Beyond Jaipur

If you're looking to explore beyond Jaipur, the surrounding region offers many captivating destinations, each with its own unique charm. Here are some wonderful places near Jaipur that you can visit:

1. Ajmer

Distance from Jaipur: ~130 km (2 hours by car)
Highlights: Ajmer is known for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a revered Sufi shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The city is steeped in spiritual history and offers a serene atmosphere.
What to Do: Visit the dargah, explore the Ana Sagar Lake, and check out Taragarh Fort.

2. Pushkar

Distance from Jaipur: ~150 km (2.5 hours by car)
Highlights: Known for the Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple, Pushkar is a sacred town that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.
What to Do: Attend the Pushkar Camel Fair (held annually in November), enjoy a dip in the holy lake, and visit the bustling local markets.

3. Samode

Distance from Jaipur: ~40 km (1 hour by car)
Highlights: Known for its Samode Palace, a magnificent heritage property that blends Mughal and Rajput architecture, this is a perfect place for a peaceful escape from the city.
What to Do: Explore the palace, relax in the gardens, and enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal.

4. Alwar

Distance from Jaipur: ~150 km (3 hours by car)
Highlights: A historic city with attractions like Alwar Fort, Bala Quila, and Sariska Tiger Reserve.
What to Do: Go on a safari in Sariska, visit the Vijay Mandir Palace, and explore the local markets and palaces.

5. Sariska Tiger Reserve

Distance from Jaipur: ~107 km (2 hours by car)
Highlights: Sariska is one of India’s famous wildlife reserves, known for its population of Bengal tigers, leopards, and other wildlife.
What to Do: Go on a safari to spot tigers and other wildlife, visit Kankwari Fort inside the reserve, and explore the surrounding Aravalli hills.

6. Ranthambore National Park

Distance from Jaipur: ~180 km (3.5 hours by car)
Highlights: One of India’s most famous tiger reserves, Ranthambore is home to tigers, leopards, and various other wildlife species.
What to Do: Take a jeep or canter safari, visit the Ranthambore Fort, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes and ancient ruins.

7. Neemrana

Distance from Jaipur: ~120 km (2 hours by car)
Highlights: Famous for the Neemrana Fort Palace, an exquisite heritage hotel located on a hilltop.
What to Do: Explore the fort, relax in the pools, and enjoy a royal Rajasthani meal.

8. Bundi

Distance from Jaipur: ~210 km (4 hours by car)
Highlights: Known for its Bundi Palace, Taragarh Fort, and Bundi’s step-wells, this small town is often referred to as the "Kashmir of Rajasthan" for its picturesque beauty.
What to Do: Visit the forts and palaces, enjoy the serenity of the lakes, and admire the blue-washed buildings.

9. Kuchaman

Distance from Jaipur: ~120 km (3 hours by car)
Highlights: Known for the Kuchaman Fort, a towering structure with stunning panoramic views of the desert.
What to Do: Explore the fort, take in the views from the top, and enjoy a quiet getaway.

10. Sarwar Lake

Distance from Jaipur: ~170 km (3 hours by car)
Highlights: A scenic and lesser-known spot near Ajmer, perfect for a peaceful day trip. The lake is surrounded by scenic hills and offers boating activities.
What to Do: Go boating, enjoy a picnic by the lakeside, and soak in the natural beauty.

11. Shekhawati Region

Distance from Jaipur: ~150-200 km (3-4 hours by car)
Highlights: Known for its painted havelis, this region is often called the "Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan."
What to Do: Visit towns like Mandawa, Nawalgarh, and Fatehpur to explore centuries-old frescoes, traditional havelis, and rich heritage.

These destinations provide a mix of history, nature, wildlife, and spiritual experiences, offering an excellent opportunity to discover more of Rajasthan's beauty and culture beyond Jaipur.