Visiting Jaipur? Jools shares her highlights…

The British Autumn and Winter months are a very popular time for visiting Jaipur, so thought I might share some Jaipur highlights as friends often ask me for advice when travelling to this mesmerising city. As everyone has a different plan and budget, these are my top-line personal recommendations rather than a detailed itinerary - giving you an idea of places to stay, how to get around, where to eat, places to visit and shops to explore.

Where to stay

My current favourite is Niravi - you are properly looked after by really charming staff, the pool is lovely and you can relax here - I also highly recommend the masseuse. Next door is an easy going place for supper called Clock Tower.

Other places I’ve stayed and would also recommend are 47 Jobner Bagh (do book here for supper too and there is a small, fabulous shop), Narain Niwas Palace, 28 Kothi and Samode Haveli (you must have dinner here for sure).

Getting around

When I’m in Jaipur I have the same driver called Dinesh. Look him up on Tripadvisor under Ronak Tours Jaipur, his business has grown over the years so he can now help, advise and drive across multiple cities from Delhi and in Rajasthan. He has a heart of gold and is well priced.

Food recommendations

On the food front, I find that if I let my tummy adjust gently it seems to work for me… When I first arrive in Jaipur I always ask for a fresh lime soda - plain (not sweet or salty) - and chilli cheese toast. I have a simple breakfast of fruit, yoghurt, toast and eggs, then try and have a light lunch - usually only eating Indian food in the evening.

In the evenings, I tend not to go to the very smart five star hotels but of course I’m sure they’re a real treat! Definitely go to Bar Palladio and maybe try Shikaar Bagh next door for supper. There are two shops very nearby too - Hot Pink for clothes and Andraab for heavenly cashmere. There is a courtyard area here with other boutique shops worth having a nosy.

Samode Haveli is stunning and you must go here - we had a family dinner here which was such a highlight. Also The Johri is fun with great cocktails and delicious food. A few years back I had a great evening at Baradari in the City Palace - it’s contemporary and rather a good contrast.

Places to visit and shopping

C-Scheme is Jaipur’s most upscale and centrally planned neighbourhood, and is a great destination for lunch and shopping.

City Palace, Jaipur.

For lunch, Jaipur Modern is a fantastic spot as it’s near so many of the best shops, as well as having its own store. Anokhi Cafe does easy salads and great cakes! Don’t miss the Anokhi store for hand blocked tablecloths and napkins, bedcovers, wash bags and cotton, block printed clothes. It’s an institution. Other shops to visit in this area are Nila House, Soma, Fabindia and RASA.

If heading out to Amer Palace and Fort you could tie in Ridhi Sidhi Textiles and Indian Art House, an antique store my sisters discovered. Also I’m sure you’ll drive past the Jal Mahal - a stunning palace set on the Man Sagar Lake.  The Anokhi Museum is out at Amer, so tie these two in together if you can, and the Amer Stepwell too.

I love the City Palace, not to be missed… and nearby is the PDKF shop and Rajasthan Fabrics and Arts - respected antique textiles.

There are still things to do on my Jaipur wish-list! I’d love to take a private tour to see some of the historical houses and havelis in Jaipur with Bharat Singh, and stay at Villa Palladio.

Jaipur dreaming…

If you are longing to visit Jaipur but a trip isn’t on the cards, there are some beautiful businesses where you can buy into the craftsmanship of Jaipur from home. I’m not a jewellery expert at all, but I love Pippa Small who collaborates with master stone cutters and goldsmiths in Jaipur to craft unique handmade jewellery. For clothes, my friend Gabby Deeming founded Daydress which specialises in exquisite clothes made by a small team in Jaipur - each pattern is unique to Daydress and every garment is beautifully finished.

Jools Cornell, October 2026

Amer Palace, Fort and Stepwell in Jaipur.