How To Spend 3 Days In Jaipur
Discover the best way to spend three days in Jaipur with our itinerary for top attractions, local food, and cultural experiences in the beloved Pink City of Rajasthan.
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a city that blends history, colour and craftsmanship. Nicknamed the Pink City for its distinctive rose-hued buildings, it’s home to grand forts like Amber, elaborate palaces such as the City Palace, and landmarks like the Hawa Mahal. Beyond the architecture, Jaipur is known for its bustling bazaars, where textiles, jewellery and handicrafts reflect the region’s artistic legacy.
With so much to see and do here, working out what to see and do with three days in Jaipur can easily feel overwhelming. The good news? It doesn’t have to be!
A burst of colour and chaos in the heart of Jaipur - the view over Gangori Bazaar captures the everyday rhythm of the Pink City.
Are three days enough for Jaipur?
Three days in Jaipur are enough to see the city’s main highlights at a comfortable pace. You can explore major sites like Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal, while still leaving time to browse local markets and enjoy Rajasthani cuisine.
With a bit of planning, it’s also possible to visit lesser-known spots such as the Royal Gaitor or stepwells like Panna Meena ka Kund. While the city has more to offer for those with extra time, a three-day visit provides a well-rounded introduction to Jaipur’s history, architecture and local life.
A riot of colour and intricate detail, Patrika Gate is one of Jaipur’s most photographed spots, where every arch tells a story of Rajasthan’s rich heritage.
How to plan your three day Jaipur itinerary
When planning three days in Jaipur, timing your visit is key. The city experiences extreme temperatures, with summers (April to June) often exceeding 40°C. For comfortable sightseeing, the cooler months between October and March are ideal. The winter season not only brings pleasant weather but also aligns with many festivals, offering a chance to experience Jaipur at its liveliest.
Organising your daily Jaipur itinerary by location can help you make the most of your time. For instance, start early one morning with Amber Fort, followed by nearby sites like Panna Meena ka Kund and Jal Mahal.
On another day, focus on the historic core of the city with visits to City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal, all within walking distance. This reduces time spent in traffic and ensures a more relaxed experience, but keep in mind that some of the best places to visit in Jaipur can get extremely busy, especially in high season (October to March).
Standing tall since the 18th century, Jaipur’s city walls frame the Pink City with history - a striking reminder of its planned design and royal past.
Day 1: Forts, Stepwells and City Views
Begin your journey with a morning visit to Amber Fort, one of Jaipur’s most impressive and widely visited landmarks. Set on a hilltop about 11km from the city, the fort is known for its imposing ramparts, mirror-adorned halls and courtyards with sweeping views. It’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds and the midday heat. On your way back, make a short stop at Panna Meena ka Kund, a symmetrical stepwell often overlooked by tourists. It’s a great spot for photographs and offers insight into traditional water architecture.
Continue towards the city, stopping for photos at Jal Mahal, the palace set in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Though you can’t go inside, the view from the promenade is striking, particularly in the soft morning or late afternoon light.
In the late afternoon, head to Nahargarh Fort, perched on the edge of the Aravalli Hills. It provides one of the best panoramic views of Jaipur, especially at sunset. The adjoining Padao Restaurant makes a good stop for drinks with a view. Return to the city for dinner – rooftop restaurants like The Terrace Grill or Bar Palladio offer atmospheric settings.
Day 2: Palaces, Markets and Culture
Start in the old city, with a visit to City Palace, which remains the residence of Jaipur’s royal family and features beautifully preserved courtyards, museums and artworks. Nearby is Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing a fascinating collection of astronomical instruments from the early 18th century.
Next, see the façade of Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), one of Jaipur’s most photographed landmarks. Built for royal women to observe street life unseen, its lattice windows catch the morning light beautifully. While the exterior is the main attraction, you can also go inside for views over the bustling bazaars below.
Spend the afternoon wandering Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, both known for jewellery, fabrics, and local handicrafts. This is also a good time to try some popular street snacks, such as kachoris or lassi, or stop at Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB) for a casual lunch.
In the evening, consider attending a cultural performance such as folk dance and music at Narain Niwas Palace or Dera Mandawa, or book a dinner with a local family for a more personal experience of Rajasthani hospitality.
Day 3: Museums, Temples and Hands-On Experiences
Begin your final day in Jaipur at the Albert Hall Museum, the city’s oldest state museum, set in the lush surroundings of Ram Niwas Garden. It features an eclectic mix of artefacts, from miniature paintings to Egyptian mummies.
Later, venture to Galtaji Temple, a peaceful yet lively temple complex nestled in the hills, known for its natural springs and large monkey population. If you’d rather stay in the city, opt for a visit to the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing near Amber, which showcases traditional textile crafts still practised today.
In the afternoon, take part in a block-printing workshop, cooking class, or even a turban-tying session! For those wanting a slower pace, book a high tea or late lunch at Rambagh Palace, once home to Jaipur’s maharajas.
Wrap up your visit with a film at the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema, a Jaipur institution known for its vintage interiors and energetic atmosphere - a uniquely local way to end your time in the Pink City!
Brightly dressed and full of character, Rajasthan’s Kathputli puppet dolls bring age-old storytelling traditions to life with every string and sway, and can be a great souvenir to take home after shopping in Jaipur.
Where are the best places to stay in Jaipur?
Jaipur offers a wide range of accommodation, from heritage properties to stylish boutique hotels. For a regal experience, staying at the Rambagh Palace or Rajmahal Palace lets you sleep in former royal residences with refined service and period charm.
Boutique options like Samode Haveli or 47 Jobner Bagh offer a quieter, more intimate stay while still showcasing traditional Rajasthani design. For travellers wanting modern comfort with local character, hotels like Alsisar Haveli and Dera Mandawa strike a balance between heritage and convenience
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