Jaipur famously known as the Pink City has secured the 5th position in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Cities 2025”, notably surpassing Florence in the rankings. This remarkable achievement highlights Jaipur’s growing global appeal as a travel destination. In this blog, we’ll explore why Jaipur is climbing the global travel ranks, from its rich heritage and immersive experiences to recent sustainable tourism efforts. We’ll also compare Jaipur’s appeal with Florence’s, and highlight practical insights including must-see sights and Instagram-worthy spots – for travelers drawn to this vibrant city.
Jaipur Ranked 5th Best City Worldwide (Outranking Florence)
Jaipur’s new accolade as the world’s 5th best city is based on Travel + Leisure’s 2025 reader survey, where it earned a score of 91.33, edging out iconic destinations like Florence (which scored 90.08). It is the only Indian city in the global top 10 for 2025, reflecting a surge in international appreciation. By comparison, Florence – renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture – came in at 11th place. This marks a shift in traveler preferences: while Florence offers classical European charm, Jaipur’s blend of exotic heritage, affordability, and immersive culture resonated strongly with modern travelers. Travel + Leisure noted that top cities this year inspire visitors to return with their memorable attractions, world-class service, and magnetic atmosphere, qualities Jaipur evidently embodies. The ranking is not just a matter of pride; it signals Jaipur’s emergence as a must-visit global city and a validation of India’s growing appeal on the world tourism stage.
Heritage Appeal: Royal Palaces, History & Culture
Jaipur’s heritage is one of its strongest draws. Centuries-old forts and palaces, such as the Amber Fort and City Palace, stand as grand reminders of its royal history. The city’s entire historic core – the Walled City of Jaipur – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (inscribed in 2019) celebrated for its preserved medieval city layout and iconic pink architecture. In fact, Jaipur boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites within city limits: the walled city itself (with its unique grid street plan), the hilltop Amber Fort, and the Jantar Mantar observatory – an astronomical marvel. Travelers are captivated by Jaipur’s stunning architecture and centuries-old traditions – from the intricate façade of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) to the bustling historic bazaars that have been trading gemstones, textiles, and handicrafts for generations. The city’s nickname, “Pink City,” comes from the rose-hued sandstone buildings in the old quarter, symbolizing hospitality. Cultural richness permeates daily life here: you’ll encounter vibrant Rajasthani folk music, traditional arts and crafts, and locals adorned in colorful attire. This heritage charm gives Jaipur an aura of authenticity that deeply appeals to visitors seeking history and culture. It’s a city where the past comes alive, and that unique sense of place is a key reason Jaipur now stands among the world’s top travel destinations.
Immersive Experiences and Luxury Hospitality
Beyond its monuments, Jaipur offers immersive experiences that leave travelers enchanted. Global Travel + Leisure voters praised Jaipur for its “unforgettable experiences” and cultural richness, as well as its luxury stays. The city seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern luxury. For instance, visitors can stay in opulent heritage hotels – think palatial resorts like the Oberoi Rajvilas or Rambagh Palace – where you sleep in princely suites and dine on royal recipes. (In fact, Oberoi Rajvilas was highlighted in T+L’s list of top hotels.) At the same time, stepping out of these hotels puts you amid Jaipur’s lively street life: the bustling markets of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are perfect for those who love shopping for hand-crafted jewelry, textiles, and art. Jaipur has become a shopper’s paradise, often cited for its world-class shopping for gems and handicrafts.
Travelers can also partake in unique local experiences – from elephant encounters (at Amber Fort you can ride or, more ethically, just feed and walk alongside elephants at nearby conservation parks) to cooking classes that teach Rajasthani cuisine. Foodies will relish the city’s culinary scene: savor spicy kachoris at street stalls, indulge in dal-baati-churma (a Rajasthani classic) in courtyard restaurants, or enjoy fine dining with a view of illuminated forts. Jaipur also hosts global events like the Jaipur Literature Festival, which draws writers and culture enthusiasts from around the world each year, adding a cosmopolitan vibe. Many visitors cite the city’s warm hospitality and the genuine interactions with locals as highlights of their trip. Indeed, Jaipur epitomizes the trend of travelers seeking “immersive, authentic journeys” – it offers emotional connections and hands-on experiences rather than just sights to see. Whether it’s watching the sunset from Nahargarh Fort with a panorama of the city, or enjoying a folk dance performance under the stars, Jaipur delivers a feast for the senses that keeps travelers coming back.
Local Tourism Developments and Modern Amenities
Jaipur’s rise in popularity is also fueled by significant tourism developments and improved infrastructure in recent years. The city and the Rajasthan state government have invested in making Jaipur visitor-friendly while preserving its character. Connectivity to Jaipur has improved – for example, a new high-speed Vande Bharat Express train now links Delhi and Jaipur in around 4 hours, making weekend getaways easier (and more such routes are being added). The airport has expanded international flights, and modern highways connect Jaipur to other tourist circuits in Rajasthan. These enhancements mean travelers can reach Jaipur more conveniently, encouraging more visitors.
On the hospitality front, new hotels and resorts are opening to meet demand. Global luxury brands have arrived – for instance, the Anantara Jaipur Hotel (150 rooms) opened in late 2023, and other upscale resorts are in development. At the same time, many heritage havelis (mansions) have been converted into boutique hotels, adding to the city’s capacity while offering authentic stays. Industry reports show a post-pandemic tourism boom: Rajasthan saw over 18 crore (180 million) tourist visits in 2023, exceeding pre-Covid levels. Jaipur, as the state capital and a tourism hub, benefited greatly investors poured funds into new hospitality projects, and those bets are paying off. The surge includes a rebound in foreign tourists (international arrivals in 2023 even surpassed 2019 numbers).
Local authorities and businesses are also developing new attractions and events to sustain tourism growth. For example, Rajasthan hosted a G20 Tourism Expo in Jaipur in 2023, showcasing the city on a global stage. The state is promoting niche segments like destination weddings, Jaipur’s grand palaces have become sought-after wedding venues worldwide. In 2024, a dedicated tourism mart focused on wedding tourism was held, aiming to boost this segment. Such high-profile weddings and events not only generate tourism revenue but also act as free marketing for Jaipur’s regal charm. Meanwhile, the city has improved visitor amenities: there are hop-on-hop-off buses, night tours that illuminate monuments like Amber Fort after dark, and better signage and cleanliness at tourist sites. All these developments mean that Jaipur today offers modern comforts and efficient tourism services without losing its old-world appeal. This balance makes visiting Jaipur both enchanting and convenient, a combination travelers appreciate.
Sustainable Tourism in Jaipur: Going Green and Responsible
As traveler numbers grow, Jaipur is actively embracing sustainable tourism practices to protect its heritage and environment for the future. Eco-conscious initiatives are visible across the city. For instance, the government has banned single-use plastics at major monuments and within 100 meters of heritage sites, keeping places like Amer Fort and Hawa Mahal cleaner. The city is also expanding its green spaces new parks and gardens are being developed to improve air quality and provide urban oases. Urban planners in Jaipur are creating pedestrian-friendly streets in the old city and promoting cycling routes, which not only reduce traffic and pollution but also make exploring the city more enjoyable for tourists.
Rajasthan’s tourism board has stepped up efforts to encourage responsible travel. Eco-tourism programs are on the rise: visitors can take rural village tours, wildlife safaris, and community-based tourism experiences that ensure tourism benefits local people. The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) actively promotes rural tourism, eco-friendly hotels, and low-impact activities, with a motto of minimal environmental impact and cultural preservation. In Jaipur, several hotels have adopted green practices such as rainwater harvesting and solar panels, and some offer guests the option to contribute to local conservation projects.
Notably, Jaipur has a unique urban wildlife treasure: the Jhalana Leopard Conservation Reserve on the city’s outskirts. This park – home to over 30 leopards runs guided safari tours, demonstrating how wildlife conservation and tourism can coexist. It’s part of a broader push to preserve biodiversity; local authorities support conservation of the Aravalli hills around Jaipur and have planted thousands of trees in recent years. Water conservation is another focus in this semi-arid region – stepwells and traditional rainwater harvesting structures are maintained not just as monuments but as functional tools for water management. Locals and tour operators have also launched clean-up drives (often using the hashtag #ResponsibleJaipur) to keep historical sites litter-free and educate visitors on respectful behavior. The emphasis on sustainability is about ensuring that Jaipur’s cultural and natural heritage remain intact despite the tourist influx. For travelers, this means you can enjoy Jaipur in a more environmentally and socially responsible way, for example, by choosing eco-certified hotels, using e-rickshaws or shared transport instead of private cars, and supporting local artisans and businesses (which keeps tourism revenue in the community). By following these practices, visitors play a part in preserving Jaipur’s magic for generations to come.
Most Instagrammable Spots in Jaipur (Photogenic Highlights)
Jaipur’s vivid colors and architectural beauty have made it one of the most photographed places in India – a paradise for bloggers and Instagrammers. If you’re chasing those picture-perfect shots, here are Jaipur’s top Instagrammable locations popular among travelers and influencers:
- Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): This honeycombed pink façade with 953 windows is Jaipur’s signature landmark. The view of Hawa Mahal from across the street (or from rooftop cafes like Tattoo Café) is iconic on social media. Visit in early morning for soft light glowing through the windows, or in late afternoon when the facade catches the sun.
- Patrika Gate at Jawahar Circle: Arguably the most Instagrammed spot in Jaipur, Patrika Gate is a series of richly painted arches forming a gorgeous corridor. Each arch is hand-painted with motifs from Rajasthan’s history, creating a rainbow of colors. It’s become a favorite backdrop for photographers and pre-wedding shoots. Tip: Come early in the morning to capture the gate with minimal crowds.
- Amber Fort & Stepwell: The majestic Amer Fort offers countless photo ops – from its towering sandstone walls reflected in Maota Lake to the ornate Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) inside. Don’t miss the nearby Panna Meena ka Kund, a geometric stepwell with crisscrossing steps. Its symmetrical design is a hit on Instagram and provides a unique, offbeat backdrop.
- City Palace & Colorful Gates: In the City Palace, head to the Pritam Niwas Chowk courtyard which has four splendid gates, each intricately decorated to represent a season. The Lotus Gate (with floral motifs) and Peacock Gate (with vibrant peacock designs) are particularly popular for photos. The juxtaposition of anyone in front of these elaborate doors makes for a royal-looking shot.
- Jal Mahal (Water Palace): This palace floats in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. While you can’t visit the interior, the view from the lakeshore especially at sunrise or sunset – is stunning. The palace’s reflection in the water and the surrounding Nahargarh hills often grace travel photography feeds.
- Nahargarh Fort Panorama: Nahargarh Fort, perched above the city, offers a panoramic overlook of Jaipur. It’s famous for sunset shots as the sky turns orange, you can capture the cityscape with the ancient fort walls in the foreground. There’s a popular viewpoint known as “Padao” where many take that golden-hour Instagram shot.
- Café Palladio / Bar Palladio: These are trendy eateries in Jaipur known for their striking interior décor. Café Palladio’s pastel Moroccan-inspired design and Bar Palladio’s royal blue Italian-Rajput fusion interior have appeared in many travel and lifestyle posts. They’re perfect for a styled food or coffee shot in an elegant setting.
From the pink walls and painted doorways to vibrant street scenes (don’t miss a snap of a colorful turban or a rickshaw against the pink backdrop!), Jaipur is visually captivating at every turn. It’s no surprise that images tagged with #Jaipur or #PinkCity routinely go viral, inspiring more travelers to come. For the best results, plan your shoots around early morning (for soft light and fewer people) or golden hour, and embrace the local color by wearing a bright outfit that pops against Jaipur’s pastel backgrounds. Jaipur’s photogenic charm not only delights Instagram enthusiasts but also reflects the city’s deeper aesthetic legacy – a place designed to impress the eye, long before social media ever existed.
Conclusion: Where Heritage Meets Modern Wanderlust
In 2025, Jaipur is rightfully basking in the global spotlight, a city where heritage meets contemporary travel trends. It has shown that preserving culture and embracing tourism need not be at odds: Jaipur’s centuries-old palaces and traditions continue to thrive even as modern cafes, luxury hotels, and eco-friendly initiatives take root. This blend of destination admiration with traveler practicality is exactly what makes Jaipur special. Visitors can admire the city’s ornate forts and lively festivals, yet also find clean facilities, organized tours, and conscious tourism practices that make the journey comfortable and meaningful.
Jaipur’s victory in outranking longtime favorites like Florence underscores a broader shift: today’s travelers crave authenticity, warmth, and unique experiences and Jaipur delivers all of these in spades. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture seeker, an avid photographer, or a first-time visitor to India, Jaipur welcomes you with open arms and a barrage of sensory delights. As you wander its pink streets, remember to soak in the little practical joys too: sip a masala chai while watching the chaos of a market, learn a few words of Hindi or Rajasthani to exchange greetings, and consider exploring beyond the main sites to discover Jaipur’s lesser-known gems. By traveling mindfully respecting the local culture and environment, you’ll not only have an enriching experience but also contribute to Jaipur’s sustainable tourism success story.
In the end, Jaipur’s growing global recognition is no surprise: this city has always had the grandeur, the stories, and the heart to captivate visitors. Now, with the world taking notice, it’s an exciting time to plan that trip to the Pink City. Whether you come for its World’s Best City fame, its royal heritage, or that perfect Instagram shot, Jaipur promises to be a destination that lives up to the hype and perhaps even inspires you to return, just as Travel + Leisure’s readers have. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment in this timeless city!