India with kids: 10 places to see in Jaipur, Rajasthan
I just came back
from the most magical trip in Rajasthan, Northern India. I traveled there as a solo mom my two eldest daughters and discovered some true gems.
Good to know
When to visit Ideally from October until March.
How to get there By plane, 1h from Delhi airport, by car or train (both around 5h from Delhi).
Safety I felt safe with the kids. Of course there is some staring from locals, but nothing horrible to handle.
Water Just like in the rest of India, you should not drink water from the sink. We were extra careful: brushed our teeth with bottle water, avoided raw veggies, fruits and ice cubes in our drinks.
Food Most food is quite spicy or seasoned, which was a little tricky for my daughters. I had to eat mainly in +3 starts hotels to find western food. I listed a couple of places below with amazing food for kids.
Ideal age 5 and up as I don’t recommend taking a stroller with you, as streets are crowded and there are very little sidewalks. Baby carrier is an option, but it gets really hot fast, so not ideal for little ones.
See, Dine, Sleep.
Johri Jaipur
Romantic wallpapers, fresh local ingredients (understand: you will finally be able to order a salad without fear of getting sick) and a very accommodating chef who will cook anything from your kids! Mine were totally deprived of steamed veggies and grilled meat, and he cooked their meal perfectly. The location of this hotel restaurant is also really convenient, right in the middle of the old town market, ideal to take a cool down in peace during your shopping session.
Amber Fort
A gorgeous palace relatively easy to visit with kids. Ask your hotel to provide a guide for the tour, this palace comes with a lot of funny stories and details kids will love.
Jantar Mantar
The astronomic observatory of Jaipur, home to the biggest sundial of the world. Mind blowing both for kids and adults.
Nila house
The Mecca of india crafstmanship. An incredible shop and ressource center for those interested in the textile industry.
47 Jobner Bagh
A charming guest house where time seems to have stopped. I love every details: the pillow covers on the sofas, the color palette of the rooms, the architecture, and the peaceful environment. (see below)
Jal Mahal
The palace on the water. You can’t visit it but it is beautiful to observe from the opposite bank. Camel and horse rides available for kids.
The wind palace. The iconic palace of Jaipur. You can’t actually visit it, as it is just a facade used by woman from the royal family to attend celebration without being seen. The nearby street has lots of lovely shops with local souvenirs, and if you are lucky you will also spot a snake charmer!
28 Kothi Café & hotel
A charming small coffee shop attached to one of my favorite hotel in town. I love the modern, western inspired menu, lots of healthy juices, smoothies and bowls. The boutique guest house offers only 5 rooms, all beautiful decorated with graphic wallpapers and unique artifacts.
Patrika Gate
A dreamy candy-colored gate. Don’t miss it.
Narain Miwas Palace
A hotel nestled in an ancient palace where kids will be in heaven. Swimming pool, gigantic lawns, peacocks running free, western food, puppet and dance show…That’s where we stayed, as I wanted to please my girls kind enough to follow me all day in the burning heat but not my preferred choice. I find the place is getting a little old but bare in mind, I am extremely picky when it comes to hotels.
Bar Palladio
Dine in the prettiest (and only) Italian restaurant. sitting on large sofa covered with block printed fabric in blue hues.
Heritage Textile & handicrafts
Choose your fabric and make the pyjamas. skirt, shorts or bag of your dream! It will be ready in 24h and sent to your hotel. The coolest souvenir in town. Also, kids will be able to try block printing, and take their own piece of printed fabric back home.
Itinerary
5 day is a good amount of time to spend in Jaipur with kids. COntinue your exploration with a mini safari to try to spot the Bengal tigers, and continue to the Taj Mahal, or go South to Udaipur.
What if I helped your plan your entire trip ? Give me a call and let’s fly
