The 21 best attractions in Jaipur

The ancient pink city, that is how it is known to many of the tourists. The main feature is that most of the buildings are painted in terracotta. The city is part of the Indian Golden Triangle, considered one of the most famous places to visit in the world. You can find a huge number of attractions in Jaipur, so our experts have ranked the best of them. We based our selection on tourist reviews.

Jaipur’s best attractions ranking

The best architectural landmarks of Jaipur

Jantar Mantar Observatory

Rating: 5.0

One of the largest ancient observatories in the world and the largest of the 5 built in India is on the top of the list. It is perfectly preserved, making it an extremely important heritage site. It includes 14 huge structures. They were used to determine the time, the distance to an object in the sky, and to conduct meteorological investigations.

The area has the largest sundial in the world, the gnomon, which has a diameter of 27 meters. They still show the time very precisely. The whole building is made in the style traditional for ancient India, with a huge number of arches and columns. In fact, it can be compared to the Greek polis, but it is much better preserved. This is one of the region’s oldest landmarks.

Jal Mahal

Rating: 4.9

Very close to the leader of the ranking is a luxurious castle, located next to the Amber Fort. The translation from Hindu sounds like a palace on water, which is not surprising at all. However, you can admire the majestic castle only from the shore; no one is allowed inside except for a few servants and divers.

The main purpose of erecting the Jal Mahal in Jaipur was to create a summer residence for the Padishahs in the 18th century. However, later on a dam was built downstream which left the magnificent castle under water. At the moment the building is almost completely flooded and there is no way to get inside. But the structure is a sight to behold for any tourist wishing to observe the architectural monuments of New Age India.

The Old City of Jaipur

Rating: 4.8

The old part of the city, or pink district, is a historical region located almost in the center of Jaipur. This is an important cultural attraction that is a must visit if you find yourself in Jaipur. Earlier the craftsmen of the Maharaja’s city lived here, and it was the place where almost all activity took place.

At the moment there is a huge number of ancient temples and other structures of cultural and crafts purpose. Most of them are made of pink sandstone, which is where the name of the area comes from. The same material was used in other cities, including Agra and Delhi, which makes the area even more valuable aesthetically. It looks especially beautiful in the evenings, when the setting sun lights up the walls and houses.

Alsisar Have Hotel building

Rating: 4.7

One of the largest and most interesting places in the city is the capital’s palace. This is the most picturesque structure in all of Jaipur, which deservedly crowns the rating of the best residences. It is surrounded by a huge wall of pink sandstone. It will surprise every tourist with its grandeur and elegance. Dates back to 1727 when one of the most famous Maharajas settled in it.

At the moment the palace is divided into 2 parts, one of them houses the family of rulers. If the Maharaja is in the palace grounds, there will be a characteristic raised flag. The second section is a museum with many exhibits. Therefore, the area is worth a visit for every tourist who comes to India on vacation to enjoy the view of huge and luxurious palaces.

Palace of Winds

Rating: 4.9

The Palace of the Winds is one of the most interesting sights of Jaipur. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Singh in 1799 as a place to house his own harem. Its main feature can be described as its elaborate architecture, the palace was planned for each wife so that they would not feel uncomfortable while still being able to watch the many processions and parades.

The palace of the winds is one of the main symbols not only of Jaipur but also of the whole of India. An architectural and cultural landmark, it is an important site that is regularly restored to preserve its original appearance. So our experts say this place is a must-see when visiting India.

The City Palace complex in Jaipur

Rating: 4.8

The palace complex of City Palace, ranked third in this section of the Jaipur sightseeing list, is an 18th century structure. It combines several styles, Mughal and Rajasthani. After the palace was built, it was reconstructed more than once, which resulted in new wings articulated by corridors and courtyards.

The complex is currently home to several museums, the most interesting of which is the Armory. The collection contains over 2,000 pieces, the oldest being a specimen from 1580. There are also several institutions dedicated to clothing and textiles. Therefore the complex is desirable to visit all tourists interested in the culture of India in its great diversity.

Samode Palace

Rating: 4.7

Samodh is now the property of one of India’s richest and best known dynasties. The tourist complex is considered a unique landmark of the architectural plan, which despite many additions, has remained a traditional structure. It was built around the 17th century by the Rawal family. Even though the family is not of royal lineage, they are one of the wealthiest in the entire country.

Later on this family became much better known and richer and even got the title Maha, which translates to great. The palace itself is a shining example of the Rajput style with extremely refined decoration and on the first floor is the Sultan Hall, made entirely of the most precious marble. Plus, there are a number of mirrored rooms.

The Best Forts in Jaipur

Amber Fort

Rating: 5.0

Amber Fort is one of the most important historical landmarks of Jaipur, which is part of the golden triangle. The fort is located near the capital, making it a great place to visit. Fort Amber is a striking example of a protected palace in the highlands above the valley of Jaipur. Besides, there is another fortification nearby that protects the region from invasion.

The total length of the walls of the fortress exceeds 20 km, and the locals often call it great. The fort was established in this region even before Jaipur was founded and was formerly the capital of the region. Only local materials were used for its construction and it was carefully camouflaged to resemble nature’s creation. As a result, the sandstone takes on a distinctly pink color at sunset time.

Jaigarh Fort

Rating: 4.9

It is one of the best preserved forts in the state of Rajasthan, which used to protect the capital from invading enemies. It was built in 1726., To complete the defenses of Amber Fort. In fact, the two forts are a local defensive and architectural ensemble that forms a single landmark.

If Amber was the residence and protection of the Rajas, Jaigarh was an emergency measure used to keep the ruler alive. The forts are connected to each other by a complex system of underground passageways, which can be penetrated even today. There is a large observation deck on top of the main tower, offering a complete panoramic view of Jaipur. In addition, the largest cannon in the world is also located here, it will be described below.

Nahargarh Fort

Rating: 4.8

The third position in the ranking of the fortifications of Jaipur is one of the largest forts, which is located on the hill above the city. This is a great vantage point, from its top you can see all the sights. It was built during the reign of Sawai Singh, the founder of Jaipur. In 1734 it was decided to fortify the new city.

Several forts resulted in an impregnable fort that protected the new capital of Rajasthan. The fort has been restored many times in the future to provide normal comfort to the owners. At the moment, the landmark is a memorable place for tourists, as the huge structure with strong defenses is combined with a flamboyant interior, worthy even of a monarch.

Jaiwana cannon

Rating: 4.7

One of the main attractions of Jaigar Fort is a huge cannon bearing the name Jaivana. It can be safely called the analogue of the Tsar Cannon, exhibited in Moscow. The cannon mounted in India weighs over 50 tonnes and was cast in 1726 on the orders of the not once mentioned Sawai Jai Singh II. This is where the name of the cannon “Jaya cannon” comes from.

It was installed in the walls of the fort and was supposed to be used as defensive artillery. At the time it was thought to be the largest in the whole world. It is not known if it was used for its intended purpose, but the Jaivan cannon is still a local landmark.

Bhangarh Fort

Rating: 4.6

The last position in the ranking of Jaipur’s defensive sights is occupied by a huge fort near the city. For tourists it can be extremely interesting that this place has a bad reputation created by many tragedies. Residents have even erected a plaque warning of the curse placed on the fort.

Legend has it that one of the local ruler’s sorcerers fell in love with a princess who didn’t reciprocate. The fort was later carved out to the last man. But this does not change the fact that Bhangarh Fort is one of the most interesting sights in India architecturally and historically. Plus, the place is surrounded by many legends, including the origins and the Rajas.

Jaipur’s best cultural attractions

Albert Hall Museum

Rating: 5.0

The first position of cultural attractions of the region is occupied by the museum, located in one of the most interesting gardens, Ram Niwas. It is the oldest such establishment in Rajasthan and was begun in 1876 when Albert, the Prince of Wales, came to India on a visit. Inside contains a huge collection of various valuables, including unique paintings and more.

For all tourists here will be extremely interesting to explore the galleries of music and dance, as well as places dedicated to mural. In addition, the museum structure itself is an architectural landmark with a combination of local and Saracen styles. In fact, it is one of the most beautiful buildings in the state, different from the traditional trends presented by other members of Jaipur’s top attractions.

Bird sanctuary in Bharatpur

Rating: 4.9

India is famous not only for its traditions and caste system, but also for the huge number of exotic animals. Among them are the birds, which are especially valued here. The total area of the reserve is more than 40 square kilometers. And it is located on large wetlands that were formerly used for hunting by the rulers of Rajasthan.

Currently, a huge number of exotic birds nest here, including the gray crane, flamingo, ibis, pelican, and many others. During the winter season, the number of species increases. For example, Siberian Cranes can be singled out. Travel through the reserve by car or rented bicycle. Some guides offer boat rides.

Keoladeo National Ornithological Park

Rating: 4.8

One of the best parks in the world, Keoladeo, occupies the third position in the rating of cultural attractions. This is a national conservation area located away from Jaipur, in the east of the state of Rajasthan. Its total area is almost 30 kilometers. Known primarily as a habitat for numerous Red List birds, the park was founded in 1955 and is now one of the world’s oldest bird sanctuaries.

So it is an interesting place for scientists, tourists and residents. Founded in 1982, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List three years later. A huge number of wetlands and grassy areas can be found in the area. However, it is quite far from Jaipur and it takes a long time to get here.

Ranthambore National Park

Rating: 4.7

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The fourth position in the ranking was taken by the most famous and one of the largest parks in the northern part of India. Its total area exceeds 390 kilometers square. It is a certain distance from Jaipur, you have to drive about 3 hours. The park was formed in 1955 and later became one of the largest nature reserves in India.

Ranthambhore National Park received the status in 1980. Most of the area is a mountain plateau, often found in this region. Its boundaries are delineated by two rivers that form lakes. The main feature of this park can be described as the presence of a large number of tigers living in the central. People come here on safari, but it is worth noting the high danger of the trip, which for some can only be a plus. However, guides during walks are usually armed with.

The best religious landmarks of Jaipur

Govinda Dev Ji Temple

Rating: 5.0

The main religious attraction, according to our experts, was the temple of Govindaji, or Vrindavan, located in the central part of the park of the palace complex. In the traditional sense of the European, it will not even be a religious site, but a small marble canopy. But Hindus consider this place one of the main temples of the city and Govinda an important god.

It is considered one of the personifications of Krishna, the supreme deva of Hinduism. That’s why millions of pilgrims come here every year. In the evenings there are many services that turn into solemn processions. Therefore, the Govinda Dev Ji temple is one of the major attractions in India, because of the presence of a huge number of followers of Hinduism. It is a great chance for tourists to get in touch with traditional Indian values.

Temple of the Goddess of Plenty

Rating: 4.9

The openwork temple, dedicated to the goddess of abundance, is one of the most important structures in the city. Completely built of white marble, the landmark was erected in the 20th century, so it has little historical value. Its main feature can be called the fact that it is dedicated to several religions at once: Islam, Hinduism and Christianity.

The three main domes are in different styles to show that these faiths are united within India. Inside, however, there are altars to the Hindu gods only. In addition, next to the temple you can find sculptures of other famous religious figures, including Confucius, Socrates and Jesus. It is both an architectural and cultural attraction, important to everyone in India.

Monkey Temple

Rating: 4.8

The northern outskirts of Jaipur is home to the third guest of our ranking of religious attractions. This temple is dedicated to monkeys, and getting to it will be quite difficult even for adults and strong people. You will have to overcome huge drops in altitude to reach the landmark. However, every tourist who has passed this way will be rewarded with a spectacle of unparalleled beauty.

The small openwork temple, made in the traditional combination of colors for the area: gold and pink, fascinates every visitor. Various sources indicate that the area is home to a huge number of monkeys, as many as 5,000. The main thing is not to make them angry, as it is their land. Inside you can find a huge pool that cleanses from sins.

Moti Dungri Temple

Rating: 4.7

The last position in the ranking of religious attractions in Jaipur is one of the largest temples in India, dedicated to the wisdom god Ganesha. It is located on a large hill and is surrounded by the castle of the same name, which is completely closed to the public. On the walls of this landmark you can find many inscriptions in different languages.

In addition, like the temple dedicated to the goddess of plenty, you can find several important memorabilia inside. Chief among them is a large statue of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god who is considered one of the supreme ones in Hinduism. Every Wednesday there are fairs in honor of this almighty, where you can buy interesting souvenirs. This place is worth visiting if you are curious about the cultural features.

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