Did you know? Jaipur is among the first planned cities in India. A Bengali architect, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, planned it in 1727, according to Indian Vastu Shastra. The capital city of Rajasthan has a lot more to its credit, making it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations. If you have explored its sightseeing attractions and the experiences it offers, it’s time to satisfy your wanderlust by visiting the top-rated tourist spots near Jaipur. These spots present a fusion of historical landmarks, centuries-old temples, tranquil lakes, and adventurous places that will surprise you.
[ Explore Rajasthan Tour Packages ]
Here are the best ones to introduce you to enriching sites and experiences that await you as you set on to visit.
Explore nearby places of Jaipur in 2024 –
- Bhangarh
- Tonk
- Sariska
- Ajmer
- Pushkar
- Mandawa
- Bikaner
- Chittorgarh
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Bhangarh – To the Haunted Ruins
If you believe in the supernatural, Bhangarh is your place to be. It is one of the most sought-after tourist places near Jaipur. The village is in Rajgarh, Alwar, and is considered a haunted spot as the infamous Bhangarh Fort stands there. Once considered the jewel of the town, the fort now lies in ruins. Many tourists and researchers across the globe visit here to testify to the paranormal activities and to adore the beauty of the fort. A notice board by the ASI department even warns tourists not to visit the fort after sunset.
Interesting Facts: The fort has two legends associated with it –
a.) An ascetic named Bala Nath, who used to meditate in the area, allowed the then king, Madho Singh, to build his fort only if the fort’s shadow would never reach the ascetic’s home. But one of the successors of Madho Singh added to the fortifications vertically, causing its shadow to fall on the ascetic’s home, and the fort was doomed in no time.
b.) A local black magician fell in love with Princess Ratnavati of Bhangarh. To make her smitten with him, he bewitched an oil she was supposed to use. However, Ratnavati witnessed his trick and poured the oil on a stone, which crushed the magician to death. Before dying, he cursed that no soul would ever be able to live in peace there.
The landscape around the Bhangarh Fort has been haunted since then.
- Must-visit attractions: Bhangarh Fort, Gopinath Temple, Ajabgarh Fort
- Things to do: Sightseeing, photography
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Distance from Jaipur: 84 km
Travel Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes (approx.)
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Tonk – City of Melons
The town boasts about ancient Havelis and sacred mosques. Located on the banks of the Banas River, Tonk is among the least-known places near Jaipur, encircled by attractions like Sunehri Kothi, also known as the Mansion of Gold. The town exhibits the rich history of the Nawabs. According to historical records, the Nawab of Tonk was inclined to literature, so much so that a large library of Persian and Arabic manuscripts was built there.
- Interesting Facts: The town has many names, such as Rajasthan ka Lucknow, Shreerani ki Nagri, Adab ka Gulshan, and Meethe Kharboojo ka Chaman
- Must-visit attractions: Sunehri Kothi, Bisaldeo Temple, Hadi Rani Baori, Jama Masjid
- Things to do: Sightseeing, photography
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Distance from Jaipur: 100 km
- Travel Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes (approx.)
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Sariska – Abode of Royal Bengal Tigers
Renowned worldwide because of the Sariska Tiger Reserve, Sariska is one of the best places to visit around Jaipur. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you must visit this spot to observe the animals closely. Royal Bengal Tigers are the highlight of this reserve, although leopards, Nilgai, Sambar, chital, etc., are also found here. Apart from being home to a tiger reserve, the town is also popular for its temples and lakes.
- Interesting Facts: Inside the park, there are historical places like Kankanwadi fort, built by King Jai Singh II.
- Must-visit attractions: Sariska Palace, Bhartrihari Temple, Kankwari Fort, and Siliserh Lake.
- Things to do: Jeep Safari, Wildlife Photography, Sightseeing
- Best time to visit: October to June
- Distance from Jaipur: 107 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes (approx.)
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Ajmer – Soak in the Bliss
The significance of Ajmer can’t be overlooked in Islamic history and culture. Millions of travelers around the world visit the dargah of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, who established India’s prime Sufi order in India. Apart from the holy center, there are several tourist spots and bustling markets where one can explore and buy souvenirs for loved ones.
- Interesting Facts: It is said that all wishes come true after paying a visit to the dargah of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishti, popularly known as Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
- Must-visit attractions: Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ana Sagar Lake, Adhai din ka Jhopra, Taragarh Fort, Nasiyan Ji Mandir, and Magazine Museum
- Things to do: Sightseeing, Photography, Shopping, Boating
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Distance from Jaipur: 135 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours (approx.)
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Pushkar – Seek blessings of Lord Brahma
Located in Ajmer, Pushkar is among the oldest cities in India and has immense religious significance. It is a popular getaway near Jaipur for families as it has a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, one of the rarest temples in the world. The temple is among the most tranquil places to see in Pushkar. The city is also renowned for Pushkar Fair, which takes place in December every year. One of the biggest camel fairs in the world is organized at Pushkar. Undoubtedly, Pushkar is a delightful pause between Jaipur and Jodhpur.
- Interesting Facts: The Brahma temple here is considered to be 2000 years old!
- Must-visit attractions: Pushkar Lake, Mahadeva Temple, Birthplace Of Meera Bai, Kishangarh, Man Mahal, Varaha Temple, Gurudwara Sahib Pushkar, Pushkar Bazaar, RoGarden
- Things to do: Sightseeing, Shopping, Photography, Camel Ride
- Best time to visit: November to March
- Distance from Jaipur: 149 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours, 50 minutes (approx.)
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Mandawa – A Historical Town
Mandawa is counted among the best tourist places near Jaipur. The town lies in the region of Shekhawati and is dotted with magnificent Havelis and ancient forts. Mandawa is all about history and heritage richness. Additionally, it is a shopper’s paradise from where you can buy souvenirs like beautiful paintings, wooden objects, jewelry, furniture, trinkets, and antiques. Also, enjoy local delicacies when you are in Mandwa.
- Interesting Facts: Famous Bollywood movies like Bajrangi Bhaijaan, PK, Jab We Met, Paheli, and many more have been shot here.
- Must-visit attractions: Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Bansidhar Newatia Haveli, The Harlalka Well, Murmuria Haveli, The Chokhani Double Haveli, and Open-Air Art Gallery
- Things to do: Sightseeing, Photography, Shopping
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Distance from Jaipur: 171 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours (approx.)
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Bikaner – Experience the Royalty
Bikaner is popular among tourists for its iconic forts, palaces, and natural beauty. Apart from the historical monuments and forts, the city also serves various desserts and snacks. The vibrant culture of the city is one of the key points that attracts millions of travelers across the world. Tourists also enjoy shopping in local markets.
- Interesting Facts: A Camel Festival is organized in Bikaner every year in January and attracts many travelers.
- Must-visit Attractions: Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple, Prachina, Kote Gate, Gajner Palace.
- Things to do: Sightseeing, Photography, Camel Ride, Shopping
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Distance from Jaipur: 335 km
- Travel Time: 5 hours (approx.)
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Chittorgarh – The Former Capital of Mewar
Famous for its rich Rajputana culture and beautiful historical monuments, Chittorgarh is renowned for its 7th-century Chittorgarh Fort. It is among the most remarkable places to visit near Jaipur. It is not only the biggest fort in India but also a World Heritage Site, which attracts millions of tourists every year. The beauty of the fort is enhanced by its two prominent attractions – Vijay Stambh and Kirti Stambh. Also, several water bodies are inside the premises of the fort.
- Interesting Facts: The shape of the Chittorgarh Fort is like a fish, and it has 84 water bodies, 19 temples, 4 palaces, and 65 structures.
- Must-visit attractions: Chittorgarh Fort, Ratan Singh Palace, Padmini Palace, Kalika Mata Temple.
- Things to do: Sightseeing, Photography, Shopping
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Distance from Jaipur: 360 km
- Travel Time: 5 hours (approx.)
Thus, select the destinations from above and add them to your bucket list for an exciting holiday spree. These places impart unique experiences that you will want to treasure and share with your fellow travel enthusiasts.