A fantastic trip that lets you see all of Jaipur in a single day is the one-day Jaipur trip by car. You will depart Delhi early in the morning in a private AC vehicle. You will have a great time once you arrive in Jaipur and experience the city's tourist attractions, including Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jal Mahal.
Your Jaipur adventure starts early, with a private car pick-up from your hotel or residence in Delhi. To maximize your time in Jaipur, it’s recommended to leave by 5:00 AM. The journey from Delhi to Jaipur is approximately 280 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours via the Delhi-Jaipur Expressway (NH48). Your private car will provide comfort and flexibility for this long drive.
Upon reaching Jaipur, your first stop will be the majestic Amber Fort (also known as Amer Fort). This stunning hilltop fort was built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh I and is a masterpiece of Rajput architecture. The fort is located around 11 kilometers from the city center and offers spectacular views of the surrounding Aravalli hills.
Explore the sprawling complex that includes Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), and Ganesh Pol, an intricately carved gateway. You can either walk or take an elephant ride to reach the fort’s entrance, adding a royal touch to your visit. Once inside, your guide will explain the fascinating history of the fort and the opulent lifestyle of its rulers.
After exploring Amber Fort, stop at the picturesque Jal Mahal (Water Palace), located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Though you can’t enter the palace, it is one of the most photographed spots in Jaipur due to its serene location and architectural beauty. The palace appears to float on the water, with the Aravalli hills in the background, making it an ideal place for a quick photo stop.
By now, you’ll likely be ready for a break. Jaipur offers a range of dining options, from local Rajasthani cuisine to modern eateries. Stop at a traditional Rajasthani restaurant to try dishes like Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas (spicy meat curry), or Gatte ki Sabzi. Many restaurants also offer thalis (platter meals) for a complete Rajasthani experience.
Post-lunch, head to the City Palace, located in the heart of Jaipur. The City Palace is a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles and was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. Part of the palace still serves as the residence of the royal family, while the rest has been converted into museums and galleries.
Explore the Mubarak Mahal, where textiles and costumes of the royal family are displayed, and the Chandra Mahal, which houses royal artifacts, including swords, paintings, and manuscripts. The intricately designed courtyards, gardens, and grand halls offer a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of Jaipur’s past rulers.
Just a short walk from the City Palace, visit Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fascinating observatory was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the early 18th century to measure time, track celestial bodies, and predict eclipses. The complex houses the world’s largest stone sundial, the Samrat Yantra, along with 19 other astronomical instruments made of stone and brass.
Your guide will explain the purpose and function of each instrument, showcasing the scientific knowledge of Jaipur’s royal astronomers. This stop provides a blend of history, science, and architecture that is unique to Jaipur.
Next, visit the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. This five-story pink sandstone structure, built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, is one of Jaipur’s most famous landmarks. It features 953 small windows (called jharokhas) adorned with intricate latticework, allowing royal ladies to observe street life without being seen.
Although it is most famous for its exterior, you can also enter the palace and climb to the top for beautiful views of the bustling Johari Bazaar below and the Jantar Mantar nearby. The Hawa Mahal is a striking example of Rajput architecture and a must-see for anyone visiting Jaipur.
If time permits, take a short break to explore Jaipur’s vibrant markets. Jaipur is famous for its handcrafted jewelry, gemstones, block-printed textiles, and blue pottery. You can visit Johari Bazaar for jewelry, Bapu Bazaar for textiles, and Tripolia Bazaar for handicrafts and souvenirs. Even if you’re not looking to shop, walking through these colorful bazaars provides insight into Jaipur’s rich cultural heritage.
After a full day of exploring Jaipur, it’s time to head back to Delhi. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic. You’ll arrive in Delhi by late evening, around 10:00-11:00 PM, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or residence.
