Jaipur is a place where time stands still. The entire city is a marvel of architecture, history, and culture. The structures you see here aren’t just pleasant to look at; they’re steeped in history.
Jaipur
With massive fortresses and grand palaces, Jaipur has a vibe that makes you feel as though you’re in a historical documentary. The city has a bit of everything, from history and tradition to architecture. It’s an amazing place to spend some time in, and you’ll have your hands full with things to do.
The city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It’s now the capital of Rajasthan. Why is the city called the Pink City? It’s because of the pink buildings you see everywhere – pink is a colour that symbolises hospitality.
Recognised for its many historical buildings, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the most iconic and talked-about landmarks include Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, and the City Palace. What’s more, Jaipur was the first city to be planned in India. The entire city layout was designed in the Vastu Shastra architectural style.
Use Info for Tourists
The best time to visit Jaipur is between November and February. This is the peak season. The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 8 degrees to 32 degrees. These months are perfect for exploring the architectural marvels of the city. Plus, the Kite Festival and Jaipur Literature Festival take place in February, meaning you get to experience a bit of the local culture too.
Going by the number of annual tourist visits, Jaipur is one of the most visited cities in India. All types of travellers visit the city, and it welcomes them all with its diverse accommodation options. You have both budget and luxury choices. For those seeking premium accommodation and a central location, a place like Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur Hotel would be suitable, as it is a five-star tourist hotel in India.
Allocate at least three to four days for your visit to Jaipur. Visit attractions early in the morning and in the late afternoon. The mid-day heat can be a bit too much for someone who’s not from this part of the world, so spend the afternoon in the comfort of your hotel. Treat yourself to a delicious local lunch, recharge, and then head out again in the late afternoon. Consider joining a group tour to make the most of your visit.
Amber Fort
Standing on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, Amber Fort is located 11 kilometres from Jaipur. The fort features a mix of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. The intricate mirror work and frescoes are among the highlights.
Be sure to explore the Sheesh Mahal, the Mirror Palace, to admire its mirror aesthetics. You can also enjoy an elephant ride up to the fort for an experience that’s quintessentially Indian.
There is an entrance fee – it’s USD 7 for foreigners. The fort is a popular attraction that draws crowds throughout the day, but if you visit in the morning or late afternoon, the fort is a bit less crowded. Plus, in the evening, you can see the light and sound show for USD 4.
Hawa Mahal
Also known as the Palace of the Winds, Hawa Mahal is another remarkable ancient structure in Jaipur. It’s built entirely of pink sandstone and features 953 windows. Its history dates back to 1799 when it was built for female members of the royal family.
Get to the top for an unforgettable view of the stunning cityscape. You can visit from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, but if you arrive in the morning, you can see the soft rays of the morning sun reflecting off the pink sandstone of Hawa Mahal.
Foreigners need to pay USD 2 to enter the building.
The City Palace
Another must-visit landmark, the City Palace sits right in the city. This grandiose palace was once home to the Maharaja of Jaipur, and you can see how fitting it must have been to house royals. With stunning courtyards, detailed carvings, windows, and a mix of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace stands out.
Inside the palace are rooms containing collections of royal costumes and ancient armour. The Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal are among the main highlights.
The entrance fee for a foreigner is USD 9. Hire a guide to make the most of your visit.
Jantar Mantar
When you step inside Jantar Mantar, you’ll see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place is absolutely remarkable.
It was Maharaja Jai Singh II who built it in 1734 as an astronomical observatory. This is where you’ll find the largest sundial in the world, along with other fascinating instruments used in the past to keep track of time.
Visit in the late afternoon, when the shadows are longest, to see the sundial measure time.
Albert Hall Museum
This is the oldest museum in the city and houses a large collection of artefacts that showcase the city’s history and heritage. The museum is part of the Ram Niwas Garden, and the collection includes sculptures, paintings, carpets, and metal and ivory work.
Visit early in the morning to explore the museum without too many people around. The entrance fee is USD 2 for foreigners.
