Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City of India, is the capital of Rajasthan and one of the country's most visited tourist destinations. A perfect blend of royal heritage, magnificent architecture, vibrant culture, colourful bazaars, and authentic Rajasthani hospitality, Jaipur offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur was India's first planned city and today forms part of the famous Golden Triangle tourist circuit with Delhi and Agra. The city is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, majestic forts, royal palaces, astronomical observatories, traditional markets, luxury heritage hotels, and mouth-watering local cuisine.

Whether you are travelling with family, friends, as a couple, or solo, Jaipur offers history, culture, shopping, food, photography, and adventure in equal measure.

Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II after he shifted his capital from Amer due to growing population and water shortages. Designed by architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya according to Vastu Shastra principles, Jaipur became India's first planned city.

In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, a tradition that continues today and earned Jaipur the nickname Pink City.

The Walled City of Jaipur was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019 because of its exceptional urban planning, historic architecture, and cultural significance.

Jaipur is located in eastern Rajasthan and is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills.

Quick Facts

1. State: Rajasthan
2. Region: North-West India
3. Elevation: Approximately 431 metres
4. Area: Around 467 sq. km.
5. Latitude: 26.9124° N
6. Longitude: 75.7873° E

Its strategic location makes Jaipur an ideal base for exploring Ajmer, Pushkar, Ranthambore, Alwar, and Udaipur.

Jaipur experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers, moderate monsoons, and pleasant winters.

The best time to visit Jaipur is October to March. Pleasant temperatures make it comfortable to explore forts, palaces, gardens, and markets.

Best for Families

November to February

Best for Photography

October to February

Best for Shopping

November to March

Best for Budget Travellers

July to September (off-season with lower accommodation prices)

Winter

Cool mornings, pleasant afternoons, and ideal sightseeing weather.

Summer

Very hot during the day. Early morning and evening sightseeing is recommended.

Monsoon

Occasional rainfall refreshes the city and surrounding hills, making landscapes greener.

By Air

Jaipur International Airport (JAI) is located about 13 km from the city centre and offers regular domestic flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, and other major cities. Limited international flights also operate.

By Train

Jaipur Junction is one of North India's busiest railway stations with excellent connectivity.

Major stations:

1. Jaipur Junction
2. Gandhinagar Jaipur
3. Durgapura

By Road

Jaipur is connected by excellent highways.

Approximate distances:

1. Delhi – 280 km
2. Agra – 240 km
3. Udaipur – 395 km
4. Jodhpur – 340 km
5. Ajmer – 135 km

Luxury buses, Rajasthan Roadways buses, and private taxis are widely available.

Jaipur is one of India's finest shopping destinations.

Famous Markets

1. Johari Bazaar
2. Bapu Bazaar
3. Tripolia Bazaar
4. Chandpole Bazaar
5. Nehru Bazaar
6. Kishanpole Bazaar

Popular Malls

1. World Trade Park
2. GT Central
3. Elements Mall
4. Pink Square Mall

What to Buy

1. Gemstones
2. Kundan Jewellery
3. Meenakari Jewellery
4. Mojaris
5. Blue Pottery
6. Marble Handicrafts
7. Bandhani Sarees
8. Block Printed Fabrics
9. Leather Goods
10. Miniature Paintings

Don't leave Jaipur without trying:

1. Dal Baati Churma
2. Laal Maas
3. Pyaaz Kachori
4. Mirchi Vada
5. Ghewar
6. Mawa Kachori
7. Gatte Ki Sabzi
8. Ker Sangri
9. Rabri
10. Kulhad Lassi

Popular food areas include MI Road, Raja Park, Vaishali Nagar, and Johari Bazaar.

Major festivals celebrated in Jaipur include:

1. Jaipur Literature Festival
2. Teej Festival
3. Gangaur Festival
4. Diwali
5. Holi
6. Makar Sankranti
7. Kite Festival
8. Dussehra
9. Christmas
10. New Year Celebrations

Best locations for photography:

1. Hawa Mahal
2. Amber Fort
3. Nahargarh Fort
4. Jal Mahal
5. Patrika Gate
6. City Palace
7. Panna Meena Ka Kund
8. Albert Hall Museum
9. Amer Town
10. Johari Bazaar

One Day

1. Hawa Mahal
2. City Palace
3. Jantar Mantar
4. Johari Bazaar
5. Jal Mahal

Two Days

Day 1

1. Hawa Mahal
2. City Palace
3. Jantar Mantar
4. Bapu Bazaar

Day 2

1. Amber Fort
2. Jaigarh Fort
3. Nahargarh Fort
4. Patrika Gate

Three Days

Day 1 – Heritage

Day 2 – Forts

Day 3 – Shopping, Museums & Local Food

Winter

1. Light jacket
2. Comfortable walking shoes
3. Sunglasses

Summer

1. Cotton clothing
2. Sunscreen
3. Hat
4. Water bottle

Monsoon

1. Umbrella
2. Waterproof footwear
3. Rain jacket

Major hospitals include:

1. SMS Hospital
2. Fortis Hospital
3. Narayana Multispeciality Hospital
4. EHCC Hospital
5. Manipal Hospital
6. Mahatma Gandhi Hospital
7. Apex Hospital
8. CK Birla Hospital

National Emergency: 112

Ambulance: 108

Police: 100

Fire: 101

Start sightseeing early during summer.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for forts and palaces.

Carry cash for small local markets, though digital payments are widely accepted.

Bargaining is common in traditional bazaars.

Dress modestly while visiting temples.

Keep water with you while exploring outdoor attractions.

Book heritage hotels and guest houses in advance during the tourist season.

Budget Traveller

₹1,500–₹2,500 per day

Mid-range Traveller

₹3,500–₹6,000 per day

Luxury Traveller

₹8,000+ per day