I think the beautiful ‘Pink City’ Jaipur is possibly my favourite city in the world. I had longed to visit this incredible place brimming with rich cultural heritage, chaos and colourful charm since my love affair with India itself began. I was a huge fan of the blog Hippie in Heels and I think her take on this region enticed me the most,
“Rajasthan= bright colours, sequined saris, orange turbans, sand, castles, forts, kings, royalty, busy bazaars and delicious spicy food made with desert chilis”. – SOLD
Why you should visit Jaipur.
So what is so special about this little jewel on Earth so far far away? Jaipur is the largest city in the state of Rajasthan and tourists are most attracted to its royal history, major tourist sights, palaces, forts, food, shopping and not only the colourful characters but its colourful PINK painted city too. Yes, the beautiful city of Jaipur earns its nickname ‘The Pink City’ from the whole city being painted pink in 1876 to welcome the British Royals. I mean, talk about hospitality!
Why you should source a local Tour Guide.
Jaipur is the most photogenic city in India and I recommend sourcing a local tour guide to show you exactly how to reach the photography spots. Not only is this beneficial as a solo traveller to feel comfortable travelling in this bustling city but the bonus is the chance to see the glorious Jaipur through the eyes of a local. I sourced Instagram for inspiration for my trip and was lucky to come across Air Bnb host and local tour guide, and now friend- Puneet Yadav. [IG: puneetyadav].
Between rugged, magnificent forts and fairytale palaces- just one day exploring Jaipur will more than likely be spent climbing to the very top of the fortresses at sunrise with your trainers [and your sweat] on and then twirling around in grandiose palaces in floaty dresses [or maybe that’s just me!]
I have compiled a list of the following 5 BEAUTIFUL PHOTO SPOTS IN JAIPUR!
- Nahargarh Fort
- Amber Fort
- Panna Meena ka Kund
- City Palace Jaipur
- Patrika Gate
Nahargarh Fort
There are two entrances to the most impressive Nahagarh Fort. The official vs the ‘off the beaten path’ route. The latter is reached by climbing [crawling] a rooked hill upwards adjacent to the Nahagarh Fort, hence having a local tour guide to make these beautiful photo spots more attainable to reach. Make sure to head to the official entrance before sunset to take photos as the gates close at 6pm. I’m not recommending to climb upon the Forts and stand [safety first?] if you don’t want to, however it does feel extremely liberating to climb high upon this magnificent structure and sit above the entire city of Jaipur. If you have the minerals to stand then I vote to GO FOR IT. As you can see from my photos- I didn’t quite pluck the courage to stand. I think the sheer image of me mounting the walls of this Fort in a dress was enough adventure for me!
Amber Fort
Opposite the official entrance to Amber Fort you can find another viewpoint where you will find one of the most beautiful spots to photograph at the Watch Tower. You will have to climb almost 300 steps to reach the top. Head to this spot at sunrise, set your alarm, pack your trainers and then flutter around barefoot taking in the most magical panoramic views of Jaipur and Amber Fort.
The cost to enter Amber Fort is approx $5 and it opens at 8am the entrance is hugely impressive and one of my favourite photo spots of Jaipur.
Panna Meena ka Kund
A short 10 minute walk from Amber Fort you will find this now famous stepwell, a once upon a time evening hangout for the locals of Jaipur. It is forbidden to take photographs here due to the large number of tourists flocking to this popular heritage site, with security regularly patrolling the area. However if you are lucky to visit when its empty, you can try to walk down and capture some photos. It is one of the most impressive sights of Jaipur despite it not being in use anymore.
City Palace Jaipur
There are beautiful photo spots in every inch of the intricately detailed, magnificent City Palace Jaipur. It is most beautiful place I have visited with an impressive blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. You will find a mix of various palaces [the current Royal Family of Jaipur still reside here], temples, gardens and rooms displaying history of the royal heritage.
The Patrika Gate
This hand painted colourful rainbow walkway in Jaipur is actually a rather grandiose entrance to the Jawar Circle Garden Park! The perfectly symmetrical and intricately detailed Patrika Gate is where you will find joggers and locals enjoying the beautiful garden- amongst the tourists and the ‘instagrammers’ [gosh I dislike that word but they are truly the ones up and out at 5am!]. I am not sure you could get a more beautiful photo spot in Jaipur, and this one is most definitely one for the ‘Gram!
The Patrika Gate is located a stone throw from the airport and approximately 25 minutes from the bustling Jaipur City. No entrance cost to neither the Patrika Gate nor the park.
I spent an incredibly insightful, eye opening experience visiting the magical Jaipur. As a solo traveler I was grateful to source the most amazing tour guide Puneet who showed me Jaipur through the eyes of a local, and captured so many incredible photographs, of the beautiful spots in Jaipur. It was the first trip I realised this is what I enjoy doing the most, travelling, connecting, creating and then sharing all my tips and tricks with you.
Up next: ‘The Benefits of Solo Travel’
Thank you for reading as always 🙂
Jess 🌟