Written by Sarah Tinoco

India—with 22 official languages, 28 distinct states, and a population of over 1 billion people—is a captivating destination unlike any other. The culture is rich, the energy is abundant, and the country is vast with dazzling places to visit and experience. To truly encounter India is to travel through slowly, and allow yourself to take it all in, one bustling city at a time. With Jaipur, we begin.

Located just under five hours west of the capital of New Dehli in the state of Rajasthan in northern India, Jaipur sparkles with color and zest. The city of Jaipur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as the Pink City for its pink-painted palaces and edifices. Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (Maharaja meaning “great ruler” or “great king,” and Sawai referring to a title of honor in Sanskrit) in the 18th century, making it his capital as a monarch leader of the Mughal Empire that ruled northern India between the 16th and 18th centuries. After India declared from British rule in 1947, Jaipur became the capital of the state of Rajasthan. Today, Jaipur is a vibrant cultural hub for the arts, from the historic architecture and design, to the handicraft techniques applied by textilers, jewelers, and potterers. 

Our ECT Clubhouse community, including members Kimsuka I., Yen M., Shilpa R., and India travel expert Shoba M., shared with us the most remarkable palaces, thrilling bazaars, immersive local experiences, and captivating boutique hotels to explore in the enchanting city of Jaipur. 

Eat

• Indulge in Bar Palladio, the whimsical restaurant and bar located at the Narain Niwas Palace Hotel. Inspired by the beauty and atmosphere of a couple of iconic spots in Venice, Italy, and designed by a Dutch designer, Bar Palladio takes the name of Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio and imagines Italian fare served through the lens of Mughal tradition. The space dons a bright blue hue and is used in every detail of the restaurant, from the intricate florals on the walls to the linen napkins and placemats. “Ask for a Greater Than, an Indian-made gin distilled with coriander seeds, fennel, chamomile, ginger, and lemongrass botanicals from India,” recommends Kimsuka.

Also included in the guide:

• An all-day eatery serves various regional Indian cuisines in addition to quintessential Rajasthan cuisine

• An iconic street stand that has stood for years serving sweet, salty, and sugar-free lassis.

• A culinary walk that will lead you through the markets to experience Rajasthani cuisine from the locals.

Shop

• Try on contemporary jewelry from the brand Dhora at Teatro Dhora in Civil Lines. Shop handcrafted “minimal yet indie” pieces from designer Aavriti R Jain, who draws inspiration for her designs from her upbringing in Rajasthan and her education in Milan. Her affordable line of bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings are made by hand using materials including upcycled metal, silver, and brass, and semi-precious stones and minerals like topaz, pearl, onyx, and chalcedony.

Also included in the guide:

• A local brand selling contemporary fashions and home goods crafted with the hand-block printed technique.

• A haven for artists and designers whose mission lies in craft, design, sustainability, and community. The center houses artists’ showrooms and studios, in addition to a gallery, library and textile archive for artists in residence.

Join the ECT Clubhouse—our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide. Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.

Stay

• Retreat to The Johri, a modern luxury boutique hotel nestled in the Johri Bazaar, recommended by Kimsuka. This hotel houses five individually and elegantly designed suites that subtly reflect the heritage of Jaipur through traditional architecture and antique design and craftsmanship. All five suites overlook the quiet courtyard at the heart of the property. Stop into the muraled Pukhraj Lounge, The Johri’s lounge offering traditional chai service in the afternoon and craft cocktails in the evening. 

Also included in the guide:

• A stunning haveli, or traditional mansion, that houses 39 traditionally designed luxury suites that boast the original decadence of the 19th-century residence.

• A 16th-century palace that’s built of sandstone and resembles a fortress atop the foothills of the Aravalli mountain range.

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