Jaipur, the enthralling capital of Rajasthan in Northern India, affectionately known as the Pink City is a wonderful city to explore. My first trip to Jaipur was swift with only one day to see the highlights and celebrate Diwali. so let’s find out my one day itinerary to pack it all in!
WHAT TO DO IN JAIPUR FOR DIWALI
Feel royal in Amber Fort & City Palace
Amber (pronounced Amer) Fort of Rajasthan is situated on a natural ridge 11km north of Jaipur and is definitely an iconic attraction of the city. The fort dates back to the 16th century and is an eclectic mix of Hindu and Mughal architecture. The complex comprises of a sprawling palace with pink and yellow sandstone, exquisite marble, decorative mirrored inset panels and stunning arches overlooking the expansive view of the city and the Maota Lake.
Step down the Panna Meena Ka Kund
There are many temples and historic sites that lay at the bottom the Amber Fort. Panna Meena Ka Kund is a beautiful 8-storey step well with criss-cross steps on 3 sides and recessed doorways. This hidden gem is close to the Jaipur-Amer road and should not be missed!
Enjoy the local Rajasthan hospitality
It was a treat to be welcomed into the home of Raju and JiJi, the daal lunch was delicious and their hospitality heart-warming. They keep cows in their backyard, great source of milk. The uncle lived next door and holds the accolade of being the best pigeon-fancier in the region!
Visit an ethical elephant Sanctuary
We stopped by Elefantastic elephant sanctuary where workers can reside with their big giants, some are rescue elephants from circuses. It truly was great to see them in this environment where they are looked after without chains on their feet. They are painted with non-toxic art, it was lovely to feed and rub they bumpy skin.
There are many awful sanctuaries in India where the elephants are highly mistreated and chained up, do your research before you go!
Celebrate Diwali Festival in Jaipur
Diwali is a five day Hindu festival in late Autumn to honour Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, it’s a time to wear new clothes, spring-clean and exchange gifts. Lamps are lit to help Lakshmi find her way into people’s homes that are left open to make it possible for her to enter.
The most perfect location to take in the Festival of Light all over the city is at The Narahgarh Fort. The fireworks were going off, the lights were flashing, the whole city just sparkled… wow! We spent our last couple of hours on the roof of our hotel playing with the firecrackers and getting in the spirit of it, the bustling street below sounded like a war zone… Happy Diwali!
DIWALI IN JAIPUR: THE ESSENTIALS
Where to stay in Jaipur
It will come as no surprise that Jaipur will be rammed for the Diwali celebrations so book early to get the accommodation you want.
Little bit of safety
Firecrackers are going off like no tomorrow so if you want to protect your hearing, pack some ear plugs, some are pretty darn loud!
Grab your travel insurance
Who would be silly enough not to have travel insurance on the top of your list? World Nomads is my go-to guys, I’ve learnt this from experience. You can buy and claim online even when you’ve left home. I love that they give a little back too and support community development projects in various countries.
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5 comments
I’ve read about that festival recently. So interesting. I would love to see elephants in a sanctuary. What a great experience.
I love Amber Fort and Jaipur. Such a colorful place, especially during Diwali or wedding season, with elephants walking the streets, lights, and beautiful, colorful clothing.
Very very informative piece. Diwali is to be honest the best festival of India and everyone needs to experience it once!
I have never been but would love to experience a very religious ceremony in India. I’ve seen the photos somewhere and it’s magical.
One of those with the strongest cultures! Amazing travel destination indeed!