The Top 13 Best Places to Visit in Jaipur This Year

Jaipur is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan and is known for its amazing pink-coloured sandstone buildings. Popularly called the “Pink City” it is part of the famous Golden Triangle of India, along with Agra and Delhi. There are lots of amazing places to visit in Jaipur, including palaces, forts, and other amazing remnants of the city’s royal heritage.

Also Read: 11 Reasons To Visit Rajasthan This Year

When is the Best Time to Visit Jaipur

Jaipur is situated in an arid, semi-desert region, and thus summers here (March to June) can get extremely hot and dry, and temperatures can reach over 45°C. However, it is also the season when the city celebrates numerous festivals. Both the Elephant Festival and Holi are held in March.

Monsoons last from July to September, and see cooler temperatures (between 27 to 34°C) and not much rain, making it an excellent time to visit. However, the best time to see Jaipur is during the winter months (October to February) when the weather is pleasant and the evenings cool. However this is also the peak tourist season and sees the most number of visitors, so be prepared for large crowds.

Also Read: A Travel Guide Of Amazing Places To See In Rajasthan

The Best Places to Visit in Jaipur

1. Amber Fort

Located just outside Jaipur, the Amber Fort is one of the most iconic monuments in Rajasthan. Built overlooking Maota Lake, it was the home of the state’s Rajput rulers until the city of Jaipur city was constructed. The fort is home to many breathtaking palaces, halls, gardens, and temples. Don’t miss the stunning Sheesh Mahal (‘Hall of Mirrors’) or the exciting elephant ride up the ramparts.

2. City Palace

At the very heart of the old city of Jaipur lies the magnificent City Palace. This sprawling complex of courtyards and gardens features a mix of Rajasthani and Mughal styles and was built by the Rajput king Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Don’t miss the Mubarak Mahal, the Armoury, Chandra Mahal, and the Diwan-i-Am, as well as the museums and galleries.

3. Jantar Mantar

Next to the City Palace is the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Jai Singh in 1728. Its 14 structures measure time, predict eclipses, and track stars. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the massive 90 foot Samrat Yantra sundial and the beautifully manicured gardens.

4. Hawa Mahal

Also opposite the City Palace is the iconic Hawa Mahal (or ‘Palace of the Winds’). Built of pink sandstone, it has hundreds of small windows (jharokhas) and screens that are said to have been built so that the women of the royal household could watch the streets below without being observed. Check out the panoramic views from the top, and the bustling bazaar nearby.

5. Jaigarh Fort

Built by Sawan Jai Singh II in 1726, the massive Jaigarh Fort was meant to protect the royal palace and fort of Amer. It has towering gateways and watchtowers, huge cannons, and a maze of underground passages. Though it doesn’t have the delicate interiors of Amber Fort, this fortress is one of the best-preserved military structures of medieval India.

6. The Markets

Jaipur is known for its vibrant markets and bazaars, selling all kinds of Rajasthani items. Here you can find everything from traditional jootis (shoes) to colourful textiles, precious gemstones, silver jewellery, beautiful blue pottery, and other local handicrafts. At Johari Bazaar you can find all kinds of jewellery, while at Nehru Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar you can find a wide variety of textiles, perfumes, and leather goods.

7. Jal Mahal and Rambagh Palace

Located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, the beautiful Jal Mahal has recently undergone significant restoration. The stunning palace is lit up each night, though visitors are unfortunately not allowed inside at present. However, another stunning Rajput palace you can visit is the Rambagh Palace. Once the principal residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, it is now a luxury hotel, though visitors can explore it during the day.

8. Nahargarh Fort 

The Nahargarh Fort is perched atop the Aravalli Hills overlooking the city. It was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II to defend Jaipur, and is also called the “Tiger Fort”. The fort offers spectacular views of the city, especially at sunset, and also has a wax museum, a sculpture park, and a cafe.

9. Monkey Temple

10. Albert Hall

Jaipur’s Government Central Museum (better known as Albert Hall) was inspired by the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The museum opened in 1887 and has a large collection of portraits, costumes, artefacts, handicrafts and paintings related to the past of the city and its royal families. Keep in mind that photography isn’t allowed here.

12. Elefantastic

Located near the Amber Fort, Elefantastic is an elephant sanctuary that was founded in 2012. It houses around 25 elephants, and visitors can learn about habits, feed them, decorate them, and more. There are also bareback rides available, as well as in-house meals.

13. Sisodia Rani Garden

This garden just outside the city was built in1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh for his queen, who hailed from the Sisodia dynasty. The formal multi-level gardens feature numerous pavilions and fountains and were once a favourite getaway of the queens of Jaipur. The garden also has beautiful murals depicting the life of the Hindu deity Krishna.

• Entry: Free
• Hours: 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Are there any places to visit in Jaipur that we’ve missed? If so, be sure to share them in the comments below.

Also Read: Mouth-Watering Dishes From Rajasthan You Have To Try