My On-the-Spot Pink City Adventure!
Let me take you back to one of the most spontaneous decisions I’ve ever made—booking a trip to Jaipur with absolutely zero planning. One minute I was scrolling through pictures of forts on Instagram, and the next thing I knew, I had a train ticket in hand and my backpack slung over my shoulder. Jaipur wasn’t just a city on my bucket list anymore—it became a 3-day whirlwind of royalty, food, history, and unforgettable energy!
Jaipur, also called the Pink City, is a vibrant mix of old-world charm and modern glam. The city is broadly divided into the Old City (where the pink walls and traditional markets are) and the New City, which is packed with trendy cafes, rooftop lounges, and some pretty cool clubs. From palaces that look like they’ve jumped straight out of fairy tales to local bazaars that make you want to shop till you drop, this city had me hooked.
Let me share my top 5 places to visit in Jaipur—ones that left me awestruck, amazed, and a little sunburned too (carry sunscreen, trust me!).
1. Amber Fort – Where I Felt Like Royalty
A Majestic Start to the Trip
My first stop had to be the iconic Amber Fort, located about 11 km from the city center. As I climbed up the hill and walked through the huge, decorated gates, I literally felt like I’d time-traveled into a royal drama.
What Makes It Special?
- Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) – Tiny mirrors everywhere, reflecting light and making the whole place glow!
- Elephant Rides (though I personally skipped this due to ethical concerns)
- Light & Sound Show at night – A magical experience if you stay till sunset
Pro Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, the fort is huge, and you’ll be walking a lot.
Nearby Foodie Spot
I grabbed a late lunch at 1135 AD, a fine-dining restaurant inside the fort. A bit pricey but the royal thali was worth every rupee!
2. Hawa Mahal – Wind in My Hair, History in My Soul
The Face of Jaipur
You can’t come to Jaipur and not click a picture in front of the Hawa Mahal. I reached here early morning to avoid the crowd, and it was breathtaking. The intricate honeycomb windows, the breeze flowing through them, and the pastel pink façade made me fall in love with the city all over again.
What to Do Here?
- Climb up to the top for a great view of the bustling bazaars below
- Learn about how royal women once watched street processions from behind those latticed windows
- Shop nearby at Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar
Must-Try Snack Nearby
Do not miss the pyaaz kachori and lassi at LMB (Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar)—a legendary spot just a short walk away.
3. Nahargarh Fort – Sunset and Stories
My Favorite Spot in Jaipur
This was hands down the most romantic and peaceful part of my trip. Perched on the Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort gives you a panoramic view of the entire Pink City.
Why Go?
- The sunsets here are out of this world
- The Madhavendra Palace inside the fort is hauntingly beautiful
- Perfect for photography and some quiet reflection
My Secret Tip
There’s a quirky little restaurant here called Padao Restaurant. It’s outdoors, breezy, and the views? Mind-blowing.
4. City Palace – A Living Slice of Royalty
Right in the Heart of Jaipur
The City Palace feels less like a museum and more like you’ve been invited to a royal residence—which you technically have! Some parts of the palace are still used by the royal family of Jaipur.
Highlights
- Chandra Mahal – Stunning artwork and preserved artifacts
- Peacock Gate – Instagrammers, this one’s for you
- Museum and Courtyards – Super informative and easy to explore
Ticket Tip
There are different types of entry tickets. Go for the one that includes the Royal Grandeur Tour—you won’t regret it.
5. Patrika Gate – The Most Colorful Spot in Town
A Visual Delight
This place wasn’t even on my original list, but I’m so glad a local recommended it to me. Located near Jawahar Circle, Patrika Gate is probably the most Instagrammable place I visited. The detailed artwork, the explosion of colors—it’s like walking through a rainbow.
What I Loved
- Each pillar represents a part of Rajasthan’s culture
- It’s open 24/7 and totally free
- Perfect for an early morning or sunset visit
Chill Nearby
Grab a coffee at Curious Life Coffee Roasters (New City) if you’re into specialty brews.
Nightlife, Clubs & More
Okay, let’s talk fun. After soaking in all that history, I needed to let my hair down. Here are a few spots I checked out:
- Blackout Club – Great rooftop views and music
- Club Naila – Trendy crowd and poolside vibes
- Bar Palladio – Italian menu + stunning blue interiors
Final Thoughts – My Jaipur Cheat Sheet
By the end of this spontaneous trip, Jaipur had stolen a piece of my heart. If you’re planning to go (or even if you aren’t—just book that ticket already), here are some quick tips:
Do’s
- Start your day early to avoid the heat and crowds
- Try local food—especially the thalis, ghewar, and Rajasthani curries
- Bargain at local markets—it’s expected and fun
Don’ts
- Don’t rely only on autos—use Uber or Ola for better rates
- Don’t wear heels to forts—flat shoes or sneakers are your best friends
- Don’t skip the lesser-known places like Patrika Gate or local rooftop cafes
Ready to Pack Your Bags?
I went in without a plan and came back with memories I’ll treasure forever. That’s the magic of Jaipur—it surprises you, inspires you, and leaves you wanting more. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves vibrant cities, Jaipur has a piece of magic for everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Add these places to your list and let the Pink City charm work its magic on you—just like it did on me.