Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” is in the princely state of Rajasthan. The charming city is dotted with architectural marvels in the form of palaces, forts, and step-wells as well as lesser-known temples and museums that are worth visiting. Here is a list of places must add to your Jaipur itinerary.
Nahargarh Fort, Brahmapuri
Nahargarh, meaning “Abode of Tigers” is a fort located in the imposing Aravalli Hills. The fort was initially called Sudarshan Garh Fort and was constructed as a tranquil retreat for the then king and the royal family. There are two temples, a water tank, and wide corridors with frescoed walls. The intricate Minakari work along the hallways and the Victorian floral paintings are a visual treat.
Address: WRP8+V6G, Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Albert Hall Museum, Johari Bazar Road
The museum is a stunning building with exteriors made of brown and beige stone, surrounded by sprawling lawns. There are sixteen galleries with rooms filled with sculptures and figurines, blue Jaipur pottery, myriad weapons like knives and swords, royal carpets, and even textiles embellished with artisanal work. The "Chhatri" style towers on the exterior enhance the look of the museum.
Address: No. 98, 99, Johari Bazar Rd, Bapu Bazar, Biseswarji, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Hawa Mahal, J.D.A Market
The five-storey monument is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Jaipur and is constructed of red and pink sandstone. The “Palace of Winds” has 953 intricately crafted windows, known as "Jharokhas," that overlook the streets of Badi Choupad. Built for Rajput women who were restricted from appearing in public, the structure allowed them to witness the processions discreetly.
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaigarh Fort, Amer
Meaning the victory fort, Jaigarh Fort is situated on the Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) with views of the Aravalli Range and Maota Lake. The defence structure was used to store the weapons and artillery of the Rajput rulers and became known as the most efficient cannon foundry. The best part of this monument is the underground tunnel that connects Amer city and Jaigarh Fort.
Address: XRJV+MW7, Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan
City Palace, J.D.A Market
The City Palace, which once housed the royal family of Jaipur, is now split into two sections, one of which is devoted to beautiful courtyards and museums while the other is still home to the last ruling royal family. The Mubarakh Mahal exhibits a variety of royal attire and folk embroidery, while the Maharani Palace displays a variety of Rajput weapons. The palace offers a night visit in addition to day visits, which is an experience in itself.
Address: WRGF+8F7, Tulsi Marg, Gangori Bazar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Amer Fort, Amer
The fort is situated atop the Kalikho Hills overlooking Maota Lake, 11 kilometres north of Jaipur. The fort is also called the Amber Palace. It is a fine example of Rajput architecture constructed using red sandstone and white marble. The fort is divided into four levels, each with a lovely courtyard that is worth visiting. During an evening visit, you can experience the light and sound show.
Address: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Birla Mandir, Tilak Nagar
The temple is popularly known as Laxmi Narayan Temple and Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi are the presiding deities here. The white marble structure looks beautiful in contrast to its hilly backdrop. It combines a contemporary architectural style with a hint of regional craftsmanship. Intricate carvings of mythological scenes adorn the walls and pillars, and when sunlight hits the stained-glass windows on either side, it is quite striking.
Address: Birla Mandir, Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, Tilak Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan
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Jantar Mantar, J.D.A. Market
Jantar Mantar, which is a collection of astronomical instruments made of stone, is an open-air observatory equipped with nineteen sizable yantras (instruments). The Samrat Yantra, which is used to gauge the precise time, is the best of the bunch. The observatory is a result of Maharaja Jai Singh II’s fascination with celestial objects.
Address: Gangori Bazar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Panna Meena ka Kund, Amer
The Panna Meena ka Kund or Bawri is an eight-storey, 200-metre deep stepwell full of water year-round. The kund, which was once an old water storage tank, has evolved into an architectural wonder with a set of crisscrossing stairs that draws tourists from all over. Get assistance from a guide or a local to work your way through the staircase, for the steps you used to descend will not take you back up in the same manner.
Address: XVR2+CFX, Amer, Rajasthan
Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, Tilak Nagar
Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple is a popular spot amongst tourists and holds importance for the locals too. It is located at the base of Moti Dungri Hill, a tiny hill that resembles a pearl drop. The temple came into being when the Mewari king, who was commuting with the idol on his bullock cart, made the decision to build a temple wherever the cart stopped for the first time. The place is now home to a shrine depicting Lord Ganesha in a seated position, with the temple walls adorned with scenes from mythology and intricate latticework.
Address: Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, near Birla Temple, Tilak Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jal Mahal, Civil Lines
The water palace is nestled in the centre of the picturesque Man Sagar Lake and appears to float above the water. Originally, the mahal served as the shooting lodge of the Maharaja of Jaipur and is now a beautiful example of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Although access to the mahal's interior is currently limited, you can still enjoy its stunning exterior from the banks of Sagar Lake or while boating on it.
Address: Jacob Rd, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, Ghat ki Guni
Sisodia Rani ka Bagh is a garden situated on the Jaipur-Agra highway, 10 kilometres from the city. Maharaja Sawai Jai built the heritage garden as an expression of his love for his second queen. The garden has multi-layered flower beds and fountains, and also attracts beautiful peacocks that wander amidst the lush greens.
Address: VVX5+QF9, Agra Rd, Ghat Ki Guni, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Sheesh Mahal, inside Amer Fort
The mahal is also known as the Mirror Palace and is a remarkable piece of architecture. The palace is located inside Amer Fort and has walls and ceilings covered in hand-crafted paintings, precious stones, and mirrorwork. The bases of the pillars are carved with floral designs and emit a different colour when looked at from different angles. The play of flickering reflections and illusions is a beautiful sight to witness.
Address: XVP2+77J, Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Galtaji Temple, Galva Ashrama
The temple complex houses many temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Ram with Galtaji being the main attraction. It has seven kunds (water bodies) filled with water from the natural springs flowing through the Aravalli Hills. The temple sees many visitors during Makar Sankranti. Beware of the notorious monkeys while visiting.
Address: Shri Galta Peetham, Galva Ashrama, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Elefantastic - The Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandpole Bazar
Elefantastic, an elephant sanctuary, ought to be on your itinerary if you adore elephants. You can interact with them and enjoy feeding, playing with, and painting them. A day trip with activities like bathing them is an option, as is a night stay where you can spend the night in a tent under the stars, dine with the elephants, and enjoy home-cooked meals.
Address:361, Ankron Ka Rasta, Kishanpole Bazar, Chandpole Bazar, Chandpole, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Images are sourced from the Jaipur Tourism website
Himani Sona
I’m a Bangalore based Culinary Chronicler who finds joy in food storytelling and photography. I like to research and document food narratives through writings, illustrations and photographs. When I’m away from the lens and pen, I’m mostly hiking in the woods.
