Jaipur India

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Jaipur, India

Introduction

Jaipur, the Pink City, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture. Located in the heart of Rajasthan, India, Jaipur is a popular tourist destination that offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. From majestic forts to vibrant bazaars, delicious street food to luxurious resorts, Jaipur has something for every kind of traveller.

Places to Go

1. Amer Fort

• Location: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹100 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amer Fort is a stunning example of Rajput architecture. The fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and Maota Lake.

2. City Palace

• Location: Jaleb Chowk, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹190 (Indians), ₹400 (Foreigners)

The City Palace is a magnificent blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The palace complex houses several museums, gardens, and courtyards.

3. Hawa Mahal

• Location: Badi Chaupar, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)

The iconic Hawa Mahal is a five-story structure with over 900 windows. The palace was built to allow the royal ladies to observe street festivals without being seen.

4. Jantar Mantar

• Location: Tripolia Bazar, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)

This ancient astronomical observatory is a must-visit for science enthusiasts and history buffs.

5. Nahargarh Fort

• Location: Nahargarh, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (Foreigners)

Nahargarh Fort offers panoramic views of the city and is a great spot for sunset.

6. Jal Mahal

• Location: Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free

This beautiful palace is situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

7. Birla Mandir

• Location: Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM
• Entry Fee: Free

This stunning temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and offers peaceful surroundings.

8. Albert Hall Museum

• Location: Ram Niwas Bagh, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹150 (Foreigners)

This museum showcases a collection of art, artifacts, and sculptures from the region.

9. Sisodia Rani Garden

• Location: Agra Road, Jaipur
• Timings: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners)

This beautiful garden is a peaceful retreat and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

10. Chokhi Dhani

• Location: 12 Mile, Tonk Road, Jaipur
• Timings: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹700 (Indians), ₹1,200 (Foreigners)

This ethnic village resort offers a traditional Rajasthani experience with music, dance, and food.

Activities

1. Camel Ride

• Location: Amer Fort, Jaipur
• Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• Cost: ₹500 - ₹800 per person

Explore the surrounding hills on a camel ride, offering breathtaking views of the city.

2. Hot Air Balloon Ride

• Location: Shiv Vilas, Jaipur
• Timings: 6:00 AM - 8:00 AM
• Cost: ₹12,000 - ₹15,000 per person

Experience the city from a new perspective with a hot air balloon ride.

3. Cooking Class

• Location: Various locations across Jaipur
• Timings: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
• Cost: ₹1,000 - ₹2,000 per person

Learn the art of traditional Rajasthani cuisine with a cooking class.

4. Yoga Session

• Location: Various yoga studios across Jaipur
• Timings: 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
• Cost: ₹500 - ₹1,000 per session

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session, tailored to suit your needs.

5. Shopping

• Location: Various markets and bazaars across Jaipur
• Timings: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• Cost: Varies depending on the item and market

Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of traditional handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.

Where to Eat

1. Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar

• Location: Johri Bazaar, Jaipur
• Timings: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Cost: ₹50 - ₹200 per person

This popular sweet shop offers a wide range of traditional Rajasthani sweets and snacks.

2. Natraj Restaurant

• Location: MI Road, Jaipur
• Timings: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
• Cost: ₹500 - ₹1,000 per person

Savor delicious Rajasthani cuisine at this popular restaurant.

3. Peacock Restaurant

• Location: Hotel Pearl Palace, Jaipur
• Timings: 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
• Cost: ₹800 - ₹1,500 per person

This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city and serves a range of international cuisine.

4. Barbeque Nation

• Location: Tonk Road, Jaipur
• Timings: 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
• Cost: ₹800 - ₹1,500 per person

This popular barbecue restaurant offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

5. Café Coffee Day

• Location: Various locations across Jaipur
• Timings: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
• Cost: ₹100 - ₹300 per person

Grab a quick coffee or snack at this popular café chain.

Where to Stay

1. Oberoi Rajvilas

• Location: Goner Road, Jaipur
• Tariff: ₹15,000 - ₹30,000 per night

This luxurious resort offers stunning villas and suites, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a tranquil atmosphere.

2. Rambagh Palace

• Location: Bhawani Singh Road, Jaipur
• Tariff: ₹10,000 - ₹20,000 per night

This heritage hotel is a former royal residence, offering luxurious rooms and suites with stunning views of the city.

3. Hotel Pearl Palace

• Location: Station Road, Jaipur
• Tariff: ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 per night

This comfortable hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, along with modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant.

4. Hostel La Vita

• Location: C Scheme, Jaipur
• Tariff: ₹500 - ₹1,500 per night

This budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory and private rooms, along with a communal kitchen and lounge area.

Things to Know

1. Dress Code

Jaipur is a conservative city, and it’s recommended to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

2. Respect Local Customs

Remove your shoes before entering temples or mosques, and avoid public displays of affection.

3. Bargaining

Bargaining is a way of life in Jaipur, especially when shopping at local markets and bazaars.

4. Weather

Jaipur experiences extreme temperatures, with summers reaching up to 45°C (113°F) and winters dropping to 5°C (41°F).

5. Language

Hindi and Rajasthani are the primary languages spoken in Jaipur, but many locals also speak English.

Transportation

1. Taxi

Taxis are widely available across Jaipur, with fares starting from ₹50.

2. Auto-Rickshaw

Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation, with fares starting from ₹20.

3. Bus

Jaipur has an efficient bus network, connecting major tourist attractions and local areas.

4. Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore Jaipur’s historic center, with many companies offering guided tours.

5. Bike Rentals

Bike rentals are available across Jaipur, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.

Tips and Tricks

1. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration, especially during summers.

2. Try Local Cuisine

Jaipur is famous for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine, so be sure to try local dishes like dal bati churma and laal maans.

3. Avoid Traveling During Peak Hours

Avoid traveling during peak hours (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) to avoid traffic congestion.

4. Respect the Environment

Jaipur is a culturally rich city, but it’s also important to respect the environment by avoiding littering and using public transport.

5. Learn Basic Hindi Phrases

Learning basic Hindi phrases like “namaste” (hello), “dhanyavad” (thank you), and “chalo” (let’s go) will help you connect with locals and enhance your travel experience.

This exhaustive guide covers everything from the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Jaipur, to essential tips and tricks for making the most of your trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide is sure to help you navigate the Pink City like a pro!