Who this guide is for
This is a first-time visitor's itinerary for a Jaipur weekend trip from Delhi — two days focused on the major forts, palaces, and the old city. It works for solo travelers, couples, and small groups.
Getting there from Delhi
By train (recommended)
- Shatabdi Express: approximately 4–4.5 hours, comfortable, AC, breakfast included on some services
- Book at irctc.co.in (requires account registration)
- Jaipur Junction station is well-connected to the city by auto-rickshaw and cab
By bus
- Volvo/luxury AC buses from Delhi ISBT (Kashmiri Gate or Sarai Kale Khan): approximately 5–6 hours
- Cheaper than train, slightly less comfortable
- Book through state transport or private operators
By car (self-drive or hired)
- About 5 hours via NH48
- More flexible but tiring — requires navigating Indian highways
Day 1 — Amber Fort and the Pink City
✦ Day 01
01
— Stage —
Amber Fort and old city evening
Morning (start early)
- Amber Fort (also spelled Amer) is about 11 km from the city center — hire an auto-rickshaw or app-based cab
- Allow 2–2.5 hours for Amber Fort — it is large and very rewarding
- Book entry tickets at the gate or through the official Rajasthan tourism app
- The elephant rides at Amber Fort have been controversial — visiting on foot or by Jeep is recommended
Afternoon
- Return to the old city (Pink City)
- Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) — famous for its 953-window facade. Visit from the outside for the classic photo, or buy an entry ticket to go inside
- Jantar Mantar — UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory built in the 1700s. Fascinating and underrated; allow 45 minutes
Evening
- Walk through the Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar (the main market streets of the old city)
- Rajasthani textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts — shopping is very popular here
- Dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Pink City
Day 2 — City Palace, Nahargarh, and departure
✦ Day 02
02
— Stage —
City Palace, Nahargarh Fort, and farewell
Morning
- City Palace — the royal palace complex in the heart of Jaipur. Currently partially used by the royal family. Allow 1.5–2 hours
- The palace museum has a good collection of royal artefacts and is worth the ticket price
Late morning
- Albert Hall Museum (Ram Niwas Garden) — Rajasthan's state museum with exhibits on the region's history and culture
Afternoon
- Drive up to Nahargarh Fort on the hills above Jaipur for panoramic city views
- Go in the late afternoon for the sunset view — one of the best vantage points over Jaipur
Evening
- Dal baati churma dinner — a traditional Rajasthani meal, widely available in the old city
- Head to the station or bus stand for your return to Delhi
Where to stay in Jaipur
Lodging
Where to stay in Jaipur
- 01
Old City (Pink City)
Walking distance to all major sights. Atmospheric and convenient. Heritage havelis (mansion hotels) offer a memorable stay. Can be noisy.
First-timers, atmosphere
- 02
C Scheme / Bani Park
Quieter residential areas with a mix of guesthouses and boutique hotels. Short auto ride to the old city. Slightly calmer.
Budget travelers, longer stays
- 03
Near Jaipur Junction station
Practical if arriving late or leaving early. Functional hotels at various price points.
Train travelers, short stays
Always check current prices and availability directly with the hotel or booking platform.
Budget guidance
Estimated cost
Budget guidance
| Item | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Delhi–Jaipur–Delhi) | ₹300–500 (sleeper) | ₹700–1,200 (AC chair) | ₹1,500+ (AC first class) |
| Accommodation (per night) | ₹700–1,200 (guesthouse) | ₹2,000–4,000 (boutique hotel) | ₹8,000+ (heritage hotel) |
| Meals (per day) | ₹300–500 | ₹600–1,500 | ₹2,000+ |
| Fort entry fees (total) | ₹400–600 (domestic) | ₹1,000–1,500 (international) | — |
| Transport within city (per day) | ₹200–400 (auto/e-rickshaw) | ₹500–800 (cabs) | ₹1,500+ (private driver) |
Prices are approximate. Entry fees change seasonally and for domestic vs international visitors.
What to pack
Jaipur essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes — fort visits involve a lot of uneven stone steps
- Modest clothing for fort and temple visits (shoulders and knees covered)
- Scarf or dupatta — useful for sun protection and temple etiquette
- Sunscreen (very strong sun October–March)
- Water bottle
- Small daypack
- Cash in Indian Rupees — many smaller vendors and auto-rickshaws are cash-only
- Sunglasses
- Light layers for evenings in winter (January nights can be cold)
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Book Jaipur hotels
Heritage haveli hotels in the old city book up during Indian holiday seasons. Book ahead for October–February.
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