Jaipur, the desert capital of Rajasthan and the “Pink City,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the famed Golden Triangle tourism circuit (along with Delhi and Agra). Top attractions in the city include the well-preserved palaces and forts, and the best boutique hotels in Jaipur, which have intricate architecture reflecting their regal origins. However, the advent of numerous interesting boutiques, pubs, cafés, and creative spaces in recent years has made the city rather trendy as well. Continue reading to learn about the finest things to do in Jaipur.
Take an Unusual Jaipur Tour
Do you want to ride an electric Segway through Jaipur? Or how about touring in a historic restored Ambassador automobile or a custom-designed e-rickshaw driven by a businesswoman from a low-income family? Perhaps you’re the athletic sort who would like to explore the city by bike. In Jaipur, there are several amazing off-the-beaten-path trips. They feature places including the Old City, marketplaces, cuisine, and Jaipur at night.
Participate in an Old City Heritage Walk
Explore Jaipur’s Old City beyond its famed monuments on one of Vedic Walks’ early morning or evening immersive historical walking experiences. Depending on the trip, you’ll get to see artisan groups including bangle makers and metal workers, gemstone workshops, ancient temples, a traditional Ayurvedic hospital, and old stables turned into a market.
Have a Meeting with the Royalty
The City Palace was erected as part of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II’s new capital in Jaipur. It was finished in 1732 and contains a large network of courtyards. Depending on the kind of ticket bought, different areas of the palace are accessible to the public. Indians pay 300 rupees for standard City Palace composite tickets, while foreigners pay 700 rupees. These lead to the palace courtyards, galleries, Jaigarh Fort, and royal cenotaphs. The palace’s Pritam Niwas Chowk, with its colorfully painted doors depicting the four seasons, is a highlight.
Stay at the Heritage Hotel
Stay in a genuine royal hotel or a less expensive historic residence to immerse yourself in Jaipur’s imperial legacy. There are several options available. If money isn’t an issue, the beautiful Taj Rambagh Palace, which used to be the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur, is the best of the lot. It’s worth it to spoil yourself! Other notable luxury alternatives are Sujan Raj Mahal Palace (renovated in 2014) and Anuraag Villa one of the best heritage hotels in Jaipur.
Go Behind the Scenes of the Iconic Wind Palace
The elaborate façade of Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace) is arguably the most photographed structure in the city. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as an extension of the City Palace’s women’s quarters to allow the royal ladies to gaze out over the main street below without being seen. The palace got its name from the wind that blew through the shutters. It is possible to enter the Hawa Mahal through the rear door. Rajasthan’s Department of Archaeology & Museums sells government composite tickets for 300 rupees for Indians and 1,000 rupees for foreigners.
See the Amber Fort and Palace
Inside are opulent mansions, halls, gardens, and temples. The elaborate mirror work adds to the opulence. Amber Fort is open from 8 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. every day. Many guests prefer to stay for the evening sound and light display, night gazing, and supper at the magnificent restaurant in 1135 AD (which was originally the king’s private dining room). During the day, people without a government composite ticket must pay 100 rupees for Indians and 500 rupees for foreigners.
Marvel at the Amazing Water Palace
The amazing Jal Mahal (Water Palace) in Jaipur seems to float on Man Sagar Lake near Amber Fort. Little is known about its history; however, it is believed that Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I used it as a lodge for royal duck hunting excursions in the mid-18th century. The castle has four buried levels with carefully engineered lime mortar to avoid water seepage.
Attend a Bollywood film at Raj Mandir
Many people attend to watch a movie at Raj Mandir on Bhagwant Das Road (near M.I. Road) primarily to gaze inside. Its owner, a well-known Jaipur jeweler, wanted to establish a cinema that would transport viewers to a royal castle. Its architecture, complete with a spiral staircase, antique chandeliers, and a color-changing ceiling, is surely interesting. Movies are shown in Hindi in the afternoons and nights.
