Jaipur

Eco-friendly travel guide to Jaipur advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to explore the attractions in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Jaipur, India.

City View of Jaipur with Amer fort

Air quality: 2.0 / 5

Exploring by foot: 4.5 / 5

Exploring by bicycle: 3.0 / 5

Public transportation: 3.5 / 5

Parks: 3.5 / 5

Outdoor activities: 3.0 / 5

Locals' English level: 2.5 / 5

Safety: 3.5 / 5

Accommodation: US$20 - $200

Budget per day: US$30 - $70

Responsible Travel

Being a citizen of a global community is a gift in itself. For this reason, you must be responsible and take responsibilities that will help you make a city better. Many people do not understand the impact tourism can have on the environment. However, if you visit Jaipur, you must take some steps to give back to this beautiful City. This is where the concept of responsible travel comes into place, and every tourist must strictly adhere to it. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, which is one of the most colorful states in India. It is filled with so many things to enjoy, but you must do so responsibly.

Here are some of the steps you can take to become responsible when traveling:

You must do your research about the place you are visiting. By doing so, you will minimize waste and maximize your fun time in the city you are visiting.

*No matter where you go, it is essential for you to respect their environment. Just as you would not litter your streets, you must take accountability and keep the City that you visit clean. Do not pick souvenirs from archaeological sites and National parks, and do not bear stereotypes in mind when visiting a new place.

You must make efforts to protect fauna. The best way to do so is not to buy items manufactured with furs, leathers, and other animal by-products. The manufacture of these products is left to depleting several animals due to illegal poaching endangering various species.

Water is a precious resource around the world, and you must not waste it.

You must respect the culture of the place you are visiting and not spew profanities. For example, when visiting a temple in Jaipur, it is best to wear covered clothing.

When buying gifts for your friends, try to shop from local artisans and craftsmen that you will be able to find all over Jaipur.

Instead of hiring cars for other private modes of transport, you must always use public transport to lead to less pollution and help you emerge in the culture and essence of the country you are visiting.

Air Quality and Pollution

The air quality index of Jaipur indicates moderate levels of air pollution. For those living for a long while in Jaipur, health may be compromised. It is crucial for those belonging to the sensitive group to keep outdoor activities to a minimum as the air pollution is quite pervasive and may harm you. Jaipur is a rather polluted city, and one of the biggest reasons for this is the number of tourists visiting this city every year.

Jaipur is, in fact, the most polluted city in Rajasthan, and the quality of life also suffers for this reason. Tourists must take precautions, and those who are hyper allergenic must always carry proper gear to keep safe. Sand and desert dirt and dust also contribute to the pollution in this area. While Rajasthan is a desert state, Jaipur also severely lacks water and other resources that must be borne in mind at all times.

Respect the Culture

Jaipur is one of the most majestic cities located in India. It is known as the pink city as the buildings are made with pink sandstone, which brings a different charm to this City. It was the first plant city in India and an architectural wonder all over. It is known for having a rich cultural heritage reflected in customs, traditions, lifestyle and art,. The various forts belonging to the Rajput and Mughal Era bring out the rich cultural heritage of Jaipur.

The people of Jaipur are considered warm and cooperative. You might find them in colorful outfits, adorning beautiful ethnic jewelry. While the primary language prevalent in Jaipur is Rajasthani, you will find people speaking Marwadi, English, and Hindi.

While the City of Jaipur is wrapped in India's historical culture, there is a wave of modernization that has been brought forth by the host of tourists who visit this city every year. You will be able to find people speaking in English in all parts of the City and even find delicate and continental cuisine in local shacks. Simultaneously, there is much to enjoy food-wise, keeping in mind the delicious dishes available like Moong Thal, Missi roti, dal bati churma, gajak, etc.

The number of artists in this region is overwhelming. If you appreciate art, this is the place for you. From bandhani to blue pottery, there is much to appreciate. You can always respect the local artisans and buy from them.

Be respectful of the culture of Jaipur. Do not give in to the stereotype and keep an open mind when visiting this City. You need to immerse yourself in the culture. Ensure you do not perform cultural appreciation and express gratitude towards those who make the City unique and interesting.

Top 10 Places to Visit

There is simply no doubt that Jaipur is one of the most beautiful cities all around the world. While many cities in India display their unique characteristics when it comes to diversity and grandeur, there is something about Jaipur that sets it apart. This royal city has been a part of the fabric of all time and has much to offer. For those who have specific interests and history and sociology, the beautiful palaces and forts all around the City will genuinely stir you.

Here are some of the places in Jaipur that you must visit:

Amber Fort: Amber Fort or Amer Fort is located 11 kilometers away from Jaipur and is one of the most architecturally profound structures in Jaipur. It was constructed in the year 1592 by Raja Mansingh and was later expanded by Raja Jai Singh. It reflects a blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture with Sam stone and marble stone construction. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m, and the cost of entry is quite nominal. You can go elephant riding gear and even enjoy a light and sound show that takes place in the evening.
City Palace: When it comes to the city palace, you can visit the palace and the museum attached to it. This palace is open for the day and night viewing, making it easy to fit in a schedule. This is one of Jaipur's most important monuments, constructed by Sawai Jai Singh II between 1729 and 1732 AD. It comprises several structures, and you'll also be able to find handcrafted items here. While the palace in itself is beautiful, you'll also be able to find an inspiring view of the Pink City from the roofs.
Jaigarh Fort: This is another marvelous location in Jaipur, also known as the Fort of victory. It is home to the world's largest Cannon, known as Jaivana, making it extremely popular. This product is extremely special as it was a defensive what that used to be the house of weapons and artillery. Such weapons are now found in the artillery museum, and you'll also be able to find a beautiful view of the Lake palace from here.
Nahargarh Fort: This defensive fort is located in the Aravalli ranges. It directly overlooks a maid in Jaipur, which provides a beautiful viewpoint of the City. While it is a popular place to visit for tourists, it is also a favorite hangout spot for localities. You'll also enjoy the wax museum here and watch the beautiful night view of the City from the restaurant here.
Jal Mahal: Not only is Lal Mahal famous for is beautiful view but also for bird sightings. It is located in the middle of the Mansagar Lake, which makes it breathtakingly beautiful. Not only effect and architectural marble but also a beautifully decorated hallway that you will enjoy with your friends and family. You will be able to find birds like the blue-tailed bee-eater, grey heron, and many more.
Hawa Mahal: Among the various architectural lights that are present in Jaipur, this is one that you do not want to miss out on. This beautiful fort was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh Hindi 1799. It has since been known as Hawa Mahal or the wind's palace as it has 953 Windows providing ventilation all around. The pink City Bazaar near this location is also something you do not want to miss out on.
Jantar Mantar Observatory: This is one of Jaipur's more intriguing aspects as it is a structure that is known for astronomy and architecture. It is not like other observatory and has been known as one of the biggest observatories is all around the world. It was built during the time of Maharaja Jai Singh II and is home to the biggest sundial in the world. The raja was an avid fan of astronomy, astrology, and philosophy, leading to this construction. You can observe constellations in order here and spend a thrilling time with your family.
Albert Hall Museum: This is one of the biggest examples of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. It was built in the year 1887, and this is one of the oldest centers of culture and arts. The museum has various artifacts and paintings to India and various parts of the world, including an Egyptian mummy. This place has also become culturally relevant, hosting various activities like rallies, festivals, and concerts that you can enjoy here.
Pink City Bazaar: This is one of Jaipur's most exciting places that is the herb of shopping in pink City. There are a number of bazaars in the city Bazaar itself, including Bapu bazaar, Johari bazaar, Kishan pole Bazar, Nehru bazaar, and tripolia bazaar. These bazaars are famous for a particular thing making it an extremely famous attraction in all of Jaipur. You'll also be able to enjoy mouth-watering food here. *Galtaji: This is located along with the Aravali ranges and is an important Hindu pilgrimage place. This is a beautiful temple that will help you find peace and joy dedicated to Lord Hanuman. There are also shrines that are dedicated to Lord Brahma, Rama, Vishnu, and Surya here. Even if you are not particularly religious, the unique architecture and the surrounding vegetation leave something to marvel.

Amber Fort seen from the bank of Maotha Lake, Jaigarh Fort on the hills in the background

Explore

Jaipur is one of the most exciting places all around the globe, which makes it so popular amongst avid tourists. Not only are there various museums and forts that are absolutely beautiful and majestic, but also be able to find mouth-watering food not only in big restaurants but also with local vendors. There are also other places to visit, like parks and museums, along with a number of activities that you can do at night.

City Parks

Jaipur has a huge plethora of Parks where you will be able to enjoy the greenery and spend time with your family. Here are some of the city parks that you can find in Jaipur:

Hanuman Vatika Public Park: This is a beautiful park with lots of greenery and natural vegetation. It is the perfect spot for a spontaneous picnic that you will be able to enjoy. If you have a young one in the family, they can have a lot of fun and space to enjoy.
Central Park: This is the largest park in Jaipur with a lush green space and is filled with places to exercise. You will also find a Jogging track here as well as dedicated areas for exercising and yoga. There are also stone statues here, adding to the beauty.
Surya City Children Park: This is the perfect place to bring your child as not only will they be able to enjoy but also find space to run around.

Along with this, there are other City parks all around Jaipur, including Nehru Bal Udyan, Hassanpura Public Park, Rajiv Gandhi Public Park, and more.

National Parks

Not many people are aware of Jaipur's other aspect far from the pinkness and the forts and museums. One of the most exciting facts about Jaipur is actually the various National parks in Jaipur that boast of flora and fauna found in this area. If you have a wide interest in such things, here is a list of the National park that you must visit here:

Ranthambore National Park: This is one of the biggest and most visited tiger reserves in the country. It is spread across 1300 square kilometers and is divided into 6 zones. Why tigers are the main attraction here, there are also other reptiles and wild animals you will be able to locate. Apart from this, there is also an eleventh century for the hilltop that will excite any historian.
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary: While this sanctuary lies a little far from Jaipur, it is extremely exciting as it has its ecosystem, lying in a flat saline depression. This place is known for the various antelope and the scattered desert trees that make it even more interesting.
Sariska National Park: Sariska is one of those conservations that has lost the majority of its population due to poaching. This gigantic National Park has been divided into three zones and is spread across 800 square kilometers. Apart from tigers that are also other animals that are located here.
Jhalana Park: This Park was previously noted as hunting grounds for various royal families and has become extremely popular because of leopard sightings. Although this part is smaller in size, you will be able to find various nature birds and owls here.

Ranthambore National Park

Beaches

Since Jaipur experiences a desert climate, there are no beaches in the City.

Landmarks

Like every City around the world, there are some places in Jaipur that serve as the landmark and cannot be avoided at any cost. Some of these have already been discussed in the previous sections. Some of the others are as follows:

Sheesh Mahal: Sheesh Mahal translates to a hall of mirrors and is one of the most beautiful locations in all of Jaipur. The architecture of this place belongs to the Mughal Era, making it breathtakingly beautiful. It is truly something that you have never seen before, making it one of Jaipur's most important landmarks.
Birla Temple: While this is not a historical monument, it is definitely one that has made Jaipur famous. While there are many such temples all over India, this is something that you cannot miss out on.
Royal Gaitor Cenotaphs: This is a spectacular palace that you will find on the outskirts of Jaipur. It is the world of white marble in itself and is one of the main landmarks in the City of Jaipur. There are various other stone pillars with beautiful carving that you will be able to see here as well.

The glorious Sheesh Mahal

Museums

The various important museums in Jaipur that make this place extremely important and historically relevant have already been discussed. Some of the other museums are the following:

Doll Museum: The doll Museum has a brilliant plethora of dolls in a variety of colours, shapes, clothing, and more. It is an interesting Museum not only for kids but also for adults.
Jawahar Kala Kendra: This is one of the most important museums in all of Jaipur as the main goal of this Museum is to preserve the cultural inheritance of Rajasthan. Thank you will be able to see a plethora of collectibles from all over Rajasthan here.
Jaipur Wax Museum: This Wax Museum is extremely exciting as it houses interesting wax figures of very famous personalities such a Sachin Tendulkar, Jackie Chan, Albert Einstein, MS Dhoni, Dalai Lama, Mahatma Gandhi, Deepika Padukone, and many more. Apart from celebrities, that also waxes figures of Rajasthani kings, warriors, and Queens from the past.

Jawahar Kala Kendra

Eat

While Jaipur is one of Rajasthan's most colourful cities, it is also known for its delicious cuisine. While there are various restaurants that boast traditional items aasaan but, you'll also be able to find restaurants providing continental dishes. Another amazing aspect of food in Jaipur is the street foods that are scrumptious.

Traditional Local Restaurants

If you want to enjoy some traditional Rajasthani dishes, here are some of the restaurants that you must visit:

1135AD: This is an award-winning restaurant with some of the best royal chefs. You will be able to enjoy some of the most classic Rajasthani dishes purchase ajwain Mahi kabab, Laal Maas, and more. If you want to taste all the delicious food at once, you must try the thali.

Chokhi Dhani: This is a village-style restaurant that displays the cultural variety of Jaipur. You must enjoy the thali here to help you get the essence of Rajasthani dishes all at once.

Suvarna Mahal: When you want to dine like the Mughals, this is where you must dine. It is a flesh restaurant with rich tips tree and middle work as well as mouth-watering delicacies such as murgh Gulab chap, chap ke Sule and more.

Vegetarian and Vegan

While there are a number of vegetarian restaurants in Jaipur, it will be a little difficult to find vegan restaurants; however, there are many. Some of this restaurant service follows:

RJ14: This is a casual dining restaurant with excellent vegetarian options that you will be able to explore in Jaipur.
Govindam Retreat: This is a rather affordable restaurant in Jaipur with various vegan options.

Street Food

When it comes to India, street food has a different story to tell altogether. If you are a lover of food, then you must take it to the streets. Wild restaurant cancer views fancy dining experience that is something about Street foods in Jaipur that will truly make your heart warm.

Rawat Mishthan Bhandar: Here, you must try the spicy snacks like Mirchi vada, samosa, dal kachori, and the variety of sweets available here.
Masala Chowk: This is a one-stop destination for your entire street food craving. You will be able to find all kinds of street foods here from different states.

There are various other street food locations in Jaipur.

Samosas and pakoras in Jaipur. Samosas are the triangular folded and sealed dough crepe-like food with stuffing inside. Once stuffed and sealed, they are fried to a golden brown crust. Pakoras are batter mixed with veggie, then fried. The stuffing can be anything - veggie mix, cooked meat, cooked fish, left overs, mash or pastes, sweets, etc.

Drink

Jaipur is not a dry city, and you will be able to find bars and pubs where you can enjoy a number of drinks. There are various other beverages and fruit juice stalls located all over Jaipur that you can also enjoy. You must definitely try the masala chai available here.

Tap-water

It is not advisable for you not to drink tap water in Jaipur. Use water filters or mineral water bottles in this regard.

Organic Cafés

While the concept of the organic cafe is quite premature or in Jaipur, there are few that you will be able to find here as well:

Jaipur Organic Foods
Ahimsagram
Anokhi Cafe
Poppin Organic Cafe
Ayurveda Health Hotel
O2- The Plant Cafe

Breweries

When it comes to breweries, there are not many available in Jaipur. Some of the ones that are available here are as follows:

John Distilleries Limited
Captain Breweries

Activities

Jaipur is an exciting place for visitors, and it allows scope for various activities apart from sightseeing. You will be able to enjoy camel and elephant rides here. Apart from that, a jungle safari is also an option. It also has hot air balloon rides as well as an enjoyable nightlife.

Yoga and Retreats

Among the various yoga retreats that are present in Jaipur, the following are the most famous ones:

Shivoham Yoga Retreat
Yoga Peace
Art of Living Yoga and Meditation Centre

Accommodation

Being the capital city of the state of Rajasthan, there is much accommodation in Jaipur. You will be able to select some of the best five-star hotels here. On the other hand, there are also budget hotels and restaurants that are affordable yet decent. Hostels and guest houses are also provided here.

Green Hotels

The concept of green hotels is yet sprouting in Jaipur. Hence, there are not many of this kind.

Hostels and Guest Houses

There is a long list of hostels and guest houses available in Jaipur as it is a reasonably common accommodation in India. Some of these are as follows:

Jaipur Jantar Hostel
Nanus Hostel
Free Birds
Doongri Haveli
Boby Home Stay

Apartments

If you plan to live here for a reasonably long time in Jaipur, it is better for you to rent a private apartment. Although there are some apartments available here, localities do not feel comfortable renting them to foreigners. However, you will still be able to find some flats her.

Couchsurfing

You can find couch surfing options in Jaipur at couchsurfing.com.

Camping

Some of the most exciting camping experiences in Jaipur are as follows:

Jaipur desert camp
Pushkar Karni camp
Dynasty desert camp
Nature trails camp

How to Get There

As it is a capital city, public transport and connectivity are quite reliable here.

Air

Jaipur international airport is the primary airport in Jaipur.

Jaipur International Airport

Bus

There is a right amount of intercity as well as interest city bus services available all over Jaipur.

Bus Jaipur

Train

The train options available in Jaipur are quite reliable, making it great for tourists.

Train, Jaipur

Hitchhiking

This is not a great option in Jaipur, especially for a foreigner.

Others

Other modes of transport in Jaipur include private cars and rickshaws.

Moving Around

Moving around in the City of Jaipur is not a problem as it is well connected with the help of public buses, rickshaw, and more.

Walk

As the temperature during the day is relatively high, it might be a little challenging to walk around the City of Jaipur during the day. The temperature drops significantly at night, and walking may be considered as a good option at this point.

Bicycle

You will be able to find bicycle renting places in Jaipur at a fair price.

Electronic Vehicles

There is not much electronic vehicle available in Jaipur.

Public Bus

The public bus service and Jaipur are quite reliable and frequent. Although it may seem cumbersome at first, it becomes easy once you get the hang of it.

Tram, Train and Subway

The City of Jaipur is well connected with the help of a great railway system.

Sustainable Shopping

While this concept is not propagated in Jaipur, you can always perform sustainable shopping no matter where you are.

Food Markets

You will be able to find farmers market with fresh or imported fruits and vegetables in various places in Jaipur.

Flea Markets

Flea Market options are somewhat limited in Jaipur.

Second Hand Stores

You will be able to find some second-hand stores in Jaipur also it is not very popular.

Eco-Fashion

You will be able to find individual eco fashion options in Jaipur; however, the number is quite limited.

Recycling

Recycling purposes are less infrequent in Jaipur. However, you can always incorporate these practices when traveling.

Waste

Jaipur has incorporated various waste management strategies in order to make it more sustainable.

Work and Study Abroad

Kota, which is close to Jaipur, attracts some students every year. Hence, the influx of students also increases in Jaipur. There are several people who migrate into the capital city from the outskirts in hopes of a job.

Exchange Student

There is not much opportunity to exchange Student programs in Jaipur.

Au Pair

There are some au pair services available in Jaipur. You will have to look around a bit before finding one.

Volunteering

The number of volunteering programs in Jaipur which include:

Animal rescue centre
Elephant conservation
Teaching volunteer project India
Orphanage volunteer work