Jaipur – Ultimate 3 day travel guide

The Pink City, colored gems, forts, and one of the earliest planned cities of India, Jaipur is a window to the grand past while retaining a touch of the modern world. Do you know the city was painted pink by Maharaja Ram Singh as a symbol of hospitality? Well, what could be better than experiencing the hospitality of the Rajputanas and getting a taste of royalty in Jaipur.

Jaipur came to life when the Raja of Amber, Jai Singh II planned to shift his capital from Amber & this dream was brought to reality by architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya. Each corner of the city has something to offer, whether it be a palace reflecting the grandeur of the past, temples, beautiful gardens, the world of precious gemstones, delicious Rajasthani Cuisine, or the colorful & vibrant markets. Exploring each of these jewels of the city would take at least a month. If you want to experience the vibrance of Jaipur in a shorter duration, here’s a 3-day trip plan to Jaipur.

DAY 1:

Hawa Mahal or, the palace of winds was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. This red and pink sandstone structure with five floors has more than 900 windows decorated with lattice works. The wind circulation through these windows kept the Mahal cool during the hot summer season. They were also a window for the women of the palace to the outer world. This beautiful crown-shaped structure stands today as the symbol of the grand architecture of Jaipur.

Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jantar Mantar is said to be the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world. Built in 1724 by Raja Sawai Jai Singh, this UNESCO world heritage site has nineteen instruments to observe the position of astronomical bodies. This ancient marvel derives its name from Jantar, which means instrument, and mantra which means calculation.

Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

City Palace is the beautiful showcase of Rajput, Mughal, and European architecture. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh between 1729 – 1732, the palace has magnificent courtyards, gardens, and Chandra Mahal & Mubarak Mahal. The museum inside the palace tells stories of the grand past through artifacts & handicraft products. The Palace has three gates with Virendra Pol and Udai Pol gates being open to the public.

Albert Museum is the go-to for history buffs. This world of antiques and artifacts was built in 1876 by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II, with the foundation being laid when The Prince of Wales, Albert Edward visited India. The museum is situated in Rambagh and is the State Museum of Rajasthan. The 16 art galleries take you to around the world with ancient coins, pottery, carpets, musical instruments, jewelry, and an Egyptian mummy.

Experiencing Jaipur is incomplete without exploring the colorful markets of the city. Situated between Sanganer Gate and New Gate is the world of vibrant hues, Bapu Bazar. This famous market is known for Rajasthani handicrafts, attires, décor items, textile, brass works, and the iconic Mojaris. Well, the price of the item depends on your bargaining abilities!

DAY 2:

At the top of Aravali hills, overlooking the Maotha Lake is one of the most magnificent palaces of India, Amer Fort or Amber Palace. Built in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I, the fort was erstwhile center of the princely state of Jaipur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has six separate sections, each with its own courtyard and entry gate. With Sheesh Mahal, Mirror Palace, Baradari Pavillion, this red and yellow sandstone palace brings back the grandeur of Rajputana kingdoms to life.

Built in 1726 by Sawai Jai Singh II to protect Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort stands proudly as the unconquered fort of Rajasthan. The fort is situated on the top of “ Cheel ka Teela” or Hill of eagles in the Aravali range. This defensive structure is connected to Amer fort through underground passages. Jaivana Cannon, which was once the world’s largest cannon on wheels, is housed inside the walls of Jaigarh Fort.

Nahargarh Fort is an addition to the series of forts built for defense purposes. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, situated on the Aravali Hills, the fort offers a panoramic view of the city. Nahargarh, which means ‘abode of tigers’, is connected to Jaigarh Fort through extended walls over the hills. The fort was used for retreat purposes by the royal ladies & men. Don’t miss to witness the rich biodiversity of Rajasthan at the Nahargarh Biological Park.

Jal Mahal is an architectural marvel sitting in the mid of Man Sagar Lake. The Mahal was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Madho Singh I as a shooting lodge for the kings. With four underwater floors and one-floor peeping above the lake, this pink sandstone palace is a major tourist attraction. The palace is not open to the public, but you can enjoy its magnificence from the banks of Man Sagar Lake.

DAY 3:

Situated in the Alwar district, with prohibited entrance between sunset to sunrise, Bhangrah Fort has many myths, fables, folklores to tell. Built in the 17th century by Raja Bhagwant Das, the fort has four intact entrances, Hindu temples, mansions, and ancient sculptures.

Daniel VILLAFRUELA, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Birla Temple is a pure white marble temple located at the base of Moti Dongri Hills. Built by the B.M Birla Foundation in 1988, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Visnu. The temple is situated on an elevated platform and has many carvings depicting mythological themes. With three domes at the top of the temple, representing three religions of India, Birla Temple stands as a symbol of Modern India.

Chokhi Dhani is the perfect place to experience the essence of Rajasthani culture and cuisine. Established in 1989, this resort introduces you to the much-preserved heritage of Rajasthan through mini-village fairs, performances by local artists, and delicious Rajasthani food. You may enjoy the royal experience with their Royal cottages, Cottage Rooms, and Haveli Suits.

Some Tips:

How to Reach Jaipur:

Airways: Jaipur International Airport (around 15 km from the city center) is the nearest airport connected with domestic and international locations.

Railways: The local railway station is connected with major destinations in India. Luxury trains Maharaja Express and Palace on Wheels provides a royal ride to the city.

Roadways: State and privately owned buses connect Jaipur with other destinations in India.

Local Transport: Rickshaws, taxi are readily available for traveling within the city.

When to Visit: September – March

Where to Stay:

Booking.com

Zostel

Airbnb

What to eat:

Pyaaz Ki Kachori at Rawat Mishthan Bhandar, Station Road

Kathi Role at AI Bake, MI Road

Chicken Tikka at Sethi Barbeque, Raja Park

Dal Bati Churma at Santosh Bhojnalaya, Sindhi Camp

Lassi at Lassiwala, MI Road

Rabri Ghewar at Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar, Johri Bazar

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