We started the first day in Jaipur with the classic pyaaz kachori and lassi for breakfast at the very famous ‘Rawat's restaurant.’
Followed by breakfast we decided on covering the most iconic ‘pink city’ area.
What could be a better way to start your trip with the royal heritage and architecture of the city?
We covered Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace, Albert hall museum and the Patrika gate on the first day.
1. Hawa mahal. Hawa Mahal, also known as the ‘palace of winds,’ is the landmark monument of Jaipur. The entire pink city, along with the Hawa mahal is painted in pale pink color. Hawa Mahal was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 to enable the royal women to watch the processions and events that were carried on in the city. This came into existence to comply with the ‘pardah’ system which would be a cultural norm back then.
Timings: 9.00 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.
Entry fees: 50 Rs. For Indian tourists and 200 Rs. For foreign tourists.
2. City palace. All things apart there are certain things that you should know before visiting the city palace. The basic tour of the palace, the entry charges are Rs. 200 per person BUT, there’s a Royal grandeur tour which costs Rs. 1500 and the Royal Splendor tour which costs Rs. 3000. The guide takes you to certain specific areas and private rooms of the palace, which otherwise are not accessible. It depends on how much you want to see and how much your budget allows you to see. The tours are worth the cost involved. I would suggest anyone who wishes to visit the city palace, to take at least the royal grandeur tour.
The city palace has certain restrictions on photography and the staff Is strict about it.
The Royal Family still resides in the palace, certain parts and complexes are not open for tourists at all. You can cover the Jantar Mantar along with the city palace.
will have the provision of personal guides for Rs. 300 as well as audio guides for Rs. 100 per ticket
9.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
3. Albert hall museum – also known as the government central museum, this is the state’s oldest museum. It was initially constructed in the 19th century with the motive of being a town hall and was named after Prince Albert (queen victoria’s husband). It is a treat for anyone who is into history and artifacts. Also, the Egyptian Tutu mummy is placed in the basement of the museum. It is a 2300-year-old mummy.
Timing - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
fees: Rs. 40 for Indian tourists and Rs. 300 for foreign tourists. Charges differ for night time visits.
4. Moti dungri –the moti dungri Ganpati temple is known for its divine power and the icon is said to be more than 750 years old. The temple was built in the 18th century. There is no entry charge for visiting the temple
5. Patrika gate – Hands down, the most colorful place for photography enthusiasts. You might want to avoid visiting here at peak hours because it is mostly occupied for portfolio shoots and pre-wedding shoots. The entry is free of cost.
6. Nahargarh fort – one of the most visited forts in Rajasthan, Nahargarh offers a fantastic view of the pink city. The fort was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the second. The fort also offers you a combo visit to the sheesh mahal and wax museum. Although they don’t allow photography in the sheesh mahal, and they are very strict about it, you can still hire a photographer for the wax museum. The charges are a little too much, but it’s fun.
fee – Rs. 50 for Indian tourists and Rs. 200 for foreign tourists. The combo tour cost me Rs. 500 extra per head, plus photography charges.
Time - 9.00-5.00 p.m.
7. Amer fort - Again, a very famous fort of Rajasthan. Amer was originally the capital city of state before Jaipur. It was built by Raja Man Singh. It is a must-visit if you are in Jaipur.
Entry fee – Rs. 100 for Indian tourists and Rs. 500 for foreign tourists.
Timings - 8.00 am- 5.00pm and 6.30 pm to 9.15pm.
8. Jal Mahal – Also known as the water palace is an extremely beautiful architectural showcase of Rajasthan. The palace is situated in the middle of a lake, which is surrounded by hills. The palace, for now, is not open to tourists, you can still visit the lakeside.
9. Chokhi Dhani – This, in my opinion, is the best place to spend your evening, if you’re in the city. Worth every penny they charge and it offers such a wonderful experience. what a showcase of the entire Rajasthani culture and food. From miniature monuments to folk dances, to head massages, pottery, fun games, what not and a lovely plate of authentic Rajasthani cuisine, it is absolutely the best place to be. The charges and packages vary for different services, you can check them out on its official website.
Some points to remember –
1. When you visit these places, please try not to use the animals for your convenience. They belong in the wild and are not supposed to be your conveyance.
2. I saw this at Jal Mahal and I am uploading the picture of the same when you throw your stuff in the lake, it kills the marine life. Not just that, the entire area starts to stink and gets uncomfortable for most of the people.
PLEASE, mindfully dispose of your garbage.
Thanks for reading ♥️ enjoy your trip ;)