Jaipur - Lost in the Pink City, Leaving Footprints Where Royalty Once Tread

We recently took a short vacation to Jaipur, and I still find myself mesmerized by its beauty. Often hailed as one of Rajasthan’s most enchanting destinations, Jaipur captivates with its charm and magnificence. Famously known as the Pink City, it owes its name to the striking pink sandstone buildings that line its streets, creating an atmosphere that feels both regal and welcoming.

Jaipur is a city that overwhelms and enchants in equal measure. Its bustling streets pulse with energy—markets brimming with vibrant textiles and jewellery, majestic palaces and forts rising in grandeur, and a kaleidoscope of colourful people weaving through the chaos alongside cows, pigeons, and rickshaws. Every corner offers a sensory feast, with aromas of rich delicacies tempting your taste buds and leaving you utterly captivated.

Jaipur means city of victory. The city is named after the king Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who left the city of Amber and founded a new capital in the 18th century. When the Prince of Wales visited the city in the 19th century, the entire city was painted in terracotta pink to welcome him appropriately. Pink is the colour of vibrance and hospitality. The old centre is still largely pink and one of the highlights of Jaipur.

When Jaipur became part of India, after the independence of the British, Jaipur turned into the capital of the state Rajasthan. Today, 3 million inhabitants live in Jaipur. Like many Indian cities, Jaipur is a city of contrasts. You will find quiet and luxurious suburbs on one side and a busy and chaotic centre on the other.

Hawa Mahal – The Palace of Winds 

One of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks, the Hawa Mahal is truly extraordinary. I had seen countless photos before visiting, but standing before its pink façade left me speechless. Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this five‑storied palace is adorned with 953 intricately carved windows and balconies, designed in a honeycomb pattern that resembles a beehive. 

The palace was originally constructed for the women of the royal harem, allowing them to observe the bustling streets below without being seen. Its ingenious design also created a natural ventilation system, earning it the name Palace of Winds or Palace of Breeze. As the cool air flows through its lattice windows, the building remains refreshingly airy even in Rajasthan’s heat.

Amer Fort – Amber Palace 

One of the places that completely stole my heart was Amer Fort, also known as the Amber Palace. Just 11 km from the city, it sits high on a hill, overlooking the shimmering Maota Lake and the old town of Amber. The moment I saw it rising above the landscape, I knew this was going to be special.

Walking through the fort felt like stepping back in time. Built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh, its walls of yellow and pink sandstone mixed with white marble seemed to glow in the sunlight. Every courtyard and hallway had its own story to tell. The highlight for me was the Sheesh Mahal, the famous Mirror Palace. Standing inside, surrounded by thousands of tiny mirrors that catch even the faintest light, I felt like I was in a dream.

Climbing higher, I reached the ramparts and looked out over the lake and hills. The view was breathtaking—peaceful yet majestic. It’s easy to see why Amer Fort is one of the most visited places in Jaipur. For me, it wasn’t just sightseeing; it was a moment of connection with Rajasthan’s royal past.

Panna Meena Ka Kund – A Hidden Gem

I couldn’t resist visiting Panna Meena Ka Kund, a place I had often seen pop up on Instagram. What struck me most was how this stepwell, once a quiet and lesser‑known spot, has now become one of the most photographed corners of the city.

Standing there, I was amazed by the symmetry of the stairways—perfectly aligned, crisscrossing in geometric patterns that felt almost hypnotic. Built in the 16th century, this baori was once a vital water source for the people of Amer. Imagining locals descending these very steps centuries ago to collect water gave the place a sense of timelessness. 

It’s only a short five‑minute drive from Amber Fort, so visiting both together makes perfect sense. For me, Panna Meena Ka Kund wasn’t just about snapping a picture; it was about pausing to appreciate how something so practical could also be so beautiful. It’s definitely one of those spots that adds a unique flavor to your Jaipur itinerary.

Jaipur’s Street Markets – A Feast for the Senses 

One of my favourite experiences in Jaipur was wandering through its bustling bazaars. The streets were alive with colour and sound—vendors calling out, families shopping together, and stalls overflowing with scarves, silver jewellery, embroidered jooties, carpets, and sarees. Each lane seemed to specialize in something different, making it easy (and tempting!) to explore and bargain. 

Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, the markets are worth visiting just to soak in the atmosphere. I loved watching everyday life unfold—friends laughing as they compared fabrics, couples choosing gifts, and children tugging at their parents’ hands. Famous bazaars like Johari Bazaar, Chandpol Bazaar, Tripolia Bazaar, and Bapu Bazaar are perfect places to dive into Jaipur’s culture. For me, strolling through them was as memorable as visiting the palaces and forts.

 

Jantar Mantar – A Walk Through Time and Science 

During my stay in Jaipur, I made sure to visit Jantar Mantar, the famous open‑air observatory right in the heart of the city. The name itself means “calculator,” and stepping inside felt like entering a giant outdoor classroom from the 18th century. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this place was his way of exploring the mysteries of the stars and planets.

As I wandered through the complex, I was amazed by the massive stone instruments scattered across the grounds. Each one had a purpose—tracking the sun, charting the stars, predicting eclipses, even measuring time. The highlight for me was the giant sundial, the largest in the world, towering 27 meters high. Watching its shadow move ever so slowly—about a millimetre per second—was strangely mesmerizing.

The observatory was buzzing with visitors, both locals and tourists, snapping photos and selfies. But beyond the crowds, I found myself marveling at the ingenuity of it all. Even if you’re not a science enthusiast, Jantar Mantar is fascinating. Walking among those centuries‑old instruments, I couldn’t help but admire how Indian astronomers and mathematicians once solved the puzzles of their universe. For me, it was less about the technical details and more about the feeling of standing in a space where knowledge, art, and history come together so beautifully.

Central Museum & Albert Hall

While exploring Jaipur, I made my way to the Albert Hall Museum, located just south of the old city. The building itself is stunning—designed by a British architect and inspired by London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. Even before stepping inside, I was struck by its grandeur, with domes and arches that seemed to tell their own story.

Inside, the museum felt like a treasure chest of Rajasthan’s past. I wandered through galleries filled with Rajput art, old coins, costumes, weapons, and jewellery. Each section offered a glimpse into a different era, and I loved how the murals and frescoes reflected influences from various civilizations. It was fascinating to imagine how these artifacts once fit into everyday life centuries
ago.

What made the visit even more memorable was seeing the museum at night. When lit up, Albert Hall looks almost magical—its glowing façade against the dark sky gave it a fairy‑tale charm. Standing there, I felt like I was experiencing Jaipur’s history in a completely different light, both literally and figuratively.

 

Patrika Gate – The Most Colourful Door in India

As I explored Jaipur, one spot that felt like stepping into a painting was Patrika Gate. Though it’s a little outside the city centre, near the airport, the journey was absolutely worth it. As soon as I arrived at Jawahar Circle, the gate stood before me in all its glory—often called the most colourful door in India, and I could instantly see why.

Built in 2016, Patrika Gate is a riot of colours and patterns, each archway adorned with intricate artwork that tells stories from Jaipur’s past. Walking through its nine pavilions, I felt transported back to the days of royalty, palaces, and splendour. Every wall seemed to whisper a piece of the city’s history, while the vibrant hues made it feel alive and modern at the same time.

I loved learning that Jaipur has a tradition of gates dating back to 1727, when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built eight gates around the city. Patrika Gate is often called the “ninth gate,” continuing that legacy in a contemporary way. Its shade of pink is slightly different from Jaipur’s famous terracotta, but it blends beautifully with the city’s identity.

Today, Patrika Gate has become a favourite spot for locals and travellers alike—whether to relax, take photos, or simply admire the artistry. For me, it was more than just a photo stop; it felt like a vibrant symbol of how Jaipur honours its past while embracing the present.

Toran Dwar – Gateway to the Pink City

Known as the gateway of Rajasthan, this magnificent Jaipur entrance gate Toran marks the threshold of the old walled city. Blending traditional Rajasthani design with intricate stonework, the Toran Gate has become a must‑visit landmark for history enthusiasts, photographers, and culture lovers. Standing at the entrance to Jaipur’s historic Pink City, it is far more than just a gateway—it embodies Rajput pride, hospitality, and the royal heritage that continues to define Jaipur.

This heritage gate of Jaipur is an architectural replica of ancient ceremonial gateways known as "Toran" which were traditionally built to welcome kings, warriors and guests into royal cities. For me, Toran Dwar felt like a tribute to Jaipur’s heritage, standing proudly as the gateway to the Pink City.

Jaipur’s Food Scene – A Feast I’ll Never Forget

One of the highlights of my trip to Jaipur was definitely the food. Everywhere I went, the city seemed to tempt me with something new and delicious. I started with the famous Pyaaz Kachori, a spicy onion‑stuffed pastry that locals grab as a quick snack—it was crisp, fiery, and addictive.

For something sweet, I couldn’t resist Ghevar, the disc‑shaped dessert soaked in syrup. It felt like biting into a festival. Then came the hearty Rajasthani staple, Dal Baati Churma—lentils served with baked wheat balls and sweetened crumbs. It was rustic, filling, and full of flavor, the kind of dish that makes you feel at home even when you’re far away.

I also tried Lal Maas, a rich and spicy mutton curry that packed a punch, and Gatte ki Sabzi, a regional specialty made with gram flour dumplings in a tangy yogurt gravy. Each dish told its own story of Rajasthan’s traditions, and together they made Jaipur’s food scene unforgettable.

 

 Jaipur Closing the Chapter, Keeping the Story

As my time in Jaipur drew to a close, I realized this city is not just about monuments or attractions—it’s about the atmosphere that surrounds you at every turn. The vibrant colours, the intricate architecture, the bustling streets, and the warmth of its people all come together to create an experience that is both overwhelming and unforgettable.

Jaipur leaves an impression that lingers long after you’ve gone. It’s a city that welcomes you with pride, dazzles you with its culture, and reminds you of the richness of history woven into everyday life. For me, it wasn’t just a journey—it was a story, one that will stay with me always.