Every brand from West Elm to Urban Outfitters, to Ralph Lauren is in Jaipur shopping for inspiration. Jaipur is a hub for artisan fashion. Because of this, if you are planning a trip to India and love artisan fashion it’s where you need to be too.
Why Jaipur?
Jaipur is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan and is extremely popular with tourists because of its proximity to the national capital of Delhi and the religious city of Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Together, the 3 cities make up India’s Golden Triangle. Because of its concentration of sights, The Golden Triangle is one of India's most popular tourist routes.
Jaipur is one of India’s most instagrammable cities. The Prince of Wales, in 1876 visited Jaipur. At the time, Jaipur was one of the most architecturally advanced cities in India. To welcome the prince in style, Sawai Ram Singh (the Maharaja at the time) ordered the entire city to be painted pink. Because of this, Jaipur became known as “The Pink City”. The city is painted pink to this day!
A Great Place To Be
What I love about Jaipur is that it is a fun city to work in. So often I find myself in little villages in the middle of nowhere that are almost impossible to find on a map, and there is nothing but manufacturing to see. Jaipur has so much going on besides manufacturing! Instead of sitting at a hotel waiting and killing time, you can spend your time checking out one of these amazing sights.
Even super affordable ($12/night) guest houses are adorable
Amer Fort and Palace
The Amer Fort is located just outside of Jaipur. The fort is a great example of classic Hindu architecture. If you look carefully, you can see how regional block prints that are made in Jaipur today were inspired by the decor of the palace.
Hawa Mahal - Palace of the Winds
The Hawa Mahal, also knowns as the wind palace was built for the royal women of Jaipur. At the time, women had to obey the strict rules of "purdah", which forbade them from appearing in public without face coverings. Because of this, 953 small windows called jharokhas let the royal women view the outside world. Try to go around sunset for unreal views of the city.
Jantar Mantar Observatory
Right around the corner from the Hawa Mahal is the Jantar Mantar. Jantar Mantar is an out of this world architectural collection. It is made of nineteen different massive sized astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king.
Jal Mahal - Floating Palace
A short drive from the city center you will find the Jal Mahal, also known as the floating palace in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake. This spot is best to take in at sunset.
Secret Spots For Jaipur Shopping
Now, for my list of some of the cities best-kept shopping spots. For this list, I focused on block prints - which is what Jaipur is most famous for. But, there is more than just block prints in the area. My favorite eco denim manufacturer that produces with zero water is actually based just outside of town. Want to learn more about sustainable denim options? Leave a comment down below!
Anokhi
Anokhi is one of the most famous Jaipur shopping spots. Traditional block prints meet modern silhouettes at Anokhi. Choose from racks of dresses, scarves, notebooks, bedding, and home goods. The entire store looks like a Pinterest post.
Jaipur Fab & Craft
14, Hanuman Vatika, Chipiwada, Kagdiwada
Mount Road, Jaipur - 302 002
It is best to go by tuk-tuk to this spot as the roads get very narrow. The entrance of the shop looks like someones home, but don't let that fool you. Inside there are racks full of bedding and pillows
BR Enterprises
Lot's of block printed fabrics here along with indigo rugs, pashmina, and wool scarves, and traditional embroideries. And, all for a great price.
Saurashtra Impex
7-8 Inside Jorawar Singh Gate, opp Ayurvedia Colege
Amer Palace Road, Jaipur 302 002
Saurashtra Impex is infamous for being featured in Vogue in 2016. Come here if you are looking for traditional one of a kind vintage pieces.
Fab India
Fab India is one of the largest block print retailers in India. Although it is is not a unique Jaipur shopping destination, it is still worth checking out. You will find their shops all over Jaipur, and all over every major India city.
The Markets
The two best markets for local shopping are Johri Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar. Here you can find everything. Be ready to bargain!
What to eat?
With the heat, crowds, and all of the choices, Jaipur shopping can be exhausting. If you are an adventurous eater try using Zomato to find to find nearby food selections.
If you are worried about getting sick by trying something off the beaten path, stick to one of these safe staples.
Anokhi Cafe
Attached to the Anokhi block print shop is the cafe. This is one of the few places in India where you can get a fresh salad that won't make you sick. Most food on the menu is international - fresh salads, plates of pasta, falafel, sandwiches, and juices.
Bar Palladio
Perfect for a swanky night out. Palladio is an Italian restaurant with an insane drink menu. The decor is designed for Instagramming so bring your camera.
Shikaar Bagh
Next to Bar Palladio is Shikaar Bagh. Come here for the outdoor seating, and elevated Indian food.
Niros
Have you tried Indian Chinese food? Indo Chinese is a fusion cuisine unique to India alone. Niro's is a long time staple of Jaipur serving up these one-of-a-kind dishes like Manchow soup, chicken Manchurian, and prawn chili.
Tapri Tea House
There are two locations of Tapri Tea House. There is an amazing rooftop at the C-Scheme location. But, prepare to wait during peak hours. Tapri is a great place to try Indian street foods like bhel puri, poha, vada, samosa, and other Indian chaats.
Interested in blocking printing your own collection?
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