Exploring Jaipur: A 7-Day Itinerary

Thursday, August 3, 2023: Arrival in Jaipur

Welcome to the Pink City! After arriving in Jaipur, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and acclimate to the city's vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to the historical Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, to marvel at its intricate honeycomb-like façade. As the evening sets in, explore the local markets near Johari Bazaar and indulge in some traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

• Hawa Mahal: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Johari Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Anokhi Café, located near Hawa Mahal. Enjoy a variety of healthy and delicious breakfast options like fresh fruit salads, homemade granola, and a selection of organic teas. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, try LMB Restaurant in Johari Bazaar. This iconic eatery offers a wide range of vegetarian Rajasthani dishes, including dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and kachori. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• For dinner, dine at Spice Court, a popular restaurant near the City Palace. Savour the authentic flavors of Rajasthani cuisine with dishes like laal maas, junglee maas, and ker sangri. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Friday, August 4, 2023: Amber Fort and Elephant Village

In the morning, head to the majestic Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Afterward, visit the nearby Elephant Village to have a close encounter with these gentle giants. Learn about their history and take an elephant ride. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dance and music performance.

• Amber Fort: Estimated cost - ₹500 ($7) for foreigners, ₹100 ($1.40) for Indians, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Elephant Village: Estimated cost - ₹1,200-1,500 ($17-21) for elephant ride, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Rajasthani Cultural Performance: Estimated cost - ₹500 ($7), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, August 5, 2023: City Palace and Jantar Mantar

Start the day by visiting the magnificent City Palace, a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Explore its intricately designed courtyards, museums, and the fascinating armory. Next, head to the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory with impressive instruments. In the evening, take a stroll through the vibrant markets of Bapu Bazaar and enjoy some local street food.

• City Palace: Estimated cost - ₹500 ($7) for foreigners, ₹190 ($3) for Indians, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Jantar Mantar: Estimated cost - ₹200 ($3) for foreigners, ₹50 ($0.70) for Indians, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Bapu Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, August 6, 2023: Nahargarh Fort and Anokhi Museum

Embark on a morning trip to Nahargarh Fort, perched on the Aravalli Hills. Enjoy panoramic views of Jaipur and explore the fort's fascinating history. Afterward, visit the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing to learn about traditional block printing techniques. In the evening, unwind at one of the rooftop restaurants in the old city and savor the beautiful sunset.

• Nahargarh Fort: Estimated cost - ₹200 ($3) for foreigners, ₹50 ($0.70) for Indians, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing: Estimated cost - ₹30 ($0.40) for foreigners, ₹15 ($0.20) for Indians, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Old City Rooftop Restaurant: Estimated cost - ₹500-1,000 ($7-14), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, August 7, 2023: Jaigarh Fort and Albert Hall Museum

Start your day by visiting Jaigarh Fort, known for its impressive architecture and the world's largest cannon on wheels. Explore the fort's well-preserved structures and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding Aravalli Hills. In the afternoon, head to the Albert Hall Museum, housing a vast collection of artifacts and artwork. In the evening, take a leisurely walk at the picturesque Jal Mahal, a palace partially submerged in Man Sagar Lake.

• Jaigarh Fort: Estimated cost - ₹200 ($3) for foreigners, ₹50 ($0.70) for Indians, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Albert Hall Museum: Estimated cost - ₹150 ($2) for foreigners, ₹40 ($0.50) for Indians, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jal Mahal: Estimated cost - Free (Boat rides available), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, August 8, 2023: Shopping and Culture

Spend the morning exploring the colorful markets of Jaipur, such as Tripolia Bazaar and Chandpole Bazaar, known for their textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry. Bargain for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture. After a delicious Rajasthani lunch, visit the Jawahar Kala Kendra, a cultural center promoting various art forms. In the evening, catch a traditional Rajasthani puppet show at the nearby Sisodia Rani Garden.

• Tripolia Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Chandpole Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Jawahar Kala Kendra: Estimated cost - ₹50 ($0.70), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sisodia Rani Garden Puppet Show: Estimated cost - ₹100 ($1.40), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, August 9, 2023: Day Trip to Pushkar

Take a day trip to the holy town of Pushkar, located around 2 hours from Jaipur. Explore the famous Brahma Temple, take a dip in the sacred Pushkar Lake, and wander through the bustling streets filled with shops and cafes. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and witness the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at the lake. Return to Jaipur in the evening.

• Transportation to Pushkar: Estimated cost - ₹2,000-3,000 ($28-42) for a private car, Time spent - Full day
• Brahma Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Pushkar Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Exploring Pushkar Streets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Aarti at Pushkar Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Jaipur, don't miss the lesser-known gems loved by locals. Visit Panna Meena Ka Kund, an ancient stepwell known for its unique geometrical design. Explore the peaceful gardens and stunning architecture of Sisodia Rani Garden and Palace. For a taste of authentic Rajasthani flavors, try the local street food stalls near Raj Mandir Cinema.

Check out KAYAK for hotel and flight prices in Jaipur.