The Pink City at a Glance
Most Jaipur tourist places sit inside or just beyond the old walled city, the grid of pink-washed buildings that gave Jaipur its nickname. The colour dates to 1876, when the city was painted pink, traditionally the shade of welcome, ahead of a visit by the Prince of Wales, and the convention stuck.
Jaipur forms one corner of north India's Golden Triangle with Delhi and Agra, which is why so many first trips to the country pass through here. Founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II and laid out on a planned grid by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, the city rewards visitors who learn its layout before setting off.
Amer Fort: Jaipur's Hilltop Centrepiece
If you visit just one fort in Jaipur, make it Amer Fort. Built in 1592 by Raja Man Singh I and expanded over the next 150 years, this UNESCO World Heritage Site rises above Maota Lake, showcasing a remarkable blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.
Located about 21 km from our hotel, Amer Fort is roughly an hour's drive, depending on traffic. Inside, 4 courtyards hold the mirror-lined Sheesh Mahal, the frescoed Ganesh Pol, and the open Diwan-e-Aam. Arrive at opening time to climb the cobbled ramp before the crowds, or stay for the evening light and sound show. Allow at least half a day once travel and the uphill walk are counted in.
Nahargarh and Jaigarh: The Ridge Forts
Perched high on the Aravalli ridge above Amer, Jaigarh Fort is located about 24 km from our hotel (approximately 1 hour by car). Built as a military stronghold, it is home to the ‘Jaivana’, the world's largest cannon on wheels, and was once connected to Amer Fort through a concealed passage. With fewer crowds and commanding views of the surrounding hills, it offers a quieter and more immersive experience.
A little further along the ridge, Nahargarh Fort lies about 26 km from our hotel (approximately 1 hour's drive). Built in 1734 by Sawai Jai Singh II, the fort is best visited in the late afternoon, when the golden light bathes Jaipur and the panoramic city views are at their finest. Together with Amer and Jaigarh, it forms Jaipur's iconic hill-fort circuit.
City Palace and Hawa Mahal: Inside the Walled City
At the heart of the old city, City Palace and Hawa Mahal sit within a kilometre of each other, roughly 10 km from our hotel (about half an hour by car). City Palace is still partly home to Jaipur's former ruling family and partly a museum, with the 7-storey Chandra Mahal, the Mubarak Mahal, and the Diwan-e-Khas set around linked courtyards.
A short walk away, Hawa Mahal turns its 5-storey face of 953 latticed windows to the street, completed in 1799 so the women of the court could watch processions unseen. The light is best early, and the classic photograph is taken from the cafe terraces opposite rather than from inside.
Heritage Monuments and Temples
Beyond the forts, a cluster of Jaipur attractions rewards anyone drawn to science, art, or faith. These 4 slots neatly fit into a day spent in and around the walled city.
- Albert Hall Museum (~8 km): Rajasthan's oldest museum, opened in 1887 in Ram Niwas Garden, has an Indo-Saracenic hall floodlit after dark
- Birla Mandir (~6 km): A white-marble Lakshmi Narayan temple on Moti Dungari hill
- Jantar Mantar (~11 km): A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010, this 18th-century observatory holds 19 masonry instruments, among them the Samrat Yantra, the world's largest stone sundial
- Galtaji Temple (~16 km): An ancient Hindu pilgrimage site, this revered temple, popularly known as the 'Monkey Temple', is famed for its natural spring that fills a series of sacred kunds where pilgrims bathe
Lakes and Garden Retreats
On the road towards Amer Fort, Jal Mahal appears to float gracefully on the waters of Man Sagar Lake. Located about 17 km from our hotel (around 40 mins by car), the palace is not open to visitors, but the lakeside promenade offers excellent views and is a popular stop for photographs, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon.
If you're looking for a quieter escape, Sisodia Rani ka Bagh, about 11 km from our hotel (approximately 30 minutes by car), features beautifully landscaped Mughal-style terraces, fountains, and painted pavilions commissioned by Sawai Jai Singh II. Further along the Amer road, Kanak Vrindavan combines restored gardens with a historic temple complex, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed stroll away from Jaipur's busier attractions.
Markets and Bazaars
The bustling bazaars of Jaipur's walled city, located around 8 to 9 km from our hotel, are as much a part of the city's heritage as its forts and palaces. Each market has its own speciality, making it ideal for discovering traditional Rajasthani crafts, textiles, and souvenirs while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the Pink City.
- Johari Bazaar: Renowned for exquisite gemstones, fine jewellery, and handcrafted silver pieces
- Bapu Bazaar: A favourite for colourful textiles, block-printed fabrics, leather mojari footwear, and local handicrafts
- Tripolia Bazaar: Best known for traditional lac bangles, brassware, carpets, and intricately crafted lacquerware
These markets are at their liveliest in the evening, when the streets come alive with shoppers, street vendors, and the unmistakable energy of Jaipur's local culture.
Modern Jaipur: Beyond the Forts
Not every highlight is centuries old, and several modern draws sit closest of all to our hotel. These range from a shopping landmark on our doorstep to an elephant farm on the city's edge.
- World Trade Park (Walkable): A landmark shopping and dining complex in Malviya Nagar, within walking distance of our hotel and an easy evening out without leaving the neighbourhood
- Jawahar Circle Garden (Walkable): One of the largest circular parks in Asia, with a rose garden and an evening musical fountain on the airport road
- Raj Mandir Cinema (~10 km): A 1976 picture palace seating around 1,300, where catching a Bollywood release is an experience in itself
Getting Around from Clarks Amer
A little planning goes a long way in Jaipur. Clarks Amer, Jaipur, is conveniently located on Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, around 3 km from Jaipur International Airport and 11 km from Jaipur Junction, making it an ideal base for exploring the city from the moment you arrive.
The walled-city attractions, including City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar, are best explored together, while Amer, Jaigarh, and Nahargarh Forts are best covered as a single half-day circuit. For a comfortable and hassle-free experience, consider hiring a car for the day. If you need assistance planning your itinerary, arranging transport, or discovering the city's must-visit attractions, our concierge team is always on hand to help you make the most of your stay and explore Jaipur with ease.
Where to Stay: Clarks Amer, Jaipur
After a day exploring Jaipur's forts and heritage landmarks, return to the comfort of Clarks Amer, Jaipur, a 5-star hotel set amidst lush green surroundings on Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg. Conveniently located near the airport, it offers elegantly appointed rooms and suites, warm hospitality, and easy access to the city's leading attractions, making it an ideal base for discovering the Pink City.
Slow the pace with a refreshing swim, indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at Olive, The Wellness Spa, or savour a memorable meal at Goose, our fine-dining restaurant. As the evening sets in, unwind with a drink at taBLU or enjoy freshly baked delights at Zolocrust, our live bakery and pizzeria, before planning another day of discovering the Pink City.