Jaipur Heritage Travel Guide: Forts, Palaces and Where to Stay in the Pink City

When to go

October to March brings pleasant days and cool evenings, perfect for exploring forts on foot. Summer is intensely hot, while the monsoon months are quieter and greener with lower hotel prices.

Must-see sights

Plan your mornings around the big forts and your evenings around the old city.

• Amber Fort — arrive at opening time to beat the heat and the crowds.
• City Palace and Jantar Mantar — royal residence and a UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory, side by side.
• Hawa Mahal — best photographed from the cafés opposite in the morning light.
• Nahargarh Fort — the classic spot for a sunset over the city.
• Johari and Bapu Bazaars — gemstones, block-printed textiles and mojari shoes.

A simple 3-day plan

Day one: Amber Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund stepwell and Jal Mahal. Day two: City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal and the bazaars. Day three: a cooking class or block-printing workshop, followed by sunset at Nahargarh.

Staying in a heritage property

Jaipur is one of the best places in India to stay in a converted haveli or palace. Expect courtyards, frescoed rooms and rooftop dining. Check reviews for room size and noise — older buildings vary — and confirm whether the property is inside the walled city or in a quieter neighbourhood.