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

You’re in Amritsar, basking in the Golden Temple’s glow, when a friend texts: “Jaipur next?” Three days later, you’re trading langar meals for dal-baati-churma, swapping border patriotism for palace grandeur, and trading Punjabi bhangra for Rajasthani ghoomar. Ready to dive into Jaipur’s pink-hued charm? Let’s plan your perfect backpacking escape!

Day 1: Amritsar to Jaipur – Palaces, Panoramas, and Spicy Bites

6:00 AM – Board the Train

• Train Options: Amritsar-Jaipur Express (₹500–1,000, 10 hours). Pro tip: Book upper berths for views of Rajasthan’s golden landscapes.

• Arrival: Reach Jaipur by 4:00 PM. Grab an auto-rickshaw (₹100) to your hostel.

5:00 PM – Check In & Refuel

• Stay: Zostel Jaipur (₹600/night) or Moustache Hostel (₹800).

• Snack: Dive into ₹50 pyaaz kachori at Samrat Restaurant.

6:30 PM – Hawa Mahal & City Palace

• Hawa Mahal: Snap pics of the iconic “Palace of Winds” from the street.

• City Palace (₹300 entry): Wander through courtyards and museums.

9:00 PM – Dinner at Chowkri Modhi Market

• Feast: ₹100 laal maas (spicy mutton curry) at Handi Restaurant.

Day 2: Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, and Sunset Magic

7:00 AM – Sunrise at Panna Meena Ka Kund

• Hidden Gem: A serene stepwell near Amber Fort (free entry).

9:00 AM – 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.

12:00 PM – Jal Mahal Pit Stop

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

2:00 PM – Lunch at Laxmi Misthan Bhandar

• Try: ₹150 dal-baati-churma and ghewar (sweet).

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 – Dinner at Chokhi Dhani

• Splurge Alert: ₹1100 for a Rajasthani cultural feast with folk dances, camel rides, and unlimited dal-baati-churma.

Day 3: Markets, Memories, and Farewell Feels

7:00 AM – Sunrise at Jaigarh Fort

• Entry: ₹100. Explore cannon foundries and panoramic views.

9:00 AM – Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

• Sip: ₹50 filter coffee with butter toast (₹30).

11:00 AM – Explore Albert Hall Museum

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

2:00 PM – Last-Minute Shopping

• Bapu Bazaar: Buy block-printed scarves (₹300), silver jewelry, and camel leather shoes.

4:00 PM – Return to Amritsar

• Train: Jaipur-Amritsar Express (₹500–1,000, 10 hours).

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Backpacker Hacks for Jaipur

1. Walk Everywhere: Jaipur’s old city is compact—skip cabs and explore on foot.

2. Layer Up: Evenings can get chilly (10–15°C).

3. Avoid Mondays: Many museums/shops close.

FAQs

1. Is Jaipur safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Locals are friendly, but keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas.

2. Best time to visit?

October–March (pleasant weather). Avoid April–June (scorching!).

3. Can I visit Amber Fort without a guide?

Yes! Audio guides (₹150) are available at the entrance.

4. What’s a must-try street food?

Pyaaz kachori (₹30) at Samrat Restaurant.

5. How to handle touts near Hawa Mahal?

Politely decline guided tours—most info is available online.

Final Tip: Let Jaipur Surprise You

Beyond the forts and markets, Jaipur thrills with hidden stepwells, rooftop cafés, and sunsets that paint the sky pink. Talk to locals, try ghewar, and let the city’s heartbeat guide you.

Three days here isn’t a trip—it’s a love letter to color, history, and spice. Now, grab that backpack and go write yours!