Jaipur is that Indian city that feels like a film set. Known globally as the “Pink City” due to the distinct terracotta-pink hue of its historic centre, it is the crown jewel of Rajasthan. There are lots of awesome – and pink – Things To Do in Jaipur that add to your India itinerary.
Whether you are here for the architecture, the vibrant textiles, or the world-famous lassi, Jaipur never fails to leave an impression.
In this guide, we’re sharing our favourite spots, logistical tips, and the real-deal advice for navigating this beautiful, chaotic city and enjoying the unmissable Things To Do in Jaipur.
- About Jaipur
- Getting There
- Getting Around
- Tour Guide for Jaipur
- Things To Do in Jaipur
- Things To Do in Jaipur with Kids
- Tickets for Jaipur Sites
- Where To Eat
- Where To Stay
- More About India
About Jaipur
Welcome to the famously ‘Pink City’ of India!
Where is Jaipur?
Jaipur is the bustling capital of Rajasthan, India’s largest state by geographical area.
It is located in the northwestern corner of the Indian subcontinent.
The city is strategically positioned just under 300km from New Delhi, making it easily accessible by road or rail from the capital.
Is It Worth Visiting Jaipur?
Without a doubt, yes. Jaipur is a cornerstone of India’s world-famous ‘Golden Triangle’ circuit, consistently ranking as one of the most visited destinations in the country.
Because it is so well-connected to Delhi and Agra, it is incredibly easy to include in any itinerary.
Having visited Jaipur more than six times in the last three years alone, we can attest that the city never loses its “wow” factor. There are lots of unique things to do in Jaipur. It is just as the pictures depict!
Whether it’s your first time in India or your sixth, there is always something new to discover.
Why is Jaipur Called the ‘Pink City’?
The name dates back to 1876, when Maharaja Ram Singh ordered the entire city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales (the future King Edward VII) and Queen Victoria.
In Indian tradition, pink is the colour of hospitality, and this grand gesture was meant to showcase the city’s warmth and status. The colour proved so iconic that the tradition has been maintained ever since.
Logistics: Getting There and Around Jaipur
Jaipur is part of the iconic Golden Triangle, making it very accessible.
Getting to Jaipur
It is possible to get to Jaipur by rail, road and air.
- By Train: This is the most authentic way to arrive. The Ajmer Shatabdi from Delhi takes about 4.5 hours and is very reliable.
- By Air: Jaipur International Airport (JAI) has frequent connections to Delhi, Mumbai, and international hubs like Dubai.
- By Road: Many travellers hire a private driver from Agra or Delhi. The drive from Agra takes roughly 4 to 5 hours.
Getting Around the City
Once you arrive in Jaipur, navigating the Pink City is relatively straightforward.
Depending on your budget and the distance you need to cover, you can choose between classic rickshaws, modern taxis, hiring a driver for the day, or simply exploring on foot.
- Hiring a Private Driver: For those who want to see all the major sights—like Amber Fort, Nahargarh, and the City Palace—in a single day without the hassle of negotiating every leg, hiring a private driver is a convenient option. Most hotels and homestays can arrange a dedicated car and driver for a half or full day, allowing you to leave your bags in the car while you explore.
- Auto-Rickshaws: These are the lifeblood of Jaipur and perfect for short hops between monuments. They can weave through traffic much faster than a car. Always agree on a price before you start your journey, as getting a driver to use the meter is a rare feat!
- E-Rickshaws: A quieter, eco-friendly alternative to the traditional auto. You’ll find these primarily within the Old City walls; they are great for short, inexpensive zips through the narrower streets.
- Taxis & Ridesharing: Standard taxis and apps like Uber or Ola are widely available in Jaipur. These are ideal for longer distances or for getting to and from the airport and train station in air-conditioned comfort.
- Walking: The heart of the Pink City (the Old City) is best experienced on foot. This is the only way to truly soak in the architecture and hidden alleyways, though you should be prepared for intense traffic, vibrant chaos, and narrow sidewalks.
The Best Time to Visit Jaipur
The ideal time to explore Jaipur is during the cooler winter months, from October through to February or March.
As the capital of Rajasthan—India’s desert state—Jaipur experiences extreme heat during the summer months of May and June. Then July and August bring the monsoon season.
While it might sound surprising for a desert region, the rain can be intense, causing significant challenges for locals and visitors alike.
- Tip: If monsoon season is your only window to travel, don’t cancel your plans—just be prepared for downpours and local infrastructure challenges.
How Long Should You Stay?
While our personal sweet spot for most destinations is three nights to allow for an unrushed pace, 2 to 3 days is the perfect amount of time for things to do in Jaipur.
Two full days are enough to see the major highlights, and even a quick trip with two nights and a day-and-a-half in between transport connections will give you a fantastic feel for the Pink City.
Is a Day Tour Best for Things To Do in Jaipur?
If you are looking for the most efficient and enjoyable way to see all the things to do in Jaipur, we can’t recommend a private rickshaw tour enough. And if you’ve landed on this guide, you’re in luck—because we have the perfect person for the job.
Meet Raja: Our Go-To Jaipur Legend
We first met Raja nearly four years ago, and ever since, he has been our unofficial guide and driver every time we return. If you want a day tour of the Pink City that is friendly, energetic, and completely honest, Raja is your man.
He can meet you right at the train station or pick you up directly from your accommodation (check out our favourite Jaipur Haveli below).
Whether you have one day or three, he can tailor-make a rickshaw itinerary that hits all the highlights at a pace that suits you.
How to book:
- WhatsApp: Raja Rabbani at +91 9928130309
- Instagram: @rajarabbani96
We know it’s always reassuring to see “real” people using a service in India, so definitely check out his Instagram to see other travellers enjoying their tours!
Why Choose an ‘Unofficial’ Guide?
Raja isn’t a registered, badge-wearing tour guide, and in our opinion, that makes the experience even better. He is a local through and through, overflowing with knowledge about his hometown.
Unlike many commercial tours that might funnel you toward high-commission souvenir shops, Raja focuses on the unique sites and authentic experiences. If you do find yourself wanting a formal history lesson at the major monuments, you can easily hire an official site guide at the entrance of any location included on the Composite Ticket.
Send Raja a message with your dates and get ready to enjoy the very best of things to do in Jaipur!
12 Incredible Things to Do in Jaipur
Jaipur is absolutely packed with incredible sights, and while we’ve compiled a detailed list below, there are a few things to do in Jaipur that are top of the list first…
Best Things to Do in Jaipur?
If you only have one day in Jaipur, these six locations are the absolute must-sees and can easily be visited as part of a single-day rickshaw tour:
- Hawa Mahal (The Palace of Winds)
- Amer Fort (The Amber Palace)
- Amer Stepwell (Panna Meena ka Kund)
- The Royal Tombs (Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan)
- Jal Mahal (The Water Palace)
- The Jaipur Flower Market
These six spots offer the perfect cross-section of Jaipur’s royal history, intricate architecture, and vibrant local life.
Read on for the detailed – and other essential, must-see Things To Do in Jaipur.
1. Hawa Mahal (The Palace of Winds)
The most iconic image of Jaipur is the Hawa Mahal.
Built in 1799, this five-story pink sandstone honeycomb was designed so royal women could watch street festivals without being seen by the public.
It is beautiful from the outside. But don’t just look at it from the street. You can go inside and climb to the top for a view of the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar.
- Tip: For that perfect Instagram shot, head to one of the rooftop cafes (like The Tattoo Café or Wind View Cafe) directly across the street.
2. Amer Fort (Amber Fort)
Located about 11km outside the city, this massive UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Rajput architecture. The fort is famous for its artistic Hindu-style elements and its sweeping views of Maota Lake.
There is lots to see inside. But the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) is spectacular. It is said that a single candle can light up the entire hall due to the thousands of tiny mirrors!
3. Panna Meena Ka Kund (Amer Stepwell)
Just a short rickshaw from Amer Fort lies one of the most beautiful and symmetrical stepwells in India. Built in the 16th century, its geometric staircases were used for gathering water and social meetings.
- Note: Security usually prevents people from walking down the steps for photos now, but it is still worth visiting for the sheer architectural brilliance.
4. Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan (The Royal Tombs)
This is one of Jaipur’s best-kept secrets. It is not part of the Composite Ticket, but we always recommend it as one of the best things to do in Jaipur.
These are the cenotaphs (tombs) of the royal family. Each dome (chhatri) is intricately carved with different designs reflecting the taste of the king it commemorates.
It’s incredibly peaceful and far less crowded than the main forts.
5. Jama Masjid (Amer)
While most people visit the mosques in the city centre, the Jama Masjid in the old town of Amer (near the fort) is another of the interesting historic things to do in Jaipur.
It offers a beautiful, quiet space to appreciate Mughal architecture away from the tourist bustle.
- Tip: If you haven’t visited a mosque in India yet this is a beautifully historic site to see.
6. The Jaipur Flower Market (Phool Mandi)
If you’re an early riser, head to the flower market near Choti Chaupar at 6:00 AM.
It is a sensory explosion of marigolds, roses, and jasmine along with all kinds of locally grown fruits and vegetables.
- Tip: Go early—the best action happens before the sun is fully up, and it’s a great way to see the city waking up.
7. Isarlat Sargasuli & the Local Markets
The Isarlat is a towering minaret that offers the highest 360-degree view of the Pink City.
Afterward, dive into the surrounding markets. Johari Bazaar is famous for jewellery, while Bapu Bazaar is the place for textiles and leather ‘Mojari’ shoes.
8. Albert Hall Museum
As the oldest museum in Rajasthan, Albert Hall is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
While the artifacts inside are interesting, the building itself—especially when lit up at night—is the real draw.
The thousands of pigeons that flock here in the afternoon also make for dramatic photos…
- Tip: There is a food court and a great place for chai just across the road from Albert Hall Museum!
9. Jal Mahal (The Water Palace)
Jal Mahal literally translates to “Water Palace,” and visually, it lives up to the name. This striking five-story structure sits in the centre of Man Sagar Lake on the outskirts of Jaipur, with four of its floors submerged when the lake is full.
Jal Mahal, Honestly
To be completely honest (and a bit blunt), this is a site best appreciated from a distance. While it is constantly cited as an iconic Jaipur landmark and absolutely it is one of the most famous things to do in Jaipur.
But the reality of the lakeshore can be a bit of a letdown. The waterfront is often crowded with aggressive hawkers and overpriced tourist trinkets, and unfortunately, the shoreline itself suffers significantly from litter.
Waste management is a challenge in many parts of India, but the viewpoints here are particularly disappointing. If you have a good zoom lens, use it!
We recommend taking our word for it: have your rickshaw driver pull over briefly on the way back from Amer Fort to snap a quick photo from the roadside. You’ll get the beautiful Floating Palace shot without having to navigate the crowds and rubbish on the water’s edge.
10. Jantar Mantar (The Observatory)
Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this UNESCO site contains 19 astronomical instruments. It is one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world and features the world’s largest stone sundial.
- Recommendation: This is one site where hiring a guide is actually worth it. Without an explanation, the instruments just look like giant abstract sculptures!
11. Nahargarh Fort
Perched on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, this fort was once a strong defence for the city. Today, it is the best place to watch the sunset over the entire city of Jaipur.
Read How To Visit The Taj Mahal.
12. Galta Ji (The Monkey Temple)
This ancient Hindu pilgrimage site is built into a mountain pass. It is famous for its natural springs and the large tribes of macaques and langurs that live here.
- Warning: The monkeys are bold! Keep your belongings close and avoid carrying food.
Things to Do in Jaipur with Kids
While Jaipur is a major stop on India’s well-worn tourist trail, the Pink City is surprisingly kid-friendly if you know where to look.
We’ve explored Jaipur with our own children more than six times and always include it as a highlight on our family Group Trips through Rajasthan. With a bit of creativity, you can easily turn a day of sightseeing into an adventure.
These are our recommendations for the Things To Do in Jaipur With Kids:
- Feed the Cows for Good Karma: Near the Jaipur Flower Market, you can buy a bundle of fresh grass for about 20 INR. Feeding the local cows is a cool way to engage with a local tradition that is said to bring good luck—and it is always a massive hit with the kids!
- Climb the Isarlat Minaret: If your kids have energy to burn, take them to the Isarlat Sargasuli Minaret. We recommend going early to avoid the heat. Let the kids lead the way up the internal winding ramp; the panoramic view of the old city from the top is the perfect reward for the climb.
- Explore the Massive Amer Fort: This fort is vast, offering plenty of open space for little legs to wander. Unlike some more museum-heavy sites, Amer Fort feels like a giant playground of secret passages and courtyards. It’s a great place to soak in the history without feeling too restricted.
- Cool Down with a Famous Lassi: No trip to Jaipur is complete without a stop at Lassi Wala 312. For children, these thick, creamy yogurt drinks served in traditional clay cups are like an exotic Indian milkshake! Just be sure to get there early, as they close up as soon as they sell out for the day.
Essential Jaipur Tips
There are some truly amazing and must-see things to do in Jaipur. Though it is a little bit like starting to search for a needle in a haystack wondering how best to plan all these sites to see.
After many visits to the city there are a few tips we wish we had known the first-time round.
Recommended Tour
If you are short on time, we highly recommend booking a full-day tour with Raja.
How to book:
- WhatsApp: Raja Rabbani at +91 9928130309
- Instagram: @rajarabbani96
A local guide can help you navigate the history and, more importantly, handle the logistics of getting between Amer and the Old City efficiently.
Getting Tickets for Things To Do in Jaipur
To save money and time, buy the Jaipur Composite Ticket.
- Cost: Around 1000 INR ($12 USD) for foreigners.
- What’s included: It covers entry to Amber Fort, Albert Hall, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, and several other sites for two consecutive days. It is much cheaper than buying individual tickets at every gate.
Where to Stay in Jaipur
Every time we return to the Pink City—including during our family Group Trips—we stay at the same traditional Haveli.
- Jaipur (Mid-Range): Jaipur Haveli
This is a beautiful, family-run guesthouse located right in the heart of the city, within easy walking distance of the Hawa Mahal.
Staying here is like stepping back in time; the home has been in the same family for five generations, and currently, three generations live on-site in this stunning, 200-year-old traditional residence.
The architecture is breathtaking, but it’s the hospitality that keeps us coming back. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and we can highly recommend the home-cooked meals—they are consistently some of the best we’ve had in the city!
Where to Eat (and the Lassi Wala!)
Jaipur is a foodie’s paradise. There are some well-known and beautiful places to eat in Jaipur.
But Lassi’s aside, the home-cooked meals at Jaipur Haveli are hard to head out from!
- Lassi Wala (Kishanpole Bazaar): There are several shops with this name, but the original is at Shop 312. They have been serving creamy lassi in clay pots (kulhads) since 1944. Once you’re finished, you get to smash your clay pot on the ground for recycling—it’s a Jaipur rite of passage!
- Rawat Mishtan Bhandar: Go here for the Piaz Kachori (onion pastries). It’s an iconic Jaipur breakfast.
- The Peacock Rooftop Restaurant: Great vibes, even better views, and a massive menu of Indian and international favourites.
Read Our Tips For Avoiding Delhi Belly In India.
Final Thoughts & Safety
Jaipur is a city that requires a bit of stamina. It is noisy, the traffic is relentless, and you will be approached by many people offering tours or “special prices” on gems.
- Safety: Jaipur is generally safe for travellers and families. The biggest annoyance is the “Gem Scam”—if anyone tells you they need help shipping jewellery overseas to avoid taxes, walk away immediately.
- Modesty: Like the rest of Rajasthan, Jaipur is conservative. Please dress modestly—cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples or the Old City.
Enjoy the Things To Do in Jaipur
Jaipur is the soul of Rajasthan. Take your time, drink the lassi, and enjoy the unmissable things to do in Jaipur!
Read More India Inspiration
- Ultimate India Food Tour: 10 Must-Try Treats.
- India Tourist e-Visa: Our Step-By-Step Guide.
- 10 Things To Do In Kochi & Kerala.
- Best Tourist SIM Card For India.
- What To Wear In India.
- 10 Tips To Avoid Delhi Belly In India.
- 4-Day Kochi & Kerala Itinerary.
- Travelling India By Bus: Intercity, Tourist & Sleeper Buses.
- 10 Iconic Things To Do In Kolkata.
Travel Planning for India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia through 12Go.
- Skyscanner – Our favourite flight search engine. They can search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide – A huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for short or longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have travel insurance before visiting Rajasthan and things to do in Jaipur!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
