A Guide to Jaipur, India: Vibrant, Historic & Culturally Rich

Explore the Amer Fort (or Amber Fort): A short 11KM or a 30 minute drive outside of Jaipur, this UNESCO world heritage site is a magnificent fort is situated on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can take an elephant ride up to the fort or explore it on foot. The history can be traced as far back as 1592. The ancient architecture offers the perfect fusion of the finest Rajput and Mughal styles with serpentine staircase. While the fort has four levels and every nook and cranny is not to be missed. My favorite must see sights are Jaleb Chowk, Diwan - E - Aam, Suhag Mandir, and Jas Mandir. There's also a sound and light show that occurs each night and is not to be missed as it narrates the history of the fort through a colorful display of lights and sound.

The City Palace in Jaipur is a majestic complex of buildings, courtyards, and gardens that will transport you to a world of grandeur and luxury. As you enter through the grand gates, you'll be awestruck by the intricate design and vibrant colors of the palace's architecture. The palace museum, with its impressive collection of artifacts, will take you on a journey through the rich history and culture of Jaipur. The palace's beautiful courtyards and gardens, filled with fountains and exotic plants, will enchant you with their beauty and tranquility. As you stroll through the palace, you'll feel like royalty, surrounded by opulence and elegance at every turn.

Hawa Mahal: Iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of the Winds. The five-story structure, with its intricate latticework and honeycomb-shaped windows, looks like a dreamy, pink-hued castle straight out of a fairy tale. As you approach the palace, the cool breeze flowing through the windows will transport you to a bygone era, where royal women used to observe the hustle and bustle of the city from behind the veil of these intricately designed windows. The warm glow of the setting sun on the pink sandstone facade of the palace creates a magical ambiance, making you want to stay and soak in the beauty of this architectural marvel forever.

Shop at the local markets: Jaipur is known for its vibrant bazaars where you can shop for colorful textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, and spices. Some of the popular markets include Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and Nehru Bazaar.

Taste the local cuisine: Jaipur is known for its delicious food, including dal bati churma, kachori, and lassi. You can try these dishes at local restaurants or street food stalls for an authentic taste of Jaipur's cuisine.

The Verandah: Situated in the historic Rambagh Palace, soak in the royal treatment as you sit under the umbrellas and try classic Indian dishes. The restaurant's menu features a mix of Indian and continental cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the popular dishes include the chicken tikka masala, grilled fish, and lamb chops. The warm and attentive service, along with the stunning ambiance, makes dining at The Verandah an unforgettable experience. If you're looking for a fine dining experience in Jaipur, The Verandah is definitely worth a visit.

1135 AD: Located at Amer Fort, it has spectacular views and is one of my favorite spots to take friends as it transports you back to the time of the maharajas (Kings)—it’s also a great place to book private dinners. Serving authentic Rajasthani cuisine be sure to get the Rajasthani Thali.

Bar Palladio: Popular restaurant and bar located in Jaipur, known for its stunning decor and ambiance. Located in the Narain Niwas Palace Hotel, Bar Palladio, designed by Marie-Anne Oudejans infamous for its iconic blue decor. This place serves classic Italian cuisine. It's a great spot for a romantic evening or a night out with friends, and the impeccable service adds to the overall experience.