Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, enthralls travelers with its rich history, captivating architecture, and colorful bazaars. Often referred to as the “Pink City” due to the rose-hued buildings that line its streets, Jaipur offers a glimpse into India’s royal past, bustling present, and artistic soul.
The popularity of Jaipur is stated by the number of tourists who visit the city. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is one of India’s most historical places – the hub of the Rajputs from where native Indian Kings defended the land against invasions from up in the north west mountains.
In 2019, 1.6 million foreign tourists visited the state. In 2023, the 130 million domestic tourists visited Rajasthan! The immense popularity of the destination cannot be overstated.
A City Steeped in History: From Royal Legacy to Planned Metropolis
Jaipur’s story begins in 1727, when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a Rajput ruler of Amber, envisioned a new capital city. He commissioned Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a brilliant architect, to design a metropolis based on the principles of Hindu Silpa Shastra, an ancient treatise on architecture. This meticulous planning makes Jaipur one of the first planned cities in modern India.
Prior to Jaipur’s rise, Amber Fort, perched majestically on a hilltop, served as the seat of the Rajput kingdom. The Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, with sprawling courtyards, intricate carvings, and a mesmerizing Sheesh Mahal (meaning Mirror Palace).
Jaipur played a significant role in the history of Rajasthan and India. The city was a center of trade and commerce, renowned for its precious stones, textiles, and craft traditions. During the British Raj, Jaipur remained an important princely state, collaborating with the British while retaining its cultural identity.
Why is Jaipur famous?
Here are the places that you must visit while in Jaipur:
- Amber Fort: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Rajput era. Take an elephant ride to the fort and explore its opulent chambers, including the Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the Jai Mandir, an astronomical observatory.’
- City Palace: This sprawling complex, a part of which is still a royal residence, showcases Rajput and Mughal architectural influences. Explore courtyards, museums, art galleries, and the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a stunning structure with 953 windows designed to allow cool air to circulate during the hot summer months.
- Jantar Mantar: Jaipur’s most unique landmark is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The colossal instruments, crafted from stone and marble, were used to measure time, predict eclipses, and study the celestial bodies.
- Jaigarh Fort: Guarding Amber Fort from above, Jaigarh Fort boasts the world’s largest cannon on wheels. Explore its ramparts, watchtowers, and the Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).
- Nahargarh Fort: Nicknamed the “Hill Fort,” Nahargarh Fort offers panoramic views of Jaipur. Explore its Madhavendra Bhawan palace, wax museum (separate entry fee), and take in the breathtaking sunset. While here, you can also visit the Sheesh Mahal, a hall of mirrors built within the fort (separate entry fee). Though not the original Sheesh Mahal from Amber Fort, it offers a beautiful example of mirrored craftsmanship.
- Jal Mahal: Rising majestically from the center of Man Sagar Lake, Jal Mahal (Water Palace) is a beautiful example of Rajput architecture. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake for picturesque views.
Beyond the Monuments: A Journey Through Jaipur’s Cultural Tapestry
Jaipur’s vibrancy extends beyond its historical monuments. Immerse yourself in the bustling bazaars like:
- Johari Bazaar: This vibrant market is a paradise for jewelry lovers, offering a dazzling array of precious and semi-precious stones, handcrafted gold and silver jewelry, and kundan work.
- Bapu Bazaar: Explore a kaleidoscope of colors at Bapu Bazaar, where you can find an incredible selection of colorful textiles like leheria and bandhej sarees, leheria dupattas, vibrant carpets, and intricately painted blue pottery
- Tripolia Bazaar: For traditional Rajasthani souvenirs, head to Tripolia Bazaar. Find traditional Rajasthani footwear (juttis), embroidered kurtas and salwar kameez sets, and colorful puppets.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits: Unveiling Jaipur’s Delicacies and Where to Find Them
Jaipuri cuisine is a delightful blend of Rajasthani flavors and Mughal influences, known for its rich curries, flavorful vegetables, and melt-in-your-mouth desserts. Here are some must-try dishes and the perfect places to savor them:
- Dal Baati Churma: This quintessential Rajasthani dish features lentils (dal), baati (round wheat balls baked in dung cakes), and crumbled sweet churma (fried flatbread).
- Where to Try: LMB (Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar) is a legendary eatery established in 1727, offering a truly authentic experience. Alternatively, head to Chokhi Dhani for a cultural experience with their traditional Rajasthani thali that includes dal baati churma.
- Laal Maas: Succulent mutton curry cooked in a rich tomato and yogurt gravy, a true explosion of flavors for meat lovers.
- Where to Try: Handi Restaurant near Hawa Mahal, where you can enjoy laal maas with stunning views of the city.
- Ghewar: A melt-in-your-mouth sweet dish made with refined flour, soaked in sugar syrup, and often topped with nuts and dried fruits. Ghewar is especially popular during the Teej festival (monsoon season).
- Where to Try: Ghewar is widely available during the season at sweet shops across Jaipur. For a truly decadent experience, head to Kanha Sweets in Gangori Bazaar, known for their rich and flavorful ghewar.
- Pyaaz Kachori: Crispy fried pastries stuffed with a spicy onion filling, perfect for a light snack or a satisfying breakfast.
- Where to Try: Sample piping hot pyaaz kachoris from street vendors near Hawa Mahal or Tripolia Bazaar. For a sit-down experience, head to Rawat Mishthan Bhandar in MI Road, a popular spot for breakfast and local snacks.
- Thandai: A refreshing drink made with almonds, pistachios, fennel seeds, and rose water, perfect for the hot Rajasthan weather.
- Where to Try: Thandai is a ubiquitous beverage in Jaipur. Find it at most restaurants and street vendors, especially during the summer months. Lassiwala on MI Road is a popular spot for a refreshing glass of thandai.
Exploring Jaipur’s Street Food Culture:
Beyond the must-try dishes, exploring Jaipur’s vibrant street food scene is a must-do experience. Here’s a guide to some popular street food options and the best areas to find them:
- Jaipur Street Food Walk: Join a guided food tour to explore the hidden gems of Jaipur’s street food scene. These tours typically take you through bustling bazaars and lesser-known eateries, allowing you to sample a variety of local delicacies.
- Chaat Street: Head to Chaura Rasta near Hawa Mahal, a dedicated street lined with vendors offering a variety of savory chaat options. Sample samosas, aloo tikki (fried potato patties), and dahi bhalla (fried lentil fritters dipped in yogurt).
- Lassi Shops: Lassi, a thick yogurt-based drink, comes in both sweet and savory varieties. Head to shops like Lassiwala on MI Road or Pandit Lassiwala near Hawa Mahal for a taste of this refreshing beverage.
Go through some Food Tours in Jaipur here.
Fine Dining Experiences in Jaipur:
While the street food scene offers a truly authentic experience, Jaipur also boasts fine dining establishments for those seeking a more luxurious culinary adventure:
- The Rajput Room at Rambagh Palace: Experience a royal dining experience at The Rajput Room, housed within the opulent Rambagh Palace. Savor traditional Rajasthani cuisine amidst stunning palace interiors.
- Suvarna Mahal at The Leela Palace: Indulge in a contemporary take on Indian cuisine at Suvarna Mahal. The restaurant offers stunning views of the city and a menu featuring innovative dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
- 1135 AD at Taj Jai Mahal Palace: Embark on a culinary journey through Rajasthan’s rich history at 1135 AD. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on regional specialties and traditional cooking techniques.
Unveiling the Gems Beyond Jaipur: Where can you go from Jaipur?
- A Day Trip to Abhaneri: Just an hour’s drive from Jaipur lies Abhaneri, a village famous for its Chand Baori (stepwell). This unique stepwell features 3,500 steps that descend 13 stories underground. Explore the intricate carvings and architecture of this ancient well and step back in time.
- Elephant Sanctuary”: For animal lovers, a visit to an elephant sanctuary near Jaipur can be a rewarding experience. Here, you can observe rescued elephants in a natural environment, learn about their plight, and even participate in ethical elephant interactions.
- Trekking in Aravalli Hills: Escape the city bustle and embark on a trek in the Aravalli Hills, which border Jaipur. Enjoy scenic hikes, discover hidden waterfalls, and witness the diverse flora and fauna of this region.
Festivals and Cultural Events:
Jaipur comes alive during its vibrant festivals, showcasing the city’s rich culture and traditions. Here are some notable events to consider incorporating into your trip:
- Teej Festival (July-August): This monsoon festival celebrates the arrival of the monsoon season. Witness colorful processions, women adorned with henna and traditional wear, and enjoy traditional delicacies like ghewar.
- Elephant Festival (September): Held at Hawa Mahal, this unique festival features a procession of decorated elephants, showcasing their grandeur and skills.
- Jaipur Literature Festival (January): A paradise for book lovers, this prestigious festival brings together renowned authors, poets, and thinkers from across the globe for discussions, workshops, and book readings.
Planning Your Jaipur Adventure:
- Best Time to Visit: The weather in Jaipur can be extreme. The ideal time to visit is during the pleasant months of October to March, when temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Getting There: Jaipur is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Jaipur International Airport (Sanganer Airport) offers domestic and international flights. Trains connect Jaipur to major Indian cities, while buses provide a more budget-friendly option.
- Getting Around: Rickshaws are a popular and affordable way to get around Jaipur. Taxis are also readily available, and pre-paid taxis offer a more reliable option. Consider purchasing a Jaipur Darshan Pass if you plan on visiting multiple forts and museums during your stay.
(Cover Image by DISHARI DE from Pixabay)
