Your Ultimate Guide To 2 Days In Jaipur

Planning a trip to the pink city in the princely state of Rajasthan in India? Here’s the ultimate guide on how you should best spend 2 days in Jaipur, where should you shop, eat and how should you plan your itinerary.

Jaipur is often referred to as the Pink City due to the distinct hue of its buildings. Steeped in history, culture, and vibrant colors, Jaipur is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience for you. With just 48 hours at your disposal, we have crafted the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your stay. Get ready to immerse yourself in the grandeur of forts, palaces, and temples, savor delectable Rajasthani cuisine, and shop for exquisite handicrafts.

Our goal at Wander Smartly is to make your travels smarter and help you have the best experience on your trips. From my own visit to the delightful city of Jaipur in India, I share the all the details you would need to spend two spectacular days here.

Itinerary: 2 Days in Jaipur

Day 1: Exploring the Royal Heritage

Morning: Amer Fort and Sheesh Mahal

Start your first day with an early breakfast and head straight to the Amer Fort. Also known as Amber Fort, it is one of the most iconic and majestic forts in Jaipur and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located on a hilltop, about 11 kilometers from Jaipur’s city center, Amer Fort is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture and a significant historical landmark in Rajasthan, India.

Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you explore this magnificent fort. You will be awe-inspired by its intricate architecture and rich history. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), a hall adorned with thousands of tiny mirrors that create a mesmerizing effect when light reflects off them.

Late Morning: Jaigarh Fort and Panna Meena ka Kund

From Amer Fort, make your way to the nearby Jaigarh Fort. This imposing structure was built to protect Amer Fort and the city of Jaipur. Stroll through its expansive courtyards, see the world’s largest cannon on wheels, and soak in the panoramic views of the Aravalli Hills.

After Jaigarh Fort, visit the beautiful Panna Meena ka Kund. This is a unique stepwell which served as a community gathering spot and a source of water for the locals. The stepwell is known for its impressive symmetrical staircases, which are an architectural marvel. The intricate geometric patterns on the steps and the mesmerizing play of light and shadows make it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Here you can explore the stepwell’s different levels and enjoy the historical charm and serenity it offers.

Lunch: Traditional Rajasthani Cuisine

For lunch, indulge in some authentic Rajasthani cuisine at one of the local restaurants. Try dishes like Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, Laal Maas, and Ker Sangri to get a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Afternoon: City Palace and Jantar Mantar

After a fulfilling lunch, head to the City Palace, a sprawling complex that showcases a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace comprises several courtyards, gardens, and buildings, each reflecting the opulence and grandeur of the Rajput rulers. The Chandra Mahal within the complex is the residence of the current royal family of Jaipur. Part of the palace is open to the public as a museum, where you can explore a remarkable collection of artifacts and artworks that offer insights into the rich history and culture of Jaipur.

Adjacent to the City Palace is the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It houses several impressive instruments that were used to study celestial bodies in the 18th century. The most notable one is the Samrat Yantra, the world’s largest sundial.

Evening: Hawa Mahal and Shopping at Bapu & Johari Bazaar

As the sun begins to set, head to the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. This unique five-story building with its numerous windows was designed to allow royal women to observe everyday life and festivities without being seen from the outside. Capture the mesmerizing facade during the golden hour. Head over to The Wind View Café on the opposite side to click great pictures of the Hawa Mahal.

From Hawa Mahal, take a short walk to Bapu Bazaar, one of the city’s oldest markets. Here, you can shop for colorful textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and traditional mojaris (footwear). Don’t forget to bargain to get the best deals!

Next, head over to Johari Bazaar, close to Bapu Bazaar. At Johari Bazaar, you’ll find an impressive array of jewelry, including stunning Kundan, Meenakari, Thewa, and Polki pieces. Kundan jewelry, in particular, is a specialty of Jaipur, and the bazaar is the perfect place to explore and purchase this traditional art form. The market also offers a vast selection of gemstones, from sparkling diamonds and rubies to sapphires, emeralds, and semi-precious stones.

Dinner: Chokhi Dhani – A Cultural Extravaganza

End your day with a cultural feast at Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort that offers an immersive experience of Rajasthani culture. Enjoy traditional folk performances, puppet shows, camel rides, and a sumptuous Rajasthani thali for dinner. This place is a must visit on your trip to Jaipur.

You can book a private guided city tour of Jaipur that will take you to the biggest attractions in the city and offer historical context to each place.

Day 2: Serenity and Spirituality

Morning: Sunrise at Nahargarh Fort

Begin your second day with a tranquil experience at Nahargarh Fort. Early in the morning, hike or drive up to the fort to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the city. The peaceful surroundings and the panoramic view of Jaipur make it a perfect start to your day. Nahargarh Fort was built in the 18th century as a defensive fort and was later expanded by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II.

Apart from the stunning views, you can explore various structures within the fort, such as Madhavendra Bhawan, which consists of suites for the royal family, and the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), where the king met his subjects. Nahargarh Fort also features in Bollywood movies and is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the beauty of Jaipur from a different perspective.

Breakfast: Local Delicacies

After returning to the city, treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at one of Jaipur’s popular cafes. Try some Kachori, Pyaaz Kachori, or Ghevar, traditional Rajasthani sweets.

Mid-morning: Jal Mahal

Next on the itinerary is the exquisite Jal Mahal, a palace floating in the middle of the picturesque Man Sagar Lake. The appearance of the palace floating on the water gives it a magical appeal. Though you cannot enter the palace, the stunning view from the shores and surrounding areas makes it a popular photography spot. Admire its stunning beauty from the banks of the lake. Take a boat ride to get a closer view of this architectural marvel.

Lunch: Street Food Delights

For lunch, venture into the bustling streets of Jaipur and savor its delightful street food offerings. Try the famous Pyaaz Kachori at Rawat Mishthan Bhandar or enjoy the delicious golgappas at various street vendors. You can also visit Lakshmi Mishtan Bhandar and try the Royal Rajasthani Thali, among many other delicacies.

Afternoon: Patrika Gate and Gatore Ki Chhatriyan

In the afternoon, head to Patrika Gate, a lesser-known gem of Jaipur. It is an intricately designed entrance gate that showcases the rich heritage and culture of Rajasthan through beautiful frescoes and paintings. The gate provides insights into various aspects of Rajasthani life and tradition through its intricate artwork, making it a must-visit spot for art and culture enthusiasts.

Next, visit Gatore Ki Chhatriyan, a collection of cenotaphs dedicated to Jaipur’s former rulers. These beautifully crafted marble memorials set amidst lush greenery offer a peaceful place to reflect on history and architecture.

Evening: Galta Ji Temple

Make your way to Galta Ji Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, located in the Aravalli Hills. This is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and features several sacred water tanks and natural springs. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and is home to a large population of monkeys, which are considered sacred in Hindu mythology. The main temple and its surroundings offer a peaceful and spiritual ambiance, making it a popular place for devotees and travelers seeking tranquility away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Dinner: Farewell Feast

For your last dinner in Jaipur, choose from one of the city’s fine-dining restaurants or rooftop eateries. You can visit Tapri – The Tree House and choose between western or Indian cuisine. Bar Palladio, Jaipur is an excellent option offering Italian and Continental Cuisine. This place is known for its beautiful interiors and ambience.

Where to Stay

Jaipur offers a wide range of stay options to cater to the diverse preferences of travelers. From luxury hotels and heritage resorts to budget-friendly accommodations and boutique guesthouses, there’s always something for you. One such exceptional place to stay in Jaipur is the Trident Jaipur, which stands out for its luxurious amenities, excellent hospitality, and captivating ambiance. It is the perfect choice for experiencing the royal hospitality of Rajasthan at a very reasonable price.

Situated amidst lush gardens, the hotel’s architecture reflects the rich heritage and culture of Rajasthan. It is conveniently located just a short drive away from major attractions like Amer Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal, making it an ideal base to explore the Pink City.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Jaipur, Rajasthan is between the months of October to February when the temperatures are cooler. Avoid summer months as Rajasthan is known to get painfully hot in the scorching weather.

How to Reach

Jaipur is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it accessible from various parts of the country and the world.

By Flight

Jaipur International Airport, also known as Sanganer Airport, is well-connected to major cities in India and several international destinations. There are regular flights from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and many others.

By Road

Jaipur is also well-connected by a network of national highways, making it accessible by road from various parts of India. The city is connected to Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Udaipur, and other major cities through well-maintained roads. You can either drive to Jaipur in your own vehicle or opt for state-run or private buses, which offer regular services from nearby cities and states.

By Train

Jaipur Junction is the main railway station in Jaipur and is a part of the North Western Railway zone. It is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and others. Several trains, including superfast and express trains, ply to and from Jaipur on a daily basis. From the railway station, you can easily find taxis, auto-rickshaws, or other local transport options to reach your desired location within the city.

Local Transportation in Jaipur

Once you reach Jaipur, the city offers various local transportation options to explore its attractions. These include auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber. Additionally, you can rent a car or book a private guided tour for more convenience or flexibility in your travel within the city.

When your two-day journey through Jaipur would come to an end, you’ll carry memories of the city’s royal heritage and heart-warming hospitality. Jaipur’s magnificent forts, grand palaces, and captivating landmarks will leave you in awe of its rich history and architectural marvels. Whether you explore the historic sites, indulge in traditional delicacies, or shop for exquisite handicrafts, the Pink City’s allure will undoubtedly beckon you to return for more adventures in the future. So, farewell and safe travels!

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