Best Things to Do in Jaipur (Even If You Only Have 2 Days)

Jaipur was the final stop on my Golden Triangle tour, and if I’m honest, it didn’t capture my heart in the same way as Udaipur or Jodhpur.

But there’s a reason for that.

In both of those cities, I stayed for over a week. I wandered. I got lost. I found my rhythm.

In Jaipur, I had just a day and a half.

And Jaipur isn’t a city that reveals itself quickly.

It’s bigger. Busier. More intense. And I suspect it rewards those who stay longer and dig a little deeper.

That said, even in a short visit, there are some truly unforgettable experiences - and one in particular that completely blew me away.

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The History of Jaipur

Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur was one of India’s first planned cities, designed with careful attention to both practicality and beauty. The city was laid out in a grid pattern based on ancient Hindu architectural principles, with wide streets, organised markets, and distinct zones for different trades. In 1876, the entire city was painted in shades of terracotta pink to welcome Prince Albert during his visit to India - a colour associated with hospitality - and the tradition has remained ever since, earning Jaipur its nickname, the Pink City.

As part of the Rajasthan region and a key stop on the famous Golden Triangle route, Jaipur blends royal heritage, architectural grandeur, and vibrant daily life in a way that reflects both its regal past and its modern energy.

Amber Fort (Amer Fort) – The Highlight of Jaipur

If you only do one thing in Jaipur, make it this.

I had seen the photos before arriving, but nothing prepared me for the sheer scale and beauty of Amber Fort in real life. Perched high above the surrounding landscape, about 11km from the city, the fort feels like something out of a film set.

We climbed the 185 'comfortable stairs' to reach the entrance, and from that moment on, it was one “wow” after another.

Inside, the palace complex unfolds across multiple levels and courtyards, each more impressive than the last:

• The Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience)

• The Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience)

• The breathtaking Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace)

• The ingenious Sukh Niwas, designed to create cool air using flowing water

I loved the blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, and the stories behind it, including the king who built separate quarters for each of his twelve queens, all connected to his own rooms.

And then there’s the setting.

The fort overlooks Maota Lake, with its picture-perfect island pavilion - one of those views that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Despite the heat, this was easily the highlight of my time in Jaipur.

2. Explore the Pink City (Jaipur Old City)

Walking through Jaipur’s Old City is where you begin to understand why it’s called the Pink City.

The buildings, washed in warm terracotta tones, are undeniably beautiful and incredibly photogenic.

I explored the area on a guided walk, and while I enjoyed it, I’ll admit it didn’t feel as immediately charming or walkable as Udaipur or Jodhpur.

That might simply be because I didn’t have enough time.

Jaipur feels larger, more spread out, and more intense, but I suspect if you stay longer and explore beyond the main streets, you’ll find quieter corners and hidden gems.

3. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)

One of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks, Hawa Mahal is instantly recognisable.

Built in 1799, this delicate pink sandstone façade features 953 tiny windows (jharokhas), designed so royal women could observe life in the streets below without being seen.

It’s also a clever piece of climate design - the airflow through the latticework creates a natural cooling effect in the intense Rajasthan heat.

From the street, it looks like the front of a grand palace.

But it’s actually the back.

On the advice of our guide, I didn’t go inside - he told us it was empty.

Later, I discovered that the rooftop offers fantastic views over the city and towards the City Palace… and I did slightly regret not going in.

So if you have the time, it might be worth seeing both sides and the views from the roof.

Visit Roop Chaturbhuj Temple (A Hidden Gem)

This was one of the most unexpected highlights of my time in Jaipur.

Tucked away in the Old City, Roop Chaturbhuj Temple is easy to miss - and often overlooked.

But step inside, and you’re rewarded with something quite special.

The walls and ceilings are covered in intricate frescoes, full of colour and detail, dating back to the 18th century.

Very little is known about the temple’s history, which somehow adds to its quiet charm.

It felt like discovering a secret.

Browse the Markets (Especially the Fabric Markets)

Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise, especially if, like me, you’re drawn to textiles and handmade crafts.

We visited the markets in intense heat (close to 40°C), so we didn’t stay long… but I’m so glad we went.

The real magic happened when we stepped away from the main tourist streets and found a local fabric market.

There, I picked up small cuts of beautifully printed cottons for just a few pennies - the kind of find that makes your creative heart very happy.

If you enjoy crafting or textiles, this is an experience not to miss.

See Jaipur by Night

Jaipur transforms after dark.

The buildings are illuminated, the pink tones glow warmly, and the whole city feels calmer and more atmospheric.

It’s one of those simple experiences — just being there — that ends up being surprisingly memorable.

Things I Didn’t See (But Would Next Time)

Even with a packed schedule, there were several key sights I didn’t have time for. These would be top of my list on a return visit:

• Jantar Mantar – A UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory. I visited the one in Delhi, which was based on this one.

• City Palace – Right in the heart of the Old City. I saw this from the outside, but did not have time to explore the museum inside.

• Albert Hall Museum – The oldest museum in Rajasthan

• Gaitore Ki Chhatriyan – Beautiful royal tombs

• Nahargarh Fort – Known for sunset views over the city

Final Thoughts: Is Jaipur Worth Visiting?

Yes — absolutely.

But Jaipur isn’t a city I’d rush again.

For me, it felt like a place that needs time.

Time to adjust to its pace.
Time to explore beyond the main sights.
Time to find your own corners of it.

I left feeling like I’d only scratched the surface — and that’s exactly why I’d go back.

Watch this Video for More About Jaipur

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