25 BEST Places to Visit in Jaipur (2024)

BEST AREA IN JAIPUR

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Pink City

Step back in time by exploring and staying in Jaipur’s Pink City. This centrally located neighbourhood is situated within Jaipur’s old city walls.

Places to visit:

• Delve deep into history and enjoy an array of artefacts at the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum.
• Don’t miss the chance to experience Hawa Mahal, a red and pink sandstone building that offers great views of the city.
• Take a tour of the famous City Palace of Jaipur.

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And, after those useful tips, here are the best places to visit in Jaipur:

Jaipur is just heaving with accommodation options and it can sometimes be overwhelming to know which one to choose or which area to stay in. We’ve got the low down for you so be sure to check out where to stay in Jaipur before taking off on your next adventure!

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#1 – Johari Bazar – A great place in Jaipur if you love to shop!

Why it’s awesome: If you are backpacking India then get ready to haggle! With around 400 stores and stalls, Johari Bazar is a terrific place for anyone who loves shopping. A top place to pick up local arts and crafts, it’s possible to see artisans skilfully working on pieces in some shops. There’s a huge selection of goods to choose from and the prices are generally reasonable. The market streets cover some two kilometres (1.2 miles). Thronging crowds surge along the maze-like alleys, adding to the buzzing vibe. Locals and visitors are drawn to the market looking to score great deals. There are also many foodie treats to keep your energy levels at their peak while you explore and buy.

What to do there: Join the crowds and make your way through the energetic and colourful market, pausing to admire the diverse items for sale. From beautiful saris, ornate textiles, and hand-crafted jewellery, to ceramics, fresh-cut flowers, and grocery goods, the extensive market has everything that you could possibly wish to purchase. Soak up the vibe, watch transactions unfolding, and have a go at haggling to get the best prices. Grab some tasty treats from the street-food vendors to keep hunger firmly at bay.

#2 – Jaigarh Fort – One of the most amazing places in Jaipur!

Why it’s awesome: Jaigarh Fort (also known as Victory Fort) was built in the 1720s to defend the famous Amer Fort. Indeed, underground passageways connect the two splendid fortresses. Perched high on top of cliffs in the Aravalli Mountains, the elevated position provides incredible views of the surrounding natural scenery, a lake, and the splendid Amer complex. Surrounded by thick sandstone walls, the fort features spectacular architectural details and designs and was once used as a place where mighty cannons were made.

Cannons were created using locally mined iron ore and it was possible in the past to produce gigantic cannons measuring up to 4.8 metres (16 feet) in just one day! The onsite museum provides interesting facts about the fort’s past.

What to do there: Walk around the magnificent fortress, marvelling at the impenetrable walls and defensive details. Admire the square garden within the complex visit the watchtower for splendid views. Look inside the former courtrooms and halls, and enjoy a quiet moment in the two historic temples within the grounds. Have a look in the old armoury, where you’ll find an array of old weapons, armour, and shields, and be amazed by the gigantic 50-kilogram (110-pound) cannonball.

The museum has a range of artefacts, including photos of former local rulers, and it’s a great place to learn more about the area’s past. Don’t miss seeing the colossal Jaivana cannon, at one time the biggest cannon on wheels in the world. Seriously, make sure you add this place to your Jaipur itinerary.

#3 – Jantar Mantar – A fascinating educational place to visit in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: Jaipur’s Jantar Mantar is one of several ancient observatories built in Northern India by King Sawai Jai Singh II. Dating back to the 1720s, the enormous structures are incredibly precise. The astronomical instruments were ground-breaking devices that allowed people to learn more about and monitor the skies. Once used as the nation’s main observatory, in its heyday, there were more than 20 astronomers onsite. Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the structures are not only impressive because of their past uses but they are also intriguing, and somewhat whimsical, to look at.

What to do there: Made using local stone and marble, there are 19 great instruments throughout the complex. Marvel at the large architectural instruments and gain insights into what each structure was designed to monitor, calculate, or observe in times gone by. For example, Dhruva Darshak Pattika was used to monitor the pole star and see where it was in relation to other stars and planets. Kranti Vritta Yantra measured the latitude and longitude of stars and planets, Rama Yantra found the altitude of the sun, and Unnatamsa Yantra measured the altitude of various celestial bodies. Don’t miss seeing the biggest stone sundial in the world too.

#4 – Hawa Mahal – A great place to see in Jaipur if you love architecture

Why it’s awesome: Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds, was built in the late 18^th century. An extension of the main City Palace, it housed royal ladies. At that time, it was forbidden for ladies of the royal court to be seen in public or observed by strangers. The building was designed, therefore, to allow the ladies to be able to watch the scenes on the streets without themselves being spotted.

There are more than 950 tiny windows in the eye-catching pink building, carved with lattices, and the honeycomb-like building is a real treat for the eyes from the outside. The numerous windows also allowed plenty of ventilation and a breeze, leading to the nickname of the Palace of the Winds. There are displays inside today and you can see how royalty once lived.

What to do there: Appreciate the building’s interesting façade, noticing the many small windows, before entering the complex. Try to visit early in the morning when the sun shines enticingly through the numerous small holes. Don’t miss seeing the light streaming through the beautiful stained glass too. Watch the hustle and bustle outside, feeling slightly voyeuristic in the knowledge that those outside can’t see you, and feel the cooling breeze on your skin. Explore the palace’s five levels, and notice that the interiors are rather plain when compared to the striking exterior.

#5 – Chokhi Dhani Village – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: Designed to preserve and showcase the local culture and traditions of Rajasthan, Chokhi Dhani Village is a popular attraction for both domestic and international tourists. Designed like a traditional Indian village, the large attraction is divided into several cool zones that are spread over ten acres (four hectares). Buildings reflect local heritage and styles, and there’s plenty of art, decorations, and performances to enjoy.

The huge array of onsite activities and attractions appeal to people of all ages, and it’s a top place to visit with the family, your friends, alone, or as a couple. There are top-notch shopping and dining opportunities too. The atmosphere is jovial and rustic, and the natural surroundings and fresh air are sure to appeal to anyone wishing to escape the busy city streets for some time.

What to do there: Wander around the attractive village, seeing traditional buildings filled with hand-made objects and crafts. Take a boat ride on the glistening Tal Talaiya Lake, which even has a waterfall to add to the lovely vibe.  Get up close and personal with camels, see majestic elephants, ride a horse, and experience age-old local transportation with a ride in a bullock cart. Call by the palmist to see what your future holds or trust a parrot to pick the right cards to give you insights into your future life.

Alternatively, peer into the past at the bioscope. Be amazed by magic tricks and fire eating displays, be enchanted by a charming puppet show, and see a re-enactment of the famous battle of Haldighati Ka Yudh. Watch an array of traditional folk dance performances, complete with striking costumes and hypnotic music. Buy a range of local goods and savour delicious Rajasthani cuisine in one of the restaurants.

#6 – Galta Ji Temple – Quite the quirky place in Jaipur!

Why it’s awesome: Dating back to the 16^th century, the large Galta Ji Temple is also known as the Monkey Temple because of the many monkeys that live throughout its grounds. Built-in the Aravalli Hills around a natural spring, there are seven sparkling pools filled with the natural spring water. Pilgrims come to bathe in the holy waters, which are believed to be different to those found in other places. Several religious buildings are built into the hills and the elevated Sun Temple is a great place to watch the sun go down.

What to do there: Explore the spiritual site and see devotees ritually cleansing in the holy waters. You might also spot cheeky monkeys taking a quick dip too! Watch the playful monkeys scampering through the grounds, though do be cautious that they don’t steal any of your belongings. There are two species of monkey within the grounds: macaques and langurs. Admire the main building in its pink glory and see an array of religious art and statues throughout the complex. Enjoy the tranquil vibe and hike up to the Sun Temple for incredible views across Jaipur, perhaps staying to watch a beautiful sunset.

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#7 – Chand Baori – An awesome place to visit in Jaipur for half a day!

Why it’s awesome: The enormous stepwell of Chand Baori can be found in the quaint village of Abhaneri. One of the world’s biggest and most impressive step-wells. The almost two-hour drive is more than worth making from Jaipur. Steeped in history, the oldest sections of the beautiful stepwell were built in the 8^th century, with later additions over the years. The upper levels were mainly constructed during the Mughal period. Descending down into the depths of the earth for some 30 metres (98 feet), there are thousands of narrow steps down the 13 levels. The striking structure has featured in a variety of films and TV shows.

What to do there: Peer down the several levels into the depths of the well and admire the intricate and precise geometric designs before working your way down the 3,500 steps to the bottom of the well. Stop to rest and see the well from different vantages points at the different stories. See where water was once stored throughout the year and feel the slightly cooler temperatures at the bottom.

It’s no surprise to learn that the cool and shady well was once a popular meeting place for people looking to escape the hot outside temperatures! Look up from the bottom, marvelling at the structure’s design before taking a deep breath to climb back up the many stairs. (Don’t worry if you don’t want to go all the way to the bottom—nobody would judge you!)

#8 – Govind Dev Ji Temple – One of the most religious places to see in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: Within the extensive grounds of the City Palace complex, Govind Dev Ji Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in Jaipur. It’s particularly revered by followers of Vaishnavism. Thousands of devotees come here every day to pray and seek blessings. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple houses a statue of the deity that is said to be an exact depiction of Krishna when he was incarnated on Earth. Legends say that the statue was created by the great grandson of Lord Krishna, and that it took three attempts to get a perfect likeness.

What to do there: See the cream and red temple from the outside, complete with its typical elongated corn-like towers. Explore the complex, making sure to pay your respects to the sacred statue of Lord Krishna, and observe the hustle and bustle of religious activity as adherents come here in the masses to worship. Enjoy some peace and quiet in the pretty gardens around the temple and soak up the beautiful views.

#9 – Sambhar Lake – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: Sambhar Lake lies around 80 kilometres (50 miles) outside of Jaipur city centre. The country’s biggest salt lake, it is fed by five rivers and surrounded by the Aravalli Hills. The lake is responsible for the bulk of the local salt production and salt has been harvested here for thousands of years. Each year, thousands of tonnes of salt are collected from the area.

The saline wetlands attract diverse wildlife too, with numerous birds coming to the lake in the winter months. The lake’s flora creates a multi-coloured effect, adding to the picturesque scenery. There are a number of small villages around the large lake, as well as temples and other places of interest.

What to do there: Take a walk around the edges of the lake, seeing how the water seems to be different colours because of the different plankton and algae. See the large dam and the many evaporation pools to the east of the lake that are important to the salt-production industry. Spot a variety of birds on and around the water. If you visit in the winter months you’re likely to see flocks of pink flamingos as well as waterfowl and other birds, while the nearby forests are home to creatures like foxes and deer.

#10 – Central Park – A perfect place to visit in Jaipur if you are on a budget!

Why it’s awesome: Central Park is an extensive public park within the city of Jaipur. The city’s biggest park, is boasts a variety of activities for visitors looking to unwind, keep fit, or enjoy nature. Open from early in the morning until well into the nighttime, it’s a great place to beat the heat and have an alfresco workout. Various creatures, particularly birds, inhabit the lush park, and there are plenty of interesting statues scattered throughout the landscapes. There are a couple of noteworthy features in the park too, including India’s tallest national flag and a musical fountain. There’s no charge to enjoy the pretty park.

What to do there: Spot an array of flora and fauna as you enjoy a leisurely stroll around Jaipur’s Central Park. Relax on the grass, either basking in the sunshine or keeping cool in the shade of an overhanging tree. Go for a jog along the running track and let kids run and play in the wide open spaces. Cycling, kite flying, badminton, and ball games are also popular, and there’s a nearby polo ground and golf course that you can enjoy too.

Visit the designated meditation area for some quiet contemplation and join in with a morning yoga session. Pack a picnic for a tasty outdoor lunch in nature. See the soaring flagpole from which India’s tallest national flag flies proudly. The huge flag is hoisted some 62 metres (206 feet) above the ground. The nearby stone statues are also interesting. See the musical fountain in action at dusk.

#11 – Amer Fort – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Amer Fort (also sometimes known as the Amber Fort) is one of Jaipur’s most-visited and most important historical sites. Perched on a hill, the striking fort is built from marble and red sandstone. Surrounded by high ramparts and imposing gates, it’s easy to imagine how the defensive structure would have intimidated potential enemies in times gone by. Spread across four levels, the fortress was once home to Rajput Maharajas. The present structure dates back to the 1500s (with many additions and alterations made over the years), though it stands on the site of a much older fortress. Today, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to do there: Ride a jeep up the steep and winding road up the hill to reach the stunning Amer Fort, admiring the pale outer walls as you journey closer to the fortress. Do note that it is also possible to ride brightly painted elephants up to the fortress, but because of concerns of animal cruelty this is not something that we endorse—do your homework before deciding whether this is something you want to do, taking into account all ethical considerations.

Enter the vast complex through the Sun Gate to stand in the first courtyard where mighty military parades once took place. Climb the steps up to the main palace area, detouring to look around the Sila Devi Temple and the Public Audience Hall, pass through the ornate Ganesh Gate, and explore the former private quarters of royalty. Stroll through the elegant and well-tended gardens and be dazzled by the many opulent and lavish features.

Jai Mandir, with its gleaming glass, marble reliefs, and sparkling mirrors, is especially eye catching. Continue to the fourth courtyard and see where the royal ladies once lived, peering inside the many rooms that once housed wives and concubines. Don’t skip the Palace of Man Singh I; the oldest part of the complex, it is filled with exquisite details.

#12  – Mirza Ismail Road – A must-see for foodies

Why it’s awesome: Mirza Ismail Road, commonly shortened to simply MI Road, is one of Jaipur’s main thoroughfares. Running between Sanganeri Gate and Government Hostel, most of the nearby major roads eventually meet with MI Road. There are a couple of historic monumental gateways along the road, as well as a popular cinema, markets, and shops. It’s also a top spot for food fans, with a great selection of street food specialties and sit-down restaurants ranging from the quick and casual to the more upmarket and formal.

What to do there: Snap photos of the Sanganeri Gate, an impressive pink gateway that’s decorated with pale motifs and that spans the road, and the arched Ajmeri Gate, which is another vision of loveliness in dusky pink and cream tones. Try the popular dish of dal bati churma, which consists of a baked ball of dough coated in ghee and eaten with lentils.

Let your senses, cravings, and hunger pangs guide you as you sample various other local and national delights, such as kachori, golgappa, kaathi roll, keema baati, chicken tikka, and shrikhand. Leave plenty of space for ice cream and other sweet treats and a glass of lassi or warming cup of masala chai.

Also, remember that travelling safely means being extra careful with what you ingest while abroad especially in terms of street food. If in doubt, don’t eat it!

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#13 – Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan – A nice quiet place to see in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan is one of Jaipur’s pretty and peaceful hidden gems. It was the royal crematorium for a former ruling clan, the Kachwaha. Established in the 1700s, the tranquil site has a number of beautiful monuments to honour the deceased. Some structures are made from opulent marble and others are made from the more basic sandstone. In various sizes and forms, some of the monuments are quite lavish with detailed carvings. Close to Nahargarh Fort, the scenic surroundings add to the beauty.

What to do there: Escape the crowds and soak up the serene air of the ancient cemetery. It’s a lovely place to sit for a while in quiet reflection, read a book, or get your sketch pad out. See the centuries-old monuments, taking time to appreciate the finer details. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially if you like places that are a bit different to the norm, so make sure you bring your travel camera.

#14 – Jawahar Circle Garden – Great place to visit in Jaipur for couples!

Why it’s awesome: The picturesque Jawahar Circle Garden sits on a large roundabout/traffic circle close to the airport. Among the largest circular parks in Asia, it has a circumference of 1,420 metres (4,658 feet). Created in 2009, it is now a popular leisure spot. It’s also pretty unusual! The charming park has various facilities and attractions including running tracks and play areas. It’s a pleasant place for couples to spend time together outdoors or for solo visitors to enjoy some quality alone time.

What to do there: If you’re feeling active and want to keep in shape you can hit the circular jogging trails for an energetic run or a brisk walk. There are also several walking trails throughout the pretty park. See the different species of flowers and plants used to landscape the large traffic circle and relax on the grass or on one of the benches scattered through the park.

Enjoy the colours and scents in the rose gardens, watch your kids having fun in the well-equipped and modern play areas, and grab refreshments and snacks from one of the kiosks. Be sure to stay in the park until the evening when you can watch the delightful 30-minute-long water, light, and music show at the fountain. You and your sweetheart are sure to enjoy watching the mesmerising fountain in action.

#15 – Snow Planet – Awesome place to visit in Jaipur with kids!

Why it’s awesome: Snow Planet is a rather unusual attraction in the arid dessert state of Rajasthan—a chilly and wintery world of snow and ice! One of the most fun places for a family outing, there are diverse attractions and activities for people of all ages. A top place to beat the heat and escape indoors from the sunshine, the sub-zero temperatures of Snow Planet are particularly appealing in the hot summer months. Warm and protective outer garments are provided, including gloves, boots, and jackets.

What to do there: Get respite from the high outside temperatures and discover a winter wonderland at Snow Planet. You can frolic in the snow and experience snow drops falling from above as you make snow angels, build snowmen, and have a good old snowball fight. Try snow sliding, snow basketball, and snow rock climbing, smile with joy on the quaint snow carousel, see beautiful snow sculptures, and pop inside the igloo. Visit the London Bridge experience, get tactical in the paintball arena, and dance your socks of in the Dance Zone.

#16 – Akshardham Temple – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: Jaipur’s Akshardham Temple is one of the city’s more recent temples, having been built at the turn of the 20^th century. Sitting in beautiful gardens that have lovely fountains, flowers, trees, and statues, the temple itself is a real treat for the eyes. Celebrated for its exquisite carvings, religious artworks, and stunning statues of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, it’s a terrific place to uncover more about the culture, values, traditions, and heritage of the region. The temple honours Lord Narayan. It is free to visit the gorgeous religious site.

What to do there: Feel at peace as you explore the scenic gardens and sit for some time enjoying the calm ambience and attractive setting. It’s difficult not to feel in awe of the magnificent building with its walls adorned with carvings and colourful paintings. Feel energised and inspired by the mantras displayed and increase your feelings of positivity. See the shining silver and gold encrusted statue of Lord Narayan and appreciate the many details that help to make this temple so magnificent.

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#17 – Jal Mahal – One of the most romantic places to visit in Jaipur!

Why it’s awesome: Although not open to the public, the Jal Mahal Palace is still an impressive site on the waters of Man Sagar Lake. A fine example of Rajput architecture, the sandstone building has five levels; four of these five stories are sometimes submerged in the lake when the water levels are high. It was built to be used as a royal hunting lodge (for duck hunting expeditions on the waters) and it was constructed in the mid-1700s.

What to do there: While it’s not possible for members of the public to cross the water to look around the handsome building, the palace is still a beautiful sight from the shore. Mountains rise in the background and the palace appears as though it is floating on top of the water. Visit Man Sagar Dam for more great views of the splendid lake building. You can take a camel ride alongside the water, walk in the nearby forests, and visit the nearby royal cremation site.

#18 – Albert Hall Museum – A great place to visit in Jaipur if you are alone/traveling solo

Why it’s awesome: The stunning building of Albert Hall dates back to the late 1800s. The foundation stone was laid to commemorate a visit of Albert Edward (then the Prince of Wales) to the city, although there were no firm plans as to what the building would actually be used for. It was eventually agreed that the building would house a small crafts museum. Over the years the collections expanded and diversified, leading to what is today one of India’s most comprehensive and detailed history and culture museums. The interiors of the building have striking murals that depict various civilisations from across the globe.

What to do there: Soak in the splendour of Albert Hall from the outside, with its elegant arches, domes, balconies, and terraces, and work your way around the diverse and vast collections contained within the marvellous building. Learn more about different eras from throughout India’s past, including the Gupta, Kushan, Mughal, and British colonial times, and gain insights into Indian culture as well as global civilisations and cultures. The extensive collections include weapons and armour, carpets, ceramics, sculptures, paintings, clothes, coins, jewellery, furnishings, and musical instruments. For many visitors, a highlight is seeing an authentic mummy from ancient Egypt.

#19 – Maota Lake – One of the nicer places in Jaipur to sightsee!

Why it’s awesome: Once the main source of water for the famous Amer Fort, Maota Lake played a vital part during the area’s development. A scenic natural spot, there’s also a small artificial island (Kesar Kyari Bagh) in the waters. The lake is a great place for pictures that combine natural scenery and historic buildings.  The yearly Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations see a large parade and a statue of Ganesh is ritually cleaned in the lake’s blue waters. The lake is free to visit, making it especially great for budget travellers.

What to do there: Take a picturesque stroll around the edges of the lake, admiring the pretty scenes that include the lake, the fort, and the island. Try to time your visit for earlier on in the day before the temperatures start to soar. Cross the walkway to the island and wander through the neat and verdant gardens. The gardens are said to have been created to give the royal ladies in the palace something pretty to look at.

#20 – Achrol Fort – One of the most underrated places to see in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: Achrol Fort is one of Jaipur’s forgotten historic fortresses. It was built in the 1500s. Left to the elements, it now sits in an atmospheric state of decay with nature winning the fight to reclaim its space. Overgrown and fairly wild, the ruins have thick but now crumbling walls, water reservoirs that are now stagnant, and towers that must have once stood proudly but now look rather forlorn. Somehow, the ruined state only adds to the charm. Few visitors make it to the old elevated fortress so those who do make the trip can explore in peace and quiet.

What to do there: Follow the uneven and rugged path up to the foot, taking care to avoid slipping on the jagged rocks and loose earth. Wearing sensible shoes is highly recommended! Hear whispers from the past as you walk around the ruins and imagine how mighty and impressive the fortress must have been in its heyday. Have a look around the havelli, complete with fading and chipped wall and ceiling paintings and carvings and other ornate touches on the outer walls.

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#21 – Sisodia Rani Garden – One of Jaipur’s coolest historical sites!

Why it’s awesome: Sisodia Rani Garden was created on the orders of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1728. It takes its name from the queen that it was built for, the ruler’s second queen. The queen used to visit the garden to relax and enjoy being outdoors. The multi-level royal gardens are attractive with many interesting ornamental features and lush foliage.

Buildings combine both Indian and Mughal styles, and there are elements from the two major religions of Hinduism and Islam. The former palace is also open to visitors. There are religious scenes painted throughout the palace as well as a small shrine in the gardens. There are no charges to visit the garden (although there is a nominal entrance fee to look around the palace building).

What to do there: Make like a queen of old and relax in the pretty gardens, surrounded by attractive flowers, singing birds, fountains, waterways, and lots of greenery. It’s a great place to lose yourself in the pages of your favourite book and while away the hours away from the chaotic and crowded city streets. Explore the gardens and its various architectural gems, including handsomely painted pavilions and galleries.

Visit the two-level palace on the gardens top terrace to see where the treasured queen used to stay. View the detailed religious scenes showing the life of Lord Krishna. Stories say that the ruler deliberately commissioned paintings of Lord Krishna and Radha to demonstrate the vast love that he had for his queen.

#22 – Ranthambore National Park – A must visit place to visit in Jaipur on the weekend!

Why it’s awesome: Within easy reach of Jaipur, the expansive Ranthambore National Park is one of the nation’s biggest national parks and should be of interest to all responsible travellers with the best interests of wildlife and conservation at heart. Covering 392 square kilometres (151 square miles), the park contains forests and meadows, lakes and streams. Rich with wildlife, it’s one of the best places in India to see tigers in their natural habitat.

Conservation and education efforts have led to an increase in the number of tigers in the park. It is also home to a variety of other fascinating creatures. Once a royal hunting ground, the national park also has an old fortress within its boundaries. It’s a top place for a weekend trip from Jaipur for anyone who loves exploring nature and observing exciting creatures in a natural setting. It’s also a perfect location for avid fans of wildlife photography.

What to do there: Join a variety of tours through the park, including wildlife-spotting safaris, specialist bird-watching trips, and hiking. Hike with an experienced local guide to the historic Ranthambhore Fort, passing an assortment of creatures along the way. The tenth-century fort sits on elevated ground and has three stone temples. Take an exhilarating three-hour safari to cover more ground and potentially see more wildlife.

As well as the famous Bengal tigers the national park is also home to animals like leopards, hyenas, sloth bears, macaque monkeys, langurs, crocodiles, and wild boar. There are many types of birds as well. Furthermore, the park sustains more than 500 species of flowering plants. You can also see one of India’s biggest banyan trees, with its hanging tendrils and twisty, gnarled roots. Soak up the views of the picture-perfect lakes within the park too.

#23 – Bhangarh Fort – Cool place to see in Jaipur with friends

Why it’s awesome: Located in the foothills of the Aravali Hills, Bhangarh Fort was constructed in the 17^th century. Despite its age, it is still well preserved today. There are various buildings throughout the large complex, including palaces, temples, and grand residences known as havellis. The site is often quiet and visitors can commonly explore in relative solitude. Steeped in eerie local legends, stories tell of a deadly curse. It is said that a wizard fell in love with one of the princesses of the fortress. In his pursuit of the beautiful princess he attempted to give her a love potion. She refused and hurled the magic liquid onto a boulder.

The boulder dislodged and crushed the magic man. Before dying, the wizard issued a curse on the fort, saying that it would soon meet devastation and destruction. Shortly afterwards the fortress was invaded by Mughal forces, who killed everybody in their path. Local lore says that the curse will only be quashed when the princess is reborn and returns to the fort. More tales tell of another curse imposed by a local sadhu. According to local myths, the sadhu prohibited anyone from building any structure within the fort that caused a shadow to land on his humble home. One person defied the sadhu, who became angry and cursed the fortress. The eerie ruins are said to be among the most haunted places in the whole of India.

What to do there: See the once glorious havelis that line the dusty and somewhat desolate road that leads to the old abandoned fortress. Sturdy craved wooden doors are kept secured today with big rusty padlocks, a big difference to in times gone by. Explore the large fortress complex, keeping a keen eye open for signs of unusual, ghostly, and supernatural sights. Think of the ill-fated people of the fort as you explore the remains of the King’s Palace and temples.

There are small but ornate temples dedicated to various deities including Hanuman (the Monkey God), Ganesh (the Elephant God), and Shiv Mahadev. The stepwell at the Someshwara Temple is especially photogenic. See where the resident priest once lived, stroll through the long-deserted but once bustling marketplace, admire the pretty pond and stream, and see monumental gateways. You can also see an old Islamic tomb just outside the fort’s boundaries.

#24 – Smriti Van – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Jaipur

Why it’s awesome: The bio-diverse forest of Smriti Van is a pleasant sanctuary for those wanting to get away from city life for a while and explore nature. The park has a somewhat sad history—it was created on the back of intense and destructive flooding in the early 1980s. The floodwaters created deep chasms and people planted trees here to remember loved ones. The local government later decided to turn the area into a forest, and it was opened to the public in 2007. There are 11 zones within the park, each offering something different for visitors. There are many types of plants and people can enjoy outdoor activities.

What to do there: Discover the various areas of Smriti Van and see the wide assortment of flora. Visit the main area of Vasundhra Van, rich with diverse plants and trees. At Aravali Van you can see plant life that is typical to the Aravali Hills, while Rashtriya Van and Java Kusum Van display plants from all around India. The herb garden is also well worth a visit. Pay a visit to the Eco-Environment Museum to see images of the different plants and birds found throughout the park. Sarovar is an ideal place to spot different birds and fish in and around the ponds. Get your morning exercise along the walking/jogging trails and relish the peace and serenity.

#25 – Nahargarh Fort – A great place to visit Jaipur at night

Why it’s awesome: Dominating the local landscape within the Aravalli Hills, the magnificent and statuesque Nahargarh Fort was constructed in the 1730s. The fortress was never attacked. It was, however, used to provide a safe haven for Europeans during the uprisings. An extensive complex, there are various interesting buildings within the defensive outer walls, including a 12-room palace for the royal ladies and temples.

Ghost stories surround the fort, with tales of hauntings. There’s a splendid park in the fortress complex too, letting people enjoy nature and history at the same time. There are terrific views from the high fort and it’s beautifully illuminated in the darkness. The complex has been used as a filming location for several productions.

What to do there: Stand in the open courtyard where the ruler used to meet with townsfolk to hear their issues and attempts to seek resolutions. Make merit and pay your respects in the sacred temples, paying particular attention to the temple dedicated to a ghostly prince that is said to have once troubled the fortress. See the guns that, although never used for war, were used to indicate the time. Marvel at the glorious frescoes inside the 12-room Madhavendra Bhawan, which was once the living quarters of the queens.

If you want to delve deeper into the fort’s past you can hire an informative guide to take you around the site. Don’t miss seeing the diverse nature within Nahargarh Biological Park, and get active with hiking and cycling adventures. While the fortress is impressive by day, do return in the evening to see the spectacular building stunningly illuminated and to see the views of the Pink City at night with twinkling lights breaking the darkness of the inky skies.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Jaipur

Step back in time to the days of the mighty Rajput rulers and see their legacies throughout Jaipur’s handsome palaces and fortresses. Appreciate how the city got its moniker of the Pink City as you view the stunning architecture. Visit a wealth of religious sites, enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities, relax in pleasant parks, feast on local foods, and visit quirky spots that will definitely add a twist to your travels. There are many fantastic things to do and see in Jaipur … have fun discovering all of our top recommendations for the best places to visit in Jaipur!

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