Begin your tour of Jaipur with a visit to the City Palace, a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings that house a variety of museums and galleries showcasing the art and history of Jaipur. Highlights include the Royal Armory, the Textile Museum, and the Peacock Gate, a stunning example of Rajasthani architecture.
Also known as Jantar Mantar, the Jaipur Observatory is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to a collection of astronomical instruments built in the 18th century. The most impressive of these is the Samrat Yantra, a massive sundial that measures time with surprising accuracy. A guided tour is available to explain the various instruments and their uses.
The Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of Winds," is one of Jaipur's most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1799, this five-story facade is adorned with ornate latticework and hundreds of small windows that allow the breeze to flow through and keep the palace cool even in the hottest months. Visitors can climb to the top for a great view of the city.
Cap off your first day with a visit to the stunning Jal Mahal, a palace built in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. While it is not open to the public, the palace is still a sight to behold, with its five stories of red sandstone rising out of the water and the Aravalli hills in the background. Take a stroll around the lake to enjoy the view.
Start your second day in Jaipur with a trip to the Amber Fort, a massive fortification that dates back to the 16th century. Highlights include the Sheesh Mahal, a mirror palace with stunning mosaics, and the Ganesh Pol, a beautiful gateway decorated with intricate frescoes. Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
After a morning spent at the fort, head to the Albert Hall Museum, an imposing building that houses a collection of art and artifacts from all over Rajasthan. Highlights include a gallery of miniature paintings, an exhibit on Rajasthani musical instruments, and a collection of armaments and armor.
End your trip to Jaipur with some shopping at the Bapu Bazaar, a chaotic street market that sells everything from textiles to jewelry to street food. Be prepared to haggle for a good price, and be sure to stop at LMB, a popular restaurant that serves delicious vegetarian food.
If you have more time in Jaipur, consider visiting the Nahargarh Fort, which offers great views of the city and a glimpse into Jaipur's military history. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, check out the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, which showcases the traditional block-printing techniques used to make Jaipur's famous textiles. If you're short on time, consider skipping the Bapu Bazaar or the Albert Hall Museum, as they can be time-consuming and crowded. Instead, spend more time at the City Palace or the Amber Fort, which are must-sees for any first-time visitor to Jaipur.