Jaipur is the capital of the state Rajasthan. It is a city that dazzles with its royal past, stunning architecture and interesting culture. Jaipur is also named the “Pink City“. This is due to the rosy colour of its historic buildings. Jaipur is a city of grand palaces, majestic forts, lively bazaars and exquisite temples. This city gives you an unforgettable journey into India’s royal heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a foodie eager to explore Rajasthani cuisine. Jaipur has something for everyone.
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Jaipur is one of India’s most historically and architecturally gorgeous cities. The city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur was meticulously planned and built as India’s first planned city. It is famous for its pink-coloured architecture, grand forts and royal palaces. The cultural and architectural heritage reflects the legacy of the Rajput rulers.
Before Jaipur, the region’s main centre was Amber (or Amer). This town is located about 11 km from present-day Jaipur. As the population grew and water supply issues occurred, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II decided to shift the capital to a more strategically advantageous and well-planned city. He asked Vidyadhar Bhattacharya to design Jaipur. He was a renowned Bengali architect and scholar of ancient Indian architectural texts.
The city was designed according to Vastu Shastra (traditional Indian architectural principles) and Shilpa Shastra (Hindu architectural science). The layout followed a grid system, dividing Jaipur into nine rectangular sectors (chowks). Each chowk was dedicated to specific trades or functions. Wide streets, uniform buildings and well-fortified walls made Jaipur one of the most advanced cities of its time.
Jaipur earned its nickname, the Pink City, in 1876 when Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II ordered the entire city to be painted pink. This was done to welcome the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) during his visit to India. In Rajasthani culture, pink symbolizes hospitality and the tradition of maintaining the city’s pink colour has continued to this day.
Jaipur flourished under the rule of the Kachwaha Rajputs. They were known for their courage and strategic alliances. Unlike many Rajput rulers who resisted the Mughals, the Kachwahas formed close ties with the Mughal Empire. Especially under Akbar’s rule.
Jai Singh II himself was a trusted ally of the Mughal court and was given the title Sawai, meaning “one and a quarter” (symbolizing his excellence beyond ordinary rulers). He was also a keen astronomer and built the famous Jantar Mantar. This is an astronomical observatory that remains one of Jaipur’s most famous landmarks.
During the British colonial period, Jaipur retained much of its autonomy under the British Raj. But Jaipur became a princely state under British rule. After India gained independence in 1947, Jaipur joined with the princely states of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Bikaner to form Rajasthan in 1949. Jaipur became the capital of Rajasthan.
Jaipur is a UNESCO World Heritage City. The city’s architectural wonders, lively markets and royal heritage continue to make it one of India’s most visited destinations, next to the Taj Mahal in Agra.
The City Palace in Jaipur is one of the most stunning architectural masterpieces of Rajasthan. The palace is located in the centre of the Pink City. This complex was the seat of the Maharajas of Jaipur and continues to house the royal family in parts of the palace. It was built in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The palace is a spectacular mix of Rajput, Mughal and European architectural styles.
The City Palace complex covers a substantial portion of Jaipur’s old city and is divided into multiple sections. It includes palaces, courtyards, gardens and a museum. The palace’s architectural beauty lies in its harmonious fusion of Rajput grandeur and Mughal elegance. There are delicate frescoes, balconies and beautifully carved doorways.
Mubarak Mahal was built in the 19th century by Maharaja Madho Singh II. The palace was used as a reception hall for visiting celebrities. This exquisite structure has Islamic, Rajput and European influences. The Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum is now situated in this building. They have royal textiles, costumes and artifacts, including silk sarees, Kashmiri pashminas and traditional Rajasthani garments on display.
The Chandra Mahal (Moon Palace) is the most important part of the palace. It is still used as the private residence of the royal family. The palace has seven floors and each floor has a distinct name and purpose. While much of it is closed to the public, visitors can access the first floor. Here they display royal artifacts, including ancient paintings, manuscripts and carpets.
One of the most Instagrammable spots in Jaipur is the Pritam Niwas Chowk. There are four decorated doorways, each representing a different season and Hindu deity:
The Diwan-i-Khas was used by the Maharajas to hold private meetings with their ministers and important guests. The hall is famous for its two enormous silver urns, which are recognized as the world’s largest silver vessels by the Guinness Book of World Records. Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II used these urns to carry holy Ganges water when he travelled to England in 1901.
Once the royal residence of Jaipur’s queens, the Maharani Palace is now a museum displaying an impressive collection of Rajput weapons, including swords, daggers and firearms inlaid with precious stones and ivory handles.
The Hawa Mahal is also named the Palace of Winds. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. This unique structure is famous for its honeycomb-like facade with 953 detailed carved windows (jharokhas). It is designed to allow cool breezes to pass through giving it the name Hawa Mahal.
Hawa Mahal is a five-story structure made of red and pink sandstone. It mixes Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Though it looks like a palace from the outside, it is actually an extension of the City Palace. It was designed for the royal women of the court. Since Rajput traditions restricted women from appearing in public, these small windows allowed them to observe street festivals and daily life without being seen.
The design of Hawa Mahal was inspired by Lord Krishna’s crown. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh was a devoted follower of Krishna. The concept of jharokhas is also influenced by Mughal harems. The royal women could see the outside world while maintaining their privacy.
The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is one of the largest and best-preserved astronomical observatories in the world. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning example of scientific innovation and architectural brilliance from the 18th century.
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II was apassionate astronomer and mathematician who wanted to improve astronomical calculations for better timekeeping, astrological predictions, and navigation. He built five Jantar Mantars in India (Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi). Jaipur’s observatory is the largest and most well-preserved.
The Jantar Mantar complex has 19 large astronomical instruments. They are all made of stone and marble. These instruments were designed to:
Unlike traditional telescopes, these instruments rely on shadows, angles and alignments to provide astronomical data with surprising accuracy.
Jal Mahal means “Water Palace“. The palace is located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. This five-story palace appears to rise out of the water, creating a breathtaking reflection against the Aravalli hills. It was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Madho Singh I. The Jal Mahal is an elegant mix of Rajput and Mughal architecture and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Jaipur.
The palace was originally built as a hunting lodge for the Maharajas of Jaipur. They used it as a retreat during duck hunting trips. Later, Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber renovated the structure. He added elements of Mughal-style gardens and detailed carvings. Over time, the palace was abandoned, and the lake suffered from pollution. The extensive restoration efforts have helped revive its grandeur.
It is a five-story structure, but only the top floor is visible, as the four lower floors remain submerged in the lake. The palace is made of red sandstone. The structure has Rajput chhatris (domed pavilions), Mughal-style archways and detailed jharokhas (balconies). The palace has no direct entryway. It was accessed via boats when it was in use. The surrounding Man Sagar Lake was artificially created in the 16th century by damming the Dharbawati River.
The palace appears to float on water, creating a magical sight, especially at sunrise and sunset. Unlike other Jaipur landmarks, entry inside the palace is restricted to preserve its delicate structure. Visitors can admire it from the lakeside or take a boat ride for closer views. Restoration efforts have included cleaning the lake, reviving the gardens and restoring architectural details to their former glory.
Jaipur is a shopper’s dream. There are many bazaars exploding with colour, culture and craftsmanship. From dazzling jewellery and hand-printed textiles to pottery and leather goods. The markets of the Pink City are an unforgettable shopping experience. Here I have listed the 5 best bazaars in Jaipur, what treasures they hold, and some essential tips to make the most of your visit.
What to buy: Precious and semi-precious gemstones, gold and silver jewellery, kundan and meenakari (enamel) work and traditional Rajasthani jewellery.
Why visit: Jaipur is known as the Gem Capital of India, and Johari Bazaar is the best place to find handcrafted jewellery fit for royalty.
What to buy: Mojari shoes (traditional Rajasthani leather footwear), block-printed fabrics, bandhani (tie-dye) textiles, camel leather bags and Jaipuri quilts.
Why visit: A lively market where you can pick up authentic Jaipur souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Best for: Lac bangles, brassware, traditional rugs and home décor.
Why visit: Known for its authentic handcrafted lac jewellery and stunning brass artifacts reflecting Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
Best for: Marble sculptures, wooden carvings, blue pottery and artistic home décor.
Why visit: This is where local artisans show their craftsmanship, making it a great place for authentic Rajasthani art pieces.
Best for: Handmade wooden furniture, home décor and beautifully dyed fabrics.
Why visit? This market is famous for affordable wooden carvings and Jaipur’s signature tie-and-dye textiles.
The Albert Hall Museum is one of Jaipur’s best historically landmarks. The museum is located in the centre of the city. The museum is known for the mix of Indo-Saracenic architecture, combining elements of Mughal, Rajput and European styles.
The museum is built in 1876, during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II. It was designed as a part of the welcome celebrations for the visit of the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). It was initially intended as a public hall and it was later changed into a museum in 1887. The museum’s architecture is based on the design of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, which is how it got its name.
The museum has a remarkable collection of Rajasthani miniature paintings and sculptures, reflecting the region’s royal heritage. They have bronze and stone sculptures of Hindu deities, as well as classical Indian sculptures from various periods.
They have a collection of traditional Rajasthani textiles, including embroidered fabrics, block-printed textiles, and royal costumes.
The museum has a collection of ancient coins, pottery and musical instruments. And also stone inscriptions and weapons from different dynasties that ruled Rajasthan.
One of the museum’s most intriguing exhibits is an Egyptian mummy. The Albert Hall Museum is one of the few places in India with such a collection.
A display of stuffed animals, including taxidermy of various species of birds, which was popular during the British colonial period. The Albert Hall Museum is the oldest museum in Rajasthan and is situated in the Ram Niwas Garden. You can find the museum outside and on the south side of the city wall.
Amber Fort (also known as Amer Fort) is one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace is located 11 kilometres from the city centre. This fort-palace complex is built on a hilltop overlooking the Maota Lake. On the top levels of the palace you have breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Amber Fort is a combination of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.
The palace was founded in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I. The structure was built on the site of an earlier fort constructed by Maharaja Alan Singh in the 11th century. Over the centuries, the fort underwent several expansions and renovations by later rulers, including Maharaja Jai Singh I and Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (the founder of Jaipur). Amber Fort served as the main residence of the Rajput Maharajas and their families until the capital was moved to Jaipur in the 18th century.
Amber Fort is a remarkable mix of Hindu and Mughal architectural elements. Going from courtyards, grand halls, temples to palaces. Here are some of the most notable architectural features:
The main entrance of the fort, Suraj Pol is a massive gate that opens into the main courtyard. It is designed with carvings and is one of the best-preserved entrances in the fort.
This open-air hall is where the Maharaja would meet with common people to hear their grievances or make public announcements. It is characterized by decorative arches and beautiful frescoes on the ceiling.
Diwan-i-Khas is a much grander hall used by the Maharaja to meet with high-ranking officials or nobles. The hall has a stunning canopy and detailed marble inlay work that creates a sense of luxury and elegance.
The Sheesh Mahal is one of the most famous sections of the fort, known for its detailed mirror work. The walls and ceiling are covered in thousands of tiny mirrors that reflect light in dazzling patterns, creating a shimmering effect. The palace is said to have been designed to reflect a single candle’s light, which would illuminate the entire room.
The Sukh Niwas was built to ensure that the royal family had a cool and comfortable place to escape the heat of the summer. The palace has specially designed water channels and a cool breeze system, making it one of the most innovative features of the fort.
Located within the fort, this beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It has carvings and stonework, highlighting the importance of religious structures within the fort.
Amber Fort is an incredible place to explore the history, royal lifestyle and architectural brilliance of Jaipur. Whether you’re interested in history, photography or simply taking in the beauty of the landscape. Amber Fort is an essential stop on any trip to Jaipur.
The stepwell in Amber is located near the Amber Fort. While Amber Fort is known for its majestic architecture and grandeur, the stepwell is a more functional but equally remarkable feature of the area. It was designed to collect and store water in the desert environment.
Stepwells are also known as “baoris” or “baolis“. They were often built in Rajasthan and Gujarat as a way to store water during the region’s harsh dry seasons. The Amber stepwell was constructed as part of a larger water management system that helped support both the fort and the nearby area. It is believed to have been created during the reign of Maharaja Man Singh I in the 16th century. Some believe it could be older.
The Amber stepwell is a multi-storied structure, built in a series of descending platforms or steps that lead to the water below. It is typically rectangular in shape, with stepped stone sides that allow people to access the water even when the level drops.
Multiple steps: The stepwell has numerous steps, often leading down to several levels, making it possible to reach the water even during periods of drought. The steps were designed to ensure easy access to water even in extreme heat or when the water levels fluctuated.
Storage tank: At the bottom of the stepwell, there is a water storage tank that collects rainwater or water from nearby sources. This tank makes sure that the region had a reliable supply of water, especially during the dry months.
Water conservation: The stepwell was a crucial element of water management in the desert region, particularly for Amber Fort. It would help ensure the availability of water even during times of drought, which was common in Rajasthan.
Architecture: Like other stepwells in India, the Amber stepwell also shows the engineering brilliance of the period, with its system of stairs and channels designed to access groundwater.
Cool environment: The stepwell also provided a cool retreat in the hot Rajasthan climate. The depth of the well and the surrounding stone created a cool environment. It would have been a place for locals and residents of the fort to take rest from the scorching heat.
On the north west side of Amber Fort you can find an abandoned step well. You can walk the 900 meters from Amber Fort or take a rickshaw. Unfortunately the guards don’t allow you to walk down the stairs but it’s a great place to take photos.
Situated high on the Aravalli hills, Nahargarh Fort is an iconic and picturesque fort in Jaipur. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, Nahargarh Fort is as a symbol of Jaipur’s royal past. From you have panoramic views of the city below. Its strategic location and architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Pink City.
The fort was founded in 1734. Nahargarh was originally constructed as a defensive fort to protect Jaipur from potential invasions and attacks. The fort was built under the supervision of Sawai Jai Singh II, who was also responsible for the creation of Jaipur and the establishment of Jantar Mantar, another famous Jaipur landmark. The name Nahargarh translates to “Abode of Tigers“, which is believed to be derived from the story of the fort being named after a spirit (Nahar Singh Bhomia). The spirit haunted the area and was said to have been happy by the construction of the fort. Nahargarh Fort was initially a defensive structure. It was later turned into a pleasure palace and a summer retreat for the royal family.
Nahargarh Fort is renowned for its mix of Indian and European architectural styles. It gives it a distinct charm. Some of the key architectural features include:
The fort is surrounded by high walls and massive gates, which are designed for defence. But their beauty lies in the detailed carvings and arched entrances that decorate the exterior.
The fort houses a section called Madhavendra Bhawan. This section has several palatial suites built for the royal family. Each suite was designed with a unique aesthetic, and the rooms are connected by an impressive central hall. The royal rooms have delicate frescoes, wall carvings and beautiful paintings, showing the skill of artisans from that period.
Survival during attacks: Nahargarh was designed to survive attacks from enemies. The fort withstood several battles, and the fort’s thick walls and strategic position ensured its defence from invaders.
A popular spot for locals: In addition to tourists, locals often visit Nahargarh for picnics, evening walks and to watch the sunset. The fort is also known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural surroundings.
Films and TV shows: Nahargarh Fort has also made appearances in Bollywood films and television shows. It is a popular film location for various productions.
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan. It is well-connected by various modes of transportation, making it relatively easy to reach from different parts of India and beyond. Below you will find the main ways to get to Jaipur.
Jaipur has an airport named Sanganer Airport (Jaipur International Airport). The airport is about 13 kilometres from the city centre. The airport connects Jaipur with major cities in India, as well as international destinations.
Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily take a taxi, auto-rickshaw or airport shuttle to your destination in Jaipur.
Jaipur has a major railway station, Jaipur Junction. The station is well-connected to most cities in India. The city is served by several express and superfast trains that link it to destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Chennai.
The Jaipur Junction station is centrally located, making it easy to reach nearby hotels or tourist spots by auto-rickshaw, taxis, or local buses.
Reading tip: How to book train tickets in India as a foreigner
Booking tip: Easily book train tickets via 12GO
Jaipur is well-connected by road, and there are numerous private and government-operated buses that run from various parts of India.
Booking tip: Easily book bus tickets via 12GO
Jaipur is accessible via well-maintained highways, and if you prefer a more flexible travel option, you can drive or hire a taxi from nearby cities.
Driving to Jaipur is quite scenic, especially when travelling through Rajasthan’s desert landscapes.
If you’re coming from a nearby city like Delhi, you can hire a private taxi or chauffeured car for a more comfortable and personalized experience. This is a more expensive option but gives flexibility in terms of stops and timing.
The best time to visit Jaipur is during the winter months, specifically from October to March. Here’s why:
If you’re a budget traveller, the summer months might offer lower prices for flights and hotels, but keep in mind the weather will be extremely hot. You’ll need to stay indoors during the peak heat of the day.
For the most comfortable and enjoyable experience, the winter months (October to March) are the best time to visit Jaipur. The weather is cool, allowing you to explore the city’s history, markets and beautiful architecture.
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