Top 10 Places To See Near Jaipur, the Pink City, is surrounded by fascinating destinations that offer rich cultural experiences. Just 11 km away, Amber Fort stands as a majestic reminder of Rajasthan’s royal history. Nearby, Jaigarh Fort boasts an impressive cannon, Jaivana, and panoramic views of the Aravalli hills. Nahargarh Fort, 20 km from Jaipur, provides stunning sunset vistas over the city.
About 35 km from Jaipur, Samode Palace is a beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, known for its frescoes and mirror work. The Chand Baori stepwell in Abhaneri, 95 km away, is an architectural marvel and one of India’s deepest stepwells. Bhangarh Fort, 85 km from Jaipur, is famous for its eerie atmosphere and intriguing legends. For a serene escape, the Sambhar Salt Lake, 80 km away, offers a unique landscape and a haven for birdwatchers. Each of these spots provides a distinct glimpse into Rajasthan’s history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Amber Fort
Distance: 11 km from Jaipur
Highlights: A majestic fort overlooking Maota Lake, famous for its artistic Hindu-style elements, including large ramparts, cobbled paths, and a series of gates.
Amber Fort, located 11 kilometers from Jaipur, is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perched on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, the fort was constructed in 1592 by Raja Man Singh I and later expanded by his successors. The fort’s impressive blend of Hindu and Mughal styles is evident in its intricate carvings, expansive courtyards, and stunning palaces.
One of the fort’s most famous sections is the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), adorned with countless tiny mirrors that reflect light, creating a mesmerizing effect. The Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) showcase exquisite craftsmanship, while the Ganesh Pol gateway is known for its stunning frescoes and mosaics.
Visitors can also explore the Sukh Niwas, where cool breezes flow through water channels, offering a respite from the desert heat. Amber Fort, with its grandeur and history, remains a must-visit for anyone exploring Jaipur.
Nahargarh Fort
Distance: 20 km from Jaipur
Highlights: Perched on the Aravalli Hills, this fort offers panoramic views of Jaipur city. It’s a great spot for sunset views.
Nahargarh Fort, perched on the rugged Aravalli hills, overlooks the city of Jaipur, offering stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset. Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the fort was originally intended as a retreat rather than a defensive structure, reflecting the royal family’s desire for peace and leisure. The fort’s name, which means “Abode of Tigers,” comes from the legend of Nahar Singh Bhomia, a local spirit believed to have haunted the area.
Nahargarh Fort’s architecture is a blend of Indo-European styles, with beautifully decorated interiors. The fort is part of a trio of forts, including Amber and Jaigarh, forming a strong defense ring for the city. Within its walls, you can explore Madhavendra Bhawan, a palace with suites for the king and his queens. The fort also features several temples and a stepwell. Today, Nahargarh is a popular spot for locals and tourists, offering historical insight along with breathtaking views of Jaipur.
Jaigarh Fort
Distance: 15 km from Jaipur
Highlights: Known as the “Victory Fort,” Jaigarh houses the world’s largest cannon on wheels, Jaivana, and offers insights into the military history of Rajasthan.
Jaigarh Fort, located about 15 km from Jaipur, is a remarkable example of Rajput military architecture. Perched on the Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) in the Aravalli range, it was built in 1726 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II to protect the Amber Fort and its palace complex. The fort is connected to Amber Fort through subterranean passages and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Jaigarh Fort is renowned for housing the world’s largest cannon on wheels, the Jaivana Cannon. Although it was never used in battle, its presence symbolizes the military prowess of the Rajputs. The fort also features an impressive network of water reservoirs, armories, and palaces, showcasing the engineering ingenuity of the time. Visitors can explore the museum inside the fort, which displays artifacts, weapons, and photographs from the era. With its rich history and breathtaking views, Jaigarh Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Jaipur.
Samode Palace
Distance: 40 km from Jaipur
Highlights: A magnificent palace showcasing a blend of Indian and Mughal architecture. It’s also a luxury heritage hotel.
Samode Palace, located about 35 kilometers from Jaipur, is a stunning example of Rajput and Mughal architecture. This 475-year-old palace, once the residence of the noble Rawals of Samode, has been transformed into a luxurious heritage hotel, offering guests a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal past.
The palace is renowned for its exquisite interiors, featuring intricate frescoes, mirror work, and stunning mosaics. The Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) is a highlight, with its glittering walls reflecting the opulence of the bygone era. The Durbar Hall, adorned with ornate chandeliers and elaborate paintings, is another marvel that showcases the grandeur of Rajasthani artistry.
Surrounded by rugged hills, Samode Palace offers breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Guests can explore the charming village of Samode, take a camel safari, or simply relax in the palace’s serene courtyards and gardens. Samode Palace is not just a hotel but an experience that immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
Sambhar Lake
Distance: 80 km from Jaipur
Highlights: India’s largest inland saltwater lake, it’s a perfect spot for bird watching, especially for flamingos, and offers stunning salt flats.
Sambhar Lake, located about 80 km southwest of Jaipur, is Rajasthan’s largest saltwater lake and a fascinating destination. Spanning approximately 230 square kilometers, it offers a unique landscape characterized by shimmering salt flats and abundant birdlife. The lake is an important site for migratory birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers, especially during the winter months.
Sambhar Lake is also significant for its salt production, with local communities engaged in traditional salt harvesting methods. The surrounding area features salt pans and intriguing salt mounds, providing a striking contrast against the vast blue sky.
The lake’s serene beauty and the surrounding desert landscape make it an excellent spot for photography and nature enthusiasts. Nearby, you can explore the ancient temples and historic structures that add to the region’s cultural richness. The lake is best visited during the cooler months from October to March to fully appreciate its natural splendor and the diverse avian population.
Chand Baori (Abhaneri Stepwell)
Distance: 95 km from Jaipur
Highlights: One of India’s deepest and largest stepwells, known for its intricate design and symmetrical steps, located in the village of Abhaneri.
Chand Baori, located in Abhaneri village, about 95 km from Jaipur, is one of India’s most impressive stepwells. Built during the 9th century by King Chand Raja of the Chauhan dynasty, this architectural marvel is renowned for its grandeur and intricacy. The stepwell, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Harshat Mata, features a striking geometric design with 3,500 narrow steps arranged in a symmetrical pattern, leading down to the water.
The stepwell’s design not only served a practical purpose, providing water during dry seasons, but also offered a cool retreat from the heat. The multi-storied structure, with its richly carved walls and ornamental arches, reflects the artistic and engineering skills of its creators. Chand Baori is especially photogenic, with its deep blue water and intricate carvings providing a dramatic contrast. It’s a must-visit for those interested in historical architecture and ancient water management systems.
Bhangarh Fort
Distance: 83 km from Jaipur
Highlights: Famous as one of the most haunted places in India, Bhangarh Fort is a ruined fort with a fascinating history and eerie ambiance.
Bhangarh Fort, located about 85 km from Jaipur, is renowned for its eerie reputation and architectural splendor. Built in the 17th century by Maharaja Madho Singh I, the fort is situated at the edge of the Aravalli Range and is surrounded by dense forest, adding to its mysterious allure.
The fort comprises several structures, including temples, palaces, and residences, all reflecting traditional Rajput architecture. Its most notable features are the intricate carvings and the well-planned layout, which includes a series of courtyards and battlements.
Bhangarh Fort is infamous for its ghost stories and is often cited as one of the most haunted places in India. Local legends suggest that a curse doomed the fort and its inhabitants, leading to its abandonment. Despite the legends, Bhangarh Fort attracts many visitors intrigued by its history and the surrounding landscape, which offers stunning views and a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal past.
Ajmer
Distance: 135 km from Jaipur
Highlights: Home to the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a shrine of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, and the serene Ana Sagar Lake.
Ajmer, a city in Rajasthan, is rich in history and spiritual significance. Ajmer Sharif Dargah is the most prominent attraction, a revered shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Garib Nawaz. The dargah attracts pilgrims from all faiths seeking blessings. Nearby, Ana Sagar Lake offers a peaceful retreat with its scenic beauty and picnic spots.
Taragarh Fort, perched on a hill, provides panoramic views of Ajmer and showcases impressive medieval architecture. Ajmer Jain Temple is another notable site, renowned for its intricate marble carvings and serene ambiance.
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, an ancient mosque with a striking blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural elements, stands as a testament to Ajmer’s historical significance. The city also features several historical tombs and museums that offer insights into its rich past. Ajmer’s vibrant bazaars and local cuisine further enhance its cultural appeal, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Pushkar
Distance: 145 km from Jaipur
Highlights: A sacred town known for the Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple, and the vibrant annual Pushkar Camel Fair.
Pushkar, a serene town in Rajasthan, is renowned for its vibrant spiritual and cultural atmosphere. Located about 150 km from Jaipur, it’s famous for the Pushkar Lake, considered one of Hinduism’s holiest lakes, surrounded by over 50 ghats where pilgrims come to bathe and perform rituals.
The town is also known for the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Brahma, the creator deity in Hinduism. The Pushkar Camel Fair, held annually in November, is a spectacular event attracting thousands of visitors for camel trading, cultural performances, and traditional festivities.
Pushkar’s Savitri Temple, situated on a hilltop, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and the town itself. The Rangji Temple and Varaha Temple are also noteworthy for their intricate architecture and historical significance. The town’s vibrant bazaars, with colorful textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry, further add to its charm, making Pushkar a unique blend of spirituality and culture.
Karauli – Top 10 Places To See Near Jaipur
Distance: 160 km from Jaipur
Highlights: A lesser-known gem, Karauli is known for its ancient temples, havelis, and the Karauli City Palace, showcasing intricate frescoes and architecture.
Karauli, located about 160 km from Jaipur, is a historic city renowned for its regal heritage and architectural marvels. The Karauli Fort, a 14th-century structure, dominates the skyline and offers a glimpse into the region’s royal past with its impressive walls and palaces. The Kaila Devi Temple, situated in the nearby Kaila village, is a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kaila Devi, attracting thousands of devotees annually.
The Bhanwar Vilas Palace, built in the early 20th century, showcases exquisite Rajput architecture and serves as a reminder of the region’s royal opulence. Karauli is also known for its vibrant festivals, including the Karauli Fair, which celebrates local traditions and culture. The city’s traditional markets and handicrafts, such as intricate jewelry and textiles, reflect its rich artisanal heritage. Karauli’s serene atmosphere and historical significance make it an intriguing destination for those exploring Rajasthan’s cultural landscape.