Ultimate 2 Day Jaipur Itinerary: Forts, Palaces & Local Culture

Ultimate 2 Day Jaipur Itinerary: Forts, Palaces & Local Culture

Quick Summary

12 min read
Best For
Weekend travelersHistory buffsPhotography enthusiasts
Difficulty
Easy
Budget (2 days)
₹5,000 - ₹10,000
Best Season
October, November, February, March
Highlights
  • Complete Amber Fort exploration
  • Sunset at Nahargarh Fort
  • Pink City walking tour
  • Traditional bazaar shopping
  • Royal City Palace experience
  • Sound & Light show option
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Two days in Jaipur hits the sweet spot between thoroughness and efficiency. This itinerary separates the hilltop forts from the Pink City attractions, allowing you to fully immerse in each area without rushing.

Day 1 takes you through the majestic forts surrounding Jaipur - Amber, Jaigarh, and Nahargarh - culminating in a spectacular sunset. Day 2 explores the heart of the Pink City, from royal palaces to bustling bazaars. You'll leave with a complete picture of Jaipur's royal heritage and vibrant culture.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

40 km
4 stops
₹2,500 - ₹5,000

Explore Jaipur's impressive hilltop fortresses. Start with the crown jewel Amber Fort, continue to Jaigarh for the massive cannon, and finish at Nahargarh for an unforgettable sunset over the Pink City.

8:30 AM3 hours

Amber Fort (Amer Fort)

Must See

Begin at Amber Fort when it opens. Take your time exploring all the courtyards, the stunning Sheesh Mahal, Ganesh Pol gate, and the women's quarters. Hire a guide for the fascinating history.

Details
  • Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Entry: Indians ₹100, Foreigners ₹500 (Camera: ₹200)
  • Best Time: Early morning (8-10 AM) to avoid crowds
Nearby Food
  • 1135 AD (inside fort, fine dining)
  • Rajput Room
  • Local street food at Amer town

Pro Tips

  • Spend at least 2.5-3 hours here
  • The Sheesh Mahal sparkles when you shine a light
  • Don't miss the stepped tunnel to the lake

Amber Fort (Amer Fort)

Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001

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UNESCOFortArchitecturePhotography
12:00 PM20 minutes

Jal Mahal

Must See

Stop at Jal Mahal for photos. The midday light creates beautiful reflections on the lake.

Details
  • Hours: Daily, Viewable 24/7
  • Entry: Indians Free (viewing), Foreigners Free (viewing)
  • Best Time: Sunset
Nearby Food
  • Street food vendors
  • Restaurants on Amer Road

Pro Tips

  • Quick photo stop - 15-20 minutes
  • Great spot for a refreshing nimbu pani from vendors

Jal Mahal

Amer Road, Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur

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PalaceLakePhotographyScenic
2:00 PM1.5 hours

Jaigarh Fort

Explore the Fort of Victory, connected to Amber Fort by underground passages. See the world's largest cannon on wheels - Jaivana - and enjoy views back to Amber Fort.

Details
  • Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Entry: Indians ₹85, Foreigners ₹300
  • Best Time: Morning (before noon)
Nearby Food
  • Bring snacks
  • Restaurants in Amer town

Pro Tips

  • The cannon is truly massive - don't miss it
  • Walk the ramparts for panoramic views
  • Less crowded than Amber Fort

Jaigarh Fort

Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur

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FortMilitaryHistoryViews
4:30 PM2.5 hours

Nahargarh Fort

Must See

End Day 1 at Nahargarh Fort for the famous sunset views. Watch the Pink City transform as golden hour light bathes the landscape. Have dinner at Padao Restaurant.

Details
  • Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Entry: Indians ₹50, Foreigners ₹200
  • Best Time: Sunset (arrive by 4 PM)
Nearby Food
  • Padao Restaurant (inside fort)
  • Nahargarh Haveli

Pro Tips

  • Arrive by 4:30 PM to explore before sunset
  • Best sunset views from the restaurant terrace
  • Pre-book your taxi back to avoid getting stranded

Nahargarh Fort

Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur

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FortSunsetViewsPhotography

Where to Eat

Breakfast
Tapri Central

Cafe

₹200-400

Try: Cutting Chai, Sandwiches, Maggi

Lunch
1135 AD

Fine Dining Rajasthani

₹800-1500

Try: Laal Maas, Safed Maas, Bajre ki Roti

Dinner
Padao Restaurant

Multi-cuisine

₹600-1000

Try: Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Tikka

8 km
5 stops
₹2,500 - ₹5,000

Immerse yourself in the heart of Jaipur's Pink City. Visit royal palaces, marvel at astronomical instruments, photograph the iconic Hawa Mahal, and shop in centuries-old bazaars.

9:00 AM2.5 hours

City Palace

Must See

Start at City Palace when it opens. Explore the Mubarak Mahal, Pritam Niwas Chowk with its stunning gates, and the museum collections. The royal family still lives in part of the complex.

Details
  • Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Entry: Indians ₹200, Foreigners ₹700 (Camera: ₹Free)
  • Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
Nearby Food
  • Baradari Restaurant
  • Mohan Thali
  • Natraj Dining Hall

Pro Tips

  • Hire a palace guide for the full experience
  • Photography allowed in most areas
  • Don't miss the massive silver vessels in Diwan-i-Khas

City Palace

Tulsi Marg, Gangori Bazaar, Pink City, Jaipur

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PalaceMuseumArchitectureHistory
11:45 AM1 hour

Jantar Mantar

Must See

Walk next door to Jantar Mantar. The astronomical instruments are fascinating - the giant sundial is accurate to 2 seconds!

Details
  • Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Entry: Indians ₹50, Foreigners ₹200
  • Best Time: Around noon (to see instruments in action)
Nearby Food
  • City Palace cafes
  • Street food stalls
  • Handi Restaurant

Pro Tips

  • A guide really helps understand the instruments
  • Great for science enthusiasts and photographers
  • Combined ticket with City Palace available

Jantar Mantar

Gangori Bazaar, near City Palace, Jaipur

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UNESCOScienceArchitectureHistory
1:00 PM1.5 hours

Hawa Mahal

Must See

Walk to the iconic Hawa Mahal. Get interior views from the 953 windows, then head across the street for the famous facade photo from a rooftop cafe.

Details
  • Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Entry: Indians ₹50, Foreigners ₹200
  • Best Time: Morning (for best photos with sunlight on facade)
Nearby Food
  • Wind View Cafe
  • Tattoo Cafe
  • LMB (Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar)

Pro Tips

  • Wind View Cafe has the best facade view
  • The interior climb is worth it for unique perspectives
  • Perfect time for lunch with a view

Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal Road, Badi Choupad, Pink City, Jaipur

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IconicArchitecturePhotographyPink City
3:00 PM3 hours

Johari Bazaar

Must See

Spend the afternoon exploring Jaipur's famous bazaars. Start at Johari Bazaar for jewelry, continue to Bapu Bazaar for textiles and handicrafts.

Details
  • Hours: Daily except Sunday, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Entry: Indians Free, Foreigners Free
  • Best Time: Late afternoon
Nearby Food
  • LMB
  • Lassiwala
  • Street food stalls

Pro Tips

  • Bargain hard - start at 50% of asking price
  • Get gems certified at the Gem Testing Lab
  • Best silver and gemstone prices in India

Johari Bazaar

Johari Bazaar, Pink City, Jaipur

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ShoppingJewelryLocal ExperiencePink City
6:30 PM1.5 hours

Albert Hall Museum

End your trip with a visit to Albert Hall Museum, beautifully illuminated at night. The Indo-Saracenic architecture is stunning under lights.

Details
  • Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Closed: Fridays)
  • Entry: Indians ₹40, Foreigners ₹300
  • Best Time: Evening (for illuminated building)
Nearby Food
  • Ram Niwas Garden cafes
  • Surrounding restaurants

Pro Tips

  • Evening visit (7-10 PM) for illuminated building
  • See the famous Egyptian mummy inside
  • Great photos from Ram Niwas Garden

Albert Hall Museum

Ram Niwas Garden, Jaipur

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MuseumArchitectureNight PhotographyHistory

Where to Eat

Breakfast
Hotel breakfast

Various

Included

Try: Aloo Paratha, Fresh Juice

Lunch
Wind View Cafe

Cafe with view

₹400-600

Try: Masala Chai, Snacks

Dinner
LMB (Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar)

Traditional Rajasthani

₹400-700

Try: Rajasthani Thali, Ghewar, Paneer Dishes

Pro Tips for Your Trip

Day 1 Needs a Car

The forts are spread out on hills. Hire a car for Day 1 (₹1500-2000). Day 2 can be done by auto-rickshaw or on foot.

Buy Composite Ticket

The composite ticket covers most major monuments and saves money if you're visiting multiple sites.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Day 1 involves lots of walking on uneven fort surfaces. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential.

Respect Local Customs

Cover shoulders and knees in religious sites. Remove shoes when required. Ask before photographing locals.

Stay Hydrated

Carry 2 liters of water per person, especially in warmer months. Coconut water and nimbu pani are great for electrolytes.

Evening Activities

Consider Sound & Light show at Amber Fort (evening) or Chokhi Dhani village dinner for a cultural experience.

Was this itinerary helpful?

Frequently Asked Questions

Day 1: Focus on the forts - Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort (sunset). Day 2: Pink City attractions - Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, local markets. This split prevents rushing and allows deeper exploration.
Yes, 2 days allows for dedicated shopping time. Reserve Day 2 afternoon/evening for Johari Bazaar (jewelry), Bapu Bazaar (textiles), and Tripolia Bazaar (handicrafts). This way you can explore markets without missing key attractions.
With 2 days, consider: Hot air balloon ride (early morning), Elephant Village visit, Cooking class for Rajasthani cuisine, Sound & Light show at Amber Fort (evening), or Chokhi Dhani village experience for dinner.

About the Author

Priya Sharma

Written by

Priya Sharma

A Jaipur native and travel writer with over 10 years of experience exploring Rajasthan. Priya has guided thousands of travelers through the Pink City and is passionate about sharing authentic local experiences.

Jaipur LocalLicensed Guide10+ Years ExperiencePublished Travel Writer

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