Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, deep-rooted traditions, and marvellous architecture. There are a plethora of things to do in Jaipur, but the best of them all is to immerse yourself in the city’s ancient folklore. An amalgamation of traditional bazaars and skylining hotels, Jaipur is famous for taking travellers on a royal journey to create a treasure-trove of memories.
Here are 6 top things to do in Jaipur:
1. Visit Jal Mahal
Steeped in history and culture, a trip to Jal Mahal will take you back to the glorious past of Jaipur. One of the best things to do in Jaipur is to watch the sunset from the Jal Mahal. The crowning jewel of the city, Jal Mahal, is a mix of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Encircled by Mansagar Lake, this beauty was a summer resort for the royal family.
Location: Jal Mahal, Amer Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Timings: 12 Noon to 10.30 PM
2. Hike to Nahargarh Fort
A cycling expedition up the Nahargarh Fort is one of the fun activities in Jaipur to do along with your partner. Standing on the edge of Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort was once a strong defence barrier during Rajput rule in India. The hike may be tiring but the orange-tinted sky painting a picturesque backdrop against the mighty hills is a sight to behold. Before heading back down, enjoy a quick meal at one of the best restaurants in Jaipur, located at the top of the fort- Padao Open Bar and Restaurant.
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
Entrance Fee: INR 200
3. An evening at Chokhi Dhani
If you’re ever wondering what to do in Jaipur, head over to Chokhi Dhani and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan. An enthralling theme village resort, Choki Dahani will transport you back in time where local artists give you a peek into their deep-rooted traditions. After a cultural overload, devour their lip-smacking dal baati churma doused in ghee. Of all the things to do in Jaipur, an evening at this resort is a must-add to your list.
Location: 12 Miles, Tonk Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Timing: 5 PM to 11 PM
Entrance Fee: INR 1200 for Adults and INR 800 for Children
4. Shopping at the Bazaars
Amongst all the shopping places in Jaipur, the traditional bazaars are a one-stop shop for the most authentic Rajasthani handicrafts, jewellery, and fabrics. Home to the country’s most talented artisans, Jaipur’s famous market- Johari Bazaar, is a wholesale hub for precious gemstones. While Tripolia is known for its lak jewellery, Chandpol Bazaar has excellent offers on marble structures and wooden souvenirs. From blue pottery to vibrant Rajasthani jootis, shopping is, in fact, one of the best things to do in Jaipur.
5. Leopard safari at Jhalana
Everyone does sightseeing and shopping, but one of the unique things to do in Jaipur is to experience a leopard safari at Jhalana. One of the city’s best-kept secrets, the Jhalana Leopard Safari Park was a hunting ground for royals. Today the park is a leopard reserve and home to over 35 of these magnificent cats. Read more about the safari details here.
Location: Malviya Nagar Industrial Area
Where to stay: Alsisar Haveli
Fee: INR 1100 on weekends, INR 800 on weekdays
6. Ride the hot air balloon
Among the most fun things to do in Jaipur riding the hot air balloon over the Pink City tops our list. Experience a bird's eye view of the magnificent forts and palaces guarded by the Aravalli range as you slowly drift along the wind.
Location: Near Amer Fort, Hot Air Balloon Packages include a pickup from the hotel
Fee: INR 13,500 for Adults, INR 9250 for Children (Shared Hot Air Balloon)
Timings: September - November: 6:15 AM | 4 PM
December - April: 6:45 AM | 3:30 PM
7. Pray at Moti Doongri
The Moti Doongri temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, in Jaipur is one of the most revered religious spots in the city. Flocked with devotees all year round, the temple dates back to the 17th century built by the then King of Mewar. Housing a striking orange coloured life-sized idol of Lord Ganesh adorned with precious jewellery, the temple boasts of exquisite architecture. The walls are adorned with carvings from the Hindu mythology making the temple a must visit monument.
Timings: 6 AM to12 PM | 3 PM to 9 PM
Entrance Fee: INR 200
8. Visit City Palace
Jaipur is famous for a lot of things, City Palace being one of them. Home to the royal family of Jaipur, the palace is made using pink and red sandstone with a mix of European, Mughal and Rajput architecture. Divided in two main areas, while Mubarak Mahal is open to tourists, only a section of Chandra Mahal is accessible because the royal still resides there.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Entrance Fee: INR 75 Indians | INR 300 Foreigners ( For Chandra Mahal)
9. Walk around Jawahar Circle
One of the largest circular parks in Asia, Jawahar Circle is encircled with jogging tracks, fountains and beautiful rose gardens. Enjoy a peaceful walk and appreciate nature in its full bloom. The area also has a great picnic spot to enjoy a lazy lunch in the shade of tall mango trees.
Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM
10. Take a pottery class
Home to the country’s best artisans, Jaipur has pottery workshops for tourists who wish to learn a little more about this dying craft. It is one of the fun things to do in Jaipur with friends and family.
Fee: Starts from INR 1700 per person
Well connected by air, rail, and road, a trip to the Pink City will not disappoint. With plenty of things to do in Jaipur for people of all ages, indulge in these exhilarating experiences to create memories for a lifetime.