Trip Overview:

For a detailed itinerary and accommodation  contact us.

Hello! I’m Anusha Sharma, a passionate traveller and food enthusiast from Jhansi. My work often limits my travel, but I never miss a chance to explore new places. Also, I try delicious vegetarian food.  Moreover, though I usually indulge in cooking. But this time I had the chance to embark on a spontaneous adventure.

Our recent mini-vacation to Jaipur was an unexpected delight. The trip was planned around an exam I had in the city, which also coincided with my brother’s birthday. What better way to celebrate than by exploring the Pink City?

We travelled by bus from Jhansi. Also, in just a few hours, we found ourselves in the vibrant streets of Jaipur.

Journey to Jaipur: A Grand Welcome to Jaipur

Due to a fully booked train from Jhansi to Jaipur, we opted for a bus through RedBus. It costing around ₹3,000 for three people (my mom, brother, and I). After plenty of research, I booked our stay at The Fern Residency in Janta Colony, which turned out to be a perfect choice for our 3-day trip in June. It cost us ₹10,000 for two nights, including breakfast, and was conveniently located near Bapu Bazaar and MI Road.

Day 1: Exploring Jaipur’s Majestic Forts

We boarded our bus on the night of the 21st and reached Jaipur by 8 AM on the 22nd. Since check-in at the hotel was only at 2 PM, we left our luggage in the cloakroom and set out for breakfast. A local auto driver recommended a charming little café called Gud-Mishri nearby. Their aloo paratha was heavenly!

After checking in and freshening up, we planned our Jaipur darshan. The hotel’s travel desk arranged a cab for us for ₹2,500 for the day, covering Amber Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Jal Mahal, and a government-run artisanal museum.

• Amber Fort: A stunning blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture, Amber Fort is an absolute masterpiece. From its beautifully designed Sheesh Mahal to the serene gardens, every corner spoke of Rajasthan’s royal history.
• Jaigarh Fort: Here, we marvelled at the world’s largest cannon. The views from the fort were breathtaking. We imagined what it it looks like to operate such a giant weapon.
• Nahargarh Fort: The Sheesh Mahal here was an absolute gem, and the view of the Aravali Range from the fort’s terrace was stunning. Don’t miss the quirky little first-floor space—I have a video of it! There’s also a wax museum and stepwells to explore.

After soaking in the history, we wrapped up our day with a sunset view at Jal Mahal.

Day 2: A Mix of Exams, Birthday Celebrations, and Chokhi Dhani

The second day began with my exam, which went smoothly. Post-exam, we visited Patrika Gate, an Instagram-worthy spot that’s even more stunning in person. For lunch, I had been looking forward to Café Palladio, but we accidentally ended up at Shikargarh Café instead. Though the café had a luxurious vibe with antique guns on display. The food was overpriced and underwhelming—a lesson learnt for sure!

Since its my brother’s birthday, I  planned a special dinner at Chokhi Dhani, a popular village resort showcasing Rajasthani culture. We hired a cab for ₹1,500, which took us to and from the venue. Chokhi Dhani was nothing short of magical. From folk dances and puppet shows to pottery, it offered an immersive experience of Rajasthan’s rich culture. A lovely traditional Rajasthani dinner was incredibly delicious. The portions are so plentiful that I almost cry trying to finish my plate. The entry cost was ₹900 per person, and I’d recommend it to anyone visiting Jaipur.

Day 3: Shopping, Mahal, and Goodbyes

On our last day, after enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Also, we checked out and left our luggage in the locker room for the day. First on the agenda was shopping at Bapu Bazaar, where I discovered my hidden bargaining skills! It was a fun spree, with plenty of shopping for everyone.

Next, we visited the iconic Hawa Mahal. My brother and I explored the palace while my mom rested outside. Built by a king for his queen, Hawa Mahal’s many windows (jharokhas) allowed royal women to observe the bustling life outside while adhering to the parda system. The structure is a true architectural marvel, and walking through its corridors felt like stepping back in time.

As our trip drew to a close, we returned to Gud-Mishri for a final meal before heading back to our bus. Tired yet satisfied, we made our way home with cherished memories of Jaipur.

Travel Tips for Jaipur:

• The best time to visit is from October to March for pleasant weather. However, if you’re visiting during the summer, stay hydrated with frequent water breaks.
• Also, make sure to pack comfortable footwear for walking, water bottles, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, a camera or smartphone for photos, and light snacks for sightseeing.
• To avoid last-minute hassles during peak season or weekends, pre-book your hotel and transportation.
• Opt for local autos, as drivers are often friendly and suggest great places to visit and eat.
• Don’t miss trying breakfast at Gud-Mishri Café, and for a traditional Rajasthani experience, visit Chokhi Dhani.
• For shopping, explore Bapu Bazaar and MI Road, and remember to bargain for the best deals.

Jaipur treated us with immense warmth and hospitality. The people we met were kind and helpful, the weather was ideal. Also, our stay at The Fern Residency was incredibly comfortable. Jaipur is a city full in history, and every visit here offers something new to discover.

Find inspiration for your next trip by delving into the enthralling travel tales waiting for you at https://sowl.in/stories.