Imagine being a wanderer in a city filled with culture, heritage, vibrance and tapestry, sounds enchanting, doesn’t it? Additionally, what if we told you there exists a city that embarks the essence of Paris, the embodiment of romance, in India, would you check it out? This article talks about the best places to visit in Jaipur, Rajasthan-the very own “Mini Paris” of India.
Embedded in the heart of Rajasthan, Jaipur, the Mini Paris of India, also widely regarded as the ‘Pink City’, is an embodiment of vibrant heritage and culture. It is an enchanting city combined with history and modernity. This historic city offers a captivating blend of iconic landmarks, natural wonders, cultural monuments, delectable culinary delights and even hidden offbeat gems. From the majestic Hawa Mahal to the mouthwatering street delights, Jaipur has something captivating for every traveler.
Iconic Places to Visit in Jaipur
- Amber Fort
Built-in the year 1592, the sandstone and marble monolith stands on top of a small hill roughly at a driving distance of 20 minutes northeast of the centre of Jaipur. This attraction is best known for being an immaculate example of Rajasthani architecture.
Amber Fort is normally reached through a short uphill walk which is worthwhile for the required effort. It’s embellished with exquisite inlaid marble patterns in essentially every colour of the rainbow. The fort has four sections, each with a beautiful garden courtyard outside.
While it may not be possible to recognize it from the outside, it is definitely possible to explore the fort’s underground tunnels, some of which have been renovated.
Being regarded as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Amber Fort is among the best tourist attractions among the places to visit in Jaipur. Surrounded by the Maota Lake, this main attraction of Jaipur beholds many tales of love and betrayal which is definitely best heard by the locals of Jaipur.
- Hawa Mahal
Being regarded as the most iconic landmark of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal is one of the best places to visit in Jaipur. This 200-year-old monument situated in the heart of the city is widely famous for its exceptional honeycomb design and Indo-Islamic architecture. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as a five-story summer palace with 593 lattice windows.
Painted in pink and decked with floral motifs, dome-shaped arches, and patterned pillars, this impeccable architecture is regarded as the major tourist attraction in Jaipur. The main reason behind the design of this beautiful palace was to provide a clear view of Jantar Mantar, the City Palace and Sireh Deori bazaar.
Being one among the best places to visit in Jaipur, Hawa Mahal meaning a ‘place of winds’, is worthwhile the visit. It offers insider visualization on the royal life led by the Rajputana through the fretwork windows and endure rich cultural heritage through the paintings and ceremonial armor which is in preservation at the museum complex. This royal palace must be included in your itinerary on your journey to visit places in Jaipur.
- Nahargarh Fort
Overlooking the gorgeous Pink City, lies the magnificent monument – Nahargarh Fort. It was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, this monumental structure not only served its duties of protecting the city but also adds to its richness to this day.
This fort is widely known for the rare fact that it’s never been under a single attack in the history of its existence. Being one of the major tourist attractions in the places to visit Jaipur, it is also home to many famous must-visit places in Jaipur. On your visit to Jaipur’s Nahargarh Fort be sure to also visit the following places:
- Jaipur Wax Museum
- Sheesh Mahal
- Sculpture Park
- The Royal Gaitor Tombs
Each of these architectures holds its own place and significance in being among the top 10 best places for sightseeing & major tourist attractions in Jaipur.
Nahargarh meaning ‘Abode of Tigers’ is said to have been built originally as a peaceful retreat for the King’s family, specifically designed to overlook the gorgeous pink city, of Jaipur. This monumental structure is a must to include in your itinerary for the places to visit in Jaipur.
Natural Wonders to Visit in Jaipur
- Jaipur Zoo
Located in the pink city, of Jaipur, the Zoo of Jaipur is spread vastly across a total area of 35 acres. This zoological garden is home to the richest fauna of Rajasthan. It is regarded as the largest zoo along with the title of being one of the finest sanctuaries in the state of Rajasthan. This zoo is also widely famous for being the fourth largest gharial (an endangered crocodile species) breeding farm in the country.
Being home to the rich animal kingdom of Jaipur, this zoological garden is among the major tourist attractions places to visit in Jaipur.
Built in the year 1868, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this zoo was an extension of Ram Nivas Garden. This zoological garden is a major tourist attraction among kids. If you are also fond of witnessing the richness of the animal kingdom, this zoological garden is a must to visit the places to endure the rich history of Jaipur.
- Waterfalls
Among many tourist attractions in Jaipur, some of the waterfalls in and around the pink city are also a must-include in your itinerary of places to visit in Jaipur.
Although there exists a common misconception that Jaipur is a dry state, it isn’t entirely true. There are some waterfalls near the pink city that happen to be the major tourist attraction. The following is a list of a few scenic waterfalls that will make your visit worthwhile.
- Damoh Waterfalls: This waterfall is only a 4–5-hour drive from Jaipur. This scenic waterfall is 300 ft tall, presenting evidence of being a major place of tourist attraction.
- Garwaji Waterfall: Widely regarded as the Hidden waterfall, Garwaji Waterfall is located near Alwar city of Jaipur. It is a mere 2–3-hour drive from Jaipur. Additionally, this route surpasses the Sariska National Park known for its rich tiger population.
Among many such scenic waterfalls near the pink city, these two waterfalls happen to be on the list of best places to visit in Jaipur. These two places are a must to add in your journey to explore the beautiful mini-Paris of India.
Cultural Monuments of Jaipur
Embarking the cultural and historic essence of Jaipur, there are a few monumental structures that speak to the cultural heritage of the pink city. These monuments are a must to include in the places to visit in Jaipur.
- City Palace
The City Palace, located in the heart of the old city, consists of exquisite courtyards, gardens, cenotaphs, and royal buildings. It was conceptualized and built by Jaipur’s founder, Rajput King Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and developed by subsequent successors. The palace combines Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural elements to radiate lavishness.
Members of the palace’s past ruling royal family still live in a separate enclave. Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Maharani’s Palace, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, and Bhaggi Khana are the most significant components of the palace. It is possible to witness Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I‘s unique collection of royal attire, including Pashmina shawls, Banaras silk sarees, and other apparel.
The city palace is home to Rajput weaponry dating back to the 15th century. This is also one of the top 10 best places to visit in Jaipur. Also being a major tourist attraction, this palace is a must-visit.
- Jantar Mantar
Famously regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar, located in the heart of Jaipur, is said to be the largest of five such similar structures built in the northern part of India. Jantar Mantar houses enormous stone tools with stunning geometric form combinations for viewing celestial bodies with the naked eye.
Since the beginning of time, the precision and accuracy of these astronomical devices have captivated historians, mathematicians and artists.
The observatory also has the world’s largest stone sundial, which calculates local time and has piqued tourists’ interest in this day. The best time to visit Jantar Mantar is at noon, in order to gain an in-depth understanding of the working of these devices. Being the embodiment of such scientific history, this place is one of the top 10 best places to visit in Jaipur and is also a major tourist attraction. Make sure to include this in your itinerary.
- Jal Mahal
Jal Mahal, located at a distance of 4 kilometers from Jaipur, is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Maharaja Madho Singh constructed it in 1750 as a hunting lodge and retreat. The palace’s symmetrical five-story tower is situated in the midst of Man Sagar Lake, which is famous for being an artificial lake. The captivating view of the gorgeous palace against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills, as well as its reflection in the serene lake waters, draws hundreds of tourists from all over the world.
Jal Mahal is recognized as India’s most photographed structure. Though admission to the palace is restricted, you can admire its splendour while taking a boat trip on the lake. You can also enjoy a relaxing evening watching local and migrating birds. Jal Mahal is a breathtaking monument among the best places to visit in Jaipur, being a major tourist attraction, this place is a must visit to endure its splendid beauty.
Culinary Delights of Jaipur
While travel is all about exploring new places, enduring the beauty of the city, it is also about exploring and reinventing your taste buds. Food is the most important aspect of any expedition. Being home to many dishes and tasteful flavors, here are the best 5 classic restaurants of Jaipur, famous for their menu of serving traditional Rajasthani food.
- Chokhi Dhani
This popular village-themed resort in Jaipur enchants tourists with a display of the region’s cultural splendor, which includes folk dancing and music in the backdrop. While you’re here, take a camel ride to work up your appetite before diving into the ghee-based specialties at the site. This resort is a widely recognized one for its divine presentation of authentic village lifestyle of Rajasthan and its impeccable traditional culinary delight.
Best culinary delights to savor here would be,
- Churma, Gol Gappe, Rajasthani Thali, Khichda, Kulfi, Chhaachh, Kadhi
Location: Tonk Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Timings: 5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Being widely regarded as the restaurant for serving the most flavourful traditional Rajasthani food, Chokhi Dhani is a must visit on your journey to explore delightful food.
- Rawat Mishthan Bhandar
If you want to experience the earthy flavors of Rajasthan in the early morning, this is the place to go. The kachoris, which come in a variety of types and flavors, will take you back to your school or college days, while the other savories, will transport you to another world. The sweets melt in your mouth like butter, leaving an ever-lasting impression on your taste buds.
The Ghewar, a disc-shaped dessert made from flour and sugar syrup, and the mirchi vadas served here deserve special mention because they truly satisfy the soul. This is where you’d want to spend your cheat day.
Ghevar being the most iconic dessert of Jaipur, this restaurant famous for it should be considered to visit and savor the taste they have to offer. Along with Ghevar, this restaurant is also famous for the following dishes,
- Mava Kachori, Onion Kachori, Lassi, Pyaz Ki Kachori, Mirch Vada, Jalebi, Samosa
Location: Sindhi camp, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Timings: 6:00 am – 10:30 pm
Do not forget to visit this classic restaurant to savour the authenticity of the food served here, adding to the experience of your expedition to explore Jaipur and its tradition.
- Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar
When it comes to the most authentic approach to experience satvik Rajasthani bhojan, i.e., street eating, Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar is Jaipur’s finest street food destination. You can indulge yourself on untouched and unspoiled native delicacies here. In the busy lanes of Johari Bazaar, you’ll discover a well-done, air-conditioned eatery visited by hundreds of people looking for a true taste of Rajasthan.
The thalis here are delicious, as is the dal-baati-churma, a local delicacy that includes three meals made with the healthiest components such as lentils, pure ghee, hard round wheat, and yogurt-blended bread, and finely crushed wheat mixed with sugar and ghee.
Must try culinary delights in this restaurant would be,
- Rajasthani Thali, Lassi, Dahi Vada, Chaat, Onion Kachori, Kadhai Paneer, Paneer Lababdar
Location: Johari Bazaar, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Timings: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
This classic restaurant must be included in your itinerary to visit places in Jaipur to savour the flavorsome traditional food of pink city.
While the entire city of Jaipur has the best restaurants and food to offer to its tourists, these restaurants are the most visited and major tourist attractions to savour the flavorful culinary delights of the pink city. These restaurants deserve to be a must include in your itinerary to explore the traditional delicacy of Jaipur.
Eccentric Places to Visit in Jaipur
Although there are many impeccable places to visit in Jaipur, there are a few unconventional places that also are pristine examples of being the embodiment of the rich cultural heritage of Jaipur. The following are a few places that do not have a lot of tourist attractions but are equally splendid to visit and endure.
- Birla Mandir
The temple, dedicated to Laxmi (the goddess of wealth) and Narayan (Lord Vishnu), includes hand-sculpted marble idols of the deities. The Laxmi Narayan temple, like the other Birla temples across the country, represents the diversity and complexity of Indian culture, as well as the holistic approach of Hinduism. This temple must be a necessary included in your itinerary of places to visit in Jaipur.
Located in the foothill of Moti Doongri, Birla Mandir is a three-dome structure known to represent secularism among different religions of India. This historic temple will be worthwhile visiting on your journey to explore the pink city.
- Anokhi Museum
Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, located about a kilometer from Amber Fort, is dedicated to the traditional Rajasthani craft of hand-block printing. It was founded in order to preserve the centuries-old practice of carving designs on wooden blocks and printing them on fabrics. This museum is worthwhile adding to the list of places to visit in Jaipur as it directly speaks to the rich cultural importance of Jaipur and its traditional practices.
It is also possible to buy handcrafted ‘Anokhi’ merchandise such as textiles, home furnishings, jewels, and cards at the museum souvenir shop.
Apart from visiting beautiful places, there is also a wide market for shopping in Jaipur. To buy clothes and apparel that peak in the cultural significance of the pink city and also to purchase one-of-a-kind artefacts to keep as souvenirs from your most memorable trip to India’s very own mini-Paris.
Handy Advice on your Journey to Jaipur
- The best time to visit Jaipur is from October – March.
- As Jaipur is seemingly hot, carry sunscreen with you.
- Sharpen your bargaining skills to obtain the best price for your purchases.
- Ensure you check all the times and days off with the places you are going to visit.
- Be a responsible traveler
Final Thoughts
It is essential to include all these magnificent places in your itinerary of places to visit in Jaipur, to gain first-hand experience on the rich culture and heritage that are embedded in the Pink City. With numerous splendid cultural monuments, natural wonders, and culinary delights Jaipur definitely portrays the essence of being India’s very own mini-Paris, with an embodiment of infinite cultural tapestry Jaipur has to be a major tourist attraction place in India worthwhile to visit.
Rajasthan’s Jaipur is more than just a destination; it’s a journey through time and culture. Jaipur, with its famous landmarks, natural beauties, and rich tapestry of cultural relics, makes an unforgettable imprint on your heart. Add to that the enticing culinary delights and secret gems awaiting discovery, and you have a city that is truly enchanting. You will find yourself falling in love with Jaipur one experience at a time as you explore the Pink City.