In August, I had a wonderful visit back to Jaipur. The city is a design lover’s dream—inspiration and pattern at every turn. Here are some of my recommendations for places I enjoyed. I am thankful to Shambhavi T, our print collaborator and a Jaipur local, for several of these recommendations.
STAY
An Art Deco-inspired, rose-tinted, bespoke wallpaper-filled boutique hotel that was once home to the city’s maharaja. It is luxurious and well-located in the heart of the city.
SEE
In the heart of the city, the palace dates back to 1729- with a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles- it is a testament to the grandeur and opulence of India’s royal heritage. Built of red and pink sandstone and white marble- it is filled with intricate details and captivating patterns.
Insider tip: staying at the Rajmahal palace gives you special access to the Chandra Mahal private wing of the palace.
Hawa Mahal or ‘Palace of Winds’ is a UNESCO world heritage site, built in 1799.
The primary purpose of this palace was to allow the ladies of the royal family and the court to observe the busy streets of the Johri Bazaar and the life of the city from the many jharokhas, or windows, without being visible. The Hawa Mahal is a five-story building, the tallest in the world, built without a foundation. It has a curved architecture that leans at an 87-degree angle and a pyramidal shape, which has helped it stay erect for centuries.
EAT
Located within the Johri Hotel, amid the hustle and bustle of the Johri Bazaar, the restaurant is an oasis that serves delicious, inventive, locally sourced Indian food, all vegetarian.
Every designer’s fantasy- with tented ceilings and printed banquettes that evoke Mughal-era splendor. Serves delectable Italian fare.
We loved this quirky tea house that serves many varieties of chai and street food.
SHOP
A listing of some of our must-visit, fave stores and makers in Jaipur.
