Visit Jaipur, India

Jaipur: The Land of Royalty in Rajasthan

Translated from Hindi, Rajasthan means “the land of kings,” and its capital, Jaipur, is a city defined by royalty. Designed in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh, Jaipur was built with palaces, gardens, and pavilions that occupy a significant portion of its layout. The streets were designed to act as parade routes, while a bustling craft bazaar flourished, supplying exclusive wares to decorate royal structures.

In 1876, Jaipur’s iconic buildings were painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales—a tradition that was later revived to celebrate the visits of Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana. Today, Jaipur’s royal architecture is carefully preserved, offering visitors a chance to experience its grandeur. However, stepping into the side streets reveals another side of Jaipur—one where artisans, traders, and shopkeepers continue the city’s vibrant tradition of craftsmanship.

For me, Jaipur is one of the most dynamic cities in Rajasthan, offering not only a rich history but also a chance to stay in traditional heritage havelis.

Explore the Old Bazaars of Jaipur
Jaipur’s 18th-century City Palace is a masterpiece of architecture, with every surface adorned with intricate carvings, silverwork, and luxurious textiles. Many of these crafts are still made in Jaipur’s Old Bazaars, where you can observe local artisans, such as those creating Zardozi embroidery, a technique involving gold and silver thread. While exploring the bazaars, indulge in local street foods like aloo tikki (fried potato cakes) and samosas, and savor sweet delicacies such as barfi, a cashew milk treat covered in edible silver.

Cook with a Local Family at Dera Mandawa
The Mandawa family has transformed their ancestral home, Dera Mandawa, into a welcoming heritage hotel. Here, you can spend time in a traditional Rajasthan family setting, participate in daily puja (prayers), and take part in cooking lessons. Learn to create dishes like Aamras ki Kadhi, a Rajasthani specialty of blended mango and spices, and enjoy a meal with your hosts, accompanied by homemade chutneys and pickles.

Learn Block Printing at Bagru
In the artisan village of Bagru, located 40 minutes from Jaipur, you can witness the intricate process of block printing, where artists carve teak blocks and use natural dyes like turmeric and madder root to create vivid patterns. After a guided tour, try your hand at the printing techniques and take home a unique piece of fabric.

Discover Jaipur’s Mughal Treasures
Jaipur’s Jantar Mantar observatory, a marvel of scientific design, features large-scale instruments, including the world’s largest sundial. The Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) was built for royal women to observe the city’s processions in secrecy, and the City Palace houses a textile museum, armory, and art gallery, preserving the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Visit Amber Fort
Located 11 km from Jaipur, Amber Fort was once Rajasthan’s capital. Although the seat of power was moved to Jaipur in 1727 due to dwindling water supplies, Amber Fort remains an architectural gem perched atop the Aravalli Hills. Explore its labyrinth of corridors, royal quarters, and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), where thousands of mirrors create a mesmerizing light display. Though elephants still carry visitors to the fort’s entrance, walking up the zig-zagging path provides a more personal and immersive experience.

Best Time to Visit Jaipur
The best time to visit Jaipur is between October and March when the weather is warm and dry, with clear skies. December and January can be cool, especially in the evenings, but this period sees fewer visitors. For those willing to face higher humidity, April and May offer more affordable accommodation. The summer months (June-August) bring high temperatures, often exceeding 113°F (45°C), making travel uncomfortable.

Festivals, Events, and Seasonal Highlights

• Holi (March): The Hindu festival of colors is celebrated enthusiastically with vibrant street parties. Watch the spectacle from one of Jaipur’s rooftop restaurants if you’re not participating.
• Diwali (October-November): The festival of lights fills the city with oil lamps, fireworks, and bonfires, though most sites are closed during this time.
• Jaipur Literature Festival (January): This prestigious event attracts Nobel laureates, local writers, and literary enthusiasts. Attend talks, readings, and discussions in this vibrant cultural hub.