Best Hotels in Jaipur
Search and book from over 3500 hotels in Jaipur on Cleartrip. Offering a visual treat for all with magnificent forts and palaces from the bygone era, Jaipur spoils you with an array of stay options.
About Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known as the “Pink City” due to the pink-hued buildings and architecture throughout the old city. It is a top destination in India, famous for its rich cultural heritage visible through fairy-tale palaces, bustling markets, and majestic forts and monuments from the regal past. Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Amber as India’s first planned city, steeped in Hindu and Mughal architecture. Today, it retains its imperial grandeur while pulsating with modern energy through bazaars crammed with textiles, jewels, handicrafts, contemporary boutiques, and dining. It is the gateway for exploring Rajasthan’s royal heritage, desert-scapes, and vibrant culture.
City Attractions & Nearby Attractions
Jaipur offers no shortage of vibrant sites and landmarks, offering glimpses into its rich history. Key attractions and landmarks to explore include the following:
- Amber Fort: This sprawling hilltop fort complex houses majestic stone palaces, spacious public halls, intricately carved Hindu and Mughal temples, and serene gardens with panoramic views.
- City Palace: An iconic landmark exemplifying a unique blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural influences through its halls, temples, and dazzling royal quarters preserved from Jaipur’s history as a princely state.
- Hawa Mahal: The iconic five-story “Palace of Winds” flaunts over 950 windows decorated with intricate lattice designs that allow breezes to flow through and cool the palace.
- Jantar Mantar: A UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the world’s largest stone sundial along with 18 other significant astronomical instruments of architectural and scientific grandeur constructed in the early 1700s as one of the five observatoriess built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II.
- Jal Mahal: Amidst Man Sagar Lake lies the unique Jal Mahal “Water Palace,” grandly showcasing Rajput-style architecture while appearing to float beautifully in the center of scenic waters.
- Aert Hall Museum: Originally built as a town hall to host meetings and events, this gorgeous building now houses an expansive collection of antiques, carpets, paintings, and metal animal sculptures, offering insight into the region’s rich artistic heritage.
Places to Visit
Beyond the main landmarks and attractions, Jaipur offers many other places to explore its vibrant living heritage and thriving local spots. Make sure to visit:
- Hawa Mahal Courtyard: Witness traditional folk dances and music performances. Let artists decorate your hands with henna designs as you dress up in colourfully embroidered Rajasthani attire.
- Amber Fort Sound and Light Show: Nightly shows use dramatic cinematic lighting combined with narration and music to bring the fort’s history and the culture of Jaipur to life.
- Bapu Bazaar: Hunt for stunning textiles, popular traditional outfits like flowing skirts and turbans, handicrafts, and affordable souvenirs to take a piece of Rajasthan back home.
- Lassiwala: At this famous little shop off MI Road, refresh yourself with Jaipur's signature yogurt drinks. Pick from original or fruity-flavored lassis.
- Galtaji Temple: Scenic temple carved into a mountain pass filled with hundreds of monkeys who are considered holy. Seven holy water springs also draw pilgrims.
- Birla Mandir Temple: The elegant, bright white marble Hindu temple dedicated to Lakshmi and Narayan has stunning carvings that draw worshippers and admirers of architectural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Jaipur
The peak tourism seasons in Jaipur run from September to March, when the weather is cool and ideal for exploration. You’ll want to strategically schedule your travels around major festivals for glimpses into the most lively celebrations and colourful culture. Diwali, the Festival of Lights in October and November, sees Jaipur decked out in stunning illuminations with fireworks and huge festive city parties. Other lively events include March’s springtime Gangaur Festival, which is full of songs, dances, and regal processions, and January’s mesmerizing Kite Festival, which sends thousands of vibrant kites skyward. Expect cooler days and some crisp nights through the winter months before the summer heat intensifies in April.
Things to Do in the City
There are endless sights, activities, and attractions for visitors to immerse themselves in across the Pink City. Top highlights include:
- Marvel at regal architecture—scrawling palace complexes and majestic forts with panoramic views
- Shop for local handicrafts– Vibrant textiles, jewelry, paintings, and signature pottery
- See folk music and dance shows – Glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich living culture
- Learn regional cuisine – Spicy curries, fiery lentils, cooling yogurt drinks
- Explore by tuk-tuk or vintage car – Zoom down narrow lanes tucked away from crowds
- Sundowners on sky-high terraces – Hip rooftop bars with unforgettable sunset views
- Desert camping excursion – Night under the stars with bonfires and camel rides
- Visit nearby sanctuaries and temples – Day trips to heritage sites scattered around arid landscapes
- Hot air balloon over Amber Fort – Float peacefully over the palace and see Jaipur from a magical dawn perspective
- Attend weddings – With vivid attire, dancing, and delectable feasts, Indian weddings organized at heritage venues provide visitors with memorable local immersion