Jaipur: The “Not Just Pink” City of India - Sightseeing Places to Visit, Top Attractions & Things to Do

Jaipur is famously known as “The Pink City of India” for the historic pinkish-orange walls in and around the city. As a matter of fact, the pink here also stands as the colour of hospitality and Jaipur indeed is welcoming. But is it just the pink that defines this place? Definitely not. Sequined sarees, colourful turbans, glowing art too defines the culturally rich Jaipur. It’s truly the most colourful city in India and a heavenly destination for photographers and creative minds.

Jaipur is completely a maze by itself. A maze you would probably fall in love with. To make the most out of this place, here are a few suggestions on places to visit in Jaipur while also experiencing the authentic Rajasthani food and culture.

Top 5 Places To Visit In Jaipur

1. Jal Mahal

Jal Mahal, meaning Water Palace, is set-up right in the middle of Man Sagar Lake – a man-made reservoir created in 1956. The Mahal appears to be only one story high, although there are four more levels to the structure hidden underneath the reservoir surface.

It’s one of the most photogenic tourist spots in Jaipur. Visitors can cherish the beauty of this palace from the land itself, turning out to be more spectacular as the sunsets. There’s a whole lot of history to the existence of this Mahal and reservoir which you could probably deep dive into knowing from the locals.

2. Jantar Mantar

Over the years, Jantar Mantar has always been an intriguing attraction for travellers. Built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Singh II, it’s an assembly of fixed stones and gigantic structures. It’s an open-air astronomical observatory which was built because of the Maharaja’s fascination with celestial objects and movements in the sky. This observatory was far ahead of its time and showcased the ancient ways of reading the star formations and skies.

Do visit the place to bring out the mad scientist in you and understand the working of different man-made instruments having very specific purposes.

3. Hawa Mahal

The lovely pink sandstone fortress, Hawa Mahal, tumbling over the streets of Jaipur was originally built in 1799 as a viewpoint for the ladies of the royal families. The women could observe the city below from the dark shadowed windows of Hawa Mahal, standing high above the streets, and not getting themselves observed by the street passers. If you want to dive deep into the history, a visit to the Hawa Mahal Museum, situated just behind the monuments, is a must.

The five-storied structure with 152 windows cushioned into the curved latticed balconies depicts the artistic minds of the Rajputs. A small ray of sunlight can sometimes be seen shining through a top-story window, making it worth visiting during the evening as the sunsets. It’s one of the most romantic attractions in Jaipur.

4. City Palace

City Palace, once the seat of kings, is known for the culturally rich history and the architectural fusion of Rajasthani, Mughal with a pinch of European style. It’s by far the major tourist attraction in Jaipur. The City Palace is spread across a vast area which includes several historic buildings, courtyards, and gardens. The two main palaces in the complex are Chandra Mahal and the Mubarak Mahal. The reddish-pink sandstone walls add a unique charm to the Palace. The artistic gateways add elegance to the whole structure.

The City Palace sets a perfect example showcasing a blend of design, art, and creativity. If history intrigues you, keep your phone handy as the walls of this Palace would make you crave knowing it all.

5. Nahargarh Fort

Think of Rajasthan and not only Palace comes to your mind but forts too. One such majestic and the magnificent fort is Nahargarh Fort. Situated on the foothills of Aravalli mountain ranges, this fort was earlier known as Sudarshangarh and was built in 1734 by Maharaj Sawai Jai Singh II, primarily as strong protection to the pink city. Nahargarh simply means ‘abode of tigers’ and was dedicated so as to the tigers which were believed to have roamed around the Aravalli hills. Although a few believed that the fort was named after Prince Nahar Singh Bhomia.

Like every other place around India, each local has got its own story to narrate. There are many structures within the fort. We won’t spill everything here for you. A visit to this place in Jaipur has got a lot to keep your foot intact on the fort grounds along with a mesmerizing view of the Aravalli hills.

Top 5 Food Places In Jaipur

1. Choki Dhani Village Resort

Known for authentic Rajasthani food loaded with tons of ghee, this place is a win-win for explorers and travellers. You’ll find Dal-Bati, Churma, Kheer & Sangri, Gatte ki Sabzi, and all typical Rajasthani dishes. On your visit do not miss ordering the famous Rajasthani Thaali. This place lets you enjoy the village ambiance wherein the local artists can be found performing folk dances, camel rides, and other fun-filled activities. What more could you ask for while you go crazy on the mouth-watering Rajasthani food?

2. Handi

This place is the hot hub for non-vegetarians. Head to Handi for the world tasted Rajasthani serving, “Laal Maans” – a mutton curry cooked in yogurt and authentic Rajasthani spices mainly red chili resulting in a fire spicy dish. It’s a must try out for the royal flavour it carries. Best goes with Roomali Rotis, this dish will tempt your taste buds endlessly.

3. Sharma Dhaba

Nothing can beat the Dhaba feel and its food. One such place in Jaipur is Sharma Dhaba. Located on the outskirts of the city on Jaipur-Sikar Highway, this Dhaba is known for serving the yummiest food with an adventurous ambiance. The local menu of this Dhaba includes a variety of naans, paneer curries, rotis, etc. You can even tailor-make your special dish on request to chefs of Dhaba. I highly recommend trying your hands on Palak Paneer along with Missi Roti for some delicious meals.

4. Rawat

Pyaaz Kachori has always been one of the favourite snack-cum-food among travellers around the world visiting Jaipur. Fancily described as a deep-fried whole wheat pastry stuffed with fried onions and other spices, this is a must-have on your visit to Jaipur. Rawat Mishtan Bhandar is Jaipur’s world-famous Kachori spot letting you fill your mouth up with tasty Kachori bites.

5. Chawla's and Nand's

Carrying your baggage of love for Golgappa? Don’t worry. This place in Jaipur serves the best Paani-puri, probably even better than other Indian cities. These are actually two different stalls competing against each other. Standing on the fashion street both the stalls are always crowded with people. The best part is the option to choose from a variety of spicy, sweet, and tangy chutneys making a way for your custom-made Golgappa. We suggest trying out both the stalls. After-all one plate of Golgappa has never been enough to satisfy one’s soul.

Various Cultural Heritages of Jaipur

1. Arts & Crafts Of Jaipur

The local markets of the pink city are always flooded with unique pieces of handicrafts and other fine works such as Kundan jewellery, Silver jewellery, Woodwork, and other ivory sculptures. Different recognized forms of arts in this city are namely, bandhani, zari, stone carvings, block-printing, gota, zardori. The miniature painting and the shellac work have been the talk of the town among the visitors. The markets of Jaipur have always been lively and have different things to offer to each unique soul.

2. Local Dance Forms

Colourful outfits, glitzy fashion along with a few unique pieces of jewellery can be seen as the identity of the people of this city. The locals often dance to the tunes of Rajasthani folk songs, played along with the contemporary instruments like Sarangi, Jhalar, and Ektara. Ghoomar is the most celebrated folk dance of this region which is performed by dancers who lift a lit pot-shaped diya on their heads. These dance forms can be seen performed by locals during traditional festivals, fairs, and other celebrations.

3. Fairs & Festivals

Jaipur or even the whole of Rajasthan is known for celebrating different festivals all through the year along with local fairs showcasing the vibrant heritage of this city. This city perfectly captures the essence of true Indian diversity. Each festival here is celebrated with love and enthusiasm, bringing everyone together. Teej, Diwali, Gangaur, Makar Sakranti, Holi, etc. are different festivals celebrated with great fervor and joy. Experience any one of these during your trip and we are sure you would want to visit Jaipur again and again.

This blog would really be never-ending as each place in Rajasthan comes with a limitless experience to live. What’s much more exciting is exploring Jaipur on a bike and if you’re handy with time, a bike ride to the outskirts of Jaipur would really double the fun. Royal Brothers will be waiting for you right in Jaipur to let you rent a bike and go on exploring the “not just pink” city of India.

Khamma Ghani… 🙏