Jaipur — the "Pink City" and capital of Rajasthan — was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and remains one of India's most visited destinations. Within and around the old walled city sit hilltop forts, ornate palaces, a UNESCO-listed observatory and some of the country's liveliest bazaars.
Here are the 12 best places to visit in Jaipur, with what to expect at each. Planning tip: the ideal window is October to March — see our best time to visit Jaipur guide, and our things to do in Jaipur for experiences beyond sightseeing.
The 12 best places to visit in Jaipur
Amer Fort (Amber Fort)
Jaipur's grandest sight, a magnificent hilltop fort-palace of honey sandstone and marble about 11 km from the city. Don't miss the mirror-work Sheesh Mahal, the Ganesh Pol gateway and the evening sound-and-light show. Allow at least two to three hours.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
The five-storey pink facade of 953 honeycomb windows is Jaipur's signature image. Built in 1799 so royal women could watch street life unseen, it is best photographed from the cafe across the road in the early morning light.
City Palace
A still-royal complex of courtyards, museums and palaces in the heart of the old city, blending Rajput and Mughal architecture. Highlights include Mubarak Mahal, the painted Pritam Niwas Chowk gates and the textile and armoury collections.
Jantar Mantar
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world. Built in the 1720s, its giant instruments still tell the time and track the stars — far more fascinating with a guide to explain how they work.
Nahargarh Fort
Perched on the Aravalli ridge above the city, this fort offers the best panoramic sunset view over Jaipur, plus the quirky Madhavendra Palace of interconnected royal suites and a popular rooftop cafe.
Jaigarh Fort
The rugged "Victory Fort" above Amer houses Jaivana, once the world's largest wheeled cannon, along with old armouries, water systems and sweeping views. It connects to Amer by underground passage.
Jal Mahal (Water Palace)
A romantic five-storey palace seemingly floating in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. You cannot go inside, but the lakeside promenade is a lovely, photogenic stop, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Albert Hall Museum
Rajasthan's oldest museum, a striking Indo-Saracenic building in Ram Niwas Garden. Inside are miniature paintings, sculptures, carpets and an Egyptian mummy; outside, the floodlit facade at night is a sight in itself.
Birla Mandir (Lakshmi Narayan Temple)
A serene modern temple built entirely of white marble at the foot of Moti Dungri hill. Its carvings and stained glass glow beautifully when illuminated after dark — a peaceful contrast to the busy bazaars.
Jaipur bazaars (Johari, Bapu & Tripolia)
The old city's markets are an attraction in themselves — Johari Bazaar for gemstones and jewellery, Bapu Bazaar for textiles and juttis, and Tripolia for lac bangles and brassware. Bargaining is expected.
Galtaji (Monkey Temple)
A cluster of pink temples, pavilions and sacred spring-fed water tanks set in a rocky gorge just east of the city, home to troops of monkeys. Atmospheric and offbeat, with fine views from the Sun Temple above.
Patrika Gate
The most colourful and photographed gate in Jaipur, with vividly hand-painted columns depicting Rajasthan's heritage. Located at Jawahar Circle Garden, it is a favourite for Instagram and pre-wedding shoots — arrive early to beat the crowds.
How to plan your Jaipur trip
Two to three days is enough for the highlights. Day one: the Amer cluster (Amer Fort, Jaigarh, Jal Mahal, Nahargarh for sunset). Day two: the walled city (City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, the bazaars). Add a day three for Albert Hall, Birla Mandir, Galtaji and Patrika Gate.
Jaipur is about 280 km from Delhi (5–6 hours by road or roughly 4.5 hours on the Vande Bharat train) and 240 km from Agra, making it the third corner of India's classic Golden Triangle. Hire a car with driver or use auto-rickshaws to hop between forts.
Frequently asked
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