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Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is a popular tourist destination in India that is famous for its vibrant culture, magnificent architecture, and rich history. The city is known for its magnificent palaces, ancient forts, bustling markets, and colorful festivals that attract travelers from around the world.
From the iconic Hawa Mahal and the impressive Amber Fort to the majestic City Palace and the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar, Jaipur has something to offer to everyone. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or just looking for a culturally rich travel experience, Jaipur will not disappoint you. Here are the top 15 tourist visiting places to visit in Jaipur that you should add to your itinerary.
Best Places to Visit in Jaipur
1. Amber Fort
Amber Fort, also known as Amer Fort, is a magnificent fortress situated on a hilltop overlooking the Maota Lake in Jaipur. Built in the 16th century, this grand palace complex is a perfect blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. The fort is constructed of red sandstone and marble, and is adorned with intricate carvings, paintings, and mirror work that make it a breathtaking sight to behold.
Visitors can explore the fort’s numerous halls, courtyards, and chambers, including the Diwan-i-Am, the Diwan-i-Khas, the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), and the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure). The fort is also famous for its Sound and Light show, which takes place in the evening and provides an enchanting insight into the fort’s history and legends. A visit to Amber Fort is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Jaipur.
2. Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Jaipur. This stunning five-story palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and was designed to allow the royal ladies to observe the everyday life of the city without being seen themselves. The palace is constructed of pink sandstone and boasts a beautiful façade with intricately carved windows, jharokhas, and screens that resemble a honeycomb.
The design of the palace is unique, as it allows the cool breeze to pass through the windows and provide natural air conditioning in the hot summers of Rajasthan. Visitors can climb up to the top of the palace to enjoy the panoramic views of the city and take some beautiful photographs. Hawa Mahal is a must-visit attraction in Jaipur for anyone who appreciates magnificent architecture and rich history.
3. City Palace
The City Palace in Jaipur is a magnificent complex of palaces, gardens, and courtyards that was built by the Kachwaha Rajput rulers of Jaipur. The palace was constructed between 1729 and 1732, and it was the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur until 1949. The palace is a stunning example of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles and is a true feast for the eyes. The palace complex houses several buildings, including the Mubarak Mahal, the Chandra Mahal, the Diwan-i-Khas, and the Diwan-i-Am.
The Chandra Mahal is the most impressive of all, as it is a seven-story palace with intricate decorations, frescoes, and stunning views of the city. Visitors can also explore the museum inside the palace, which houses an impressive collection of royal costumes, weapons, and artifacts. A visit to the City Palace in Jaipur is a must-do experience for anyone who loves history, art, and architecture.
4. Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is an astronomical observatory that Maharaja Jai Singh II built in the early 18th century. It is one of the largest and best-preserved observatories in the world, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The observatory comprises of a collection of instruments that were designed to observe the movements of the sun, moon, and planets, and to determine the time of day and year with remarkable accuracy.
The observatory is a perfect example of the Ptolemaic positional astronomy that was used by the Indian astronomers for centuries. The most impressive instrument in the observatory is the Samrat Yantra, a massive sundial that can measure time accurate to within two seconds. Visitors to Jantar Mantar can explore the various instruments and learn about the history and science of astronomy. A visit to Jantar Mantar is a must-do experience for anyone who loves science, history, and culture.
5. Jal Mahal
Jal Mahal, also known as the Water Palace, is a stunning palace situated in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur. The palace was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II, and it is a perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The palace is made of red sandstone and has four floors, of which only the top floor is visible above the water level.
The palace is a unique attraction in Jaipur, as it appears to be floating on the serene waters of the lake. Visitors can take a boat ride to get closer to the palace and admire its beauty. The palace is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as it attracts several migratory and local bird species. A visit to Jal Mahal is a must-do experience for anyone who loves nature, architecture, and photography.
6. Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort, also known as Tiger Fort, is a magnificent fortress situated on the edge of the Aravalli Hills in Jaipur. The fort was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and it was primarily used as a summer retreat for the royal family. The fort is constructed of red sandstone and boasts stunning views of the city below.
The fort has several beautiful gardens, courtyards, and palaces, including the Madhavendra Bhawan, a beautiful palace with twelve identical apartments that were built for the king’s wives. Visitors can explore the various structures in the fort, and also take a scenic drive up to the top of the fort to enjoy the breathtaking views of Jaipur.
The fort is also famous for the Nahargarh Biological Park, home to several wild animals such as tigers, panthers, and bears. A visit to Nahargarh Fort is a must-do experience for anyone who loves history, nature, and stunning views.
7. Jaigarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort is a historic fort situated on a hilltop in Jaipur. The fort was built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II and was used to protect the city from invasions. The fort is located near the famous Amber Fort and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Aravalli mountain range and the city of Jaipur.
Jaigarh Fort is home to the world’s largest cannon, Jaivana, which was built in the early 18th century and was used to defend the fort from attacks. The fort also has several structures such as the Laxmi Vilas Palace, the Diya Burj, and the Aram Mandir, which are beautifully preserved and a treat for the eyes.
Visitors to the fort can take a guided tour and explore the various structures and learn about the history of the fort. A visit to Jaigarh Fort is a must-do experience for anyone who loves history, architecture, and stunning views.
8. Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir, also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple, is a Hindu temple situated at the foot of Moti Dungri hill in Jaipur. The temple was built by the famous industrialist Birla family in 1988 and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. The temple is made of white marble and is a perfect blend of modern and traditional architectural styles.
The temple is famous for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple is also home to several beautiful idols of Lord Vishnu, Goddess Laxmi, and other Hindu deities.
Visitors to the temple can enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere and can take part in the daily aarti and pooja rituals. The temple is beautifully lit up at night and offers a spectacular view of the city. A visit to Birla Mandir is a must-do experience for anyone who loves culture, religion, and architecture.
9. Albert Hall Museum
Albert Hall Museum, located in the heart of Jaipur, is one of the oldest and most famous museums in Rajasthan. The museum was built in 1887 and was named after King Edward VII, who visited Jaipur in 1876. The museum is a perfect example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and boasts a magnificent collection of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, weapons, musical instruments, and textiles.
The most famous exhibit in the museum is the Egyptian mummy, which is over 3000 years old and is the only mummy in Rajasthan. The museum also has a gallery dedicated to the life and times of the Rajput kings, which includes several artifacts and exhibits that depict the lifestyle and culture of the Rajput era.
Visitors to the museum can take a guided tour and learn about the history and culture of Rajasthan. A visit to Albert Hall Museum is a must-do experience for anyone who loves history, art, and culture.
10. Sisodia Rani Garden and Palace
Sisodia Rani Garden and Palace is a magnificent palace and garden located on the outskirts of Jaipur. The palace and garden were built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the 18th century for his queen, Sisodia Rani. The palace and garden are a perfect blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles and are known for their stunning murals and paintings that depict scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. The palace and garden are beautifully landscaped and are home to several fountains, water channels, and flower beds that make it a paradise for nature lovers.
The garden also has a beautiful lotus pool, which is a perfect spot for a picnic or to just sit and relax. The palace is now converted into a museum that showcases the life and times of the royal family and their rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the palace can take a guided tour and learn about the history and culture of Rajasthan. A visit to Sisodia Rani Garden and Palace is a must-do experience for anyone who loves nature, history, and art.
11. Chokhi Dhani
Chokhi Dhani is a unique and vibrant village-themed resort located on the outskirts of Jaipur. The resort provides a glimpse of Rajasthani culture, traditions, and cuisine. The resort has several cultural activities such as puppet shows, folk dances, camel rides, and fire dances, which are a treat to watch. The resort also has several activities for visitors to enjoy, including magic shows, tarot card readings, and games such as archery and camel cart rides.
The resort also boasts several eateries, which serve authentic Rajasthani cuisine such as dal-bati-churma, laal maas, and gatte ki sabzi, which are a must-try. The ambiance of the resort is enhanced by its beautiful decor, which includes colorful lanterns, mud huts, and traditional furnishings. A visit to Chokhi Dhani is a must-do experience for anyone who loves culture, food, and entertainment.
12. Galtaji Temple
Galtaji Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a famous Hindu temple located on the outskirts of Jaipur. The temple is surrounded by beautiful hills and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is also home to several natural water springs, which are believed to have healing properties. The temple is also famous for its monkey population, which is believed to be the descendants of Lord Hanuman.
The monkeys are considered sacred and are treated with respect and care by the devotees. Visitors to the temple can take a dip in the natural water springs and can also feed the monkeys. The temple is also home to several other temples, including a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is located at the top of the hill. A visit to Galtaji Temple is a must-do experience for anyone who loves culture, religion, and nature.
13. Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is a unique and fascinating museum located in Jaipur. The museum is dedicated to the art of hand block printing and showcases the history and evolution of this ancient art form. The museum has a vast collection of antique textiles, which date back to the 17th century and are a testimony to the skill and artistry of the block printers. The museum also has a live printing studio, where visitors can watch artisans at work and learn about the different techniques used in the process of hand block printing.
The museum also has an extensive library, which houses several books on the history of textiles and printing. Visitors to the museum can also attend workshops and learn the basics of block printing. The museum is a perfect blend of art, history, and education, and a visit to the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is a must-do experience for anyone who loves textiles and art.
14. Jaipur Wax Museum
The Jaipur Wax Museum is a fascinating museum in the heart of Jaipur. The museum is dedicated to the art of wax sculpting and showcases life-sized wax figures of famous personalities from various fields such as politics, sports, music, and cinema. The museum has over 30 wax figures, including popular figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Narendra Modi, Sachin Tendulkar, Amitabh Bachchan, and Shah Rukh Khan.
The figures are made with great attention to detail, and visitors can admire the incredible likeness to the real-life personalities. The museum also has a section dedicated to the history and culture of Rajasthan, where visitors can learn about the rich heritage and traditions of the state. The museum is a perfect blend of art, entertainment, and education and is a must-do experience for anyone who loves pop culture and history.
15. Jaipur Zoo
Jaipur Zoo is a popular destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts in Jaipur. The zoo is spread over an area of 33 acres and is home to a wide range of exotic animals and birds. The zoo has several species of tigers, lions, leopards, and other big cats, as well as several varieties of deer, antelopes, and other herbivores. The zoo also has a large collection of birds, including several species of parrots, peacocks, and other colorful birds.
The zoo is well-maintained, and the animals are kept in a clean and natural environment. Visitors to the zoo can take a guided tour and learn about the different species of animals and their habitats. The zoo is a perfect destination for families with children, and a visit to the Jaipur Zoo is a must-do experience for anyone who loves animals and nature.
Summary
Jaipur, the Pink City of India, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, culture, and heritage. The city has a range of attractions, including stunning forts, palaces, temples, museums, and gardens. Some of the must-visit places in Jaipur include the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Birla Mandir, Chokhi Dhani, Sisodia Rani Garden and Palace, Galtaji Temple, Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, Jaipur Wax Museum, and Jaipur Zoo. Each of these places is unique and offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the city. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a nature enthusiast, Jaipur has something to offer for everyone.
