Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, dons many hats with effortless charm—it’s a cultural hub, a literary paradise, and the go-to weekend escape for the Northies. A vibrant blend of pink-hued buildings, the pink city is where tradition and modernity collide most charmingly. And this guide will walk you through Jaipur's weather, famous markets, top attractions, and the best restaurants in the Pink City.

Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this royal masterpiece echoes the grandeur of its past. While trendy cafes serve lattes and cheesecakes on one side of town, the other remains steeped in history, with serene lakes, opulent palaces, and timeless bazaars. Here’s our Jaipur travel guide to help you explore, as you soak in the regal aura of the City Palace or haggle like a pro in the bustling bazaars.

Aerial view of the Jaipur City | Picture by - Sagar Soneji via Pexels

Best Time to Visit Jaipur 

The weather in Jaipur swings between scorching summers and pleasant winters around the year.

From March to June, temperatures soar up to 45°C, making sightseeing challenging.

Monsoons from July to September bring occasional rains, offering brief respite but adding humidity to the mix. 

Winter, between October and March, is the best time to visit Jaipur. This is the city’s golden season—pleasant days and crisp evenings make it perfect for exploring forts, feasting on kachoris, and soaking in Jaipur’s charm. 

Where & What to See in Jaipur

If you were looking for the ultimate Jaipur places to visit list, then you’ve found it! 

• Amber Palace or Amer Palace: A majestic fort-palace, Amber Palace showcases a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, with stunning courtyards, intricate mirror work, and panoramic views. Walk back in time across Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas, and Maota Lake.

While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the Jaigarh Fort, famed for its military design and Jaivana, the world’s largest wheeled cannon.

Entry ticket: 100 INR per person 

Timings: 8 am to 5:30 pm

• Jal Mahal: Floating serenely in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, this stunning palace is known for its unique architecture. It appears to have one floor, but it has four submerged levels.

Visit during the evening time to catch the palace aglow! 

• Hawa Mahal: Just a stone’s throw away from Zostel Jaipur, the "Palace of Winds" is always surrounded by flashes, especially in the evening. This iconic five-storey structure boasts 953 tiny windows and intricate latticework. It was designed for the royal ladies, where they observed the street life while staying hidden.

Entry Ticket: 50 INR per person

Timings: 9:30 am to 5 pm

The fascinating facade of the iconic Hawa Mahal | Picture by - Mrudula Thakur via Pexels

• City Palace: A regal complex of courtyards, gardens, and museums, City Palace continues to be home to Jaipur’s royal family while also showcasing exquisite architecture & artefacts.  

Entry Ticket: 400 INR per person (For a composite ticket to the museum, Jaigarh fort, and Cenotaphs)

Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

• Jantar Mantar: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this astronomical wonder houses the world’s largest stone sundial and showcases Jaipur’s scientific prowess from centuries ago. 

Entry ticket: 50 INR per person 

Timings: 9 am to 7 pm

• Gaitore ki Chhatri: The final resting place of Jaipur’s rulers, these intricately carved monuments are tucked away in a peaceful valley. They are a must-visit among the Jaipur attractions. 

Fun fact: You can also check out Maharaniyon ki Chhatriyan, which is a stunning tribute to the ladies of Jaipur’s royal family.

Timings: 10 am to 6:30 pm

• Jawahar Circle: This vibrant garden is perfect for evening strolls, fountain shows, and some Insta-worthy shots, owing to the presence of the iconic Patrika Gate.

Fun fact: Don’t be surprised if you come across any pre-wedding shoots during your visit.

• Galta Ji Temple: This ancient temple is famed as the Monkey Temple, as many playful macaques frequent it.

Timings: 5 am to 7 pm 

What to do in Jaipur

Jaipur’s surrounding hills are packed with numerous hiking trails, which make for some of the best tourist attractions in Jaipur:

• Hike to Nahargarh Fort: This hike will take you across the Nahargarh Biological Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including leopards, tigers, and deer. At the tippy top, you can get panoramic views of the city and scenic sunsets. Also, it is only 30 mins away from Zostel Jaipur!

Stunning sunset at Nahargarh Fort | Picture by - Jatin Verma via Pexels

• Hike to Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple: About 30-mins from the city centre, this serene temple is tucked amidst the Aravalli Hills. It is a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts seeking scenic bliss with a side of spirituality. This hike is about 3-4 hrs and will take you through a forested area. (Be careful of the wildlife!)

• Hike to Hathni Kund: A tranquil retreat near Amber Fort, this picturesque valley is ideal for nature walks, picnics, and soaking in the serene vibes of its lush greenery and the waterfall. The entire hike is about 3 km and starts from the Charan Mandir.

Best time to visit: Monsoon season

• Jhalan Leopard Park: A hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts, this urban park offers thrilling safaris to spot elusive leopards, along with deer, peacocks, and other wildlife. And it's around 11 kms from the city centre.

Museums of Jaipur

As if the city itself isn’t enough of a history lesson, Jaipur’s museums will give you a guided tour.

• Albert Hall Museum: Jaipur’s oldest museum, showcasing an eclectic collection of artefacts, from ancient sculptures and paintings to exquisite textiles, all housed in a stunning Indo-Saracenic structure. It is one of the most famous places in Jaipur, especially at night. 

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm; 7 pm to 9:30 pm

Entry Ticket: 300 INR per person

The stunning Albert Hall Museum in its evening glow | Picture by - Suket Dedhia via Pexels

• Amrapali Museum: A treasure trove of traditional Indian jewellery, this museum displays intricate designs, rare heirlooms, and the cultural significance of adornments through the ages.

Timings: 11 am to 6 pm (Monday to Saturday)

Entry Ticket: 300 INR per person

• Museum of Meenakari Heritage: Dedicated to the art of Meenakari (enamel work), this museum highlights Jaipur’s craftsmanship through vibrant, intricately designed jewellery and artefacts, tracing enamelling back to Renaissance Europe.

Timings: 11 am to 5 pm (Monday to Saturday)

Entry is free, however, only through prior appointment through their official website.

• Anokhi Museum of Handprinting: Built to preserve the ancient craft of block printing, this charming museum showcases intricate designs, tools, and techniques while celebrating the artisans behind this timeless Rajasthani tradition. The best part? You can watch a live demo and even try your hand at block printing yourself!

Timings: 10: 30 am to 5 pm (Tuesday to Saturday); 11 am to 4:30 pm (Sunday)

Day Trips from Jaipur

Done exploring the city? Well, take a short day trip or two. And before you start googling nearby places to visit in Jaipur, check these out:

• Chand Baori: A 2.5 hr drive from Jaipur will bring you to one of India’s deepest and most stunning stepwells. This 9th-century architectural marvel features a labyrinth of perfectly symmetrical steps and intricate carvings, offering a glimpse into ancient water management.

Chand Baori is one of the largest stepwells in India 

• Bhangarh Fort: Infamous as one of India’s most haunted places, this eerie 17th-century fort is steeped in legends and surrounded by picturesque ruins, drawing thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. A short 2-hr drive will lead you to this place.
• Sambhar Lake: India’s largest saltwater lake, Sambhar, is a serene escape known for its vast saline expanse and breathtaking sunsets. 

Bonus: Between November to February, many migratory birds make their way here, including ruddy turnstones, bar-headed geese, Eurasian spoonbills, and a fabulous flamboyance of flamingos.

Jaipur Literature Festival

For the past 17 years, Jaipur has been the epicentre of literary brilliance every January, hosting the iconic Jaipur Literature Festival. As its namesake, the Jaipur lit fest is truly lit! This vibrant gathering brings together a diverse mix of writers, thinkers, humanitarians, and entertainers, transforming the Pink City into a global stage for stories and ideas.

Markets in Jaipur 

Did you even visit Rajasthan’s capital if you didn’t shop at the markets in Jaipur? Get yourself, your friends, and your family a traditional souvenir or two they’ll cherish for life.

• Johari Bazaar: A glittering haven for jewellery lovers, this market is famous for exquisite gemstones and traditional Rajasthani ornaments.
• Tripolia Bazaar: This market is known for its vibrant lac bangles and textiles. You can also find Rajasthani fabrics and traditional artefacts.
• Bapu Bazaar: A shopaholic’s paradise for Jaipuri jootis, tie-dye fabrics, and quirky souvenirs. Plus, if you’re staying at Zostel Jaipur, you can visit this spot in just 5 minutes.

Traditional attire and jootis at the local markets in Jaipur

• Chandpol Bazaar: This bazaar is famed for its handicrafts and marble artworks. You can find traditional Rajasthani decor and vibrant pottery.

Restaurants in Jaipur

Rajasthan is practically a food-lover’s paradise, a rite of passage, a haven- you name it! And these restaurants in Jaipur will leave you drooling for years to come.

• Masala Chowk: This open-air food court serves iconic Rajasthani and Indian street food, perfect for a delicious culinary adventure.
• Peacock Rooftop Restaurant: A vibrant rooftop spot offering stunning city views, delicious Indian and international cuisine, and a perfect ambience for a relaxed evening.
• 1135 AD: Located within Amer Fort, this regal dining experience combines opulent decor with traditional Rajasthani flavours, making you feel like true royalty.
• Prem Prakash Samosa Corner: A humble yet iconic joint serving crispy, flavourful samosas that are a must-try in Jaipur.
• Rawat Misthan Bhandar: Famous for its delicious pyaaz kachoris and a wide array of sweets, this eatery is a go-to spot for authentic Rajasthani snacks.
• Mahavir Rabri Bhandar: A paradise for dessert lovers, this place is renowned for its creamy, rich rabri served with traditional flavours.
• Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB): A legendary eatery is considered one of the best restaurants in Jaipur. They’re known for their authentic Rajasthani thalis and a rich legacy of serving culinary delights since 1727. 

Traditional Rajasthani thali with a scrumptious blend of sweet & savoury flavours 

• Pandit Kulfi: A local favourite for its thick, creamy kulfis in various classic and innovative flavours, perfect for cooling down after a long day.
• Samrat Restaurant: A pocket-friendly spot for hearty North Indian meals, it’s a popular choice among locals and travellers alike for its simple yet delicious food.
• Gulab Ji Chai: A legendary tea stall serving piping hot chai paired with buns and butter, making it a quintessential Jaipur experience for chai enthusiasts.

About Zostel Jaipur

Looking for the best hostel in Jaipur? You’ve found it!

Meet Zostel Jaipur, sitting right at the heart of the Pink City, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic spots of Jaipur. Inside, the colourful decor reflects the city’s quirky vibe, where you can play, chill, and meet fellow wanderers from all over the globe. Chillax in the cosy dorms or get yourself some privacy in the cushy private rooms, and while you’re at it, soak in the splashes of Wall Art. Oh, and when you lace up your boots and hit the outdoors, heritage sights, food walks, and hidden hiking & biking trails await. 

Common room and cosy seating areas at Zostel Jaipur | Picture by - 

Lit dorms, cushy private rooms, and cafe at Zostel Jaipur | Picture by - 

That’s all about Jaipur, folks! Plan your Jaipur trip now with our ultimate Jaipur travel guide.