Jaipur

jaipur skyline

YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO JAIPUR


Essential Information

  • Country, State: India, Rajasthan
  • Timezone: GMT +5:30 
  • Languages Spoken: Hindi, English, Rajasthani
  • Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)

Weather and Climate

  • January: Cool and dry, average 16°C; excellent for sightseeing
  • February: Pleasant and sunny, average 20°C; ideal weather
  • March: Warm and dry, average 26°C; begins to heat up
  • April – May: Hot, average 32°C – 37°C; plan midday breaks, prioritize indoor/early outings
  • June: Hot and humid, average 35°C; pre-monsoon conditions
  • July – August: Monsoon, average 30°C; periodic showers
  • September: Warm and humid, average 31°C; humidity lingers
  • October: Pleasant, average 28°C; popular time to visit
  • November – December: Cool and dry, average 18°C – 22°C; great for travel

Discover Jaipur: A City Overview

Jaipur, the fabled Pink City founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, charms with planned boulevards inspired by Vastu Shastra, grand forts and palaces, vibrant bazaars, and a living royal heritage that pairs craftsmanship with warm Rajasthani hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Jaipur for Optimal Weather

  • October – March: Peak season with pleasant, cool weather
    • Pros: Comfortable for sightseeing, festivals, clear skies
    • Cons: More tourists and higher prices
  • July – September: Monsoon season
    • Pros: Fewer crowds, greener views, potential deals
    • Cons: Humidity and rain can limit outdoor plans

How to Get to Jaipur & Visa Requirements

  • Flights: Jaipur International Airport (JAI) connects to major Indian cities and select international hubs.
  • Trains: Jaipur Junction links widely across India; reserve tickets in advance, especially in peak months.
  • Visa Requirements: Requirements vary by nationality; many travelers use India’s e-Visa. Verify current rules before applying.
  • Airport Transfers: Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and shuttles are available; pre-booking ensures a smooth arrival.

Fun/Historical Facts

In 1876, to honor the visit of Prince Albert, Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh had Jaipur’s facades painted terracotta pink—associated with hospitality—creating the iconic “Pink City” identity that endures today.
Famous People from Jaipur:

  • Rajmata Gayatri Devi: celebrated royal and parliamentarian
  • Bhawani Singh: the last titular Maharaja of Jaipur

Top Things to See and Do: Jaipur Attractions

Top 10 Attractions in Jaipur

  1. Amer Fort: Hilltop fort with ornate courtyards and mirror work, overlooking Maota Lake
    • Address: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
  2. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): Iconic honeycomb facade with 953 jharokhas
    • Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Chaupar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
  3. City Palace: Royal residence complex blending Rajput and Mughal design
    • Address: Jaleb Chowk, Near Jantar Mantar, Tripolia Bazar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
  4. Jantar Mantar: 18th-century observatory and UNESCO site of astronomical instruments
    • Address: Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
  5. Nahargarh Fort: Sunset favorite atop the Aravallis with panoramic city views
    • Address: Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
  6. Jaigarh Fort: Massive stronghold with the Jaivana cannon and tunnels to Amer
    • Address: Above Amer Fort, Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302028
  7. Albert Hall Museum: Indo-Saracenic museum set in Ram Niwas Garden
    • Address: Ram Niwas Garden, Kailash Puri, Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004
  8. Galtaji Temple (Monkey Temple): Pilgrimage complex with sacred kunds in a scenic valley
    • Address: Galta Ji, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302013
  9. Birla Mandir: Gleaming white marble temple dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi
    • Address: Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, Tilak Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004
  10. Sisodia Rani Bagh: Terraced garden with frescoed pavilions and fountains
    • Address: Lal Dungri, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302031

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path in Jaipur

  • Panna Meena ka Kund: Symmetrical stepwell ideal for striking photographs
    • Address: Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302028
  • Chand Baori: Monumental stepwell and architectural marvel in Abhaneri
    • Address: Near Jaipur–Agra Highway, Abhaneri, Rajasthan 303313
  • Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing: Dedicated to block-printing heritage
    • Address: Anokhi Farm, Kheri Gate, Amber, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302028

Local Festivals and Events in Jaipur

  • Jaipur Literature Festival (January): Global gathering of authors and readers
  • Teej Festival (July/August): Monsoon celebration with processions and folk arts
  • Diwali (October/November): The city glows with lights, fireworks, and festivities
  • Elephant Festival (March): Traditional pageantry; consider ethical viewpoints

Day Trips from Jaipur: Explore Beyond the City

  • Ajmer & Pushkar (3–4 hours): Ajmer Sharif Dargah and the sacred Brahma Temple at Pushkar
  • Bhangarh Fort (approx. 2 hours): Atmospheric ruins famed for legends and lore
  • Ranthambore National Park (3–4 hours): Tiger safaris; advance booking recommended

Photography Hotspots: Insta-Worthy Locations in Jaipur

  • Hawa Mahal: Iconic facade from across the road
  • Amer Fort: Reflections from Maota Lake
  • Panna Meena ka Kund: Geometric stepwell symmetry
  • City Palace: Ornate gates and courtyards
  • Nahargarh Fort: Sunset cityscape
  • Albert Hall Museum: Illuminated exterior and reflections

Planning Your Stay in Jaipur

Recommended Length of Stay

  • 3–4 days are ideal to experience Jaipur’s highlights and nearby excursions.

Top Places to Stay in Jaipur

Budget-Friendly Hotels

  • Zostel Jaipur
    • Address: 1st Floor, C-Scheme, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
  • Moustache Jaipur
    • Address: 222, Ajmer Rd, DCM, Gopalbari, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
  • The Hosteller Jaipur
    • Address: C-2, Jamnalal Bajaj Marg, C Scheme, Ashok Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Umaid Bhawan – A Heritage Style Boutique Hotel
    • Address: D1-2A, Behind Income Tax Office, Bani Park, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302016
  • The LaLiT Jaipur
    • Address: 2B & 2C, Jawahar Circle, Near Jaipur International Airport, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302017
  • Hotel Indiana
    • Address: Plot No. 222, Ajmer Rd, DCM, Gopalbari, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006
  • Park Inn Jaipur Jal Mahal
    • Address: C-9, Subhash Nagar Shopping Centre, Near Jal Mahal, Amer Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002

Luxury Hotels

  • Rambagh Palace
    • Address: Bhawani Singh Rd, Rambagh, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302005
  • Taj Jai Mahal Palace
    • Address: Jacob Rd, Civil Lines, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302006
  • The Oberoi Rajvilas
    • Address: Goner Rd, Jagjeetpura, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302031
  • Fairmont Jaipur
    • Address: 2, Riico Kukas, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303101

Getting Around Jaipur: Transportation Options

  • Auto-rickshaws: Abundant; negotiate fares or request meter
  • Taxis/Ride-hailing: Ola and Uber are convenient for longer hops
  • Metro: Limited but expanding; check current routes
  • Buses: Budget-friendly; can be crowded at peak times
  • Walking: Ideal for the Pink City core and bazaars

Preparing for Your Trip to Jaipur: Practical Information

What to Pack for Your Jaipur Adventure

  • Light, breathable clothing; a layer for cool winter mornings (Nov–Feb)
  • Comfortable walking shoes for forts and city strolls
  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for strong daytime sun
  • Modest attire for temples and heritage sites
  • Insect repellent, especially in monsoon

Useful Apps for Travel in Jaipur

  • Google Maps: Navigation and live traffic
  • Ola/Uber: Easy point-to-point rides
  • Zomato/Swiggy: Restaurant discovery and delivery
  • Google Translate: Quick phrase assistance

Local Customs, Safety Tips, and Cultural Etiquette

  • Dress modestly, remove shoes at temples, and be respectful when photographing people
  • Drink bottled/filtered water; avoid public displays of affection
  • Scams to Avoid: Overfriendly “guides,” inflated shop prices; confirm fares and prices upfront

Food, Fun, and Finds: Experiencing Jaipur

Top Restaurants in Jaipur

  • Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB): Classic Rajasthani fare and sweets
    • Address: No. 98, 99, Johari Bazar Rd, Bapu Bazar, Biseswarji, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302003
  • Rawat Misthan Bhandar: Famous for pyaaz ki kachori
    • Address: Opposite Police Head Quarters, Station Rd, Sindhi Camp, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
  • Tapri Central: Rooftop cafe with teas and snacks
    • Address: B4 E, 3rd Floor, Surana Jewellers, Prithviraj Road, C Scheme, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dal Baati Churma: Quintessential Rajasthani plate
  • Pyaaz ki Kachori: Spiced onion-filled pastry
  • Ghevar: Festive honeycomb dessert
  • Lassi: Cooling yogurt drink

Nightlife and Entertainment in Jaipur

  • Blackout Club: DJs and live music
    • Address: Hotel Golden Tulip, MI Road, Panch Batti, C-Scheme, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
  • Bar Palladio: Stylish setting with Venetian flair
    • Address: Kanota Bagh, Narain Singh Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004
  • Masala Chowk: Open-air food court for local street bites
    • Address: Ram Niwas Garden, Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004

Souvenirs and Markets: What to Buy in Jaipur

  • Bapu Bazaar: Textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs
  • Johari Bazaar: Gemstones and jewelry hubs
  • Tripolia Bazaar: Lac bangles and traditional crafts
  • Kishanpole Bazaar: Woodwork and carvings