Jaipur Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Jaipur, the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known as the "Pink City" for its trademark building color, Jaipur is a part of the famous Golden Triangle tourist circuit of India, alongside Delhi and Agra.
The city's foundation dates back to 1727 when it was established by the Rajput ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is renowned for its rich architectural heritage, encompassing formidable forts, opulent palaces, and serene temples. The Amber Fort, a sprawling complex of courtyards and palaces, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the grandeur of Rajput royalty. The City Palace, still a residence for the royal family, showcases a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, with its intricate chambers and art galleries open to the public.
Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, is another iconic structure with its unique façade featuring hundreds of windows, allowing royal ladies to observe street festivities while remaining unseen. Nearby, the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Jai Singh II, reflects the scientific acumen of the era with its precise instruments for measuring time, predicting eclipses, and tracking stars.
Jaipur is also a shopper's paradise, known for its vibrant bazaars such as Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar. These markets teem with traditional textiles, exquisite jewelry, and handicrafts, offering visitors a chance to take a piece of Rajasthani culture home. The city is particularly famous for its gemstones, earning it the title of 'the gem capital of India.'
In addition to its historical landmarks, Jaipur hosts several cultural events that draw visitors from around the globe. The Jaipur Literature Festival is one of the world's largest literary gatherings, while the Jaipur International Film Festival celebrates the art of cinema.
Jaipur's cuisine is a reflection of its royal heritage, with local dishes such as laal maas (spicy meat curry), ghewar (a sweet dessert), and dal baati churma (lentils with baked wheat balls) tantalizing the taste buds of food enthusiasts.
Jaipur Attractions - What to See and Explore
Jaipur offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jal Mahal, Jantar Mantar. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Jaipur – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Jaipur, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Chand Baori (Abhaneri), Bhangarh Fort, Harshat Mata Temple (Abhaneri).
Best Time To Visit Jaipur
Learn when is the best time to travel to Jaipur weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Keema
Ground meat, called mince or minced meat outside of North America, and keema or qeema in the Indian subcontinent, is meat finely chopped by a meat grinder or a chopping knife.
Dish
Chutney
The term chutney refers to a number of sauces native to the Indian subcontinent, forming an integral part of the cuisines of the Indian subcontinent.
Korma
Korma or Qorma is a dish originating in the Indian subcontinent, consisting of meat or vegetables braised with yogurt or cream, water or stock, and spices to produce a thick sauce or glaze.
Dish
Paan
Paan is a preparation combining betel leaf with areca nut widely consumed throughout Southeast Asia, East Asia, India and Pakistan.It is chewed for its stimulant and psychoactive effects...
Ghevar
Ghevar is a Rajasthani cuisine sweet traditionally associated with the Teej Festival. Besides Rajasthan, it is also famous in the adjoining states of Haryana, Delhi, Gujarat, western Uttar...
Indian dish
Rajasthan