Jaipur

JAIPUR, the capital and biggest city of Rajasthan state is an enchanting landscape brimming with vibrant riot of colours and treasure trove of rich historical legacy dating back to the era of royalty. Popularly known as the Pink City owing to its monuments built with red/pink sandstone, it is a charismatic melange of old and new world. While the exotic historical places in Jaipur add to its splendour, the modern infrastructure and amenities add to its character.

WEATHER

 

AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Rainfall (mm)	6.0	7.6	6.1	8.3	12.7	42.6	137.4	139.0	57.3	12.4	2.7	3.0

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT

November to March is the best time to visit Jaipur and other parts of Rajasthan as the weather ranges between 8-degree Celsius during nights to 32-degree Celsius in the day. Summers are extremely hot, and sightseeing isn't a very joyful experience. Monsoons, on the other hand, are quite hot and humid which isn't an ideal time to visit too. January is an excellent time to visit Jaipur because of the Kite Festival and also the Jaipur Literature Festival that's held around this time. Sometime in the month of March, Jaipur witnesses the Elephant festival, just a day before Holi.

CUISINE

A trip to Jaipur is thereby incomplete without digging into grand dishes like the Dal Bati Churma, desserts like Imarti and Ghevar and of course the famous chaat. Some of the dishes that you can't miss in Jaipur include Dal Bati Churma, Missi Roti, Bajre ki Roti, Mirchi Bada, Gatte ki Sabji and Kadhi. The desserts here are very popular and it is almost imperative that you let your taste buds experience these unique dishes. These include Ghevar, Imarti, Halwa, Choorma, Gajak, Moong Thal and more. Jaipur is a hot hub for non-veg lovers and Laal Maans is a must-taste Rajasthani delicacy. It is basically mutton curry cooked for hours in yogurt and Rajasthani spices.

Places to eat in Jaipur: Lakshmi Mishthan Bhandar or LMB is the most popular sweet shop and restaurant, Rawat Mishthan Bhandar, an excellent place to try out the local Rajasthani delicacies; Ramchandra kulfi bhandar is most famous kulfi shop in pinkcity. Variety n quality of juices and shakes are awesome. Choki Dhani is a mock village where you can experience the traditions, heritage, culture and food of Rajasthan all in one place. There are different multi-cuisine restaurants here with different seating styles and specialities but the traditional buffet is a must-try. Spice Court has been serving delicious Rajasthani food for several years now. You have to try their Mutton Sula, Keema Baati, and Laal Maas. Mahaveer rabdi bhandar is very famous for bejar roti n garlic chutney and rabdi, it’s a restaurant based on Rajasthani food

SHOPPING

Mesmerizing things to buy in Jaipur: Jewellery, Lehariya Saree, Bandhani Dupatta, Meenakari Work Items, Embroidered Bed Sheets, Mojris, Jaipuri Handcrafted Handbags, Blue Pottery, Lac Bangles, and Miniature Paintings

The best places to visit in Jaipur for shopping are the Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar. The vibrant bazaars full of colour and culture are a paradise for shoppers seeking to buy authentic goods. They are famous for its gorgeous collection of traditional Rajasthani clothes, textiles, handicrafts, artificial and real jewellery. A visit to this bazaar is a must to indulge in shopping for family and friends.

Nehru Bazaar offers the finest quality leather products including wallets, shoes, belts and bags. It is also the main market to buy Mojri shoes that are one of Jaipur’s famous things.

LANGUAGE

The official language of Jaipur is Hindi and the additional official language is English. The native and main dialect of the city is Dhundari. The Marwari and Standard Hindi dialects are also spoken, along with English.

THINGS TO DO

1. HOT AIR BALLOONING

Drift over the Pink City in a hot air balloon and experience the mesmerizing views of the forts and palaces nestled among the Aravali ranges. Enjoy the plethora of colors and sounds of this city from up above.

These rides are popular things to do in Jaipur in one day and are mostly held two hours before sunrise and two hours before sunset. Most of the hot air balloon rides accommodate up to 8 people and start from Amber Fort.

2. ATTEND THE LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW!

Amer Fort is an iconic tourist attraction in Jaipur. Located on a hill in Amer, the fort covers an area of 4 sq. km. The palace fort built in a blended style of Indian and Mughal architecture is so beautiful that even the invaders did not want to destroy it. During its golden time, Amer Fort was a strong defence ring around the city. If you are visiting this fort, you must surely see the Light and Sound show that displays the glorious history of this fort Amer Fort and the city. It is one of the best things to see in Jaipur.

3. JHALANA LEOPARD SAFARI TOUR

Experiencing wildlife is one of the best things to do in Jaipur, India. Jhalana Leopard Conservation Reserve is located in the Jhalana region in Jaipur. Once a hunting ground of the Maharajas, this place is now a Leopard reserve. Spread over a small area of 20 sq. km., and with a considerably large population of these wild cats, you can be sure of spotting at least a few. Take a safari in the open-top gypsy and you can spot many other species too, including Striped Hyena, Porcupine, Desert Fox, Sambar Deer, Hanuman Langur, etc.

4. BHUTESHWAR NATH MAHADEV TREK: EXPLORE THE TRAILS!

Take a guided trekking tour to the Bhuteshwar Nath Mahadev in Jaipur. The trek starts and ends at the Sagar Lake in Amer. The trails take you through the world’s oldest mountain ranges, the Aravali. This whole journey is going to be a combo of an adventurous and spiritual experience. You will also be provided refreshments in this 5 hour long trek, if you opt for a guided tour.

5. ELEPHANT RIDE AT AMBER FORT

The elephant safari starts from the bottom of the hill and takes you on a joyous ride up the hill towards Amber Fort. Why people mostly prefer to take this elephant ride in Jaipur is because it gives you enough time to stand witness to the marvellous and the gargantuan architecture and wealth of the grand Amber fort. You would be ensorceled by its vast gateways, towering arches and its colossal palaces.

6. NAHARGARH SANCTUARY: WITNESS JAIPUR’S FAUNA!

Take a Jeep safari around this 7.2 sq. km. vast wildlife sanctuary in Nahargarh. The place is home to about 13 lions and tigers. The park features quartzite and stone rocks with tropical dry deciduous vegetation. Other species that share the habitat include deers and peacocks. This sanctuary also has a good number of bird species along with many migratory birds who stop-over here for winter season. So the jeep safari lets you have an interesting bird-watching experience too.

7. VISIT ELEPHANT FARM

For the animal lovers nothing can be better going by to the Elefantastic Elephant Farm which is one of the best things to do in Jaipur. Envision nourishing the elephants with your own hands furthermore figure out how to communicate with the elephants. This activity was started in the year 2012 to comprehend and advance the prosperity of the elephants.

8. REVEL IN A CAMEL SAFARI

A camel safari in Jaipur is not just a ride rather an experience of a lifetime. In addition to allowing you to sightsee the rustic areas of the city, the ride also beguiles you with night camping.

Counted best tourist place to visit, the activity enables you to live in the moment at sprawling deserts of Rajasthan. Once done with the safari, watch the evening become a memorable affair as you spend time while stargazing.

9. ENJOY STAYING IN A HERITAGE HOTEL

Recreating the magic of royalty, heritage hotels in Jaipur offer a memorable stay. Showcasing splendid architecture, the heritage cum luxury hotel presents a unique spectacle.

Pampering guests with amazing hospitality par excellence, the hotels allow relishing the royal feel and Rajasthani cultural experience that the state is famous for. Undoubtedly, these stunning remnants of a bygone era are perfect destinations for luxury seekers.

10. PAPAD KE HANUMANJI MOUNTAIN HIKING

You will experience some beautiful valleys, Mountains, lush green forest, with ample natural beauty throughout the trek. You get a chance to visit some of the ruined hunting lounge and spiritual heritage on the way.

11. EXPERIENCE THE RURAL VIBE OF CHOKHI DHANI

Chokhi Dhani is a luxury heritage resort synonymous with Rajasthani village culture. It is located a little on the outskirts of the city on Tonk Road. The concept of the village is to give you a tangible feel of rural Rajasthan. It is a true depiction of traditional Rajasthan with ancient artefacts, handicrafts, paintings, folklore and sculptures. The village offers myriad entertainment options- folk dances, singing, camel rides, puppet shows, fortune-tellers, acrobatics, predicting parrots, magic shows, horse riding. Etc.

It is also known for its traditional Rajasthani food served with a dollop of clarified butter!

PLACES TO VISIT

1. AMBER PALACE

Amber (pronounced Amer) is at a distance of about 11 kilometres from Jaipur. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the bastion of the Kachwahas of Amber, until the capital was moved to the plains, to what is today Jaipur. The palace, located in craggy hills, is a beautiful melange of Hindu and Mughal styles. Raja Man Singh I began construction in 1592 and the palace, which was built as a strong, safe haven against attacking enemies, was completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh. The contrast between the harsh exterior and the inviting interior couldn’t be more surprising. Made entirely of red sandstone and white marble, visitors are left spellbound by the magnificence of the palace that utilises carvings, precious stones and mirrors. The splendour of the palace is enhanced by the breath-taking vista of the Maota Lake in front. The palace is nearly seven centuries old and has a legendary past. Originally a small structure that the Rajputs won from the Meena tribes; it was later transformed into the grand Amber Palace.

2. CITY PALACE

Located deep within the walled city, the City Palace Complex was conceived and built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. A beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the palace is still home to the last ruling royal family which lives in a private section of the palace. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is credited with building most of the structures, but it was expanded upon by later rulers as well. The City Palace Complex includes the Mubarak Mahal (the palace of reception) and the Maharani’s Palace (the palace of the queen). Mubarak Mahal now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum and displays a vast and unique collection of royal costumes, delicate Pashmina (Kashmiri) shawls, Benaras silk saris, and other dresses with Sanganeri prints and folk embroidery. The clothes of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I are also on display. The Maharani's Palace, surprisingly, has an interesting display of very well-preserved Rajput weaponry, some dating back to the 15th century. Other than the arms, the palace is adorned with beautiful paintings on the ceiling that are well-maintained.

3. JANTAR MANTAR

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is considered to be the largest of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. It contains sixteen geometric devices, designed to measure time, track celestial bodies and observe the orbits of the planets around the sun. It also houses the Interpretation Centre that helps the tourists to understand about the working principles & chronology of the observatory.

4. HAWA MAHAL

Hawa Mahal, literally the Palace of Winds, was built in 1799 by the poet king Sawai Pratap Singh as a summer retreat for him and his family. It also served as a place where the ladies of the royal household could observe everyday life without being seen themselves. This unique five-storey structure is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, and the exterior, with its small latticed windows (called jharokhas), resembles the crown of Lord Krishna. The windows also serve as an air-conditioner of sorts, blowing cool air throughout the palace, making it the perfect retreat during summers. Built from pink sandstone, the Hawa Mahal is Jaipur’s iconic landmark and visitors can view its complete magnificence from outside, from across the road. However, it is also possible to climb right up to the top for a wonderful view from the windows.

5. NAHARGARH FORT

Nahargarh Fort sits proudly on a ridge of the Aravali Hills, creating an impressive northern backdrop to the city of Jaipur. It was constructed during the reign of Jai Singh in 1734, and was later expanded in 1868. Nahargarh, which means abode of tigers, was a formidable barrier, defending Jaipur against attacking enemies. Within its walls, the fort houses Madhavendra Bhawan, the summer destination for the members of the royal family. Built by Sawai Madho Singh, the palace has 12 matching boudoirs for the queens, at the head of which is a suite for the king. They are all connected by corridors decorated with delicate murals. Even today the palace is a favoured spot for local picnickers. The fort looks brilliant when floodlit at night. Overlooking the city, it presents a glittering view of the city lights.

6. ALBERT HALL MUSEUM (CENTRAL MUSEUM)

The building gets its name from The Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the inspiration for its design. The exquisitely built Albert Hall is housed in the centre of Ram Niwas Garden. Sir Swinton Jacob (who is also the mastermind behind many other palaces in Rajasthan) conceptualised and designed it using styles from the Indo-Sarcenic architecture and the Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone of the building in 1876. The museum displays a wide range of metal objects, wood crafts, carpets, stone and metal sculptures, arms and weapons, natural stones and ivory goods. It also houses a large collection of miniatures from Bundi, Kota, Kishangarh, Udaipur and Jaipur schools of art.

7. JAIGARH FORT

About 15 kilometres from Jaipur, Jaigarh Fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh II sometime in the early 18th century amidst the arid, rocky and thorn-scrub covered hills. Despite its ancient construction, it still retains most of its imposing citadel appearance. Visitors can see the world’s largest cannon – Jaiban, at the fort.

8. JAL MAHAL

One of the most wonderful sights in Jaipur is the beautiful Jal Mahal or Lake Palace. The light, sand coloured stone walls and the deep blue of the water make for a wonderful contrast. The palace appears to float in the centre of Man Sagar Lake, where its magnificent exteriors can be enjoyed by tourists.

9. GAITORE (MEMORIALS OF KINGS)

Just off the Jaipur-Amber road is Gaitore, where the former Maharajas of Jaipur are entombed. The chhatris (cenotaphs), made of white marble display the distinctive Rajput style of architecture. The open pavilions with ornate domes are supported by delicately sculpted pillars. The crematorium is located in the middle of yellow sandstone hills. The décor and extravagance of a particular chattri is meant to reflect the stature and prowess of the ruler it contains. The most graceful and beautiful chattri at Gaitor is that of Maharaja Jai Singh with 20 carved pillars. Tourists are especially drawn towards it because of its intricate carvings.

10. GALTAJI TEMPLE

Located on the outskirts of the regal city of Jaipur, Galtaji Temple is a prehistoric Hindu pilgrimage site. Outlined by the striking Aravalli hills, it consists of several shrines, holy kunds, pavilions and natural springs. This majestic temple is situated at the heart of a hilly terrain that is bounded by a beautiful gorge that attracts tourists here every year.

11. CHAND BAORI AT ABHANERI

Chand Baori or Stepwells of Abhaneri, as it is famously known, which is among the largest step wells in the world. The principal idea behind building step wells was to conserve rain water in the desert lands and additionally, they served as natural coolers during the summer months, which were unbearably hot.

When one is around Jaipur, a visit to Abhaneri step well is most recommended. The Abhaneri step wells are so famous that they are visited by locals, domestic tourists as well as international travellers in equal measure. The thirteen storey step well boasts of its exquisite geometry and intricate architecture of the huge pavilion with windows, galleries and balconies.

One look from top of the baori towards the bottom, the glistening green water stands out in contrast to the stone stairways making it a sight to behold. When the sun is high, the play of light and shadows due to the maze work of the steps gives a photographer some best angles and photo opportunities. Due to its amazing architecture and the geometric work of the entire structure, the Chand Baori is every photographer’s delight.

Chand Baori has also served as the location for shooting several movies; the famous ones include Bhool Bhulaiya, Bhoomi, The Fall, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and The Dark Knight Rises starring Christian Bale as Batman.

The Chand Baori is managed by the Archeological Survey of India.

12. JHALANA SAFARI PARK

Jhalana Safari Park is an expansive and beautiful safari park in Jaipur that’s popular for its leopard sightings. The forest block has an area of 1978 hectare and is situated on south eastern border of Jaipur city. Until 1860, the park was under Feudalistic rule. It was the exclusive property of the erstwhile Jaipur estate and was basically used by the royals to play sports, and to meet the fuel and fodder needs of neighbouring villages. In 1862, Dr Brandis was appointed as the Inspector General of the forest to supervise the administration of the forest under a systematic management. The park is immensely rich in flora and fauna, and the vegetation here is categorized as northern tropical dry deciduous forest type. The safari tour here is raw, wild, and forthcoming, as the park lets the visitors witness wildlife in its natural habitat. Besides leopards, the safari also has around 15-20 panthers reigning the forest area. Other wildlife viewing opportunities at Jhalana Safari Park entail insightful excursions for discovering and exploring diverse wildlife, including striped hyenas, desert fox, golden jackal, chital, Indian palm civets, blue bulls, jungle cat, and many more. Besides this, the Jhalana Safari Park is a bird watcher’s paradise too, as it is home to various species of birds, including the Indian Pitta, Dusky Eagle, Owl, Spotted Owlet, Indian roller, sikra, and hawks, among others. With its expansive landscapes and diverse animal life, there are a few popular places of interest in the park as well; namely, a majestic shikar oudhi built in 1835 by Sawai Ram Singh, a big temple of Kali Mata, and a Jain Chulgiri Temple.

13. SAMBHAR LAKE

Sambhar Lake is one of the largest inland salt lake and lies just 70 kms from Jaipur. It is an incredible landscape, almost resembling the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. Apart from producing a large percentage of India's salt supply - it also an incredible place to spot birds including large flocks of flamingos. The views from the Shakambhari Mata Temple are breathtaking at sunset and one can spend hours in solitude. Another unique aspect is the Saltwork's own railway system built to transfer salt from the pans to the processing unit. A visit to the salt lake and a walk in the Sambhar town is also a must do activity. Devyani Kund, Sharmishtha Sarovar, Salt Museum, Circuit House, etc are also important places to visit in Sambhar. One can also visit religious sites Naraina & Bhairana on the way to Sambhar.