Places to visit in Jaipur

Amber Fort and Palace

Located amidst the picturesque and rocky Aravalli Hills, Amber Palace is a not-to-be-missed place to in Jaipur. The foundation stone of this palace was laid by Raja Man Singh I and was completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh. Beguiling beauty of the red sandstone and white marble adds to the magnificence.
While the high formidable walls defended its residents from enemy attacks, the main building of the citadel served its people with all the luxuries and amenities.The scenic backdrop of the Maota Lake and panoramic views of sunrise and sunset contribute to the eternal beauty of this palace. Intricate wall paintings, frescos and the use of precious gems and jewels in these paintings add to its timeless beauty.
Sheesh Mahal or the ‘Palace of Mirror’ is also one of the captivating halls to visit within Amber Palace. Decorated with numerous pieces of mirror tiles, this hall was designed in such a way, even a single ray entering into it can illuminate the entire hall.
Visiting Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Entry Fee:
-For Indians: 25Rs. (Inclusive of Entry & Camera )
-Foreign Nationals: 150 Rs. (Inclusive of Entry & Camera)

Hawa Mahal, Palace of the Winds

Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, or also called Palace of the Breeze, is one of the important places to visit in Jaipur. Built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1798, Hawa Mahal is a five-storey extension in the form of a honeycomb. This unique building has 953 small windows, called jharokas, decorated with intricate lattice work. The entire palace represents the crown of the Hindu God, Lord Krishna.
Even though this palace was built during ancient times, it reflects the scientific vision of Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in a distinct way. The windows of this palace have been designed in such a way that irrespective of the time or season of the year, cool breeze always persists inside the palace. Due to this reason, Hawa Mahal was the favourite summer holiday destination of the Rajput family and is today a popular place to visit in Jaipur.
Another purpose of this palace was to prevent outsiders from catching a glimpse of the royal women. The incredible lattice of windows were designed in a way that it allowed a clear view of the outside world to the insiders, yet restricted outsiders from being able to stare inside the palace.
Visiting Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Entry Fee:
-For Indians: 10 Rs.
-For Foreign Nationals: 50 Rs.
-Entry is Free on Monday and Closed on Friday

Nahargarh Fort

To get a panoramic view of Jaipur city, Nahargarh Fort is the ideal place to visit. Built by Jai Singh II, Nahargarh Fort was originally named Sudarshangarh and was later renamed as Nahargarh or the Abode of Tigers. The then Maharaja of Jaipur constructed this fort in order to tighten the security of the region. It also served as a safety shelter to the British wives during the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.
Located on the rocky ridge of Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort offers the most striking view of Jaipur’s scenic landscape. During the night, when the entire Jaipur city gets lit up, Nahargarh Fort offers the most sparkling view of the entire city.
Rooms in this fort are connected through common corridors and are well decorated with delicate wall and ceiling paintings. The royal families also used this fort as a popular destination for their summer excursions and picnics. Jungles around Nahargarh Fort served as popular hunting places for the Maharajas of Jaipur.
Visiting Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Entry Fee:
-For Indians: 10Rs (Adults)
-For Foreign Nationals: 50 Rs (Adults)

Jal Mahal

It was during the Rajput era that India has seen some of the glorious forts and palaces. Jal Mahal or the Water Palace is one of the classic names in the list of Rajputana architecture.
Located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake, this palace is also a fusion of Mughal and Rajput styles of architecture. Built in red sandstone, Jal Mahal is a five-storey building, of which four storeys remain underwater when the lake is filled. This, in turn, offers a breathtaking view of the palace and makes it one of the important Jaipur tourist places so if you are in Jaipur, Jal Mahal is one of the must-visit places in the tour list.
Since the palace is located in the middle of the lake, traditional boats are used to reach the palace. The clear water of the lake and the scenic Aravalli mountain range dotting this palace, offer a splendid view of Jal Mahal.
The location of Jal Mahal makes it an indigenous home to some of the colourful migratory birds, several species of fish and rich flora and fauna. Flamingo, Great Crested Grebe, Pintail, Kestrel, Coot and Grey Wagtail are some of the migratory birds that can be found around Jal Mahal.
Visiting Hours: 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Photography Allowed: Yes

05Abhaneri Step Well

A reputed village in Rajasthan is Abhaneri lying at a distance of about 95 kilometers away from Jaipur. The original name was Abha Nagri which meant city of brightness and gradually, the name was transformed into Abhaneri due to mispronunciation. The city gladly displays its ruins still and people from all over the world visit it with pure happiness. Chand Baori or Abhaneri step well is a major attraction here.
The old step well has consisted of 3500 narrow steps along more than 13 stories. The well extends up to 30 meters into the ground letting it become one of the deepest and largest step-wells in India. The well was constructed during the period of King Chanda of the Chauhan Dynasty which was in reign between 800 AD and 900 AD. It was dedicated to Hashat Mata, the Goddess of joy and happiness. Since Rajasthan is an extremely arid and dry place, conservation of water is particularly essential. The step well was used to conserve the maximum amount of water it could hold and at the bottom of it, the water will be cooler than the surface.
Abhaneri steps well entry timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm on all days of the week.
Abhaneri steps well entry fee: No entry fee is applicable.
Abhaneri steps well location: Abhaneri Village, Jaipur-Agra Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302001 India.

Jaigarh Fort

Each of the palaces and forts in Jaipur is unique in its own way. Amongst all the forts and palaces, Jaigarh Fort is the most spectacular in the list of places to visit in Jaipur. This fort is situated on the rugged promontory of the Aravalli Hills, called the Cheel ka Teela or the Hill of Eagles. If the majestic appearance of Jaigarh Fort has to be compared with other forts and palaces in Jaipur, it will surely stand ahead of most.
Built in the year 1726 by Jai Singh II, Jaigarh Fort is also known as the Fort of Victory. The thick walls of this fort are of red sandstone, run about 3 km, and are dominated by watchtowers. The granaries, water reserves and storage systems in this fort are the finest examples of ancient science and technology.
Some of the best places to visit here are the Ram Harihar Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple and a museum that showcases primitive arms and ammunition. Once a popular cannon foundry of the Mughals and Rajputs, Jaigarh Fort is also home to Jaivana, the world's largest cannon-on-wheels.
Visiting Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Entry Fee:
-For Indians: 25 Rs (Adults)
-For Foreign Nationals: 75 Rs (Adults)

07City Palace

Located in the heart of Jaipur, City Palace is the most remarkable monument in the list of places to visit in Jaipur. Guarded by huge impounding walls, this palace is a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Whether with its everlasting architecture or the enchanting decorations, City Palace has kept the amplitude of the Rajputs alive.
Constructed during 1729-1732, under the supervision of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the City Palace boasts of very minute detailing. Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal comprise the major portion of this palace. Udai Pol, Jaleb Chowk, Tripolia Gate and Virendra Pol are the entrances to this palace. Embossed with fine artworks and engravings, every corner of this palace is filled with immemorial imprints from the past.
The entrance to Chandra Mahal is adorned with enticing peacock gates, which depict the four seasons and Hindu Gods through its splendid artworks. Diwan-i-Khas and Diwan-i-Aam of Mubarak Mahal served as gathering places of the Royals. Both of these halls are ornamented with crystal chandeliers.
A portion of this palace has been converted into a museum, depicting the elegance of the Rajputs and is open to the public. Maharani Palace and Baggi Khana are the two most striking museums among these. Maharani Palace, which was once the royal hall of the Rajput queens, now displays the weapons and ammunition used by the Royal Family. Baggi Khana showcases the different carriages used by the Royal Families of Jaipur.
Visiting Hours: 9.30 a.m to 5 p.m
Entry Fees for Indians:
-Adults: 40 Rs
-Children (5 -12 yrs): 25 Rs
-Cameras: 50 Rs
-Video Camera: 200
Photography is restricted at specified areas inside the palace.
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals:
-Adults: 300 Rs
-Children (5 -12 yrs): 200 Rs
-Cameras/Video: 200 Rs
Photography is restricted at specified areas inside the palace.

08Sisodia Rani Garden

Sisodia Rani Garden and Palace have a popular space in the tourist section of Rajasthan as hundreds of people come to visit and enjoy the stunning beauty of a picturesque garden and the architectural brilliance portrayed on the palace walls. It is located about 6 kilometers away from Jaipur city and was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1728. It consists of tiered gardens with fountains, watercourses and colorful pavilions.
The garden, as well as the palace, got their names as Sisodia Rani Garden and Palace from the queen for whom they were built and dedicated. She was from the Sisodiya line of Suryavanshi Rajputs who ruled the region of Mewar for a while. Depicting a soothing blend of Mughal designs and Indian art style, the garden is a must visit tourist destination in Rajasthan now. The palace is situated on the top terrace of the garden.
There are temples of Lord Shiva and Hanuman placed inside the royal garden. It is marvelously embraced by lush green nature and splendid collection of rare flowers. The walls are painted beautifully that depict the stories related to Lord Krishna and Radha.
Sisodia Rani Garden entry timings: all days of the week- 08:00 am to 06:00 pm.
Entry fee: INR 10 to 30 per person
Location: NH 11, Lal Dungri, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302031.

09Albert Hall Museum

After the foundation stone of this museum was laid in 1876 to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales, there arose confusion about the usage of this hall. Plenty of suggestions came in asking for using this hall for educational or political use, none of which held good!
In the year 1880, one of the local surgeons of Jaipur, Dr Thomas Holbein Hendley suggested to the then ruler of Jaipur, Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II to open a museum within this hall. The Maharaja liked this suggestion and thus Albert Hall Museum took shape.
In the beginning stage, Albert Hall Museum displayed the products of local artists and craftsmen. With passing centuries, collections in this museum have increased to a great extent and have brought this museum to international level.
This museum is also home to one of the six ‘Egyptian Mummies’ in India. This Mummy was gifted as a souvenir to the museum by the Brugsch Bey of the Museum of Cairo.
Visiting Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Entry Fee:
-For Indians: 20 Rs (Adults)
-For Foreign Nationals: 150 Rs (Adults)

10Galtaji or Galta Monkey Temple

Galtaji or Galta Monkey Temple is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site in Jaipur. Built during the 18th century by Diwan Rao Kriparam, this temple is located 10 km away from Jaipur. Scenic Aravalli Hills surround this temple and the dense green forests help in keeping the temperature of this place moderate.
According to mythological tales, Saint Galav, a true believer of God used to meditate in this region. After Galav completed 100 significant years in tapasya (penance), the Gods blessed this region with an abundance of water. As an honour to this holy devotee of God, a temple with seven holy kunds (ponds) was constructed at the site. Galta Kund is the most sacred among these seven kunds and it never gets dry. Galtaji also has temples dedicated to Lord Ram, Krishna and Hanuman.
During every Makar Sankranti, devotees from various places gather in this temple and take a holy dip in these kunds. According to Hindu religious beliefs, taking a dip in these kunds washes away all one’s sins.
The sacred shrine of Galtaji always remains surrounded by groups of monkeys. These monkeys are the permanent dwellers of Galtaji and can be found all over the area. Thus, Galtaji is often called Galta Monkey Temple.
Visiting Hours: Sunrise to Sunset, on all weekdays
Photography Allowed: Yes

11Chokhi Dhani

While travelling across various places in Jaipur, you might miss out the chance to enjoy certain festive celebrations of Jaipur. If that is the case, you do not have to worry anymore! Just visit Chokhi Dhani and witness the liveliness of Jaipur's celebrations, as the celebration never stops in Chokhi Dhani!
Chokhi Dhani, the only five-star rated ethnic village resort in India, is one of the best places to visit in Jaipur. Located in the neighbourhood of Jaipur, Chokhi Dhani is the replica of a traditional Rajasthani village. Chokhi Dhani opened its cultural door to tourists in 1989 and since then, it has been entertaining its visitors with all the colours of Rajasthan’s ethnicities.
Restaurants in Chokhi Dhani serves traditional Rajasthani foods that can make your appetite grow larger than you can ever imagine. While the folk music and traditional dancers will make your feet tap to their rhythm, health club, swimming pool and spas in Chokhi Dhani will help you relax your mind. While in Chokhi Dhani, you can also witness the popular puppet shows of Rajasthan.
Visiting Hours: All day

Govindji Temple

Jaipur dearly holds a great Vaishnava temple, commonly known as Govindji temple or Govind Dev Ji temple located in the City Palace complex. The temple is dedicated to Lord Kirshna and it considered to be one of the 7 major temples of Thakur of Vrindavan. The image of the deity came to this temple from Vrindavan through aja Sawai Jai Singh II. But the temple was built by the renowned and powerful Mughal emperor Akbar.
The myths or legends related to the temple said that the images of Lord Krishna resembled the original form of Krishna during his incarnation on Earth. The deity belonged to Srila Rupa Goswami who was an ardent disciple of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu. The image of Lord Govind Dev Ji was also known as Bajrakrit, believed to be created by the great grandson of Lord Krishna.
For Vaishanvites, Govind Dev Ji Temple is a prominent place for worshipping in Jaipur. The temple performs regular aartis and bhogs, seven times a day is the practice and during these rituals, devotees can do darshan of the deity. Janmashtami is the most ceremonious festival celebrated at the temple every year.
Entry timings: from 04:30 am to 11:30 am and from 05:45 pm to 09:30 pm on all days of the week. Darshan will be during the time of aarti.
Entry fee: no entry fee is applicable.
Location: Jainiwas Gardens, Jalebi Chowk, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India.

13Birla Mandir

The world famous Birla Mandir temples are located at different cities of India which are quite prominent in all sorts. Birla Mandir in Jaipur also has significant place among the beliefs and traditions of the locals and recently, it has gained more power as a superior tourist destination as well. The Birla family is the reason behind the existence of multiple Hindu temples made of white marble or in red sandstone at different locations in India.
It is located on an elevated platform at the base of Moti Dungari Hill in Jaipur. The construction of the Jaipur temple was started in 1977 and it was concluded in the year 1985 and after some months, the deity was invoked and the temple was opened for public to visit. The temple is adorned with white shining marbles and the three huge domes represent three different approaches to the religion. At night the temple brightens more and exhibits its complete glory to the onlookers.
It has several stained glass windows that show us the various scenes from Hindu scriptures. Lord Ganesh is sitting above the lintel and the images of Lakshmi and Narayan are highly attractive as they are made of fine quality marble.
Entry timings: 06:00 am to 12:00 pm and 03:00 pm to 09:00 pm on all days of the week.
Entry fee: no entry fee is applicable.
Location: Tilak Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 302002.

14Jantar Mantar Observatory

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the ruler of Jaipur was one of the best theorists of ancient India. After achieving the milestones of constructing the planned city Jaipur, as well as several other scientific and architectural epitomes, the Maharaja built five astronomical instruments to study space. These instruments were called Jantar Mantar, which means Calculating Instrument. The largest of these instruments is located in Jaipur and has been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Jantar Mantar consists of fourteen geometric devices that measure time, predict eclipses, track the location of stars and the Earth’s movement around the sun. Samrat Yantra is the largest instrument in this observatory and it was used to forecast time. Plotting the shadow of Samrat Yantra, the time for eclipses and the arrival of monsoons can be calculated. Samrat Yantra is also the largest sundial in the world.
Jantar Mantar now serves as one of the major Jaipur tourist places and a pioneering source to amateur astronomy students.
Visiting Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m
Photography Allowed: Yes

15Rambagh Palace

An outstanding attraction and a luxurious accommodation spot in Jaipur is Rambagh Palace, the former residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur and now it is reestablished as a hotel by Taj. The palace is located 8 kilometers away from the city of Jaipur on Bhawani Singh Road. It is a marvelous example of the architectural brilliance and the fine artistic values. The palace depicts the unique blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture.
The first building on the site was a garden house came into existence in 1835 and in 1887, it was converted into a royal hunting lodge as it was surrounded by thick green forests during that time. But in early 20th century, the building took transformation again and became an astounding palace as per the designs of Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob. Then, Maharaj Sawai Man Singh II made the palace as his principal residence and started adding a number of royal suites to it in 1931.
The opulent palace meets luxury at every nook and corner of it and the visitors come to stay at the palace cum hotel now will definitely get a chance to travel back to the glorified days of the kings and their families stayed at the palace for more than two eras.
Entry timings: since it is a hotel right now, you can go and book the rooms to stay there at any time.
Location: Bhawani Singh Rd, Rambagh, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302005.

16Raj Mandir Cinema

Raj Mandir a meringue shaped cinema complex, located on Bhagwan Das Road, Jaipur, it is one of the best places in the entire city to enjoy all the Bollywood masala flicks. The fame of this cinema complex has gained immense popularity with the locals as well as with the tourists. Built in 1976, this movie complex has a capacity to hold a 1300-strong audience, and it is often called the Pride of Asia. Till date, this theatre has screened several private as well as public film premieres.
Designed by W M Namjoshi in the Art Modern style, the Raj Mandir Cinema complex replicates Jaipur’s culture and tradition in an elegant way. Zigzag and curvy seating arrangements, ceiling embedded with palm leaves, glittering stars, and the indirect lighting system will surely add a royal touch to your movie experience in Raj Mandir.
Cafeterias inside this theatre offer exotic Rajasthani cuisines and other delicacies which can make your appetite grow large. No matter, what time of the day, you can always visit Raj Mandir and be a part of its lively enthusiasts.
Visiting Hours: 11:00 am – 2:00 am
Photography Allowed: No

17Central Park

Even though the list of gardens in Jaipur is quite long, Central Park blooms out to be one of the largest and most colourful gardens in Jaipur. Located in the heart of Jaipur, this lush garden has a 5 km walking and jogging track. Rambagh Polo Ground and Rambagh Golf Club also lie within the colourful premises of this park. The park is the best place to enjoy all the colours of nature among various species of birds; in fact, this park is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Other attractions of this park include the tallest tricolour in India and a temple, which is very popular among the natives of Jaipur. The mast of the national flag in this park measures 206 feet in length and is the tallest in the country. The flag hoisted in this mast is 48 feet in width and 72 feet in length, and weighs more than 25 kg.
Soaked with evergreen trees, plants and herbs, this park is the best way to bring solace to the mind after a monotonous schedule. The Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) takes care of this park. JDA is introducing some of the modern amenities into it in the course of shaping it into a modern theme park.
Visiting Hours: Open 24 hours
Photography Allowed: Yes

18Bazaars of Jaipur

The local markets or bazaars of Jaipur are the most ideal destinations to experience the vibes of the Pink City. Showcasing the tradition of the royal city and its glorious history, these markets has numerous stories engraved in every corner.
Johri Bazar: Built by the founder of Jaipur, Johri Bazaar is the oldest as well as the largest shopping mall within the city. Known for precious gems and stones, timeless jewelleries and exquisite sarees, this marketplace is the busiest among all the bazaars in Jaipur. It is in fact, it is home to some of the costliest gemstones in the world!
Bapu Bazaar: While strolling through the colourful lanes of Jaipur, one cannot miss Bapu Bazar. Among the largest camel leather market in the world, this bazar has its own untouched legacy. It is known for its finest quality 'Morji' shoes and other leather goods like belts, wallets, lamp sheds, bags… the list continues.