Nestled in the heart of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jaipur stands proud as its capital city. The city radiates with the opulence of rich history, valorous kings, and majestic beauty.
It isn’t just another popular tourist spot but a perfect blend of modern metropolitan cities with historical honors. The city offers a vast tapestry of fortified forts, vibrant locations, informative museums, bustled bazaars, and world heritage sites.
This is your ultimate guide to help you find the best places to visit in Jaipur and various things to do in Jaipur. You will receive proper tips, advice, and insights from when to visit Jaipur to what to expect. Read ahead, as this is your quick roadmap to exploring Jaipur City:
A Meticulously Planned City of Indian Royalty
Jaipur can be considered one of the earliest planned cities. Maharaj Sawai Jai Singh II founded Jaipur in 1727. However, before building the city, he read many books on architecture and consulted Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Brahmin scholar.
Maharaj Jai Singh was adamant about enhancing the security aspects of the city, mainly due to the evident threats of the foreign forces. The city was established within four years, and its infrastructure was heavily inspired by the Vastu Shastra. Along with the 9 blocks, the city received massive fortifications and nine gates to secure it.
However, the ‘Pink City’ was named in 1876 when the Prince of Wales decided to visit Jaipur. To welcome such prominent guests, the city was painted pink, enhancing its vibrancy.
Hence, the city received its title. With time, Jaipur has grown with hospitals, industries, and colleges to remain a modern and highly secure city in today’s world.
Best Places To Visit In Jaipur
City Palace
While history has primarily depicted Rajputanas and Mughals as opposing forces, City Palace is a testament to the brilliance they could achieve in unison. It is a fusion of Rajputana and Mughal architecture, where the royal family of Jaipur still resides.
There’s a museum established in parts of the City Palace which humbly welcomes people. If you want to stroll down the historical lane of Jaipur, the City Palace is a perfect place to start.
Jantar Mantar
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II was fond of space, astronomy, science, and math. His interests manifested in the form of Jantar Mantar during the city’s founding years. The Jantar Mantar follows many scientific principles, allowing it to track celestial events and predict eclipses.
It also properly measures and tells times, which astonishes the people. There isn’t much technological equipment, but architectural and infrastructural designs make all of it possible. Jantar Mantar is a part of UNESCO World Heritage, making it one of the best places to visit in Jaipur.
Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is also known as The Palace of Winds. It is a testament to brilliant Indian architecture, which follows a honeycomb design and has 953 small windows (known as Jharokas), which keep the palace cool and welcome the breeze. There’s no heat in the Palace.
However, Hawa Mahal was a significant icon established by Maharaja Sawai Singh to uplift the social stature of women.
During their time, women associated with royal families weren’t allowed to interact with the outside world or strangers. Hawa Mahal provided them with a way to witness the events of the outside world.
Things To Do In Jaipur
The Historical Expedition
Jaipur is the perfect destination for you to learn about the history of Indian royalties, cultures, and heritage. It offers museums and several monumental architectures that you can visit to travel back in time. You will even learn about the Mughals along with Rajputanas.
However, these historical locations offer an avid combination of beauty in their setups, so you can capture picturesque moments and more. They can be the panoramic icon for your Indian Tour.
Retreat To Choki Dhani
Choki Dhani is an artificially created village that attempts to offer an authentic experience of Rajasthani Culture. You can have your fill of Rajasthani cuisine and delights while you explore the mazes, temples, halls, and other iconic structures in the village.
Moreover, it gives you a closer look at the lives of the people as you can treat yourself to Rajasthani Folk Music and dance. There are shops, clothes, and costumes available. You can even enjoy several games. Visiting Choki Dhani is one of the best things to do in Jaipur.
Stroll Through The Bazaar
While Jaipur is part of the popular Golden Triangle Tour, and you may visit a hub like Delhi, the local bazaar in the city offers authenticity like none other. It is one of the city’s highlights where you can walk amongst the locals.
You may purchase many authentic souvenirs if you want to add a cultural touch to your belongings. The bazaars offer genuine goods like quilts, carpets, wooden crafts, handicrafts, decors, bangles, jewellery (gold, ruby, etc.), and more.
Planning Jaipur Tour
When To Visit Jaipur:
Autumn (October to November)
Autumn is one of the decent times to visit Jaipur, as the days cool down with pleasant mornings and evenings. Festive vibes and celebrations like Dusshera, Diwali, etc., will await you. As it is right after the monsoon, you may also benefit from a less tourist crowd and cheaper commodities.
Winters (December to February)
Winter is the peak and perfect season to visit Jaipur. There will be plenty of tourists, but you will also experience the lingering vibes of the festivities. Christmas spirits will be high, and you will have fun strolling down the bazaars or streets in general to receive that organic experience.
Spring (March to April)
Spring is also a decent season to visit Jaipur, while Summer isn’t the favourable time. The festival of Holi will set a colourful and eclectic vibe for you to enjoy the city. There will be folk singing and celebrations. Moreover, you will witness the city’s unique appeal, which isn’t seen in other seasons. However, days will be warm.
Travel Tips When Visiting In Jaipur
Clothing And Accessories
Once you decide when to visit Jaipur, you must contemplate clothing. Generally, from Spring to Autumn, you can wear summer clothes. Highly breathable options that protect your body from the sun will be ideal. You can add extra accessories to comfort yourself further.
For Winters, opt for warmer layers, as Jaipur hits lows of 4 degrees Celsius (39.2 F), you can survive it without many issues.
Interaction And Communication
While Hindi will be the primary language, people in Jaipur will speak English as a secondary option. You won’t have any issues getting by, even with people who speak less English.
If you’re unsure or don’t know the two languages, you can hire a guide or a translator to assist you at the beginning of the tour.
Transportation And Accommodation
Jaipur is a metro city, and there is no lack of transportation. You can find AC Buses, Taxis, and other transportation options like Tuk-Tuk.
However, a private commute will be ideal for you. You can hire a driver. Tuk Tuk-type rickshaw services are better for the winter season or rainy days.
Photography And Videography
There’s no lack of opportunities for photography and videography in Jaipur. Even the sky colors itself in a vivid tapestry for you to capture unique pictures and videos.
However, you will have to check for the rules and regulations of different locations regarding photography and videography. A few places might prohibit these activities.
Shopping And Bargaining
Bargaining is the core of the Indian Market. Even if you’re not good at negotiations, the bazaars of India will prepare you in the best possible way. However, as for the travel tips, when visiting Jaipur, only purchase from recognized and authorized shops and dealers.
Always check multiple shops and have a guide tell you which market suits what kinds of goods.
