Jaipur, the Pink City of India, is a must-visit destination located just 268 km from Delhi. As two of the most popular tourist spots in India, Delhi and Jaipur are connected by excellent transportation links, making a trip between the two cities easy and enjoyable. This guide will provide tips and recommendations for planning the perfect trip from Delhi to Jaipur.
The Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Jaipur is during the cooler months between October to March. Summers can get very hot, while the monsoon season (July-August) can hamper travel plans. The winter months offer pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing.
Ways to Get from Delhi to Jaipur
The main options for traveling between Delhi and Jaipur are by flight, train, bus or a private taxi. Flights take just 1 hour and are the fastest way to travel, though not always the cheapest. The Shatabdi Express train takes around 4 hours while buses can take 5-6 hours. Taxis give the flexibility to stop along the way but are more expensive than trains or buses.
If You Go By Train
The Shatabdi Express train is one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to travel from Delhi to Jaipur. It departs from the New Delhi Railway Station and arrives at Jaipur Railway Station. There are multiple times to pick from, but the earliest train at 6:15 am allows you to have almost a full day to explore Jaipur upon arrival just before 10 am. On the return, you can take an evening train departing Jaipur around 6 pm and be back in Delhi just before 10 pm.
Going by Bus
Buses to Jaipur depart from Delhi’s Bikaner House bus terminal. Government-run buses by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) are most reliable. There are deluxe and semi-deluxe bus options with air conditioning, comfortable reclining seats and enough leg room. Private buses by tour operators are also available. Most buses arrive at Jaipur’s Sindhi Camp bus stand from where you can take an auto-rickshaw to your hotel.
Traveling by Private Taxi
Hiring a private taxi for a Delhi to Jaipur tour allows you to make stops along the way at tourist sites. Taxis can be booked through your hotel or local tour operators. Expect to pay around ₹4,000-6,000 depending on the type of cab hired. You can also hire a taxi for a day or two to take you around Jaipur city and nearby areas like Amber Fort.
Top Attractions to See in Jaipur
- Amber Fort – An elegant palace and fortress complex built high on a hill. Don’t miss the chance to ride on an elephant up to the entrance.
- City Palace – The splendid royal residence still home to Jaipur’s Royal Family. Explore the various courtyards and sections.
- Hawa Mahal – The iconic “Palace of Winds” with its pink facade and ornate windows.
- Jantar Mantar – Fascinating stone astronomical instruments built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1734.
- Jaigarh Fort – An impressive fort standing tall above Amber Fort housing arms and war equipment.
- Jal Mahal – The unique water palace set beautifully in the heart of Man Sagar Lake.
- Albert Hall Museum – Housed in an Indo-Saracenic style building, this museum has an impressive collection of artifacts.
Where to Stay in Jaipur
Jaipur has accommodation options suiting all budgets from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Some popular areas to stay are near the railway station, MI Road, C-Scheme, and Tonk Road. Do research hotels that match your budget and location preferences. You can also consider hiring a taxi service in Jaipur to take you around the city comfortably.
In summary, Jaipur is an easy and rewarding destination to visit from Delhi. With some planning, you can enjoy a smooth journey and have an unforgettable trip exploring the history, architecture, culture and colors of the Pink City.