The quest for the best things to do in Jaipur in one day unfolds a journey through a city teeming with history, culture, and scenic beauty. Embark your day with a visit to the Amer Fort, a remarkable example of Rajasthan’s regal heritage. Then, allow yourself to be swept up in the vibrant chaos and charm of the Johari Bazaar, renowned for its unique crafts and delectable cuisine. Finally, end the day with a peaceful stroll in the lush gardens of Jal Mahal, nestled in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. These three experiences form the heart of Jaipur’s tourist appeal, offering a glimpse into the city’s diverse attractions.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN JAIPUR IN ONE DAY
After adventuring in Jaipur, I can share with you what I got up to and what I consider to be the 20 best things to do in Jaipur. Fro these 20 best things to do in Jaipur, I’ve made the ideal Jaipur One-Day Itinerary.
I have also put together what I consider to be the best one-day itinerary for Jaipur. So you can follow that one-day Jaipur itinerary or you can make your own personalized itinerary from all of the suggestions in this blog post about all of the best places to visit in Jaipur in one day (or two).
WHERE TO STAY IN JAIPUR
- Treebo Aroma Residency (Budget) I stayed in Treebo Aroma Residency which is a 3-star hotel for just $16 USD per night. It was a cheap base for my adventures. The location was central enough for us to tuk-tuk to most places without too much hassle. This is a great option for an adventure base at a budget price.
- Royal Heritage Haveli (High End) The Royal Heritage Haveli, is a 4-star hotel, which has opened its doors as a hotel after more than 150 years as a boutique accommodation. This is an experience in itself. The interior of this hotel is unbelievable and will give you a palace to retreat to after visiting the other historic palaces and forts in Jaipur during the day.
- Fairmont Jaipur (5-star) If you are going to stay 5-star, there are few better places to do it than in Jaipur. For just over $100 USD you can stay in the hotel of your dreams making your stay in India a magical time to remember. The Fairmont is more of a castle than a hotel.
BOOK THE #1 RATED HALF DAY OR FULL DAY TOUR OF JAIPUR
The Jaipur City Heritage Tour is by far the most reliable and best experience for a tour in Jaipur. With hundreds of reviews you can read, you can be sure you will get a local guide who speaks English and knows Jaipur like the back of his hand. These are the places included in your tour of Jaipur.
- Experience a morning or evening tour, or a full day tour of famous the best places to visit in and around Jaipur
- Explore the most prominent and ancient structures like Amber Fort, Lake Sagar, Panna Meena ka Kund and more
- Enjoy magnificent views of the Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, City Pala, e and other architectural marvels
- Spend time in the local markets, museums, famous temples and historical gardens situated in the heart of the city
- Listen to heartwarming stories about the culture and lifestyle of the people from your English speaking guide
BOOK THE TOUR: Jaipur City Heritage Tour (Full-day)
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN JAIPUR IN ONE DAY
Okay, let’s get into this list of the top places to visit in Jaipur so you can start creating your ultimate one-day itinerary for Jaipur.
Amber Fort
This fort is easily the most impressive of all architectural structures we visited while in Jaipur. A huge lake is located at the foot of the fort before a winding path leads visitors up towards the main courtyard. Goats and dogs run wild throughout the fort while thousands of pigeons flock to the perimeters where they are fed daily by locals.
Amber Fort or Amer Fort as it was referred to by our tuk-tuk drivers, has some impressive rooms and details. Arches and fine hand-made drawings and designs are spread throughout the fort. If you are on a budget, seeing the fort alone will be more than enough and it is free! Although if you have a little extra cash to splash the Amber Palace will set you back 500rp ($8).
This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Jaipur in one day and if you only have one day I highly suggest getting to Amber Fort. It should be your number one spot on the bucket list.
BOOK THE TOUR: Jaipur City Heritage Tour (Full-day), which includes a visit to the Amber Fort.
Sunset at Nahargarh Fort
Perched on the rugged Aravalli Hills overlooking Jaipur city is Nahargarh Fort, a majestic fortress that stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the fort’s name Nahargarh translates to ‘abode of tigers,’ symbolizing its strength and grandeur. Renowned for its intricate Indo-European architecture, the fort offers visitors a glimpse into the opulence of the royal era. A tour of the fort’s interior reveals beautifully decorated rooms and sprawling courtyards, while the fort’s exterior boasts panoramic views of the bustling city below and the serene sunset above. The fort is not just a symbol of Jaipur’s past glory, but it’s also a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike who come to admire its stunning beauty and serene ambience.
Nahar means tiger. Garh means fort. In English, this spectacular fortress translates to the Tiger Fort. Up in the hills of Jaipur, the Nahargarh Fort walls wind along the ridges of the mountains. Standing on the fort walls you will overlook neighborhoods brimming with intense action. If you arrive before sunset you can wander through the gallery or the wax museum.
As the sun set, we found ourselves overlooking a neighborhood, which bordered a huge sand dune. The homes on the edge of the sand dunes were almost submerged in sand. Hundreds of children played cricket and games on the dunes as we watched the last light of the day fade beneath the horizon. Definitely add this spot to your Jaipur one-day itinerary.
Amber Palace
The Amber Palace is an architectural marvel nestled atop a hill in the outskirts of Jaipur. Built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh, the fort is an exquisite blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles, showcasing intricate carvings, expansive courtyards, and magnificent artwork. The palace comprises several remarkable structures like Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, and Sukh Niwas, each offering a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. Visitors are often mesmerized by the Maota Lake at the foothills, adding to the fort’s scenic beauty. The Amber Palace is not just a symbol of Jaipur’s royal heritage, but it’s also a testament to the artistic prowess and vision of its builders. A visit here promises a journey back in time, bringing history to life through its impressive structures and stories.
Gemstone Hunting
Known as the ‘Gem City of India,’ Jaipur is a paradise for gemstone lovers and jewelry enthusiasts. The city boasts an age-old tradition of gem cutting, polishing, and jewelry making, making it one of the world’s most famous hubs for precious and semi-precious stones. From vibrant bazaars to specialized jewelry stores, shopping for gemstones in Jaipur is an exciting endeavor.
Visitors often find themselves enchanted by the wide range of rubies, emeralds, garnets, amethysts, and the locally sourced ‘Kundan’ jewelry. The famed Johari Bazaar, in particular, offers an immersive shopping experience, with craftsmen and vendors showcasing their exquisite collections. Shopping for gemstones in Jaipur provides not just an opportunity to acquire a beautiful souvenir, but also a chance to appreciate the city’s deeply ingrained craftsmanship and artistic culture.
Go on a Safari
This isn’t your average safari and I’m sorry if you are about to be disappointed. I am talking about an urban safari. Take a tuk-tuk anywhere in the city to your destination and the safari begins.
On the streets of Jaipur, you can expect to spot camels in the traffic, pigs eating the scraps, monkeys running riot, enormous cows causing traffic jams, well-fed dogs, masses of pigeons, mongoose, squirrels and an abundance of peacocks. I’ve heard the term urban jungle thrown around before but Jaipur is for real, an urban jungle.
I also created this Youtube video of the 18 Best Places to Visit in Jaipur if you prefer to watch some clips rather than read a long article.
Go rooftop hopping for sunset
One of my favorite nights in Jaipur was completely unplanned. We headed to the Hawa Mahal area and before we could make it to the rooftop cafe we were headed to, a man yelled out at us. He was indeed trying to befriend us so we would ultimately buy some textiles from his store.
Don’t be offended he is just working his corner. His name was Harish, he’s traveled all over the world and his secret sunset spot was incredibly cool. He hung out with us, offered us weed and became our best friend for the forty minutes it took the sun to set. He even took over my camera and shot a few photos for us.
Find a random rooftop and try and get on top of it for sunset. Beware monkeys!
Jaigarh Fort
The Jaigarh Fort, also known as the ‘Victory Fort’, stands majestically on the ‘Cheel ka Teela’ hills, offering a sweeping view of the Pink City, Jaipur. Built in 1726 by Jai Singh II, the fort was primarily designed as a defensive structure to protect the Amer Fort and palace complex. Its striking features include towering watchtowers, thick walls, and a strategic location, manifesting the fort’s military purpose. The fort is home to the world’s largest cannon on wheels, the ‘Jaivana Cannon,’ showcasing the military prowess of the bygone era.
Despite its austere exterior, the fort houses beautiful gardens, a water storage system, and palatial residential complexes inside, presenting an interesting contrast. A visit to Jaigarh Fort not only offers a glimpse into Jaipur’s historical military architecture but also provides a panoramic view of the city’s breathtaking landscapes.
If you are into history put this on your list as a place to visit in Jaipur. Get a guide and you will enjoy learning from a knowledgeable local. We visited the Jaigarh Fort before heading to Nahargarh Fort for sunset if that helps to plan your day out.
Nahargarh Fort for sunrise
The first time we visited the Nahargarh Fort we arrived at 6 am but found we were locked out. We still enjoyed possibly the most epic view of the entire week while hanging around on the outside walls. The moon was still visible before the sunrise and there was no-one around.
I didn’t expect India to feel exactly as it did during the moments these photos were taken. A vast, barren, peaceful, desert city. Although there were times it was anything but peaceful, like peak hour in a tuk-tuk.
9. Survive the tuk-tuk life
A tuk-tuk is going to be your best mode of transport unless you are the motorbike kind of traveler. Because there were two of us the price of the tuk-tuk worked out fairly cheap. A 20-minute ride can cost you a couple of bucks depending on your negotiating skills. We had a range of drivers, some more aggressive than others.
While we had no crashes we did ram a few people, but bumper cars is the norm in Jaipur so no worries. Aside from the incessant beeping, it was a fun experience competing in the city rally every time we were headed to a new destination. Coming from a country with road rules, beeping at the person in front of you who has nowhere to move may seem unnecessary, loud like it might be a sound you hear in your sleep.
However, enjoy it. This is how it is. Laugh don’t get frustrated and be nice to your driver he most probably knows the spots you won’t find in this blog post or any for that matter.
Ganesh Temple for sunset
The Ganesh Temple, also known as Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, is a popular religious site located in the heart of the Pink City, Jaipur. The temple is nestled on the Moti Dungri Hill, named after the palace that shares the same hill. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the temple is unique as it houses a statue of the deity depicted as a child – a rare representation in Indian temples. Built in the 18th century by Seth Jai Ram Palliwal, the temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and architectural beauty that reflect a blend of Islamic, South Indian, and Rajput styles. The temple holds special significance for the locals and sees a surge of devotees, especially on Wednesdays and during the annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival. A visit to the Ganesh Temple is a spiritual experience, offering a serene retreat amidst the bustling city of Jaipur.
Ganesh Temple was lodged at the top of a mountain. A grueling, but short, set of stairs had us breathing hard by the time we made it to the top. We enjoyed views of the city on one side and watched the sun fade behind the mountain on the other.
Sun Temple for sunset
Aptly named, this is one of the best spots for sunset.
The Sun Temple in Jaipur, also known as the Surya Mandir, is a serene sanctuary dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. Perched on the Galta Hill, this beautiful temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding Aravalli hills and the cityscape of Jaipur. The temple, built in the 18th century, displays an impressive blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, with its ornate carvings and intricate design.
The temple’s tranquil ambiance is magnified during sunrise and sunset, as the Sun God is worshipped during these times. On Sundays, a special ‘aarti’ or prayer ceremony is conducted, attracting numerous devotees. In addition to its spiritual significance, the Sun Temple is a favored spot for bird watchers and nature lovers, as the area around the temple is teeming with native flora and fauna. Visiting the Sun Temple offers a unique blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and architectural marvel, making it a must-see in Jaipur.
The walk up from the entrance archway is owned by monkeys. They are absolutely everywhere and we even managed to find their godfather, The Monkey Man who has apparently been featured in several articles and documentaries. He fed the monkeys by hand and they seemed to trust him.
Along the steep pathway to the sun temple, families were living in tents, offering chapati to support themselves. We then bumped into one of the most epic characters of the trip. He was a yogi, claiming to have the trident naturally printed into his tongue and hand.
After each photo we took he chanted. He asked for money and more or less explained that he makes a living by looking like a genuine boss sitting on top of the hill.
The temple at the top is home to a family who tends to the building. They explained a little about the temple and less than subtly asked for a donation. The sunset was worth the small note I tipped into the box. From the viewing platform beneath the temple, we watched monkeys and goats running rings around the cows below.
The sun slowly cast a shadow on the hundreds of cricket games being played in the streets below. Easily one of the best places to visit in in Jaipur for checking out the sunset.
Play cricket on the street
I’m Australian and have played plenty of backyard cricket. I thought I could swing a bat. I can’t. When I faced a few older guys in a small courtyard I faced an over of balls. I hit none. I was clean bowled on the last ball.
Cricket is played all over Jaipur and luckily I was able to redeem myself in almost two hours of street cricket with a bunch of young kids and teenagers. We played with a real cricket bat but a plastic ball, which I happily smacked all over the neighborhood. They wanted me to keep batting when I got out to see who could be the next to hit the broken chair, that sat limply behind my awkward batting stance.
Playing games whether it be cricket, football or volleyball is a great way to gain some trust and make a friend. One of the fathers invited us in for chai and a snack. He was also a 7ft tall Indian, a gentle giant.
Become a chai guy
I’m not a tea guy, I’m hardly a coffee guy. But in India, you become a chai guy. For 10rp or 15 cents you can get a small cup of freshly brewed chai tea with milk.
It’s always good to take a break from the hot sun or whatever excuse you need to make up. It became the glue that held our adventures together.
Between morning and lunch, lunch and afternoon, we enjoyed a little chai. The best part about the chai tea is watching it get poured from almost a meter above the pot. A truly skillful art and one of the most theatrical hot drink preparation performances you will witness.
Wander the markets
Jaipur, often referred to as the ‘shopper’s paradise’, hosts a variety of bustling markets that reflect the city’s vibrant culture and rich heritage. Among these, Johari Bazaar is the most famous, known for its splendid collection of gems, precious stones, and exquisite traditional jewelry. Then, there’s Bapu Bazaar, a go-to place for Jaipur’s iconic block-printed textiles, blue pottery, and leather products. For a more eclectic mix of goods, visit Nehru Bazaar, which offers everything from footwear and textiles to perfumes and trinkets.
The Tripolia Bazaar is another must-visit market, particularly for its lac jewelry and locally made carpets and rugs. Exploring these markets is not just about shopping; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to witness the city’s bustling life, savor local street food, and appreciate the craftsmanship that Jaipur is renowned for. Exploring the markets are one of the best things to do in Jaipur in one day and must be on your Jaipur itinerary.
Monkey Temple for Sunrise
The Monkey Temple, also known as Galta Ji Temple, is a unique pilgrimage site nestled amidst the Aravalli hills on the outskirts of Jaipur. This ancient temple complex is named after the holy sage Galav, who meditated here, but it has earned its popular name due to the large tribe of monkeys that live in the vicinity. The temple, built in pink sandstone, showcases a splendid architectural blend of kunds (water tanks), pavilions, and domes.
The temple is also renowned for its seven sacred water pools, with the Galta Kund being the holiest, believed to never run dry. A visit during Makar Sankranti, a significant Hindu festival, reveals the temple at its vibrant best. The Monkey Temple, with its natural beauty, spiritual ambiance, and playful primate inhabitants, offers a unique and memorable experience to every visitor. This is definitely one of the top things to do in Jaipur in one day.
Head out on a portrait adventure
I love shooting portraits but even if you are just an observer you are in a land of some unique characters. Taking photos often requires lots of interactions and I get to shake a lot of hands and have some interesting chats.
As always you need to be respectful and try and feel the situation. If you are in someone’s personal space and they are clearly irritated by the camera, apologize and put it away. Most people will be more than happy and give you a nod to take a photo.
Taste-test the Street Food
I’m no foodie and I can’t handle spice. You would think eating in India would be a struggle for me. However, as always I enjoyed the food and found several favorites that I went back to many times.
A samosa set me back 10rp, while Daal and Naan might cost you 60rp-150rp or $1-2. Lassies, a yogurt based drink are served out of terracotta cups, a great refresher. Lime soda is the drink of the town and to be honest wasn’t my favorite but when it’s steaming hot, why not.
Hawa Mahal
The Hawa Mahal, or the ‘Palace of Winds,’ is an iconic landmark that adorns the city of Jaipur with its exceptional architectural splendor. Commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799, this five-story palace is designed in the shape of Lord Krishna’s crown, as the king was a devoted follower. Constructed from red and pink sandstone, the most striking feature of the Hawa Mahal is its high screen wall filled with nearly a thousand latticed windows or ‘jharokhas,’ which allowed royal women to observe street festivities while staying unseen from the outside.
The architectural style is a blend of Rajput and Islamic design, presenting a magnificent façade that becomes especially captivating at sunrise. Today, the Hawa Mahal is not just an architectural wonder, but it also offers a peek into royal history through its museum. Whether viewed from the street or explored from within, the Hawa Mahal never fails to mesmerize visitors with its grandeur.
Water Palace/Jal Mahal
Situated amidst the serene waters of Man Sagar Lake, the Jal Mahal, also known as the ‘Water Palace,’ is a stunning marvel of Rajput architecture in the heart of Jaipur. Constructed in the 18th century by Maharaja Madho Singh I as a hunting lodge and summer retreat, the palace offers a splendid sight, with its red sandstone façade appearing to float on the lake’s surface. Its unique design consists of five stories, four of which remain underwater when the lake is full, leaving only the topmost level visible.
The palace features intricate carvings and a rooftop garden, demonstrating the architectural brilliance of the period. Although entry into the palace is restricted, visitors can admire its breathtaking beauty from the lake’s shores or opt for a boat ride around it. The Jal Mahal, with its splendid isolation and surrounding natural beauty, offers a tranquil and picturesque spectacle, making it one of Jaipur’s most loved tourist attractions.
City Palace
In the heart of the Pink City, Jaipur, stands the magnificent City Palace, a grand testament to the city’s royal lineage. Constructed in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, the palace complex showcases a harmonious blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles. The complex houses numerous gardens, courtyards, buildings, and a museum that displays a rich collection of royal costumes, artifacts, and an armory.
Key attractions within the palace include the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, and Diwan-i-Aam, each bearing unique architectural features and historical significance. The intricately decorated peacock gateways of the Pritam Niwas Chowk are particularly mesmerizing. Today, part of the palace is still the residence of the royal family, adding to its charm. A visit to the City Palace provides a deep insight into Jaipur’s regal history, culture, and artistic excellence, making it an essential stop for any visitor to the city.
JAIPUR ONE-DAY ITINERARY
I think the best way to experience Jaipur in one-day is to start early at sunrise and come home after sunset. It will be a long day but there is just so much to visit. This is my recommended One day Jaipur itinerary:
- Sunrise: Monkey Temple
- Morning: Amber Fort in the morning
- Lunch: Hawa Mahal and Pink City
- Lunch: Wander the markets near Hawa Mahal for lunch
- Afternoon: Jaigarh Fort in the afternoon
- Sunset: Nahargarh Fort
I hope you enjoyed this guide to all of the best things to do in Jaipur in one day and have a great one-day itinerary in Jaipur.
Madhu
Tuesday 24th of October 2023
Great guide! Am planning to visit Jaipur in December 2023 and this certainly would help. Thank you!
Kirtika saha
Thursday 11th of February 2021
Jaipur is one of my favorite place. I want you to thank for your time of this wonderful read!!! I definitely enjoy every little bit of it.
Avani
Wednesday 10th of February 2021
Hey Jackson, Thats nice to see you wrote the best places to visit in Jaipur. For your reader, I'm suggesting them for Badi Choupad for shopping. Hawa Mahal is also located under the Badi Choupad area.
Ravi
Monday 21st of December 2020
Thank you so much for sharing this excellent content. My faves are Jaipur and Jodhpur, although I have yet to visit Jaipur will refer to it when we plan for Jaipur.
Tim Neeble
Wednesday 23rd of September 2020
Great guide! So informative, as always. Anyway, Jaipur is high on my list of places to visit in India, along with Mumbai. I love the fact that the city is pink, and the whole Rajasthan and Mumbai is the first thing I think of when India comes to my mind.