Jaipur is one of the most culturally rich cities in India and in our eyes probably THE most instagrammable city in all of Asia. Countless colourful palaces, forts, city gates, … perfect for the gram! It’s however also a very touristic city with big crowds visiting these places every day so it’s better to plan your shoots ahead to make sure you get there at the right time. It’s important to note that in many of these places a tripod is not allowed in so you might want to get in touch with some local photographers in Jaipur who will take you around and shoot for you.
1. Nahargarh Fort
This is arguably our favourite spot in Jaipur, if not of all of India. Nahargarh Fort was built hundreds of years ago high up on a hill next to the city of Jaipur, and offers spectacular views over the city. This spot is best visited at sunset as the sun descends behinds the city and creates a magical red glow in the sky.
You can either go inside the fort to admire the views, or you can watch the sunset from behind the fort walls, which continue alongside the hill before the fort. When arriving at the fort you just need to follow the wall on your right until you find a good spot. You will see a few youngsters here and there listening to music and having a drink, but a part from that the place is pretty much deserted.
It’s not allowed to climb up on the walls, as the drop behind the walls is quite deep. Those who decide to do it anyways might get called off by the security guards who make an occasional appearance. You can reach the fort by tuk tuk from Jaipur, it will take you around 30 minutes.
2. Amer Fort viewpoint
This is another spot with spectacular views over the valley. It can be reached by taking the stairs on the opposite side of Amer fort that go all the way up to the top of the hillside.
You will find the start of the stairs in front of the little pigeon house, in the area in front of Amer fort which is full of street merchants. It is famous with locals so ask around if you can’t find it. The stairs are steep and long but you will be rewarded at the top with an amazing view on the valleys at both sides of the hill.
This is another one to visit during sunset or just before sunset when the light is the best.
3. Inside Amer Fort
Amer fort is one of the MUST sees in Jaipur and offers so many opportunities for a good picture! Full of beautiful courtyards, secret hallways and hidden rooms, this was one of our favourite visits in Jaipur.
As this is one of the most visited places in the city, it’s imperative to get here very early in the morning, ideally at the moment of opening (8AM) if you want to get a good shot.
4. Patrika Gate
The Patrika Gate is one of the many beautiful gates that used to serve as entry to the city of Jaipur. This one is particularly beautiful as it is full of colourful wall paintings, and you can go inside to admire them from up close.
This spot is best visited early in the morning before it gets packed with tourists. It’s open 24/7 so you can literally go as soon as the light is good enough 🙂
5. City Palace
Oh how we loved City Palace! It’s built in the center of the hustle and bustle of Jaipur but it’s so peaceful inside these walls! It’s the kind of place you want to bring a book and just sit down to enjoy the quietness and serenity of the place.
We were there in the middle of the day and it was not too crowded. There are a few good picture spots inside this palace but our favourite one has to be the Peacock Gate!
6. Hamawahal rooftop bars
Hawamahal is another of those beautiful palaces built inside the city of Jaipur. The best picture spot for this one is not inside the Palace but taken from the rooftop just in front of Hawamahal. This rooftop has an amazing view over the Hawamahal so we highly recommend getting a drink up there!
It’s the most beautiful early in the evening when the Hawamahal lights up!
7. The stepwell
This is another beautiful spot in Jaipur best visited early in the morning, however unfortunately it is no longer allowed to go inside the stepwell but you can still take a beautiful picture of the place.
Best visited first thing in the morning before the crowds arrive.
