Forts & Palaces You Can’t Miss
Jaipur’s skyline is shaped by its sandstone giants, forts and palaces that once guarded, dazzled, and defined the city. Visiting them feels less like checking off landmarks and more like walking through a living storybook. A morning at Amer Fort sets the pace beautifully. The climb up reveals courtyards that open into frescos, mirrored chambers like the Sheesh Mahal, and sweeping views of the Maota Lake.
Top activities in Jaipur at Amer Fort:
- The evening Light & Sound Show
- Glittering interiors of Sheesh Mahal
- Elephant rides in the early hours
Nearby, Jaigarh Fort stands rugged and commanding. Wind whistles through long corridors, and the massive Jaivana Cannon evokes the city’s historic power.
Look out for:
- Panoramic Aravalli views
- Military-style architecture
Back in the heart of Jaipur, the graceful City Palace offers polished courtyards and intricately carved gateways, while the iconic Hawa Mahal glows as the morning sun kisses its latticework façade. These landmarks are some of the most popular things to do in Jaipur for a royal experience.
Temples & Spiritual Experiences
Jaipur balances its royal grandeur with soulful devotion. The temples here aren’t just religious sites; they’re places where locals gather, prayers echo, and traditions feel alive. At Govind Dev Ji Temple, the energy during aarti is unforgettable hundreds of voices rising in unison. Meanwhile, Birla Mandir, carved entirely from white marble, offers quiet serenity, especially as the lights come on after dusk.Bazaar Adventures
No trip to Jaipur is complete without wandering through its markets. The colours, the calls of shopkeepers, and the craftsmanship on display make shopping an experience in itself.
- Johari Bazaar - A stroll through this place reveals glittering Kundan and Meenakari jewellery that the city is famous for.
- Bapu Bazaar - Visit for soft quilts, block-printed fabrics, and vibrant textiles that pile up in every corner.
- Tripolia Bazaar - Here you’ll find racks of lac bangles and beautiful brassware crafted the traditional way.
Each market has its own personality, and you’ll likely leave with more than you planned.
Soulful Stops: Temples & Spiritual Experiences
Jaipur balances its royal grandeur with soulful devotion. The temples here aren’t just religious sites; they’re places where locals gather, prayers echo, and traditions feel alive. At Govind Dev Ji Temple, the energy during aarti is unforgettable hundreds of voices rising in unison. Meanwhile, Birla Mandir, carved entirely from white marble, offers quiet serenity, especially as the lights come on after dusk.
Time Travel Through Art & Science
Jaipur’s museums offer a deeper look into the city’s intellect and artistry. They’re ideal for travellers who want stories behind what they see. The Albert Hall Museum, with its Indo-Saracenic architecture, houses everything from royal artefacts to an Egyptian mummy. Meanwhile, Jantar Mantar continues to fascinate with astronomical instruments that still work with surprising precision a fine blend of science and design.
Adventure & Wildlife
When you need a break from palaces and crowds, Jaipur offers refreshing outdoor escapes. The natural landscape around the city makes adventure easy. At Nahargarh Biological Park, you can spot big cats, deer, and a range of birdlife in a beautifully maintained environment. For something unforgettable, the hot air balloon rides at sunrise give you sweeping views of forts, villages, and the Aravallis, a photographer’s dream, and a memory that stays long after the trip ends.