Things to know
Jaipur, the largest city in Rajasthan and the 10th most populated city in India, is fondly known as the Pink City due to its distinctive colour scheme. Forming one point of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, which connects New Delhi, the Taj Mahal, and Rajasthan, Jaipur is just 167 miles from New Delhi yet offers a completely unique experience. Founded in 1727, Jaipur is India’s first planned city, featuring a grid layout that makes it easier to navigate than Delhi or Mumbai. It’s a city where you can explore pre-colonial palaces, dive deep into Indian history, and relax in world-class hotels.
Best time to go
Jaipur is warm year-round, but the most pleasant time to visit is between October and February. During these months, you’ll enjoy clear, breezy days and comfortable temperatures. Visiting between March and July might mean exploring sprawling castles without air conditioning in stifling heat, as temperatures can soar above 37°C.
Where to eat and drink
Bar Palladio: This spot, created by the dynamic duo Barbara Miolini and Marie-Anne Oudejans, blends Amalfi Coast style with Rajasthani flair. The iconic blue interiors, from floral frescoes to canopied daybeds, create a vibrant atmosphere. It’s buzzing from 4 PM daily, though Sundays offer a quieter family vibe.
Polo Bar, Rambagh Palace Hotel: Known for the best martinis in town, this bar is adorned with décor celebrating the city’s royal sport. The hotel itself was a hunting lodge for the Maharajah of Jaipur. Arrive before sunset for tea on the verandah and watch peacocks strut through the 47-acre gardens.
The Johri: Located in the city's jewellery quarter, this restored 19th-century merchant’s haveli features interiors with pink frescoes of birds among palm trees. The fully vegetarian menu is delightful, featuring dishes like dal johri, Amritsari chole, and jackfruit and water chestnut vegetable biryani.
Go Bar-Hopping: Start at Bar Palladio, renowned for its electric blue interiors and as one of Condé Nast Traveller’s top 50 restaurants. Then head to Paro India for a modern take on Indian flavours, with a view of the iconic Paanch Batti. Finish at the bar in The Johri, located in the heart of the bustling Johri Bazar. Paro India Instagram
Anokhi Café: This café offers a small menu of homemade cakes, South Indian coffee, chai, and fresh salads using seasonal, organic produce from the Anokhi farm. Vegetarian options abound, with vegan and gluten-free choices available. Favourites include fresh pomegranate juice, banana chocolate oat cookies, and pumpkin, feta, and caramelised onion salad.
Jaipur Modern Kitchen: Perfect for a fresh salad, with a fab shop next door to the café.
Café Kothi: Located in 28 Kothi, this café features vegetarian farm-to-table recipes and a cosy ambience. The eclectic menu combines comforting classics with evolved clean recipes that celebrate local ingredients.
Explore Jaipur’s Thriving Coffee Culture: Visit Half Light Coffee Roasters for great coffee and delicious banana bread, Roastery Coffee House for a smooth dark roast, or KaCoBa at the iconic Narain Niwas Hotel.
The Peacock: When exploring the old city, stop by The Peacock for the best tandoori chicken and cheese-stuffed naan with a lemon soda on the side.
Where to Shop
IDLI: Thierry Journo’s designs, from fashion to home, adorn this shop with fantastical illustrations. This year, he’s collaborated with the iconic Indian brand Good Earth.
Good Earth: Located in Rajmahal Palace, this store features Thierry Journo’s collection alongside Good Earth’s designs, which aim to sustain and revive Indian traditions and craftsmanship.
Anokhi: Famous for block printing, Anokhi offers everything from childrenswear to bedspreads. Visit their organic café next door for corn fritters and vegan chocolate cake.
Stylish collectives: Jaipur Modern in C-Scheme, Nila House, Teatro Dhora, IDLI, Hot Pink, and Tokree offer eclectic mixes of local and international designs. The newly opened PDFK Store and The Palace Atelier by Princess Gauravi Kumari combine traditional crafts with modern styles.
Things to Do
Morning walk through the Old City: Start your day with a guided walk through the old city, a service offered by many hotels, including Samode Haveli.
Learn ceramic painting: Bond with friends over a ceramic painting workshop at Khanoom House, a tranquil pottery and ceramic studio surrounded by a forest reserve.
Amber Fort: No trip to Jaipur is complete without a visit to this stunning fort.
Where to Stay
28 Kothi: This quaint, art-filled boutique hotel features a carefully curated library, well-designed communal spaces, and cosy corners. Enjoy group yoga sessions and traditional Rajasthani thalis in an intimate setting on the lawns.
Samode Haveli: An ornate oasis in the heart of the old town, Samode Haveli offers glorious grounds, a huge pool, and opulent archways. Explore the courtyards, alcoves, and terraces, and enjoy dining in the portrait-lined indoor dining room.
The Johri: Nestled in Jaipur’s iconic jewellers’ bazaar, The Johri at Lal Haveli is a luxurious boutique hotel capturing the elegance of a bygone era for a new generation of travellers.
Villa Palladio Jaipur: Open since September 2022, this nine-room country estate is inspired by the grand traditions of past hotels, offering a retreat where guests can experience simple yet delightful hospitality.
Narain Niwas: This atmospheric haveli hotel, located just south of the old Pink City, dates back to 1928 and reflects the Anglo-Indian style. The property retains a regal feel with vintage furnishings and Rajput flourishes. Bar Palladio and Hot Pink are conveniently located next door.
Safe travels , Annabelle xx