3 Days in Jaipur from Delhi: A Backpacker’s Guide to Royals, Ruins, and Rajasthani Flavors

You’re on a rickety Delhi bus at dawn, clutching a chai cup as the city’s chaos fades. Four hours later, you’re in Jaipur—where palaces glow pink and forts crown desert hills. Ready to dive into Rajasthan’s heart? Here’s how to conquer the Pink City in 3 days with just a backpack and a sense of adventure.

Day 1: Palaces, Panoramas, and Spicy Bites

6:00 AM – Escape Delhi

• Hop on the Vande Bharat Express (₹1,100): A 4-hour ride with AC comfort and free snacks.

• Pro Tip: Book upper berths for window views of Rajasthan’s golden landscapes.

10:30 AM – Drop Bags & Fuel Up

• Check into Moustache Hostel (₹600/night): Quirky art, free walking tours, and rooftop hangouts.

• Breakfast Stop: Devour pyaaz kachori (₹30) at Samrat Restaurant near Hawa Mahal.

12:00 PM – Amber Fort Adventure

• Entry: ₹100 (Indians), ₹550 (foreigners). Opens 8 AM–6 PM.

• Hack: Skip the ₹1,100 elephant ride. Trek up the hill or split an auto (₹150).

• Don’t Miss: The mirror-work magic of Sheesh Mahal.

3:00 PM – Jal Mahal Pit Stop

• Snap a selfie with the floating palace. No entry, but the Aravalli hills backdrop is Insta-worthy.

5:00 PM – Sunset at Nahargarh Fort

• Entry: ₹50. Stay till dusk for golden views over Jaipur.

• Cheap Thrill: Grab a ₹50 kulhad chai (clay cup tea) from local vendors.

8:00 PM – Chowkri Modhi Market Madness

• Eat: ₹100 laal maas (fiery mutton curry) at Handi Restaurant.

• Shop: Bargain for silver jewelry (start at 40% of the quoted price!).

Day 2: Culture, Crafts, and Starry Nights

8:00 AM – Breakfast with a View

• Wind View Café: Sip masala chai (₹20) facing Hawa Mahal’s honeycomb windows.

9:00 AM – City Palace & Jantar Mantar

• City Palace (₹300): Marvel at peacock gates and royal costumes.

• Jantar Mantar (₹200): Climb the world’s largest stone sundial.

1:00 PM – Albert Hall Museum

• Entry: ₹150. Spot Egyptian mummies and miniature paintings.

• Lunch Break: Dig into ₹80 dal-bati-churma at Surya Mahal.

4:00 PM – Patrika Gate & Galtaji Temple

• Patrika Gate: A rainbow-colored photo op (free!).

• Galtaji Temple: Hike past playful monkeys to natural springs.

7:00 PM – Chokhi Dhani Village Night

• Splurge Alert: ₹1,500 for puppet shows, camel rides, and unlimited Rajasthani thalis.

Day 3: Markets, Memories, and Goodbyes

7:00 AM – Sunrise at Panna Meena Ka Kund

• A serene stepwell hidden near Amber Fort. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

9:00 AM – Bapu Bazaar Haul

• Must-Buy: Block-print scarves (₹300), camel leather juttis (₹500).

• Pro Tip: Say “Bohot mehenga hai!” (“Too expensive!”) to haggle like a local.

12:00 PM – Farewell Feast

• LMB Sweets: Try ghewar (₹50), a honeycomb-shaped dessert.

2:00 PM – Return to Delhi

• Budget Pick: Overnight Volvo bus (₹600) from Sindhi Camp Bus Stand.

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

• Travel: ₹1,500 (train/bus)

• Stay: ₹1,200 (hostels)

• Food: ₹1,000

• Sights: ₹750

• Shopping: ₹1,000

• Total: ₹5,450

Backpacker Hacks for Jaipur

1. Free Walking Tours: Join hostel-led tours for hidden gems.

2. Ola/Uber: Cheaper than rickshaws. Always check fares!

3. Water: Carry a bottle—street water isn’t safe.

FAQs

1. Is Jaipur walkable?

Major sights are spread out. Use autos/Uber for longer distances.

2. Best vegetarian food?

Try dal-bati-churma and gatte ki sabzi (gram flour dumplings in curry).

3. Safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, but avoid isolated areas after dark.

4. Can I cover Jaipur in 2 days?

Possible, but you’ll miss hidden spots like Panna Meena Ka Kund.

5. Monsoon travel tips?

July–September brings rain. Pack quick-dry clothes and waterproof shoes.

Final Tip: Talk to Locals!

Jaipur’s soul lies in its people. Ask a shopkeeper for chai stall recommendations or a fort guard for sunset secrets.

Three days in Jaipur isn’t just a trip—it’s a love affair with color, history, and spice. Now, zip up that backpack and chase the magic!