Jaipur, the capital city of the Indian state of Rajasthan, is known for its vibrant culture, historical landmarks and architectural wonders. Known as the “Pink City” due to the distinctive colour of its buildings, Jaipur is a blend of ancient imperial heritage and modern urban culture. The city, founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, is part of the popular tourist circuit known as the Golden Triangle, which includes Delhi and Agra. In 2019, this pink city has been ranked as the 2nd world heritage city of India.
Table of Contents
Historical and cultural significance
Jaipur was the first planned city in India, designed according to Vastu Shastra (an ancient Indian science of architecture) and Shilpa Shastra (an ancient Indian science of arts and crafts). The layout of the city is divided into six sectors by wide streets. Jaipur’s buildings were painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876 and this tradition has been maintained, giving the city its unique color and nickname.
Major attractions in Jaipur
Hawa Mahal
Also known as “Palace of Wind”.
Purpose: The Hawa Mahal, built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, allowed royal women to observe the strict purdah system, without overlooking daily life and the festivities celebrated on the street below.
Design: The facade of the building resembles the crown of Lord Krishna and is made of red and pink sandstone.
City Palace
Architecture: The City Palace complex displays a blend of Rajput, Mughal and European styles. The outer courtyards are grand and open, leading to inner palaces that are intricately designed.
Must-See Areas:
Chandra Mahal: This seven-storied building is partially accessible to visitors and offers panoramic views of the city.
Pritam Niwas Chowk: Known for its four small gates representing the four seasons.
Mubarak Mahal: Initially used as a reception centre, it now houses a museum exhibiting textiles and costumes.
Govind Devji Temple
Description: This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the most important temples for Krishna devotees in Jaipur.
History: The idol of Govind Devji was brought from Vrindavan to Jaipur by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Highlights: The temple is located in the City Palace complex and is known for its beautiful idol and seven daily aartis (rituals).
Jantar-Mantar
Description: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Instruments: The observatory includes various astronomical instruments like the Samrat Yantra (a giant Sun Yantra), the Jai Prakash Yantra and the Rama Yantra.
Significance: It is one of the largest observatories ever built and a testament to the scientific progress of ancient India.
Jaipur Zoo
Description: Located near the Albert Hall Museum, the Jaipur Zoo is divided into two
parts: one for animals and the other for birds.
History: Established in 1877, this is one of the oldest zoos in India.
Highlights: The zoo houses a variety of species including tigers, lions, leopards and a rich aviary. It is also involved in the breeding program of the endangered gharial (a type of crocodile).
Albert Hall Museum
Description: Rajasthan’s oldest museum, located in Ram Niwas Garden
Collection: The museum has a diverse collection ranging from ancient artefacts, paintings and sculptures to tribal art.
Architecture: The building itself is a marvel, designed by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob in the Indo-Saracenic style.
Birla Mandir (Lakshmi Narayan Mandir)
Description: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi and is situated at the base of Moti Dungri Hill.
Architecture: Built in white marble, this temple is a blend of modern and traditional styles. It features intricate carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses.
Highlights: The temple is beautifully illuminated in the evening and offers a peaceful atmosphere to the visitors.
Galtaji Kund (Monkey Temple)
Description: A pre-historic Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Aravalli Hills, it is famous for its natural springs and sacred kunds (water pools).
Highlights: The temple complex includes the Galtaji temple built in pink sandstone and several tanks where pilgrims bathe. It is believed that Galta Kund never dries up. The area is also home to many monkeys, hence the nickname “Monkey Temple“.
Surya Mandir (Sun Temple)
Description: Located on a hill near Galtaji, this temple is dedicated to the Sun Lord.
Highlights: The temple offers a panoramic view of the city of Jaipur and is a popular place to watch the sunrise and sunset. Temple tours are also a popular activity.
Amber Fort
Diwan-e-Khas: Private audience hall, featuring beautiful mosaic works.
Sheesh Mahal: Known for its mirror work that illuminates the room with the light of a single candle.
History: Built in 1592 by Raja Mansingh I, the fort served as the main residence of the Rajput Maharajas.
Description: Also known as Amer Palace, this is a magnificent fort situated on top of a hill at a distance of about 11 km from Jaipur. Amber Fort is known for its artistic style elements, massive ramparts and a series of gates and cobbled paths.
Internal Structures:
Diwan-i-Aam: Hall of public audience where the king met the common people.
Nahargarh Fort
History: Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the fort served as a secluded palace.
Description: Situated on the edge of the Aravalli hills, this fort offers a spectacular view of Jaipur city.
Views: Offers spectacular sunset views over Jaipur.
Madhvendra Bhavan: Built by Sawai Madhav Singh, it has suites for the king and his queens, each decorated with exquisite murals.
Jaigarh Fort
Description: Known as Vijaya’s Fort, it is situated on Chel Ka Tila (Eagle Hill) in the Aravalli range.
History: The fort was built by Jai Singh II in 1726 to protect the Amer Fort and its palace complex.
Highlights: The fort houses the world’s largest cannon on wheels, the Jaywan Cannon. Other attractions include an armory and a museum.
Kanak Vrindavan Garden
Description: Located at the foot of Nahargarh Fort, this garden is inspired by the gardens of Vrindavan.
Highlights: The garden has beautiful fountains, marble structures and an intricately designed temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It offers a serene environment as well as stunning and picturesque views of the surrounding hills.
Jal Mahal
Description: This water palace is located in the middle of Man Sagar lake.
History: Originally built in 1699 and later renovated in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II.
Highlights: Although entry inside the palace is restricted, visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake and view the beautiful structure from a distance. The palace is seen floating on the lake, especially in monsoons.
Meena Panna Kund
Description: Also known as Panna Meena Ka Kund, it is a historical wav located near Amer Palace.
History: Built in the 16th century, it served as a reservoir and social gathering place.
Highlights: The stepwell has symmetrical staircases and is a great place for photography and exploring Rajasthani architecture.
Gaytore ki Chhatriyan
Description: This Kachwaha is the royal burial ground of the Rajput kings and is situated on the Jaipur-Amber road.
Architecture: The cenotaphs (umbrellas) are built in the Rajput architectural style with beautifully carved marble and sandstone structures.
Highlights: The most famous cenotaph is that of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, featuring intricate carvings and designs. The serene location and artistic structures make it an attractive place to visit.
Best places near Jaipur
Ajmer
Highlights: Dargah, Dhai Din Ka Jonpara, Ana Sagar Lake, and Taragarh Fort.
Ajmer Sharif Dargah: The revered Sufi shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The annual Urs festival attracts thousands of pilgrims.
Dhai Din Ka Jonpara: A historic mosque that was originally a Sanskrit college and was converted into a mosque by Qutbuddin Aibak in 1193.
Distance from Jaipur: Approximately 130 km.
Pushkar
Description: The holy city famous for Pushkar lake and annual camel fair.
Distance from Jaipur: Approx 145 km.
Brahma Temple: One of the few temples in India dedicated to Lord Brahma, making it an important pilgrimage site.
Pushkar Lake: Surrounded by 52 bathing ghats, the lake is considered sacred and a dip washes away sins.
Pushkar Camel Fair: Held in November every year, it is one of the largest camel fairs in the world, featuring livestock trade, cultural performances and competitions.
Ranthambore National Park
Description: One of the largest national parks in India, famous for its tiger population.
Distance from Jaipur: Approx 180 km.
Wildlife: Apart from tigers, the park is home to leopards, deer, hyenas and various bird species.
Ranthambore Fort: Located within the park, this historic fort offers panoramic views and dates back to the 10th century.
Sambhar Lake
Description: India’s largest inland salt lake.
Distance from Jaipur: Approx 80 km.
Salt production: The lake produces a significant amount of salt and you can visit the salt making units.
Bird watching: It is a haven for bird watchers, especially during the winter months when migratory birds flock here.
Alwar
City Palace: This palace has now been converted into a museum showcasing the cultural heritage of the region.
Description: Known for its scenic landscapes and historical significance.
Distance from Jaipur: Approx 150 km.
Alwar Fort: Known as Bala Fort, this fort stands high on a hill and offers a glimpse of the historical military architecture of the region.
Sariska Tiger Reserve: A former hunting reserve of Alwar state, it is now a protected area for tigers and other wildlife.
How to reach Jaipur
By plane
Jaipur International Airport (JAI)
Location: Sanganer, about 13 kilometers from the city center.
Domestic Flights: Jaipur is well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata and Chennai through regular flights operated by airlines like IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet.
International Flights: The airport also has international flights connecting cities like Dubai, Sharjah and Muscat.
Airport Transfers: Prepaid taxis, app-based cabs (Uber and Ola), and airport shuttle services are available in the city to reach your destination.
By train
Jaipur Junction Railway Station (JP)
Location: Located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible from various parts of Jaipur.
Major Trains: Jaipur is connected to major cities of India by an extensive rail network. Major trains include:
Shatabdi Express: Connects Jaipur to Delhi.
Rajdhani Express: Connects Jaipur with Mumbai and Delhi.
Duronto Express: Connects Jaipur to various cities like Pune and Mumbai.
Intercity Express: Frequent trains to nearby cities like Ajmer, Jodhpur and Udaipur.
Station Transfer: Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside the station. App-based cab services can also be booked for more convenient transfers.
By Road
National Highways: Jaipur is connected by major highways, making it accessible by car, bus and private taxis.
NH 8 (Delhi-Jaipur-Mumbai): This highway connects Jaipur to Delhi (approx. 268 km, 5-6 hours) and onwards to Mumbai.
NH 11 (Agra-Jaipur-Bikaner): This road connects Jaipur to Agra (approx. 240 km, 4-5 hours) and Bikaner.
NH 12 (Jaipur-Kota-Jabalpur): Connects Jaipur to Kota and further to Madhya Pradesh.
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC): Provides various bus services including regular, deluxe and Volvo buses connecting Jaipur with nearby cities and states.
Private Bus Operators: Numerous private operators offer bus services connecting Jaipur to major cities like Delhi, Ahmedabad and Udaipur with options ranging from budget to luxury.
Self-drive: If you prefer to drive, renting a car is a good option. Major rental services like Zoomcar and Avis operate in Jaipur.
Taxi Services: Private taxi services and app-based cabs (Uber, Ola) are widely available for intercity travel.
Getting Around in Jaipur
Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws: common and cheap for short distances. Always negotiate the fare or make sure the meter is used before starting your journey.
App-based cabs: Uber and Ola offer convenient and relatively safe options for getting around the city.
Public Buses: Jaipur City Transport Services Limited (JCTSL) operates an extensive network of city buses covering major attractions and localities.
Bike rentals: Services like Royal Brothers and Bounce offer bike rentals for a more flexible way to explore the city.
Accommodation
Luxury Hotels
- Rambagh Palace
- Taj Jai Mahal Palace
- The Oberoi Rajvilas
Mid-Range Hotels
- Shahpura House
- Alsisar Haveli
- Trident Jaipur
Budget Hotels
- Pearl Palace Heritage Boutique Hotel
- Hotel Arya Niwas
- Zostel Jaipur
Unique and Boutique Accommodations
- Samode Haveli
- Tree of Life Resort & Spa
- The Raj Palace
Safety Tips
Stay hydrated and protect against the sun: Jaipur can get extremely hot, especially in the summer months. Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
Be careful with food and water: Stick to bottled water or water that has been boiled or filtered. Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food unless it is freshly cooked and served hot to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Secure your belongings: Keep your valuables like passports, money and electronics safe and avoid displaying them in public. Use the hotel safe to store important documents and extra cash.
Beware of scams and overcharging: Beware of overly friendly strangers who offer help or advice, as they may try to steer you to shops or services where they can earn a commission. Always negotiate and agree on prices before using services like auto-rickshaws or taxis. It is advisable to use app-based ride services where prices are fixed.
Respect local customs and traditions: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Always take off your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s house.
Be careful in crowded places: Keep an eye on your luggage in busy markets and crowded tourist attractions to avoid pickpocketing. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid large crowds if possible.
Travel advice
Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Jaipur is October to March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
Local Etiquette: When greeting locals, use “Namaste” with folded hands. This is a respectful and traditional way of saying hello. Avoid public displays of affection, as it can be considered inappropriate in Indian culture.
Language: Hindi is the primary language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
Currency and Payments: The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Keep small denominations handy for auto-rickshaw rides and small purchases.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops, but it’s good to have some cash for small vendors.
Shopping Tips: Jaipur is famous for its jewellery, textiles and handicrafts. Popular markets include Johri Bazar, Bapu Bazar and Tripolia Bazar. Bargaining is common at local markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
Health precautions: Carry basic medicines for common ailments like stomach ache, headache and fever. It is also a good idea to have a first aid kit.
Emergency Contacts: Save important contact numbers including your hotel, local embassy or consulate and emergency services (police: 100, ambulance: 102).
Additional tips
Explore offbeat attractions: While popular sites like City Palace and Amber Fort are must-visits, consider exploring lesser-known attractions like Panna Meena Ka Kund and Surya Mandir for a unique experience.
Participate in local festivals: If your visit coincides with festivals like Diwali, Holi or the Jaipur Literature Festival, join the celebrations to experience the local culture.
Learn about culture: Take guided tours or hire local guides to gain a deeper understanding of Jaipur’s rich history, culture and traditions.
Conclusion
Jaipur is not just a city; It is a living museum that gives a glimpse of India’s royal past. Its architecture, history and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination. Nearby locations add to the charm, offering a variety of experiences from wildlife adventures to spiritual journeys. Whether you are a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a nature lover, Jaipur and its surroundings have something to offer for every traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Jaipur known for?
Jaipur, often referred to as the “Pink City”, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning architecture and bustling markets. It is famous for its palaces, forts and temples, including the City Palace, Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar observatory.
Why is Jaipur called Pink City?
Jaipur is called the Pink City because of the distinctive pink color of its buildings. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, and the tradition has been maintained ever since, symbolizing hospitality.
How can I reach Jaipur?
By Air: Jaipur International Airport connects major cities of India and some international destinations.
By Train: Jaipur Junction is a major railway station with connections to various cities across India.
By Road: Jaipur is well connected by highways, and regular bus services and taxis are available from nearby cities.
What are the must visit attractions in Jaipur?
Some of the attractions to visit in Jaipur include:
Amber Fort
City Palace
Air Palace
Jantar Mantar
Jal Mahal
Nahargarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort
Birla Temple
Govind Devji Temple
Galtaji (Monkey Temple)
Is Jaipur safe for tourists?
Yes, Jaipur is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take general safety precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night, keeping an eye on your belongings and being cautious with strangers.
What are the popular shopping spots in Jaipur?
Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise, known for its jewellery, textiles and handicrafts. Popular shopping destinations include:
Johari Bazar (for jewellery)
Bapu Bazar (for clothes and souvenirs)
Tripolia Bazaar (for lakh bangles and brassware)
Chandpol Bazar (for marble carving)
What local foods should I try in Jaipur?
Here are some local Rajasthani dishes to try in Jaipur:
Dal Bati Churma
Ghewar (Traditional Sweet)
Onion kachori
Gatte ki sabzi
Lal Maas (Spicy Mutton Curry)
Ker Sangri (Traditional Desert Dish)
Are there any cultural festivals in Jaipur?
Jaipur hosts several vibrant festivals, including:
Jaipur Literature Festival (January)
Teej Festival (Monsoon)
Gangaur Festival (March-April)
Diwali (October-November)
Kite Festival (Makar Sankranti in January)
What modes of transport are available in Jaipur?
Transport options in Jaipur include:
Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws
App based cabs (Uber, Ola)
City buses operated by Jaipur City Transport Services Ltd (JCTSL).
Bike and car rental
Taxis
Can I visit Jaipur in summer?
While it is possible to visit Jaipur in summer (April to June), the weather can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). If you plan to visit during this time, be sure to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take breaks to avoid heat exhaustion.
What are some offbeat attractions in Jaipur?
In addition to the main tourist spots, consider visiting:
Panna Meena Ka Kund (Steps near Amber Fort)
Kanak Vrindavan Garden (Near Nahargarh Fort)
Gayator Ki Chhatriyan (Royal Mausoleum)
Unique Museum of Hand Printing (dedicated to traditional Rajasthani hand-block printing)
Exploring Jaipur, the enchanting Pink City of India, is like stepping into a realm where history dances with modernity, and culture whispers tales of a bygone era. From the majestic Amber Fort to the intricate designs of Hawa Mahal, every corner exudes a charm that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re captivated by its vibrant markets, mesmerized by its regal architecture, or simply indulging in its delectable cuisine, Jaipur never fails to cast its spell. Indeed, it’s a city where every moment feels like a page torn from a fairy tale, leaving visitors enchanted and longing for more. Have you experienced the magic of Jaipur yet?
Pingback: Mandu: Explore the Timeless Beauty of India's Ancient Treasure - GujjuTraveling
Pingback: Ajanta Caves: India's 1st World Heritage Site - GujjuTraveling
Pingback: Ahmedabad: India's Legendary 1st Heritage City - GujjuTraveling