Jaipur is a beautiful city in India best known for its impressive pink architecture and fantastic shopping scene. If you have only a couple of days to spare, here are the best places to visit in Jaipur in 2 days.
Jaipur is one of the most visited cities in the country, and also happens to be one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan. You’ve most likely seen it plastered all over your Instagram feeds as this beautiful pink city has gained notoriety in the past couple of years.
I had the pleasure of spending two month backpacking trip in India, and have put together a short n’ quick Jaipur travel guide from my experiences there. For those who have even less time to spare, you could happily spend 1 day in Jaipur if needed too.
Before you head off, peep my travel tips for India to help you during your adventures!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, if you click my links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. Learn more on my disclosure page. Thank you for your support!
The Best Places to Visit In Jaipur in 2 Days
First things first, here are the best things to do in Jaipur, listed in order of must-see (you have no choice) to meh it’s cool (but not required). I’ve shared definitely more things to do in Jaipur than can be accomplished in just two days, but it’s all to help you plan your own perfect Jaipur itinerary that suits your tastes.
1. Amber Fort
Open all days 8:00 am – 5:30pm
Entrance fee: 500 INR / $7.00 USD
The Amber Fort is a must-see Jaipur attractions that dates back to the 16th century. Of all the forts in Jaipur, it’s by far the most popular in the city. It’s actually located about 11km from the downtown area, which means you’ll need to take a bus (≈ 15 rupees), a tuk tuk (≈ 500 rupees round trip) or an Uber to get there.
The entrance ticket is pretty reasonably priced, and there’s a light show available that you can see for an extra fee. There are also elephant riding tours but please do not engage in cruel animal tourism – it’s not nice 😉
2. Nahargarh Fort
Open all Days 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
Entrance fee: 200 INR / $2.80 USD
The Nahargarh Fort is another popular Jaipur sightseeing spot that’s famous for its amazing views overlooking the city as well as the large fortress walls surrounding it. The fort is about a 20 minute hike up a winding road to the entrance. If you take a tuk tuk, they will most likely drop you off at the base of the walk up.
I recommend visiting for sunset, but be sure to visit the fort before it closes at 5:30 pm. The outside walls are free. You can stay up and see the sunset after your tour of the fort. This is def one of the best places to visit in Jaipur in 2 days.
3. Hawa Mahal
Open all Days 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Entrance fee: 200 INR / $2.80 USD
The Hawa Mahal is an ornate pink palace originally built to allow royal ladies to see the outside streets without breaking purdah, which is the restriction of being seen in public.
For the best views and photo spot of Hawa Mahl, visit The Wind View Cafe or Tattoo Cafe and Lounge across the street. You must purchase a beverage to take photos and it can get crowded so try to visit early. The front outside of the building is more interesting than the inside, but for only 200 INR you may as well take a peek inside!
4. City Palace
Open all Days 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Entrance Fee: 700 – 3,500 INR / $10 – $48
The City Palace is a privately owned by the prince of Jaipur, which means that they independently choose the entrance fares. Its private ownership is why the fees are so much more expensive compared to other attractions in India. They also recently raised their prices as of the beginning of 2019.
There are a few tour options for Jaipur’s City Palace. You can pay just 700 rupees to see the museum, courtyard and peacock gate; 2,000 rupees for the above + another room (NOT the famous blue room); or 3,500 rupees for everything including the Insta famous Peacock Gate and Blue Room. The palace’s opening hours and days may vary, so be sure to check in advance.
5. Panna Meena Ka Kund
Open all Days
No Entrance Fee
The Panna Meena is the famous tessellation type staircase that’s become famous on Insta, but be careful what you see! I’ve seen many influencers photoshop the stairs pink, rainbow or a color they truly aren’t.
To set your expectations, they are a yellow-ish tinge. These are holy steps, and you’re technically not allowed to walk down into them, and there is usually a security guard there to stop you. Please respect the local culture and DON’T walk the stairs for a pretty picture.
6. Jaipur’s Bazaars
Open all Days
No Entrance Fee
The most famous bazaar in Jaipur is the Johari Bazaar, which also happens to be the oldest in the city. Other worthwhile ones to visit include the Tripolia Bazar, and Bapu Bazaar. I highly recommend making the time to visit at least one, as shopping in Jaipur is some of the best in all of India!
In an Indian bazaar, it’s customary to haggle, and they will definitely try to get a higher price because of your tourist status. I recommend starting by cutting the first price they give you in half and working your way up.
7. Jaigarh Fort
Open all Days 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Entrance fee: 85 INR, 50 INR for camera usage / $1.20 USD, $0.70 USD
The Jaigarh Fort was actually Built originally as a means to protect the Amber Fort, and is located on top of the Cheel ka Teela. It offers fantastic views of the fort and city below.
This is another Jaipur attractions that’s located a bit outside of the city center, so you’ll need to factor in drive time. It’s a great monument to visit, but if you’re all forted out – India has a LOT of forts – don’t feel guilty if you miss the Jaigarh Fort.
8. Jawahar Circle Garden + the Patrika Gate
Open all Days
No Entrance Fee
The Jawahar Circle Garden is a lovely thing to do in Jaipur and is home to the colorful and Insta famous Patrika Gate. The park offers green space to wander around in as well as delicious food trucks in the parking lot for those in need of a snack.
9. Gaitore Cenotaphs
Open all Days 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Entrance fee: 100 RPS / $1.40 USD
In India, cenotaphs are empty tombs or monuments, and they are often quite an architectural wonder. The Gaitore Cenotaphs are located about 15 km from the city. You’ll need to take a tuk tuk or an Uber to get there. During your visit, be sure to respect the local customs.
10. Jal Mahal
Open all Days
No Entrance fee
The Jal Mahal is a striking yellow palace that lies in the middle of Man Sagar Lake about 4 km outside of the city. Visitors can’t actually enter the palace, but the view from the shores of the lake are pretty.
11. Monkey Temple
Open all Days 6:00 am – 8:30 pm
Entrance Fee: donation Based, camera 50 INR ($0.70 USD)
The Hanuman’s Temple, aka Monkey Temple, was erected to honor the Hindu monkey god Hanuman. It just so happens that today, the grounds are often visited by present day monkeys making it a more than fitting name.
A word of caution about the monkeys – they can be aggressive and may try to steal your things, so be very careful around them! The temple complex is centered around a picturesque natural spring that channels into large holy pools around the temple. It’s located 10 km outside of Jaipur, so you’ll need to grab a tuk tuk or a taxi.
Read more: Famous Temples in Jaipur
Where to Eat in Jaipur
I have to admit, I ate most of my meals in India on the streets, so I’m short on Jaipur restaurant recommendations. But there are a few noteworthy cafes that should be on your to-do list!
Lassiwala
Map.
Lassiwala is a famous lassi stand serving up the best lassi in Jaipur. They’re dished into the authentic clay pots and there is sure to be a line of locals waiting for this sweet cool treat.
Cafe Palladio
Map.
Cafe Palladio is the most beautiful cafe, with a modern and colorful interior. It’s a little expensive but they serve delicious food and great drinks. It’s also frequented by Instagrammers looking for a cool shot.
Wind View Cafe
Map.
Wind View Cafe has one of the best seats in the house for photographing the Hawa Mahal and people watching the busy shopping streets below. It’s a pretty popular place and seating is limited.
Tattoo Cafe and Lounge
Map.
If the Wind View Cafe is full, check out the Tattoo Cafe and Lounge right next door offering the same killer views of the Hawa Mahal. Both require a purchase to use their makeshift photo spots.
Where to Stay in Jaipur.
No two day stay in Jaipur is complete without the perfect place to stay. I personally found that the best places to stay in India were hostels. They are insanely affordable, offer a fun way to meet others, and usually organize fun things to do in the city. But if you’re not a hostel person, you can also find great hotel stays in Jaipur as well! Here are some recommendations for quality places to stay in Jaipur.
Budget Jaipur Hostel: Gypsy Monkey
- 9.0 rating, about $3/night
- A social hostel in the city center, they have an outdoor pool and lounge to get social, and mega cheap prices.
Flashpacker vibes: The Hosteller Jaipur or Zostel Jaipur
- Both have over 9.1 reviews and come in about $6/night
- Both have a great location close to the city center.
- The Hosteller has a cool rooftop and both have hip, vibrant and photogenic decor
Mid-range accommodation: Umaid Mahal Heritage Hotel
- 8.5 rating about $70/night,
- in beautiful old Indian style haveli, guesthouse
Luxury pick: The Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur
- 5 star 9.6 1 night about $700,
- pool, stunning luxury grounds,
- a bit outside of the city so quiet perfect for romantic getaway