Today’s blog post details a busy 2-day Jaipur itinerary.

Recently, I travelled to Rajasthan for a week-long road trip. This time, I visited Jodhpur and Jaipur.

I’ve already posted the Jodhpur travel guide and 24 hours in Jodhpur guide.

Initially, I was going to spend three days exploring Jaipur, but due to the oppressive heat, I managed to squeeze my itinerary within two days.

If you’re travelling to Jaipur, refer to my Jaipur travel guide.

For those who don’t have time to read the entire blog post, here’s a summary of my 2-day Jaipur itinerary.

DAY 1

• Enjoy breakfast at Tattoo Cafe opposite Hawa Mahal at 8 a.m. (1 hour)
• Panna Meena Kund at 9:30 a.m. (10 minutes)
• Shri Jagat Shiromani temple at 9:45 a.m. (15 minutes)
• Amer fort at 10:05 a.m. (2 hours)
• Lunch at GARH rooftop Cafe at 12:15 p.m. (1 hour)
• Jaigarh Fort at 1:40 p.m. (1 hour)
• Nahargarh Fort at 2:50 p.m. (1 hour)
• Jal Mahal at 4:20 p.m. (10 minutes)
• Gaitore ki Chattriya at 4:45 p.m. (30 minutes)
• Shopping at the different bazaars near Hawa Mahal at 5:45 p.m.
• Dinner at Kanha restaurant at 8:30 p.m.

DAY 2

• Patrika Gate at 8 a.m. (15 minutes)
• Marble Gate at 8:30 a.m. (10 minutes)
• Breakfast at Tapri Central at 9 a.m. (1 hour)
• City Palace at 10:20 a.m. (2 hours but 3 hours if taking the royal tour)
• Albert Hall Museum at 12:30 p.m. (2 hours)
• Lunch at Zarpar at 2:45 p.m. (1 hour)
• Galta Ji temple at 4:15 p.m. (1½hour)
• Dinner at Karims at 7 p.m.

Now for the elaborate 2-day Jaipur itinerary.

DAY 1:

BREAKFAST AT TATTOO CAFE AT 8 A.M.

Start the day bright and early. The first pit-stop on our busy 2-day Jaipur itinerary is the Tattoo Cafe.

The Tattoo Cafe rose to popularity almost overnight due to its location.

This rooftop cafe sits opposite the Hawa Mahal. Tourists come here to enjoy unhindered views of the Palace of Winds.

Have a hearty breakfast while enjoying views of the Hawa Mahal.

Arrive early to snag the best table in the house.

PANNA MEENA KA KUND AT 9:30 A.M.

Next, drive to Panna Meena Ka Kund, 30 minutes away.

Visitors often assume Amer Fort, Panna Meena Ka Kund, and Jaigarh Fort are in Jaipur. When, in fact, they are in Amer, a separate city, 30 minutes away.

Panna Meena Ka Kund is a step well or is locally known as Baori.

It is a beautiful step well that was once the sole water source for the people of Amer. Today, it is a tourist attraction.

Tourists aren’t allowed to descend the steps of the well.

I would have suggested visiting the Panna Meena Ka Kund after Amer Fort, but that’s not possible because there are separate entry and exit routes.

I didn’t know that, so I skipped the Kund and went to Amer Fort. Later, I realised that the road to the Baori was a one-way street. So, I had to walk there.

So, visit the Panna Meena Ka Kund first.

JAGAT SHIROMANI TEMPLE AT 9:45 A.M.

After Panna Meena Ka Kund, drive for two minutes to reach Jagat Shiromani Temple.

It is also known as the Meera Bai Jagat Shiromani.

I learned about this temple until I started researching about Jaipur. I’d seen some stunning photos of this temple on Pinterest and Instagram. Of course, I had to add it to my sightseeing list.

The Jagat Shiromani Temple worships Meera Bai, Lord Krishna, and Lord Vishnu.

When I came down, I realised the road to the Kund and Shiromani Temple was one way. I walked to the Kund, but the temple was a bit further.

Therefore, I advise stopping by the Jagat Shiromani Temple and Panna Meena Ka Kund en route to Amer Fort.

According to locals, the Krishna idol at Jagat Shiromani Temple is the same one that Meera Bai worshipped in Mewar. It was moved secretly to Amer during the war against the Mughals.

If you want eye-catching photos for your Instagram, don’t miss this place.

AMER FORT AT 10:05 A.M.

A 5-minute drive from Jagat Shiromani Temple is Jaipur’s main attraction, Amer Fort.

Amer Fort (Amber Fort) is known for its iconic zigzagging ramparts overlooking Maota Lake.

There are threeways to reach Amer Fort— walking up the ramparts, an elephant ride, or driving to the top.

I chose to drive because I was short of time. Also, it’s a long uphill walk.

Most tourists are unaware of a parking lot at the top of the fort, and private cars can go there. Don’t let the guides tell you differently.

Instead of walking, you can opt for the elephant ride. Remember that the rides are only till 11 a.m. and the queues are long.

After visiting the Mehrangarh in Jodhpur, I had high expectations for Amer Fort, so I was slightly disappointed when there wasn’t much at Amer Fort to explore.

Apart from the first zig-zag ramparts, Ganesh Pol, Sheesh Mahal and the garden, there wasn’t much to see.

It took me 1½ hours to explore the Amer Fort. However, if you choose walking or the elephant ride, you’ll need 2-3 hours.

LUNCH AT GARH ROOFTOP CAFE AT 12:15 P.M.

After walking and exploring Amer Fort, you’ll be hungry. You can eat at the restaurant at the fort, which is pricey, or drive down to GARH- a rooftop Cafe.

I haven’t eaten here, but the reviews are good, and it offers stunning panoramic views of Amer Fort.

They have an extensive menu of drinks, beverages, meals and more.

What better way is there to enjoy a delicious lunch?

I had taken a small snack break at Amer Fort before leaving, so I wasn’t hungry and headed to Jaigarh Fort.

Don’t skip lunch like I did because there aren’t many restaurants nearby. Jaigarh and Nahargarh Forts have a restaurant, but they aren’t anything special.

I skipped lunch and had to survive on snacks and cold drinks till I reached Jaipur for a late lunch.

After a delicious lunch, head to Jaigarh Fort, a 20-minute drive away.

JAIGARH FORT AT 1:40 P.M.

Jaigarh and Amer Forts were part of one complex and joined by secret underground tunnels. During the war, the royal family used these tunnels to move from one fort to another.

Besides being a defence fort, the Jaigarh Fort was the treasury of Amer Fort.

Locals believe the royals stored their treasure in hidden chambers under the rainwater reservoir.

There are several stories about the treasure but no concrete evidence.

Upon reaching the fort, I realised one could take their cars inside for a fee of Rs.100. Thanks to the ticket counter attendant.

The tales about the treasure are fascinating, but there isn’t much to see at Jaigarh Fort. Apart from the museum housing the royal armour and weapons, Jaivan Cannon and Garden, the fort is empty.

Drive to the bastion near the Jaivan Cannon, the biggest in the world.

Driving around Jaigarh Fort is a different experience, and I recommend it. Also, it saves time.

I only had two days in Jaipur, so it was advantageous.

One hour is ample time to explore the few things at Jaigarh Fort. Or you can skip this fort.

Jaigarh is the last must-visit place in Amer. It’s time to explore Jaipur.

NAHARGARH FORT AT 2:50 P.M.

A 10-minute drive from Jaigarh Fort is the stunning Nahargarh.

Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, in 1734, built the Nahargarh Fort, whose purpose was to serve as a retreat for the royal family.

Nahargarh Fort is home to a palace and suites.

Each suite is different and a must-visit.

Of all the three forts, Nahargarh was my favourite.

In all the Jaipur blogs, there was little information about Nahargarh Fort, or people had skipped this place. So, I had zero expectations for Nahargarh Fort. But I was pleasantly surprised.

It was as beautiful as — if not more— Amer Fort.

I loved walking around the various suites and enjoying the floral patterns on the walls.

If not for shortage of time, I would have liked to spend more time at Nahargarh Fort.

Most visitors skip the Nahargarh Fort. I advise not doing that.

Unlike Jaigarh Fort, cars aren’t allowed inside Nahargarh Fort. It is widespread, so you’ll be walking for a while.

JAL MAHAL AT 4:20 P.M.

We’ve spent the day exploring the royal residence, defence forts and the Hawa Mahal. It’s time to visit the Water Palace, Jal Mahal.

Sitting amidst the Man Sagar Lake is Jal Mahal. It appears to float on the water, but four of the five storeys are submerged.

Unfortunately, unlike other palaces, you can’t go to Jal Mahal but see it from the road.

Today, there’s a promenade along Man Sagar Lake, where visitors can enjoy views of Jal Mahal while dressing up in traditional Rajasthani clothes or munching on snacks.

You can visit the Jal Mahal anytime, but if you want to enjoy the promenade, late afternoon is ideal.

GAITORE KI CHHATRIYAN AT 4:45 P.M.

Up next is the Gaitore ki Chhatriyan, the last sightseeing stop for the first day.

A 10-minute drive from Jal Mahal is the Gaitore ki Chhatriyan or cenotaphs of the Kachwaha kings.

Jaipur’s founder and ruler, the Kachwaha King, Maharaja Jai Singh II, designated this site for cremating Kachwaha King.

The beautiful cenotaphs are a must-visit in Jaipur. Also, the Indo-Persian architectural themes are evident. It is worthwhile walking around and seeing the intricately carved designs of elephants, floral patterns, war scenes and more.

Compared to the other royal cenotaphs, Gaitore ki Chhatriyan is well-maintained.

I had to rush through my visit because they closed at 5 p.m.

SHOPPING AT DIFFERENT BAZAARS AT 5:45 P.M.

Just because sightseeing is over doesn’t mean the day has ended.

Every trip to a new destination is incomplete without shopping for local goods and souvenirs.

Johari Bazaar, Chaandpol Bazaar, Tripolia Bazaar, and Bapu Bazaar are within walking distance of Hawa Mahal.

The best way to reach the Bazaars is to take the auto because the chowks near the bazaars are busy and congested in the evening.

I was returning from sightseeing all day, and the bazaar was en route to my hotel. Going to the hotel and returning would have been a waste of time.

The only available parking was at City Palace, so from there, I walked to the market.

TRAVEL TIP:- Don’t forget to watch the Hawa Mahal lit up at 7 p.m.

DINNER AT KANHA RESTAURANT AT 8:30 P.M.

Kanha restaurant is a popular food chain in Jaipur.

I seldom dine at a pure veg restaurant, but this time I did.

Kanha restaurants are spread all over Jaipur. They offer everything from Pav Bhaji to chaats, breakfast, lunch, dinner menus and Chinese food.

The restaurants are often busy and have a waiting time.

DAY 2:

I have covered most of the attractions in Jaipur on the first day. That doesn’t mean the second day will be relaxed. No! You’ll be just as busy.

After all, you signed up for a busy 2-day Jaipur itinerary.

PATRIKA GATE AT 8 A.M.

After a good night’s sleep, wake up early and head to Patrika Gate.

What is Patrika Gate? It is a pink-coloured gate with the interior pillars painted in a rainbow of colours and patterns.

Photos of Patrika Gate popped up on my Instagram feed a few years back. Since then, I wanted to visit this beautiful place.

On this trip, I had the opportunity to cross it off my bucket list.

The Patrika Gate is in the park inside Jawahar Circle.

It is one of the most instagrammable places in Jaipur. Also, at 8 a.m., you’ll have the place to yourself.

MARBLE GATE AT 8:30 A.M.

Marble Gate is another stunning white gate in Jawahar Circle.

You can walk here from Patrika Gate. It is a 10-minute walk between the two gates.

The Marble Gate is more of a white holey wall. But just as beautiful.

BREAKFAST AT TAPRI CENTRAL AT 9 A.M.

I’m sure you’re hungry after all the walking and photoshoots. So, head to Tapri Central for a delicious breakfast.

As I stated earlier, my stay at Hyatt included breakfast. So, I had already eaten before heading to Patrika Gate.

I mean, who would be crazy enough to give up breakfast at a 5-star hotel?

Tapri Central was one of the places I wanted to visit in Jaipur. Since I didn’t get to go, you can tell me about your experience in the comments.

If you’re searching for a rooftop Cafe with aesthetic interiors and delicious food, head to Tapri Central.

CITY PALACE AT 10:20 A.M.

The City Palace’s purpose was administration. Today, it serves as the royal family’s residence and houses Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum.

Ideally, I would advise arriving at the City Palace a few minutes before opening.

Every corner of the City Palace is beautiful, but my favourites were the orangish-red-coloured Diwan-e-aam and the vibrant doors at Pritam Chowk.

Want to take photos at the doors without interruption? Pritam Chowk should be your first stop. Trust me, those doors are one of the instagrammable places in Jaipur.

During my visit, some sections of the City Palace were closed for filming. So I couldn’t see everything.

ALBERT HALL MUSEUM AT 12:30 P.M.

The Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur is Rajasthan’s oldest and best museum.

If possible, try to come here early in the morning and at night. It looks historical in the morning and shimmery in the evening.

Albert Hall Museum is stunning both inside and outside. It houses collections from Persia, Japan, Egypt and more. One could easily spend more than an hour walking around the galleries.

I didn’t know it reopened in the evening, or I would have visited it. Someone told me it closed at 5 p.m., so I took photos from the outside and left. 😐

I unknowingly skipped the Albert Hall Museum.

So, try not to repeat my mistake and visit this state museum.

LUNCH AT ZARPAR AT 2:45 P.M.

I’m sure you’re hungry after all the exploring and walking. I know just the place.

When I drove from Jodhpur to Jaipur, it was way past lunchtime. So, I stopped at the closest restaurant en route to my hotel. That was Zarpar restaurant.

The restaurant is on the 9th floor of a commercial building. I wasn’t expecting much based on the building’s exterior. Also, as I got off the elevator, I was greeted with sawdust and wooden panels.

But past the entrance, it was Kashmir. I mean, exactly that. It was like I had stepped into a houseboat on Dal Lake.

This Kashmir-inspired restaurant is not only beautiful, it also serves some delicious, finger-licking good food.

I dined here twice during my stay in Jaipur.

The only downside is finding a parking spot nearby is a task in itself.

If I had to recommend only one restaurant in Jaipur, it would be Zarpar.

GALTA JI TEMPLE AT 4:15 P.M.

It is the last attraction of the busy 2-day Jaipur itinerary.

Galta Ji temple is beautiful and has a rich history.

According to legend, a saint, Galtav, spent years doing tapasya, which pleased the gods. They blessed this place with sacred water.

The Galta Ji temple was built and named in his honour.

Galta Kund is the most photographed section of the temple complex.

I didn’t know about the Galta Ji temple until a few years ago when it became popular on Instagram.

It is another place that I missed. After a late lunch, I was heading to Galta Ji temple, and suddenly, the traffic was at a standstill.

I later learnt that a minister was arriving in Jaipur the following day. So, the roads were closed for a practice run.

It was past 5:30 p.m. when the traffic cleared. I didn’t want to visit this remote temple filled with monkeys in the evening.

DINNER AT KARIMS AT 7 P.M.

It is Karims, not to be confused with Kareem’s.

I decided to skip Galta Ji temple and return to the hotel.

I planned to go out for dinner, but when I checked the route on Google Maps, it showed congested. So, I decided to order from Zomato.

So, after contemplating for a while, I ordered Chicken curry and naan from Karims and biryani from Zarpar.

I thought Karims was Kareem’s and ordered from there. When the food arrived, I realised it was a different restaurant.

The food was delicious and savoury. So, it was all good.

There are two Karims (Vaishali Nagar and C scheme) in Jaipur, so you can visit the one closest to you or just order from Zomato like I did.

CONCLUSION

That brings us to the end of the busy 2-day Jaipur itinerary.

When I say busy, I do mean busy. I didn’t have enough time, so I had to squeeze all the sightseeing in two days. Yes, it was hectic, but so worth it.

You can spread this itinerary over three days.

Before I conclude the blog post, here’s a summary of my busy 2-day Jaipur itinerary.

Visit Hawa Mahal, Panna Meena Ka Kund, Amer Fort, Jagat Shiromani Temple, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Gaitore ki Chhatriyan and bazaars on the first day.

On the second day, explore the City Palace, Galta Ji temple, Albert Hall Museum, Patrika Gate and Marble Gate.

Well, I hope that was helpful. If you have any queries or suggestions, let me know in the comments.

I hope this ignites your wanderlust because

Rajasthan is a beautiful amalgamation of the old and new, the ancient and the modern.

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