Things to see and do in Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan

Are you curious about what to see and do in Jaipur? This vibrant city, known as the Pink City of India, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Join us as we explore the must-visit places and unforgettable experiences that await you in the capital of Rajasthan. Plus, we’ll share essential tips to help you plan your visit to Jaipur.

After enjoying the breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal in Agra, we ventured into one of the most visited regions in India, Rajasthan. Our entry point was none other than Jaipur, the Pink City. The city earned its nickname due to the distinctive pinkish-orange hues of its buildings, which symbolize hospitality.

Our memories of this city are forever marked by an exhilarating Jeep ride with Mr. Singh and our lively companion John. It all began the night before during dinner when our hotel owner invited us to join his family and a traveling American blogger. Over dinner, he excitedly offered, "Tomorrow, I'll take my American Jeep and give you a tour around the area." We were thrilled!

At noon the next day, Mr. Singh was finishing up (just placing a rifle in the front, just kidding!) and once everything was ready, we embarked on this spontaneous adventure. It was hilarious to see the expressions on the faces of tuk-tuk drivers as we zoomed past them in a 1945 Jeep, with a Sikh at the wheel and three foreigners in the back. For a day, we felt like royalty on the road!

This surreal first visit to Jaipur left us with unforgettable memories. Years later, we returned with my parents, this time without the Jeep, but with just as many great stories!

Wondering how to cover the essential sites of Jaipur in just one day? We recommend booking a private tuk-tuk tour, which is the best way to get around the city and maximize your time.

From the iconic Hawa Mahal to one of Asia's oldest observatories, and temples filled with monkeys, are you ready to discover everything there is to see and do in Jaipur?

Iconic Attractions to Visit in Jaipur

1. Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds

Hawa Mahal is perhaps the crown jewel of Jaipur and the image most people associate with this city. This stunning building features a beautiful façade, adorned with numerous hidden windows and intricate lattice work, allowing the royal women to observe street life without being seen.

Did you know you can tour the inside? Yes! The entry is inexpensive (around 50 rupees). However, the best views are from across the street. A friendly shopkeeper invited us to his rooftop, where we were treated to magnificent views and amusing anecdotes, including a story about the celebrity Sofia Mazagatos, who once visited and jokingly remarked in perfect Spanish, "how silly she is!"

2. Jantar Mantar, a Marvel of Astronomy

For astronomy enthusiasts, the true treasure of Jaipur is the Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory featuring over 20 astronomical instruments that were once cutting-edge technologies for observing the skies. Fun fact: it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To fully appreciate its significance, consider hiring a guide; otherwise, much of the history may be lost on you unless you’re an astronomy buff!

3. City Palace

The City Palace offers a glimpse into the life of the Rajputs through exhibitions of artifacts, weaponry, and charming courtyards, all watched over by elderly guards with impressive mustaches. Constructed between 1729 and 1732, it served as the Maharaja’s residence.

Elegant, grand, and of course, adorned in pink, the City Palace evokes a glorious past with its ornate doors and beautiful gardens. The Peacock Gate alone is worth the visit!

There’s a combined entry ticket for many tourist attractions in Jaipur called the “Tourist Composite Ticket,” valid for two days. When we visited, it cost 400 rupees, making it a worthwhile investment.

4. Amber Fort

One of the top things to do in Jaipur is to visit the nearby Amber Fort, known for its magnificent architecture and rich history. This palatial complex was home to the Rajputs since 1592 and was gradually abandoned when the capital moved to Jaipur.

It stands as one of India's most visited forts, and rightly so. It's massive, well-preserved, and boasts beautiful gardens and exquisite halls. The Hall of Mirrors, covered entirely in tiny mirrors, is said to have been built by the Maharaja as a gift for his beloved wife.

The Amber Fort is just 11 km from Jaipur’s center, so it’s an absolute must-see!

Be mindful: many tourists opt to ride elephants to the fort entrance. Please, do not support this industry—these animals are often mistreated and stressed.

5. Nahargarh Fort

Thanks to Mr. Singh, we discovered this formidable fort, also known as "the house of Tigers." Although centuries have passed since a tiger roamed these grounds (if they ever did), the grand name fits well. It was constructed to protect the Amber Fort, so naming it "house of lambs" wouldn’t quite do, right?

The views from the fort are simply breathtaking.

6. Jal Mahal, the Water Palace

On our way to Amber Fort, we made sure to stop at several viewpoints to admire the Jal Mahal. This water palace appears to float on an island in the serene Man Sagar Lake. Despite its beauty, it is sadly abandoned and no longer open to visitors.

7. Strolling Through the Streets of Jaipur

The day after our Jeep adventure with Mr. Singh, we dedicated our time to exploring the old town. We entered through one of its many gates and found ourselves in a labyrinth of porticoed streets filled with vibrant bazaars selling fresh produce, clothes, and trinkets. It was a shopping haven, with prices often shockingly low.

Watch out for street barbers and, of course, be cautious of the friendly cows roaming the streets—just another example of the surreal charm of India!

8. Galta Temple, the Monkey Temple

On our second visit to Jaipur, we explored the Monkey Temple, an ancient pilgrimage site about 10 km from the city. You can expect plenty of monkeys here! It's actually a complex of three temples, but the most stunning one overlooks a sacred pond where monkeys often splash around.

While the sight is undeniably cute, remember not to interact with the monkeys or feed them.

More Things to See and Do in Jaipur

Got more time on your hands? Here are some additional ideas to fully enjoy the Pink City:

• Visit the royal cenotaphs.
• Climb the Iswari Minar Swarga Sal, a towering minaret offering stunning city views.
• Check out the Albert Hall Museum, which is quite interesting, especially for history buffs.
• Shop for souvenirs at Sanjay Bazar, one of the liveliest markets in Jaipur.
• Don’t miss the Patrika Gate, often called the most colorful gate in India, located in Jawahar Circle Park.
• Join a night tour for a quieter experience of the city.

Also, remember to get a Revolut card (with a €10 bonus) to avoid foreign transaction fees.

Tips for Visiting Jaipur

How to Get There

We took a train from Agra, costing 230 INR per person for sleeper class, which took about 6.5 hours—or 12, if you count delays (which is common!).

Where to Stay

We stayed at the Hotel Pearl Palace and truly enjoyed the hospitality of Mr. Singh.

Dining in Jaipur

The dining options are nearly limitless, and unless you have terrible luck, you’re likely to eat well everywhere. For guaranteed good meals, check out our recommendations for 5 great restaurants in Jaipur.

Entry Fees

At the City Palace, students can enjoy a 100 INR discount with a valid university ID, even if you've graduated years ago! The standard entry is 300 INR, while Amber Fort costs 500 INR. Don’t forget to grab the combined entry ticket for better value.

Jaipur, the Pink City of India, is a unique destination that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Even though we've been there twice, we’re certain that when we return to India (which we will!), it will be an essential stop! Do you know of other must-see places in Jaipur?