL THE SPIRITUAL VIBES
25. Feel blessed at Galta ji pilgrimage
Located on the outskirts 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. 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.
26. Birla mandir
At the foot of the Moti Dongri Hill lies a beautiful structure carved in white marble, Birla temple. The temple has three domes at its head which represent different religions. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort Goddess Laxmi. The glass windows are painted to reflect various stories and legends from the Hindu Scriptures. The interior represents the God and Goddesses of the Hindu Religion, the exterior has been carved with important figures from all beliefs including Socrates, Zarasthura, Buddha, Jesus Christ and Confucius.
SOAK IN THE LIVELINESS OF FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
One of the best ways to gain an understanding of the city’s culture is to attend the various fairs and festivals organized there. Year around there are many exciting and multicolored fairs and festivals in Jaipur that are full of festivity, celebration, and gaiety.
27. Peek into the luxury cars of royals with vintage car rally
Jaipur vintage car rally is an interesting event organized in January. This is an annual event of the rally of vintage cars attracting a huge number of vintage car lovers and automobile enthusiasts. You get to see the luxury enjoyed by the maharajas as this rally exhibits some old and rare, but beautiful, models of cars. People from different parts of the country bring their classic cars to be a part of the rally. You can also rent these cars for a ride.
28. Attend the largest literary fest Jaipur Literature Festival
You must attend the annual fest, Jaipur Literature Festival, held in January. This event is the largest literary festival in India that will make you fall for it, if you’re a book lover. This fest gives you an opportunity to listen to your favourite authors and interact with book lovers from around the globe. You will witness an eclectic mix of writers, thinkers and business leaders sharing the same stage. Many eminent personalities including Amish Tripathi, Oprah Winfrey, Salman Rushdie and many more have been a part of it. Debates, discussions, and author interaction sessions are also organized during the event.
EXPERIENCE THE LOCAL CULTURE
29. Learn Hand Block Printing at Local Workshop
Visit the workshops of local artisans to take a look at the printing technique done with the beautifully carved hand blocks. Go through the entire process starting from carving the hand blocks, block printing by the local printers using various blocks and colors, and the washing. You can also try your hands upon a small piece of fabric using the hand blocks and colors. You can even carry this printed sample home as a beautiful souvenir of your own creativity.
30. Embrace the Rajasthani vibe at Chokhi Dhani
Chokhi Dhani is a resort set up on the theme of Rajasthani village. The rustic rural setup and natural surroundings provide a perfect peek into the true Rajasthani culture amidst the modern city life. You can also enjoy puppet shows, Rajasthani folk performances, bullock cart rides, camel rides and elephant rides. Artists perform magic shows, street-style acrobatics and various other shows and activities that connect you to the culture of Rajasthan. You can try the sumptuous Rajasthani traditional dishes and experience the hospitality of Rajasthani culture.
31. Attend an event in Jawahar Kala Kendra
Jawahar Kala Kendra is a must-visit place for art buffs. Here you will witness cultural programmes and shows performed by local artists and various art exhibitions too. For art enthusiasts, visiting JKK is among the most happening things to do in Jaipur. One can witness music festivals, drama shows and craft fairs promoting local products throughout the year. It also organizes art workshops, seminars and classes regularly. The building houses a library and a museum too.
32. Camel safari and elephant safari
Camel rides and elephant rides are the popular things to do in Jaipur. Elephant rides are available at the Amer fort while the camel rides are available almost everywhere in Jaipur, and can be done anytime during the day; even at night. The rides take around half an hour or one hour and the camels help you scour the major tourist places. Some camel rides will also take you to the villages and farms outside the city. You can also book camel safaris to explore the desert area around.
33. Go for a tuk-tuk ride
A tuk-tuk ride is one of the most exciting things to do in Jaipur. These 3-wheel vehicles are the best to navigate through the narrow lanes of the city. Take a tuk-tuk anywhere in the city to your destination place, and the urban safari begins. You’ll enjoy a thrilling ride while you explore the heritage beauty of the inside city and interact with the locals witnessing the true culture.
34. Visit elephant farm
A visit to the elephant farm Elefantastic is one of the best things to do in Jaipur. It is a sanctuary for elephants, set up on the outskirts of the city, near Amer Fort where visitors get a close experience with elephants. You can spend an entire day here, learning how to communicate with them and activities like feeding, bathing, and walking the elephants. Elephant rides are not allowed in this sanctuary.
35. Raj Mandir
Designed in a typically art modern style but displays a traditional royal feel of a bygone era; Rajmandir Cinemas is a truly historic experience. Catch a Bollywood movie here, huge chandeliers in the main hall and exquisite lighting in the lobby make the place look no less than a royal palace. The winding staircases make this an experience worth remembering.
Also check: Top 10 cinema halls in Jaipur
ENJOY THE LOCAL CUISINE
In Jaipur, you can savor various street food items and traditional dishes from the best food joints, traditional and eatery options. The cuisine of Jaipur is too mouthwatering and reflects indigenous traditions. Heading on a ghee-fueled tastebud-fulfilling journey is one of the best things to do in Jaipur. Try Ghewar, Raj Kachori, Mawa Kachori, Dal baati churma, Laal Maans, and Dal Baluchi in Jaipur.
36. Visit a popular restaurant
At popular restaurants you will enjoy an authentic dinner with an alluring view and great food. It is beautifully blue and brimming with culture and history. Peacock Rooftop Restaurant is another popular rooftop restaurant to enjoy the cityscape and sunset view. You can sit there enjoying the view and have a satisfying dinner. Another great place to enjoy the food is at Rambagh Palace treating you with authentic Rajasthani food that’s delicious.
37. Try out an authentic Rajasthani Thali
You should definitely try the Rajasthani Thali that includes multiple authentic dishes like Dal Bati Churma, ker sangri, gatte ka saag. Trying out Rajasthani Thali is the best thing to do for foodies who want to experience the authentic flavors of Jaipur’s local cuisine. There are many places to relish Rajasthani food in Jaipur
38. Go on a street food tour
There are numerous mouth-watering delicacies that are famous in Jaipur that you relish and taste on your trip here. Try out popular food joints such as Rawat Kachori, Pandit Kulfi, Mahaveer Rabri Bandar, Ishwarji Gajak Wale and Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar in Jaipur. They serve everything from pyaz kachori, mirchi bade to local sweets and delicacies. Still if you feel you have missed out on something go to Masala Chowk, a one stop street food destination.
39. Dine out with a local family
If you are all fired up about the city’s food scene, try booking a dinner with a local family. Whether you want to participate in the cooking process, or simply watch, you’ll be able to experience the whole course of a traditional meal, from preparation to consumption. Best of all, you’ll spend that time in the company of people who know these dishes (and the city) deeply. This is a unique way to experience food and culture in a more intimate, personal setting, with some wonderful opportunities for cultural exchange.
COME ALIVE WITH UNDYING NIGHTLIFE
40. Party all night at Pubs and discotheques
The effervescent nightlife in Jaipur is amply highlighted by pubs, bars and discotheques in the city. Try places such as Aza, Blackout, Amigos, the Dragon Club and many more. These are well lit up and are especially captivating in the evening. Replay at Tonk Road, Cocoa House, Dragon Bar and Terrace Lounge, Grunge and Forresta Kitchen & Bar are some great venues you must visit.
Bar Palladio, a popular hangout place designed by a Dutch designer is a perfect bar to have a drink with your favourite people.
41. Light and sound show at Amer Fort
Visit Amer Fort during the evening hours to witness its beauty glittering in the light. Attend the light and sound show during your visit as the feel is entirely different at night. With dawn, the fort lightens up and is a sight to behold. A 50-minute sound and light show is the main attraction narrating the history of the fort and the surrounding region. If you visit the fort on a full moon night you get to see a Kathak performance at the Diwan-e-Khaas.
42. Dine at a rooftop restaurant
Jaipur is beautiful at night when every monument is lit up and looks scintillating golden like a jewel. The rooftop restaurants let you experience the natural beauty of this heritage city and its gleaming royal monuments at its best. You’ll find many places in Jaipur where you can go to the roof and watch the sunset. Rooftop Restaurants in Jaipur are usually known for its city views, soothing ambience and, of course, the food. They have a range of options for snacks and main course dishes from various cuisines. Whether you want to try traditional dishes or something continental, you’ll find it at Rooftop Restaurants.
43. Night safari of Jaipur
Jaipur is a vibrant city, and touring it during the night is something you won’t want to miss. During Jaipur night safari, you’ll be able to visit all the prominent tourist destinations in the city. You can see the beautiful Amer Fort gleaming with lights and attend the light and sound show there. You can also visit Nahargarh Fort during the safari and get a panoramic view of the city illuminated with lights. In the night safari you’ll pass by historic landmarks, old mansions, Haveli, and bustling Bazaars.
SHOPPING THE SOUVENIRS
44. Explore the colorful bazaars:
Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise. A visit to Jaipur is incomplete without exploring its colorful bazaars. The famous pink city has traditional shopping centers at ‘Badi’ and ‘Choti Chaupar’ where you can get fantastic local merchandise, cultural clothes, jewelry and other things made in Rajasthan. From pottery, antiques, and jewelry in semi-precious, precious and cheap verities to textiles, handicrafts, gems, and leather goods, you can get just about everything in the markets. Head this way to explore shopping in Jaipur. The endless varieties and great bargaining options will keep you busy for hours and hours
You can check precious gemstones and handmade necklaces at Johari Bazaar, and lac jewellery and bangles at Tripolia Bazaar.
Chandpole Bazaar is the place for creative handmade items like wooden handicrafts, marble sculptures and handloom stuff.
If you want to buy traditional Rajasthani jootis and mojari shoes, go to Nehru Bazaar. It is also known for traditional clothes and textile items.
Bapu Bazaar is another market where you can find classic Rajasthani goods to take home as souvenirs.
PAMPER YOURSELF BY STAYING IN HERITAGE HOTELS
Apart from its architectural treasures, Jaipur is also famed for its world-class hotels. These hotels are well known for their warm hospitality and contemporary facilities. It has lots of world-class staying options all equipped with contemporary amenities, but having a traditional Rajasthani touch.
45. Stay at heritage hotels
At the Rambagh Palace, the deluxe furnishings in your room will only be matched by the monarchy-worthy service, from onsite butlers to horse-drawn carriage rentals.
Samode Haveli is the place to go if you like plenty of entertainment options; you can check out dance performances and puppet shows in between trips to the spa or time spent lounging by the pool.
If architecture is your thing, head to the Jai Mahal Palace to soak up the Mughal-designed gardens and opulent domes of this 18th-century treasure.
And at the Oberoi Rajvilas, you can unwind in luxurious suites and lavishly appointed tents, all while enjoying a buffet of activities from yoga classes and educational tours to wine tasting and astrology readings.
Some of the forts and palaces of medieval times have been beautifully transformed into heritage hotels to offer an authentic peek into the lifestyle of former royals. If you are not high on budget, there are many other heritage havelis in Jaipur as well.
SENSE ETERNAL BLISS WITH SPA AND AYURVEDA
46. Rejuvenate with a spa:
There are several spa rejuvenation centers that relax your body and mind, relieving all the stress, and providing you with a calm and soothing experience. Kerala Ayurveda Kendra provides massages using Ayurvedic techniques, skin care healing, and yoga. You can also avail services like oil therapies, Panchakarma therapies, skin care, and beauty therapies along with massages for foot, facial, back, head and full body. Go for a variety of massage packs available here such as Aroma massage, Swedish massage, Thai massage,and Ayurvedic massage.
Conclusion
Jaipur is a city that will give you lots of memories and experiences. From exploring the hidden alleys within the forts and checking Rajasthani art in the crowded bazaars to taking a thrilling camel ride, varied shopping destinations, rooftop eating joints and colorful nightlife, everything in Jaipur is bound to pull you back to this heritage yet modern city. So, pull up your socks and get set to explore the nature, the culture, the architecture and the fun this city offers you.
