Curator’s statement
Jaipur is one of those rare places that feels larger than life but still deeply personal. We explored the palaces, forts, and bazaars as a family with Mahesh ji, Rajasthan’s official guide for visiting dignitaries. He opened doors that most travelers never see. We walked through hidden tunnels in Amber Fort and stood in quiet courtyards of City Palace that felt untouched by time. The city gave us royal grandeur, simple food stalls, and warm people. It is a place I will always recommend to clients who want India at its most magical.
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Jaipur, the Pink City, swept us into a whirlwind of color, history, and discovery. We started mornings with the glow of Hawa Mahal, wandered the courtyards of Amber Fort, and watched light dance across the mirrors in Sheesh Mahal. Our guide, Mahesh ji, opened doors to experiences most visitors never see, including a hidden tunnel at Amber Fort and private fresco-filled rooms in City Palace that revealed the city’s royal past.
A royal welcome into Jaipur.
The City Palace, timeless against the Jaipur sky.
We based ourselves at the InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road, which gave us a comfortable retreat after long days in the city, with festive décor and warm service that made it feel like a home away from home. Beyond the landmarks, Jaipur came alive in its crafts and culture as we tried block printing by hand, fed cows in Kanwar Nagar, and watched artisans paint intricate miniatures.
Festive welcome at our Jaipur stay.
From block to print in minutes.
Morning rituals of the Pink City.
Food was another highlight of the trip. Mahesh introduced us to a trusted vendor so we could safely enjoy cone snacks from the street. He also took us to Govindam Restaurant, run by his friend, where we tried dal bati churma, the must-try dish of Rajasthan: rich, rustic, and unforgettable. Another evening we visited Chokhi Dhani, the cultural village just outside Jaipur, where camel rides, folk performances, and a giant Rajasthani thali made the perfect way to wrap up our time in the city.
Rajasthani folk performers at Chokhi Dhani.
Must-try dal bati churma.
Jaipur rewards curiosity, and every corner has a story, ensuring every traveler comes home with their own version of the city.
Where history hides its stories.
Need to know
Top things to do
Amber Fort: Must-see for its ramparts, Sheesh Mahal, and the history that lives in its walls.
City Palace: Still home to Jaipur’s royal family, filled with art, courtyards, and living history.
Hawa Mahal: Iconic façade glowing in the morning light.
Jantar Mantar: Fascinating astronomical instruments that still work today.
Nahargarh Fort: The place for sunset views over the city.
Block printing workshop: Try your hand at one of Jaipur’s traditional crafts.
Chokhi Dhani: Folk performances, camel rides, and a feast that captures Rajasthani culture in one night
Restaurant recommendations
Govindam Restaurant: Mahesh’s recommendation for the must-try dal bati churma.
Chokhi Dhani: Rajasthani thali with entertainment.
LMB (Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar): Iconic sweets and snacks.
Bar Palladio: Italian-style bar in a heritage setting, popular with travelers.
Final thoughts
Jaipur is best explored with patience and curiosity. The city is vibrant but also busy, especially around Christmas when traffic can take more than an hour to move a single mile, so plan extra time between activities. Bargaining in the bazaars is part of the experience, and travelers should not be shy about negotiating prices. With a trusted guide like Mahesh ji, it is also possible to try local snacks safely, since he knows which vendors meet hygiene standards for foreigners. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring forts and palaces, and carrying small cash makes shopping and tipping easier.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Jaipur page.
Travel Advisor
Joyati Lockley
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