Jaipur is a fascinating city and a vibrant mix of palaces, museums, gardens, bazaars and more. Thronged by both domestic and international tourists, Jaipur offers countless options in terms of fun activities and unique learning experiences. The fusion of modernity and ancient heritage and traditions make this city a very interesting one, whether you are traveling with loved ones or going solo.
From gorging on delicious Rajasthani cuisine to going back in time with the ramparts of the Amer Fort, there are many things to do in Jaipur that you will cherish long after the trip has ended.
The literal meaning of Chokhi Dhani is “Rajasthani culture”. It describes the place aptly, as you will see various structures and decor accents that showcase the charm of the bygone era. One of the most famous attractions of Rajasthan, Chokhi Dhani is a resort that seeks to provide a simulated version of the Rajasthani culture to tourists. The resort is in the form of a typical Rajasthani village with village huts, cow dung plaster, and even wall paintings. There are some very interesting and fun activities to do here.
Some of these are the re-enactment of the battle of Haldighati between the Mughals and the Rajputs, a traditional folk dance performance, a puppet show, a magic show and a camel ride, among others. The best part is the mouth-watering delicacies that are served in the different settings such as a traditional restaurant ambience of chaupal where you sit on the floor and eat. There are conventional restaurants as well, in the complex. Do not forget to try out the ‘Thali’ here which is an essential Rajasthani meal.
Chaukhi Dhani can be reached by private cabs or taxis. Chokhi Dhani also has its own fleet of taxis that provides round trip services. The rooms are equipped with all modern amenities so that you can relax without any hassle, even while enjoying a rustic environment.
Many tourists believe that Jaipur is only known for its vegetarian food. Nothing can be further from the truth. There is a sheer variety of foods in Jaipur that needs to be enjoyed to be believed. From the most famous dal baati churma, gatte ki sabji (gram flour dumplings in yogurt curry) and ghevar (sweet made from milk and flour) to the Laal Maas (mutton cooked in a typical style), you will always keep asking for more. For those who love non-vegetarian food, the Nihari and the Naans here are pretty unique compared to those available in places such as Delhi. So, the food in Jaipur is one of the best things to explore here.
If you are looking for exciting activities to do in Jaipur, here are ideas that will give you a whole new perspective of the city too.
Go for a hot air balloon ride that usually lasts for around an hour and you will marvel at the sights as you travel over the forts, palaces, houses and markets of Jaipur. Jal Mahal, Amber Fort, Shiv Vilas and Delhi- Jaipur road are some places where this ride is available.
Once you are done with this, switch on your adventurous self as you go paragliding. Get ready to challenge your limits in one of the most adventurous activities possible in Jaipur. You will be flying at around 2000 feet in the air. The view from the top can leave you speechless. Do keep in mind that paragliding is highly dependent on weather and summers and monsoons are not the best time for this.
Are you still looking for more adventure? Go ziplining then. In ziplining, you will be affixed to a wire high above the ground and you will slide through the air from one point to another. In Jaipur, you can experience this ride in the Aravali hills. This is one of the fun activities that will liven up your Jaipur trip. Make sure that the operator has followed safety protocols and has all the safety measures in place before taking part in any adventure sport.
Just because you are in Jaipur, it doesn’t mean that there are only forts and palaces to see. Go out for a date with nature and the wild in the backwoods of the Nahargarh Sanctuary. This could be one of the best things to explore for you in Jaipur. The Nahargarh Biological Park is near the Nahargarh Fort and is situated along the slopes of the Aravalli Hills range.
If you’re passionate about photography, every bit of this trip will be worth it for you as the jeep safari here is a delight. Watch lions up close in their natural habitat or simply admire the multitude of migratory birds that flock here during winters.
Shopping in Jaipur is a guilty pleasure that you won’t be able to control. Shopping for arts and handicrafts is a must in the city. The street and local markets of Jaipur are the places where any shopaholic should be. Here are some of the most famous markets in Jaipur where there are tons of things to explore.
Johri Bazaar is one of the oldest jewellery markets in Jaipur which is famous for its Kundan jewellery. Sapphire, emeralds and other colourful jewellery pieces are also sold in the shops here. Apart from ornaments, the market also offers bandhani, block-printed textiles in different colours and fabric, great collections of sarees, lehengas, juttis, pottery, Jaipuri quilts, bed sheets and handmade cushion covers.
The MI (Mirza Ismail) road is another famous market in Jaipur, selling famous blue pottery, wooden decorative pieces, brass showpieces, and there are branded showrooms selling antique pieces as well. The government emporium is also on this road.
The Bapu Bazaar Market is literally a heaven on earth for deal seekers and budget-conscious shoppers. The best part is that you don’t need to compromise on quality here, to get good things at attractive prices. Situated in the heart of the city, this is the best place and a hot favourite among tourists who want to buy local Jaipuri clothes and footwear. Sanganeri prints, bagru prints, bandhani work, bagru prints – you name it and you will get it in this market.
Known for its Bandhani fabrics and delightful embroidery work, Kishanpole Bazaar is the place to be if you want a variety of different Bandhani designs such as mothda, small circles, diagonal strips, lahariya, chequered and more. Apart from this, Kishanpole is also a gem for wooden furniture. The tables, chairs and cupboards made here are even exported to other countries.
Winters are a good time to be in Jaipur. This is also the time when the Jaipur Literary Festival takes place. The Jaipur Literary Festival brings together people from different walks of life, such as the world’s greatest writers, thinkers, business leaders and more, on a common platform to engage in discussions and debates.
The festival was started in 2006 and the grandiose nature of the event is impressive, to say the least. The five-day programme sees invited panellists to speak on various subjects. Apart from the discussions, if you have a paid ticket, you can also get access to lunch, dinner and musical programmes that happen in the evening. Apart from that, entry is free.
Amer fort also known as Amber Fort, and is one of the most important attractions in Jaipur. The fort has a fascinating history that goes back by 600 years and has been home to more than 28 rulers over the years.
Once you’re done with the sightseeing in the fort during the daytime, it is time to prepare for a magical evening. The light and sound show here will transport you back in time to the reign of the Rajput kings. The show is voiced by Amitabh Bachchan and scripted by Gulzar. It tells the story of the Rajputs and how the Amer Fort came into being, as well as about life in the fort and traditions of the Rajputs. The seating for the show is attractive, to say the least. You’re seated in an open complex and surrounded by water on three sides, with the Amer Fort in front of you.
The one-hour presentation is something that should not be missed. The timings of the show are as follows. English and Hindi (Oct – Feb) 6:30 pm and 7:30 pm; (Mar – Apr) 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm; (May – Sep) 7:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Please note during Navratra, only the English show is held
The parking place is a bit farther away from the venue so in case you’re driving your own car you’ll have to walk ten minutes to the venue after parking your car. Those in a chauffeur-driven car be dropped right at the entrance.
Since the seating is outdoors, it is a good idea to wear warm clothes in winter. Clicking photos and shooting videos of the event is prohibited.
Since Jaipur is all about historical structures, lively and colourful bazaars, charming traditions and great food, staying at a heritage hotel can enhance your experience manifold, especially if you are looking for luxury and comfort.
Heritage hotels are usually four-star or five-star properties that were usually palaces that have been transformed into holiday properties. These are essentially palaces which are now open to the public to stay in. Most of these properties are at least 100 years old. Witness the grandeur of the stately decor and charms of a bygone era up close. Get access to all those luxurious amenities that were reserved for the royalty in the past. Babysitting, laundry, recreational activities, medical assistance and more are just some of the services that you’ll have access to. You will get to enjoy an environment that is replete with elegant ethnic furniture, beautiful paintings, old-fashioned structural details like arches, terraces, pretty tiles and so on. Meals will be served with premium crockery and cutlery and you will get undivided attention throughout your stay.
So, these were some of the best things to do in Jaipur, which you can keep in mind for your next vacation in the city. Do remember to book your flights and stay in advance to make the most of great deals.
Luxurious camping is now a mandatory tourist attribute emerging in the pink city. The Tree House Resort with its ample artistic amenities, iron wrought beds and leathered chairs would be a preferable spot for your boutique camping. There are arrangements made for you like nests on the keekar tree with names of birds on them for you to live in. ATV rides, jungle safaris, camel rides, tennis courts, bird watching, and outdoor movies are some of the other promising offers here.
Note:
– Machan and Peacock are famous nearby restaurants
– The approximate costing for two here would be around INR 12,000
Previously a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur has now transformed into one of the most beautiful nature observing sites. It is a paradise for adventurers. Bird watching, tiger trailing at Bakula, shopping handicrafts at Dastar Craft Centre, hiking upto Ranthambore Fort and visiting the Kachida Valley are some of the activities you can carry out here.
Note:
Tree House Anuraga, Taj Sawai, Tiger Den resort, Tiger moon resort, Sanctuary resort, The Tiger Villa, Ankur resort are some of the well-known places to stay.
There are a wide range of species like leopards, tigers, hyenas, jungle cats, jackals, Indian foxes and birds like pelicans, ibis, flamingos, egrets and parakeets.
Best time for tiger safari in October – February is 07:00 am – 10:30 am and 02:30 pm – 06:00 pm. In February – March it is between 06:30 am – 10:00 am and 02:30 pm – 06:00 pm, whereas in April – June the timing is 06:00 am – 09:30 am and 03:00 pm – 07:00 pm.
Jaipur is famous for observing some of the uniquely preserved wildlife destinations. The Jhalana region of Jaipur has one such place called the Jhalana Leopard Conservation Reserve that allows you to experience the wildlife at its best. The leopard reserve spreads over an area of about 20 sq.km and was previously a hunting ground for Maharajas. Striped hyena, porcupine, desert fox, wild cats, sambar deer and hanuman langur can be spotted here too.
Note:
– The cost of safari in this reserve starts from INR 700.
The City Palace is an ancient architectural exhibition of the grand habitat of the royal family of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II who had led the foundation of the palace. It is designed with red and pink sandstone bearing a signature of the pink city. The palace comprises of grand courtyards, beautiful gardens, and elaborate temples. It further classifies into the two mahals popularly known as the Mubarak Mahal and the Chandra Mahal. It is said that the descendants of the royal family is still living in the Chandra Mahal.
Note:
– The timings to visit the palace turned museum is between 9.30 am and 5 pm.
– It will cost you to pay an entry fee of INR 130.
Jantar Mantar is a stone sundial which has become world renowned and been recognised by the UNESCO as one of the world heritage sites. It was built by a scholar, Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. The structure of Jantar Mantar observes the sun and its shadow to predict the time and it also indicates the positions of eclipses and stars.
Note:
– The time fixed for the tourists to enter is 9.30 am to 4.30 pm.
– The entry tickets costs INR 50 per head.
As the title of the place indicates, it is a holy temple of the hindus dedicated to God Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. Designed with white marble which shines when the moon light falls on it at the fascinating location on the Moti Dingari foothills makes this temple very attractive and eye-catching. Inscriptions are painted on the glass window panes of this temple which is reminiscent of the scriptural stories. A striking fact about this temple is that there are paintings of gods of all faiths including, Jesus Christ, Buddha, Confucius in the outside.
Raj Mandir was inaugarated in 1976 in Jaipur designed by a famous Indian architect W.W. Namjoshi. This place runs as a movie theatre since many years. It will be exciting to watch a movie here in an exquisitely crafted interior. This place is even more artistically fascinating since it has some very antique and chandeliers and a winding staircase which makes it bear a classic sensation.
Falling under some of the most unique and interesting things to be done in Jaipur, this place was inaugurated in 2012 for saving the precious elephants. You could spend a day in noticing the giant elephants moving around freely in this farm, doing their regular activities like walking, feeding and bathing with other elephants. You could also learn to connect to them by learning how to communicate with the elephants.
Note:
– The timings allowed to enter the sanctuary is 9 am to 5 pm.
-The cost to enter this sanctuary is a little expensive that is INR 4500.
Make your visit to Jaipur count by experiencing the amazing tour to trek the Bhuteshwar Nath Mahadev in Jaipur starting and ending at the beautiful serene waters of the Sagar lake in Amer. The Aravalis are the world’s oldest mountain ranges and this trail will allow you to walk through it. It would be a mesmerising adventure to rebuild your existence by refreshing your body, mind and soul through the 5 hour long trek in this hilly terrain.
Note:
-The trekking tour prices starts from INR 1,300.
If you needa break from the scorching heat of Jaipur, you should take shelter at this amazing indoor amusement theme park which lets you enjoy the cold snowy surrounding of the north in Jaipur itself. There are many refreshments and games inside the park. It could be an ideal place to take children to enjoy themselves to the fullest.
Note:
– It is located on the 4th Floor of GT Central, JLN Marg, Behind Gaurav Tower, Malviya Nagar, Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Noida, with its vibrant culinary scene, offers a plethora of options for dessert lovers craving…
Embarking on a journey? Make your travels more convenient and enjoyable with the latest accessories…
As the temperature drops and the chilly winds start to blow, staying warm and healthy…
Travel photography is not just about capturing moments; it's about immortalising experiences, landscapes, and the…
Embarking on a solo adventure can be exhilarating, offering the freedom to explore new destinations…
Business travel often entails tight schedules and hectic itineraries, leaving little room for packing mishaps…