Jaipur immediately conjures up an image of Maharajas, Mughals and mahals. Steeped in historical heritage and stupendous architecture, it offers a wildly paradoxical setting, with traces of modern, globalized India set in a backdrop of Hilltop Forts and glorious palaces. Top of the line cars pull up next to camel carts and waddling cows at red lights, probably on their way to a luxe hotel, built right next to a long abandoned Haveli.
The Pink City may attract visitors for a multitude of reasons - festivals, shopping, architectural splendor, a spot of a rich royal past or simply because it's so close to Delhi. Whatever your reason, we help you discover Jaipur as the gateway to Rajasthan, with all its eccentricities and offerings.
Click here to download and print the Little Black Book Jaipur edition.
ART, CULTURE AND A SPOT OF HISTORY
Nahargarh Fort image courtesy: en.wikipdia.org
Doll Museum | This one-of-a-kind museum, exclusive to Jaipur, exhibits cultures from all over the world via thousands of dolls. The Indian collection displays dolls in bridal wear, classical dance costumes, and traditional clothing. Apart from dolls, the museum also hosts a stunning collection of paintings, sculpture, pottery etc. Where: Albert Hall Museum, City Palace; Timings: 10am – 5pm
Jawahar Kala Kendra | An international art and culture center in Jaipur, the Jawahar Kala Kendra is an analogue of the original city plan of Jaipur, as conceptualized by the Maharaja, and each of the 9 blocks is based on attributes of one of the 9 planets. The massive complex houses museums, theatres, libraries, studios, an arts display room, as well as a cafeteria. Where: Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg; Entry: Free
City Palace | Located in the heart of Jaipur, the City Palace is where the erstwhile Maharaja reigned from. Although it’s been converted into a museum housing artifacts from medieval Jaipur, a part of it houses the current royal family. If you’ve always wondered how kings and queens lived, the City Palace is a must-visit. Where: J.D.A. Market, Pink City; Entry: INR 75 {Indians}, INR 300 {Foreign Nationals}
Jaigarh | One of the three hilltop forts nestled in Jaipur, Jaigarh offers a panoramic view of the entire city. Inside, you will find an armory, a museum, the assembly hall of warriors, as well as the palace complex. It is also famous for housing the world’s largest canon on wheels. Where: 4 km from Amer fort; Entry: INR 25 {Indians}, INR 75 {Foreign Nationals}
Nahargarh Fort | Perched at the edge of the Aravali Hills, Nahargarh Fort, also known as Tiger Fort, serves as an ideal location to watch the sun set. We recommend you make your way up to the top of Nahargarh Fort and settle yourself in one of the gazebos at the charming, open-air restaurant – Café Padao. Entry: INR 10 {Indian}, INR 50 {Foreign Nationals}
Jantar Mantar | Part of a series of 5 observatories built in medieval India, the Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is considered the largest, housing on its premises the world’s largest sundial. Where: Near City Palace, Tripolia Bazar; Entry: INR 40 {Indian} INR 200 {Foreign Nationals}
Amer Fort | Situated 11 km from Jaipur City, the Amer Fort sits atop a hill and showcases a stunning amalgam of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Built in red sandstone and marble, it has beautiful paintings and intricate carvings depicting medieval India. Where: 11 km from Jaipur; Entry: INR 25 {Indian} INR 200 {Foreign Nationals}
Dera Amer | Situated behind the hills of the famous Amer Fort, Dera Amer is located at the foothills of the Aravali Range and surrounded by the wilderness of a reserved forest. It offers fun recreational activities including Elephant Polo {pre-booking advised}, apart from provisions for all meals. Where: it's located 20-25 mins out of Jaipur; book in advance! Details on their website: www.deraamer.com
Walled City | A walk through the Walled City will take you back through the ages as, inside the little known lanes, the old ways of life continue uninterrupted. From women bargaining over saris and old men smoking their hookahs, to pops of color in the form of traditional art and craft, this walk will be worth your while at the least, and enlightening at the most.
Right opposite Hawa Mahal, you will find a middle-aged, toothy gentleman with a rickety, vintage, tripod camera. Tikam Chand has carried forward his family’s legacy of over two generations - using what is now a 150-year-old camera to take beautiful vintage-style pictures of anyone who’s been lucky enough to spot him. It’s well worth the wait {the instrument takes time to develop}, as the final product makes for a lovely souvenir to take back home. As a special treat for our readers - you can call Tikam Chand at +91-9828072800/ 9324715885.
Raj Mandir Cinema Hall | The Raj Mandir Cinema, a meringue-shaped cinema hall that opened in 1976, continues to run till today. From its stunning chandeliers, to the royal pink décor and opulence it is now synonymous with, this hall is considered India’s equivalent of the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California. Where: B-16, Panch Batti, Bhagwan Das Road; Entry: INR 50-110
Ishwar Lat | Swarg Suli or Heaven Piercing Minaret, this tower near Tripolia gate, built by Maharaja Ishwari Singh, offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city. Where: Tripolia Bazar, Pick City; Timings: Open 24 hours
Anokhi Museum of Hand Block Printing | Dedicated to the collection, preservation and interpretation of block printed cloth, exhibits and educational programming give you an insight into this ancient craft. After a museum visit, pop in to the Anokhi Café located in the museum forecourt. Where: Sagar Road, new Kheri Gate. Amber, Jaipur; Timings: Tuesday-Saturday, 10.30am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-4.30pm
Step Well {Panna Meena Ka Kund} | A step well 100 metres before the Anokhi Museum, it's been featured on the Amazing Race Australia! Sneak a peek on your way to the museum.
Ram Niwas Bagh and Zoo | Built so that the Central Museum {Albert Hall} would be surrounded by greenery, the Ram Niwas Garden houses several cafes, a bird park, the Ravindra Rang Manch Theater and Jaipur’s oldest Zoo. A lush green garden in the middle of the Pink City, it’s a welcome change from all the at-times overwhelming forts and palaces. Where | Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur; Timings | Friday, 10am- 5pm. Although the gardens are free and open to public seven days a week, the Zoo has an entry fee and is closed on Tuesdays.
Shree Sanjay Sharma Memorial Museum | Home to an array of artifacts, you can expect to find more than 100,000 different manuscripts, and a wealth of folk and miniature paintings. Where | 1670 Maniharon Ka Raasta; Timings | 9.00-5.00 pm, open seven days a week
Elefun | An elephant sanctuary in Jaipur, Elefun is devoted to creating a safe and natural environment for Elephants. You get to learn about their basic food habits, life and traditional decoration. Bathe them, feed them or just water them; Elefun allows you to watch them in their natural habitat and, for animal-lovers, interact with this gentle giant! Where: Narsingh Colony, Ward No 1, Amer, Jaipur; FB page here; Website here
Albert Hall Museum | The oldest Jaipur museum, it’s located in Ram Niwas Bagh and also goes by the name Central Museum. It’s a life size example of Indo-Saracenic architecture {an architectural style movement by British architects in the late 19th century}. Dedicated to promoting and preserving the local art and craft of Jaipur, it houses a rich collection of artifacts like paintings, carpets, ivory, stone, metal sculptures and colorful crystal works. Where: Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur; Timings: Open 7 days a week, 10am-5pm
Galtaji | If you’re in the mood for a mini road trip, Galtaji is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site about 20 km from Jaipur city. Built within a mountain pass, you’ll get to see several temples and sacred kunds {water tanks} that pilgrims bathe in. Rumor has it a saint named Galav lived here, practiced the art of meditation and served penance. The temple is also known for its natural water springs. Where: 10 km from Jaipur, Jaipur-Agra Highway, near Sisodia Rani ka Bagh
Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh | Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh had a royal garden constructed for his second wife, his beloved queen, complete with foliage, fountains, pavilions and galleries. You’ll find a lot of pictorial representations of Radha-Krishna’s love story; the garden was built as a testament of his eternal love. Second time lucky? There’s hope for most of us. Where: 10 km from Jaipur city, Jaipur-Agra highway; Timings: 8am-6pm
Birla Planetarium | Remember school trips to Nehru Planetarium? Ditch the Milton bottles and visit the Jaipur version. It holds regular sky shows, propagates basic concepts of astronomy and also focuses on the evolution of earth and the exploration of Mars and other planets. For a day of science or to reminisce about Rachel and Ross’ first date, Birla planetarium should be on your itinerary. There’s also a science museum as an added incentive. Where: Statue Circle, C Scheme, Jaipur; Show Timings: 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm, 6pm and 7pm {all shows are in Hindi}
EATING OUT | RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND BARS
Choki Dhani Village image courtesy: www.indialine.com
Dragon House | With red and gold décor, The Dragon House will compel you to order their Dimsums, the Master Blaster Chicken, and the Fish Shirgi. This is where you want to satiate your Chinese cravings. Where: Hotel Country and Suites; Price Range: Moderate
Chokhi Dhani Village | What can we say about this venue that hasn’t already been said in any and every guide book. What we will tell you though is to not be put off by the overly-touristic vibe, and make the drive here for authentic Rajasthani cuisine. The warm Rajasthani hospitality comes replete with staff in colorful turbans, camel rides, and folk singers and dancers, all in a thematic village setting. Where: 12 Miles Tonk Road, Via Vatika Jaipur; Price Range: Budget
Dasaprakash | Opened in 1979 at the Ambassdor Hotel {now part of Taj Vivanta}, New Delhi, Dasaprakash used to be a family ritual - our weekly fix of authentic South Indian dosas and thalis. They shut shop here and opened in Jaipur and though the ambience of the Jaipur outlet lacks the class and feel of its Delhi predecessor, it retains the awesome taste. Where: 5, Kamal Mansions, MI Road; Price Range: Budget
Handi | Expect to enter an intriguing set up - a thatched-tent-like-roof, low-hanging Rajasthani lamps, and those ubiquitous Rajasthani bird/puppet danglers. The village décor aside, this place is a must-visit for what is, quite possibly, the best lal maas in the city. Also good for other Indian food, be sure to drop in if you’re craving rich, spicy Rajasthani cuisine, in the heart of the city. Where: Opposite GPO, MI Road ; Price Range: Budget
Rawat Mishtan Bhandar | We were first introduced to Rawat’s kachori by a friend who carted some all the way from Jaipur and ever since, we make it a point to stop here on every visit to Jaipur. Where: Polovictory Cinema, Railway Station Road, Sindhi Camp, Jaipur; Price Range: Budget
1135 AD | When in Jaipur, dine like a Maharaja {or Maharani} at this uber-fancy restaurant, located right within the fortified confines of the Amber Fort. Luxurious and romantic, this grand venue features pure silver crockery, sparkling chandeliers, a recast roof with glass inlay and gold leaf motifs, and regal furniture with silver-plated armrests. The perfect combination of grandeur and great food. Where: 1135 AD, Amber Palace, Amber City, Jaipur; Price Range: Expensive
Peshawri | Jaipur’s version of Delhi’s Bukhara, Peshawri is a classic, and will transport you to a village in Punjab once you taste the Dal Bukhara, Butter Chicken and Kebabs. Where: ITC Rajputana Hotel; Price Range: Expensive
Kasbah | While Kasbah offers a host of cuisines, we especially recommend their Lebanese menu. Where: Country Inn and Suites, Mirza Ismail Rd, Gopalbari, Jaipur; Price Range: Expensive
3 D’S | North Indian, Chinese and Italian cuisine, mix and match a meal at 3 D’s with a side order of a spectacular view. On the slight downside, the service is a bit slow, so go if you have a few hours to kill… the view is worth it. Where: A 2, 8th and 9th floor, Corporate Tower, Near Jawahar Circle, Malviya Nagar; Price Range: Moderate
Spice Court | A multi-cuisine joint, Spice Court is Jaipur’s poster-boy for lal and jungle maas done right. If dining out at night, choose to sit in their outdoor section. Rajasthani folk dances and puppet shows add a dash of culture and entertainment. Where: Hari Bhawan, Achrol House, Jacob House, Jaipur; Price Range: Moderate to Expensive
Okra | A Marriott hotel restaurant, Okra is a modern, all-day dining gastronomical delight. For a switch up from traditional Rajasthani food, sample their wood-fired oven pizza and exhaustive buffet spread. Where: Near Ashram Marg, Jawahar Circle, JLN Marg; Price Range: Moderate to Expensive
Giardino | Another hotel offering, this one is at the Jai Mahal Palace. Sit by the poolside in a charming Italian eatery, set in a red brick courtyard. Giardino has an open kitchen, which makes for a more interactive experience. Where: Jacob Road, Civil lines, Jaipur; Price Range: Expensive
Lakshmi Mishtan Bhandar {LMB} | An iconic Jaipur hotel, restaurant and sweet shop, it was established in 1954 and is said to be Jaipur’s first three star hotel. It's come to be most famous for its food and traditional mithai shop. Sample the sweet lassi before you move on to their version of the traditional Rajasthani thali. A winner if you’re looking for a breakfast/brunch option. Where: Johari Bazar, Jaipur; Price Range: Moderate
Jammie’s Kitchen | Jammie’s bridges the gap between pricey hotel restaurants and moderately priced dining options. Their choice of seafood, especially the fish, comes highly recommended and can be enjoyed under giant white umbrellas or canopies in the outdoor. Where: 52, Green Park, Queens Road; Price Range: Moderate to Expensive
Taruveda Bistro | From a collection of luxury lifestyle brands for sale, to promoting organic living, and a bistro offering world cuisines, Taruveda offers an experience that is beyond just a meal. From coffee to sushi, if you’re a true foodie, this is your best bet to choose from a wide range of flavors and classic dishes done to perfection. Where: 1st Floor, Sunraj Villa, 2 Mysore House, Jacob Road, Civil Lines; Price Range: Moderate
Nataraj | Multi-cuisine like most Jaipur restaurants, ravish their version of the traditional Rajasthani Gatta Curry, a local staple you have to try! Where: Panch Batti, MI Road; Price Range: Moderate
Cafés
Anokhi Café | You can’t go wrong with this firang-favourite; organic, wholesome, freshly prepared food, served in a charming, sunlit, tourist-packed space. Small but cute, with a thatched roof and ‘mooda’ seats – this is the best place to curl up with a book, or catch up on work using their free wifi. Where: C 11, 2nd Floor, KK Square, Prithviraj Road, Jaipur; Price Range: Budget
Tapri Café | Stocked with over 100 varieties of tea, this modern ‘chai ki dukaan’, frequented by Jaipur’s youth, provides an ideal ambience to unwind after a busy day. Where: 43, Everest Colony, Lal Kothi, Tonk Road; Price Range: Budget
On The House Bistro & Bakery | One of the hidden gems of Jaipur and popularly known as ‘OTH’, this bistro and bakery is as good as the show with the same abbreviation. Located in the heart of the city but devoid of parking issues, OTH has a diverse menu, with pastas, pizzas, breads, eggs benedict et all. Where: Ramesh Marg, Behind Talwalkars, C Scheme, Ashok Nagar; Price Range: Budget
Dzurt Patisserie and Café | Over dosed on kaju barfis and gulab jamuns? This little French patisserie serves Cheesecake, Crème Brulee and Croissants – just the break you might be looking for. Tip – Google map your way here. Where: Achrol House, Jacob road, Civil Lines; Price Range: Budget
Ambika Café | Run out of a private garden, the café has an intimate, cozy vibe. Their menu is mostly Mediterranean, with a strong Portuguese influence, given the owner’s husband’s Portuguese bloodline. A great fit for winter brunches or early breakfasts, try their Tapas menu for an interesting fusion flavour and enjoy the free wifi. Where: C-82 B Chaitanya Marg, C-Scheme, Jaipur; Price Range: Moderate
Bars
The Forresta Kitchen and Bar | Looking to have a night free from the city’s hustle bustle? This serene kitchen-bar is your answer. Where: Devraj Niwas, Near Moti Mahal Cinema, Bani Park; Price Range: Moderate
The Polo Bar, Rambagh Palace | This aptly named bar is bedecked with the sport’s memorabilia and serves up single malts, wines, liqueur and Cuban cigars. Perfect for when you want to make a post-festival chukker. Where: Polo Bar, Rambagh Palace, Bhawani Singh Road, Jaipur; Price Range: Expensive
Ta Blu, Hotel Clarks, Amer | A popular rooftop restaurant, the open blue sky, eclectic décor, live acts and extensive drinks menu make it perfect for a romantic evening. Chances of you running into the who’s who of the Pink city are pretty high. Where: Ta Blu, Rooftop, Hotel Clarks Amer, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Near Bajaj Nagar, Jaipur; Price Range: Moderate
Steam | A lounge bar quite unlike any other, this restored steam engine, complete with a recreated Victorian style station offers a great selection of liquors. We love their wood-fired Italian crust pizzas. Where: The Rambagh Palace, Jaipur; Price Range: Expensive
100% Rock {Erstwhile ‘TC’} | A franchise of the well-loved Adchini {Delhi} bar, 100% Rock is the only place in Jaipur that plays a good selection of rock music and, as an added bonus, offers a greater variety of cuisines than its Delhi counterpart. Where: R 14, Yudhishthir Marg, Opposite Deer Park, Ashok Nagar, C Scheme; Price Range: Moderate
Lounge 18 | A well-stocked bar, skilled {lady} bartenders, leather upholstered couches you can sink into, and delicious cocktails – Lounge 18 in Jaipur’s Marriot hotel is perfect for some Friday night shenanigans. Where: Hotel Marriot, Tonk Road; Price Range: Moderate
Henry’s | Henry’s offers the ambience of a classic English pub, with its wooden floors, walls and selection of draught beer. Where: Hotel Park Prime, Prithviraj Road; Price Range: Expensive
Wassup | The décor of Wassup will take you on a trip to the Amazon forests - a structure reminiscent of a tree-house, surrounded by greenery. That, and plenty of cocktails and starters. Where: 4 Bhawani Singh Road, Near MGF Mall C-Scheme, Jaipur; Price Range: Moderate
Street Food
Lassiwala | The real Lassiwala is very hard to locate due to imitation lassiwalas having set up shop {rather shamelessly} all over Jaipur. LBBD insider info – the real deal is ‘Shop 312’, and rest assured, lassi in clay handis from Lassiwala at 312 will not disappoint. Be sure to get there early though, as they only serve till stocks last. Where: Shop 312, MI Road, Ashok Nagar; Price Range: Budget
Mamu’s | Having undergone a transformation from the time it was established in the 90s, Mamu’s is now a household name, with people of all ages flocking here for coffee and the extensive menu which includes Italian, Mexican, Chinese and Continental food. Where: Shop No. 9, Block 0, Ashok Marg, C Scheme; Price Range: Budget
Aunty’s Café | This is an Indian street food haven with a diverse menu ranging from chola bhatura and dosa to American chopsuey. Like any street-side restaurant, this is not for the faint stomached. If you’re a seasoned roadside eater, knock yourself out. Where: Nigam Chaat Bazar, Sarojini Marg, MI Road; Price Range: Budget
Pandit Pav Bhaji | Make a trip to Birla Mandir, and you’ll see a line of Pav Bhaji walas across the road. You’re spoilt for choice here, because they’re all fairly good. Where: Opposite Birla Mandir, Jawahar Circle Garden; Price Range: Budget
Kiran’s Gol Gappas | No trip to anywhere in India is complete without gol gappas, so whatever you call them in your part of town, make your way to Kiran’s for some spicy, flavorful ones. Where: Opposite Rajput Sabha Bhawan, Bhagwan Das Road; Price Range: Budget
Pyaz ki Kachori | Steaming hot pyaz ki kachoris are sold at almost every sweet shop across Jaipur, and this signature dish is a must-try. We suggest you stop by the Rawat Mishthan Bhandar for some delicious kachoris. Where: Adjacent Polo Victory Cinema near the Railway Station; Price Range: Budget
NOTE | Budget: INR 100-300 {approx} per head; Moderate: INR 400-600 {approx} per head; Expensive: INR 800-1500 {approx} per head
WELLNESS
Rambagh Golf Course image courtesy: golfgaga.com
Tree of Life Resort and Spa | In addition to 6 outdoor swimming pools, Tree of Life Resort & Spa in Jaipur features a restaurant, a full-service spa, and a poolside bar. With a mountain view, standard services include massages, facials, body wraps and body scrubs, and a variety of treatment therapies. Where: Kancherwal Kukas
Rambagh Golf Course | This 18 hole golf course is extremely picturesque, with a view of the Rambagh Palace Hotel and Nahargarh Fort in the distance. Centrally located and easily accessible, this golf course traces its roots back to when Maharani Gayatri Devi coaxed her father, the Maharaja, to build her a personal golf course. Where: Bhagwant Das Road, Rambagh
Ashok Club | Under the patronage of the Maharaja himself, the Ashok Club offers facilities for swimming, lawn tennis, squash, badminton, croquet, table tennis, billiards, and a card room. A little birdie tells us that the must-try here is the Chilli Chicken. Where: Opposite Secretariat, Bhagwan Das Road
Cambay Golf Resort | Spread over 1,61,869 square metres, this extremely upscale property hosts on its premises a 9-hole golf course, a spa built over 2,800 square metres {the largest such facility in Rajasthan}, a health club, a swimming pool, air hockey and multi-cuisine restaurants. Where: Jaipur Agra Highway, Jamdoli, Jaipur
Amritam Yoga Studio | An integrated and holistic Yoga Studio, Amritam provides a serene, homely and ashram like atmosphere. They provide personalized yoga menus and offer customized yoga practices based on your body’s conditions, needs and requirements. Where: 4th Floor, Evershine Tower, Amrapali Cirle, Vaishali Nagar
SHOPPING | FASHION & DÉCOR
Soma image courtesy: www.anniefitzsimmons.com
Taruveda | An extension of the Taruveda Café, Taruveda’s a lifestyle store housing Balinese furniture, art and curios. They also have an in-house wellness brand 'Omved' and clothes by some select designers. The owners Sudeep and Anvita Mehta are very hospitable and helpful. Where: 1st Floor, Sunraj Villa, 2 Mysore House, Jacob Road, Civil Lines
Ambika Concept | All their clothes are manufactured in India, so no made in China tags! The style is boho-chic, combining eastern design influences with western cuts and styles. Where: C-82 B Chaitanya Marg, C-Scheme, Jaipur
Kalee | As the name suggests, their inspiration comes from Goddess Kali and focuses on all aspects of the female form. Run by sister duo Ritu and Ruchi, it is a multi brand store; Ritu does Indian wear under the label of Ritu Jain Singh and Ruchi does eclectic western wear under the label of Crazy Heart. Where: B-42, Lalkothi, Sahakar Marg, Jaipur; FB Page here
Alter Ego | Fashion- aware and right on trend, Alter Ego is a one-stop shop for all style needs. The owner Vijayeeta is very friendly, and doubles as a stylist for almost any occasion. Where: P11, Prestige Apartments, Sahdev Marg, Near Ashok Nagar Police Station, C-Scheme, Jaipur
A & K Furniture and Design | A furniture store run by actor/model Rishi Miglani, A & K is one of the most reputed outlets for furniture and interior design. They promise good quality and seasoned teakwood furniture, and what stands out is the craftsmanship and finish of their product. Where: 39, Girnar Colony, Vaishali Nagar, Jaipur
Soma | Soma, as a fashion, home ware and lifestyle brand, has managed to preserve and promote an ancient craft: block printing. Made with care and careful technique, their range is always evolving and maintains excellence consistently. Where: A-5 Jamnalal Bajaj Marg, C-Scheme, Jaipur; FB Page here
Pratap Sons | Jaipur's Ushnak Mal equivalent, Pratap Sons must feature on every Jaipur shopping guide. They house wedding wardrobe essentials - lehengas, saris, suit pieces, silks and indo-western wear - and judging from the rate at which weddings appear on our social calendars, Pratap Sons may jump to the top of your list. Where: SB-39, Rambagh Circle, Tonk Road, Jaipur and Saraogi Mansion, M.I. Road, Jaipur
Swati Ubroi | A gota patti specialist, Swati’s intricate and neat work is unparalleled. She uses a lot of gota applique work, tara kaam and chord work, set on gorgeous pastel shades and standout pop colors. A word of caution: set timelines can be a bit of an issue, so we suggest advance orders and a lot of following up. Where: C-25 Bhagwandas Road, C-Scheme, Jaipur
Johri Bazar | Famous, crowded and confusing; brave the shoppers to look for colorful lehengas, and saris in bhandej and bandhini. For saris try Rooplaxmi, Rana Sari Emporium and Jaipur Sari Kendra. The smaller lanes in Johri Bazaar house the original jeweler workstations or gaddis and have a lot of outlets for gold, silver and studded jewelry. Also at Johri Bazaar - Jaipuri quilts {rajais} which, it is safe to say, we all own one of.
Bapu Bazar | A tourist hotspot, it’s a treasure trove of typical Jaipuri associations - juttis, Jaipuri bed sheets, soft furnishings and readymade suits. Perfect to buy gifts and souvenirs, since it’s reasonably priced and representative of Jaipur.
Tripolia Bazar and Chaura Rasta | For utensils, textile, ironware and trinkets. Step into the side lanes to be able to catch a glimpse of local artisans at work.
World Trade Park | A multi-level business-cum-shopping center, it’s a Delhi Mall counterpart. Although you may not be able to reconcile going to a mall in Jaipur, it houses all the big brands and is your safety net, incase your airline lost your baggage or you had some other stroke of bad luck. Where: JLN Road, Jaipur City
Amrapali | Indulge in the cult that is Amrapali when in their hometown! Much larger, and better decorated and stocked than its counterparts in other cities, the original Amrapali store is a must-visit for beautiful jewelry made with precious and semi-precious stones, even if you aren’t looking to buy anything. Where: Panch Batti, M.I.Road, Jaipur {huge store situated right at the traffic intersection}
Miss India | Cutlery, show pieces, large matkas, figurines, glasses, furniture, antiques, and a massive range of jewelry - the store is perfect if you’re in the market for pure silver. Where: MI Road, Ghat Darwaza, Jaipur {opposite the Forest Essentials store on MI Road}
Juttis at the Old City | Within the Old City’s fortified walls you will find hordes and hordes of the stunning juttis that Jaipur is famous for. Wear them with a salwar-kameez or with jeans – they look equally chic.
Zarri Gota by Sandhya Dilip | We spotted Zarri Gota’s beautiful gota-patti work at an exhibition in Delhi, and vowed to look them up when we visited Jaipur. Vibrant colours, intricate work, well-fitting outfits - it's no wonder they have a long waiting list of clients. Book in advance! Where: Call for an appointment at +91-98293 70616 or visit P-12 Goverdhan Kripa Building, Sahdev Marg, C-Scheme, Jaipur
Anokhi | Anokhi’s products - clothing, home décor, tableware, stationery, jewelry - attract people from all over the world. Their vibrant range has beautiful cuts and they’ve also introduced kids wear. Another must-visit - the café, for after you’re done shopping. Where: B2, Ram Nagar Shopping Centre, Shastri Nagar; 2, Tilak Marg, Secreteriat, C Scheme; Ghat Ki Guni, Jaipur
Saffron by Nidhi Tholia | Every wedding-shoppers paradise, Nidhi Tholia’s anarkalis, saris and lehengas are a trousseau staple. Her use of bright neon fabrics, intricate work and precision of fit is what sets her apart. Where: C 72 sarojini marg, C Scheme, Jaipur
Benu Bhatnagar | Benu Bhatnagar is known the world over for her exquisite gota-patti work, and Jaipur is where all the magic happens! Where: 52, Jaipur GPO
For contemporary Indian clothing, you can also have a look at |
Cotton’s | Kalyan Kunj, 17 Civil Lines
Fasateen | Basement, C-12/103, Prithviraj Apartment, Prithviraj Road, C-Scheme
Hot Pink | Narain Niwas Palace, Kanotha Bagh, Narain Singh Road
Sikar House | 11 Prithviraj Road
Ratan Textiles for home linen | Papriwal Cottage, Ajmer Road
Gem Palace | From antique jewels from the coffers of Maharajas, to contemporary designs studded with precious gemstones, this shop has it all. Where: MI Road
Jewels Emporium | Jewels Emporium emphasizes on creativity and attention to detail. Their jewelry is all hand made. Where: MI Road
For local handicrafts and Jaipur knick-knacks |
Juttis | Ramganj Bazar
Tie and dye textiles | Kishanpol Bazar
Lac bangles | Maniharon ka Rasta
Carpets | Achrol House, Subhash Chowk
Marble carvings | Khajano ka Rasta
Block printing, hand-made paper and blue pottery | Sanganer village
STAY
Royal Heritage Haveli | A beautiful heritage haveli-turned-hotel with a pool and spa, fantastic service and great food. Check out their website here.
Castle Kanota | A heritage resort, it has a museum and a library, and offers various activities. More, on their website here.
Arya Niwas | Great value for money, it offers basic rooms and is conveniently located. Details on their website, here.
Suryaa Villa | A heritage property, it is well-located and has tariffs that suit different budgets. Find out more on their website, here.
Tree House | Hot showers, LCD TVs, Satellite TV, Minibar and wifi connection- yes, you get all the luxe amenities while perched atop a tree house. It's been voted as one of the best eco-hotels in India; Find out more, here.
Click here to download and print the Little Black Book Jaipur edition.
