22 Best Weekend Getaways from Jaipur

Within a range of 130 to 570km from Jaipur you get a number of places that are borderline genius. Less tiring, affordable and time saving- the weekend trips to these destinations meet your expectations of a rejuvenating holiday that is far from the confines of a usual lifestyle. The diverse getaways introduce you with the vivacious lifestyle of Delhi; bring you closer to the eye-catching royal mansions of Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Chittorgarh and many more.

To let you plan an instant trip I have sorted out the list of the best weekend getaways from Jaipur and to keep it simpler I have categorized the destinations as per their distance from the Pink City.

Destinations within a Distance of 100KM – 300KM (Short Weekend Trips)

Ajmer, Rajasthan

If you want to seek blessings of some divine entity for the well being of your near and dear ones or fulfilment of your long awaited wish, you must visit Khwaja Garib Nawaz (R.A.) Dargah which is around 130km south-west of Jaipur. Visited by the devotees of both Muslim and Hindu beliefs, this is a very revered pilgrimage site in India. Urs, the death anniversary of Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chishti, and the period of Ramadan is the ideal time to judge the popularity of this place.

Other Sightseeing Places and Tourist Attractions in Ajmer:

• Akbar’s Palace & Museum
• Ana Sagar Lake
• Roopangarh Fort
• Taragarh Fort

Sariska, Rajasthan

Photo: R Karthik

Sariska National Park, which was earlier known as Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 133km from Jaipur in Alwar district of Rajasthan. As the name of this wildlife reserve suggests, it is a tiger reserve, so you can expect to have a glimpse of this royal animal amidst the verdant forest. Apart from the big cats several other species of wildlife can be spotted in its forest such as leopard, golden jackal, four-horned antelope, Indian eagle-owl and some more. The majestic Sariska Palace, which was once built as a royal hunting lodge, is located on the edge of this national park.

Do Not Forget to Visit:

• Neelkath Temple
• The ruins of Bhartrihari Temples
• The Naldeshwar Temple

Pushkar, Rajasthan

Photo: Nidhi Singh

A short drive of around 3 to 4 hours is enough to take you to the ever alluring city of Pushkar. It is around 144km from Jaipur if you are driving via NH8. Though the numbers of tourist attractions in Pushkar are not abundant, you would love visiting its ponds filled with stirring water or the pristine white Brahma Temple which is the only of its kinds in India. If you are thinking of participating in some exciting activities, you should plan to visit this town. Explore the market of Pushkar or go camel riding on the wide stretched desert of Pushkar. If you want to see the most vibrant face of this city, try to attend the Pushkar Fair which is held between the months of October and November. The best thing about Pushkar is the huge number of foreigners exploring this city every year.

Popular Sightseeing Places & Tourist Attractions:

• Pushkar Lake
• Brahma’s Temple
• Aptaeshwar Temple
• Varaha Temple

Alwar, Rajasthan

Photo: Pavan Gupta

Just 152km from Jaipur, Alwar is among the best weekend places to visit near Jaipur. Popularly known as the gateway of Rajasthan, the city is famous among the travellers for its jaw-dropping royal edifices, gardens, forts, lakes and temples. Unlike other cities of Rajasthan where you have seen Hindu temples, Alwar hosts a couple of temples dedicated to the Jaina Tirthankaras. The city palace of Alwar, which is built at the foothills of a mountain, is the most beguiling artistic creation. A perfect blend of the Rajput building style and Mughal architecture can be observed in this palace.

Other Sightseeing & Tourist Places in Alwar:

• Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri
• Vinay Vilas Palace
• Bala Quila (Vijay Mandir Palace)
• The Museum/Government Museum
• Tomb of Fateh Jang
• Purjan Vihar/Company Garden

Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Photo: WhiteEye2

If you are an avid wildlife enthusiast and a guest in Jaipur, then sort out your schedule and head to explore the bewildering national park of Ranthambore. Only 162km from Jaipur, this wildlife sighting spot is situated in Sawai Madhopur District of Rajasthan and is one of the largest national parks in northern India. If you have ever dreamt of tiger sighting in India then go for a canter or gypsy safari in Ranthambore National Park. Ranthambore Fort, a creation of the 10^th century, encloses a couple of temples dedicated to Hindu deities and Jaina Tirthankars. Padam Talao is the largest pond in this park and Jogi Mahal is a small historical remain.

Other Places to Visit in Ranthambore:

• Ranthambore Fort
• Trinetra Ganesh Temple
• Surwal Lake
• Padam Lake
• Kachida Valley
• Jogi Mahal
• Raj Bagh Ruins
• Lakarda and Anantpura
• Malik Talao
• Akaula Region
• Village Women Craft
• Wild Dragon
• Ranthambore Schools of Art

Mandawa, Rajasthan

Photo: Daniel Mennerich

Even if you are not prepared to travel for hours, you can visit a wonderful historical place near Jaipur called Mandawa. Perfect destination to choose for Jaipur weekend breaks, Mandawa is just 168 km from the Pink City. Located in Shekhawati Region of Rajasthan, Mandawa hosts a couple of age old palaces that are adorned with eye-catching murals and architecture. The detailed work of art etched on the walls and ceilings of these havelis are awe-striking. Murmuria Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Goenka Chattri are a few major attractions in Mandawa.

Other Tourist Attractions in Mandawa:

• Binsidhar Newatia Haveli
• Mandawa Fort
• Main Bazaar
• Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli
• Thakurji Temple

Bharatpur, Rajasthan

Photo:Sandeep Mall

You must know Bharatpur for the famous Keoladeo National Park which is popular for nesting wide varieties of birds. But, let me tell you that Bharatpur is a heritage city as well. It is around 184km from Jaipur and ideally it does not take more than 4 to 5 hours to reach this beautiful city of Rajasthan. Other than bird watching you can go visiting Deeg Palace (43km) or can plan to visit Loha Garh (79km from Keoladeo National Park) where you get to see exclusive collections of unique and archaic artefacts and archaeological resources in the nearby Government museum. Fatehpur Sikri is 26km from Bharatpur, so, depending on your schedule plan for a trip here.

Top 7 Tourism Places to Visit in Bharatpur:

• Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
• Deeg Palace
• Government Museum
• Laxman Temple
• Lohagarh Fort
• Bankebihari Temple
• Shergarh Fort

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

If you are looking for a religious destination to get some mental peace and the blessings of the divine entity, plan a trip to Mathura. The birthplace of Sri Krishna, the saviour of the world, Mathura is only 223km from Jaipur and if you start early you can reach here within 4 to 5 hours. Visit the jail where Lord Krishna was born and his parents lived. The grand palace like temple turns out to be a destination of ultimate peace. Just next to the temple there is a royal pond which is enclosed by bathing ghats designed in rich architectural touch. Visit the Krishna-Balaram Temple (ISKCON) just 2km from the Krishna Temple if you drive via Vindhyachal Marg. It is only here that you can see the magnificent Prem Mandir. Visit the Government Museum of Mathura which is around 10km from Prem Mandir.

Other Tourist Attractions in Mathura:

• Shri Krishna Janmabhumi
• Dvarkadhish Temple
• Gita Mandir
• Vishram Ghat
• Jama Masjid
• Government Museum
• Shri Jambu Swami Nirvan Sthal Digamber Jain Mandir Chaurasi
• Gayatri Tapobhumi
• Jai Gurudev Naam Yog Sadhna Temple

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

A city that witnessed the divine love between Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha, Vrindavan is a must-visit pilgrimage for the religious souls. The city is around 235km from Jaipur and ideally it takes 5 to 6 hours if you are driving via NH 11. The bustling streets and markets of this city echoes with the sound of Radha Radhe and smell of fresh flowers, incense sticks and sweet dishes making the travellers fall for this city once they enter the premises of Bankey Bihari Temple. The biggest attraction of Vrindavan is the Prem Mandir and Radha Madhava Mandir.

Other Places to Visit in Vrindavan:

• Madan Mohan Temple
• Govinda Dev Temple
• Jugal Kisore Temple
• Krishana Balram Mandir (ISKCON Temple Vrindavan)
• Sri Ranganatha (Rangaji) Temple
• Radharamana Temple
• Radha Damodara Temple
• Sri Radha Gokulananda Mandir
• Radha Vallabha Temple
• Radha-Syamasundara
• Sri Gopesvara Mahadeva Mandir
• Jaipur Temple
• Shahji Temple
• Seva Kunj & Nidhi Van
• Imlitala Tree & Temple
• Gopinath Temple
• Prem Mandir
• Vaishno Devi Temple
• Garud Govind Temple

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Photo: Pravir Shukla

A city known for the jaw-dropping creations of the Mughal Era, Agra is located at a distance of around 237km from Jaipur. Dotted with exclusive heritage buildings, forts and age old mosques, the city offers history buffs sufficient food for their eyes. The most exciting thing to see in Agra is the magnificent Taj Mahal, the white marble mausoleum. Agra Fort, the giant monument is just 5km from the Taj Mahal and speaks loudly about the artistic excellence of the artists of Mughal Era. Once you are done with these two, travel to Fatehpur Sikri which is approximately 37km from the Agra Fort. Akbar’s Tomb, Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, Moti Masjid are a few more attractions in Agra.

Kota, Rajasthan

Photo: Manish Danodia

You must be familiar with Kota for its highly prestigious educational institutes, but let me tell you, there are several other things in this counter magnet city of India. You can easily plan for a weekend trip to Kota as it is only around 255km from Jaipur. Like other major cities of Rajasthan, palaces, temples and gardens constitute the most fascinating part of tourism in Kota.

The Major Attractions in Kota:

• Jagmandir Palace
• Haveli of Deaji and Chambal Gardens
• City Fort and Palace
• Rao Madho Singh Museum
• Kota Barrage
• Rana Pratap Sagar Dam

Delhi

Photo: Fawzan Hasan

Undoubtedly Delhi is among the best weekend getaways from Jaipur and if you are planning for a quick tour you will be amazed seeing the varieties of sightseeing options available in this city. Only 272km from Jaipur, the city brings all amusement facilities and meets the needs of history buffs, boozers and romantic couples. If you are here for seeing the major attractions, don’t miss out on a visit India Gate, Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhawan, Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Rajghat, Red Fort and some more. Delhi is also a great place for the gastronomists. The street food of Chandni Chowk is famous among all types of tourists. For international travellers Delhi brings lounges of exclusive varieties catering facilities of world class standard.

Other Tourist Attractions in Delhi:

• Akshardham Temple
• Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
• Jama Masjid
• ISKON Temple
• Gandhi Smriti
• Jantar Mantar
• National Museum Delhi
• Kalka Mandir
• Laxminaryan Temple
• National Zoological Park
• National Rail Museum
• Agrasen ki Baoli
• Nehru Memorial Museum & Library
• Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
• Sanskriti Museums
• Fatehpuri Masjid
• Hanuman Temple Connaught Place
• Dilli Hat
• Birla Temple

Long Weekend Getaways from Jaipur Distance- 300KM – 500KM

Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

Photo:Matilde Canosa

The association of chivalric tales of Rajput men and women with the forts and palaces of the city makes Chittorgarh a must see historical site near Jaipur. The travellers who are searching for fresh delight everyday should go watching the historical forts, palaces and temples of Chittorgarh to make a brief idea about the heroism of Rajput Kingdom. Chittorgarh is around 306km from Jaipur where you should start your trip from the Fort of Chittorgarh. 40 percent of the area of this fort is covered with water-bodies. Do not forget the temple of Tulja Bhavani and Rani Padmini Palace. Earlier there were 84 water-bodies among which 22 are still active.

Major Tourist’s Attractions of Chittorgarh:

• Vijay Stambh
• Kirti Stambh
• Meera Temple
• Rana Kumbha Palace
• Ranakpur Temple
• Sanwariyaji Temple
• Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary

Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Photo: Matilde Canosa

If you dream of exploring one of the best attractions of central India in a short time span, (may be in the weekends) Gwalior is the best option for weekend trips from Jaipur. It is around 325km from Jaipur and takes around 6 – 7 hours if you are driving via NH11. In Gwalior tourist get a chance to observe the royal mementoes of ancient India which are preserved here very carefully. The gigantic Gwalior Fort located on a sub-range of Vindhya Mountain is the most fascinating element to be witnessed in Gwalior. The sub-sections of this palace, temples, and museum are worth-visiting. Teli Ka Mandir, Jas Vilas Palace, Sas-Bahu Temple (Sahasrabahu Mandir) are worth-seeing.

Major Tourist Attractions in Gwalior:

• Gwalior Fort
• Chatarbhuj Mandir
• Man Singh Palace
• Gujari Mahal
• Surya Mandir
• Sas Bahu Temple
• Jas Vilas Palace
• Teli Ka Mandir
• Samadhi of Rani Lakshmi Bai
• Mausoleums of Mohammed Ghaus & Tansen
• Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod
• Gopachal Parvat
• Archaeological Museum

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Photo: Matilde Canosa

Jodhpur is only around 335km from Jaipur, so you can easily plan for a short weekend trip from Jaipur. Spectacular forts, grand royal palaces exuding the aura of a kingly state, and the wonderful cenotaph make Jodhpur an ideal place for a short trip. The best part about Jodhpur is the habitats enclosing the region of Mehrangarh Fort. All these households are painted in blue what brings the city the sobriquet of blue city. Explore the different parts of this Fort to witness the rich collection of royal costumes, musical instruments, furniture, palanquins, and the cannons preserved since ages. Jaswant thada, a royal cenotaph is close to the fort complex.

Don’t Forget to Visit:

• Umaid Bhawan
• The Grand Royal Palace
• Umed Garden
• Balsamand Lake and Palace
• Mandor
• Rai-ka-Bag Palace

Bikaner, Rajasthan

Photo: Daniel Mennerich

The princely state of Bikaner is dotted with dust-swirling sand dunes, old royal palace and colourful bazaars. Located in the northern part of Rajasthan this sandy city is around 336km from Jaipur and takes around 7 to 8 hours to reach by private vehicles. For travelling to the different corners of this city you have to take a camel ride which is the best part of travelling in Bikaner. A small village called Ladera hosts the famous Camel Festival of Bikaner. So, if you are planning to travel in January, make sure you check the date of the fair the next time. For sightseeing in Bikaner, the Laxmi Niwas Palace, Lalgarh Palace, Jain Haveli and Bhandeshwar Jain Temple are the best options. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary is 35km from Bikaner, so you can try visiting that.

Major Sightseeing Places in Bikaner:

• Junagarh Fort
• Devi Kund
• Kote Gate
• Bhandasar Jain Temple
• Prachina Museum
• Deshnok Temple
• Ganga Government Museum
• Shiv Bari Temple
• Lalgarh Palace and Museum
• Gajner Lake

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Photo: Hussain Raza

Amongst the palace cities of Rajasthan, Udaipur leads the march. It is around 421km from Jaipur and dotted with lavish palaces built in and outside the charismatic lakes. Lake Pichola, one of the largest manmade lakes in Rajasthan is the best sight to be at. The famous heritage hotel of Lake Palace is built in this lake which looks like a floating swan from the distance. The City Palace stands on the eastern bank of this lake and exhibits awe-striking assortment of gardens, courtyards and royal buildings.

Must Visit Tourist Spots of Udaipur:

• City Palace
• Lake Palace
• Bagore ki Haveli
• Kumbhalgarh Fort
• Fatehsagar Lake
• Jagdish Temple
• Sas-Bahu Temple
• Fateh Sagar Lake
• Ambrai Ghat
• Monsoon Palace
• Udaipur Ropeway
• Shilpgram
• Sahelion-ki-Bari
• Solar Observatory
• Gulab Bagh & Zoo
• Pratap Museum
• Musical Fountain
• Sukhadia Circle
• Rajiv Gandhi Park

Mount Abu, Rajasthan

‘An Oasis in the desert’, Mount Abu is the only hill station of North-West India and calls the romantic couples and free souls to take a plunge in its relaxing beauty. It is around 487km from Jaipur and turns to be one of the most popular weekend holiday destinations around Jaipur. The evergreen forests, waterfalls, rivers and lakes keep the temperature of this city pleasant and make it suitable retreat to escape the sweltering heat of Rajasthan. The major attractions of this city are Dilwara Jain temples, Achalgarh fort, Guru Shikhar Peak, Adhar Devi Temple and some more. Mount Abu is also gaining popularity among eco-tourism fans. There are a couple of short walking trails and camping sites where you can plan for a different travel experience.

Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Photo:Nilanjan Guha

An ancient religious site on the bank of the holy river Ganges, Haridwar is a must visit for people seeking salvation from earthly pains. Located at a distance of around 493km from Jaipur, this Hindu pilgrimage site hosts awe-striking temples at the edge of the Ganges. Devotees from across the world throng here to have a glimpse of destinations like Har ki Pauri, Kanva Rishi Ashram or Saptarishi Ashram. If you are here with the motive of offering prayers, do not forget to visit the temple of Chandi Devi, Mansa Devi and Daksha Mahadev, Bharat Mata Temple, a unique shrine without any idols placed inside should not escape your sight.

Destinations within the Distance of 500KM – 600KM

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Photo:Morten Hammer

Far away from the sweltering heat of Rajasthan, Rishikesh is a perfect blend of adventure activities and religious sightseeing options in a single destination. It is around 513km from Jaipur and turns out to be the best option for the long weekend holidays from Jaipur. For people with intense love for zealous activities should join the white water rafting in Rishikesh which is the best way to get adrenaline rush. Camping on the bank of River Bhagirathi is an ideal way to get to the Nature Goddess. Adrenaline junkies can also get involved in Bungee Jumping, Rock Climbing, or short trekking as well. For religious souls Nilkanth Mahadev Temple, Kunjapuri Temple, Paramarth Niketan are a few places to visit in Rishikesh.

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Photo: Tati

A typical Rajasthani city dotted with old havelis, lakes and sand dunes, Jaisalmer is around 571 km from Jaipur. To reach Jaisalmer from Jaipur, it takes around 9 to 10 hours. The age old forts of Rajput dynasty, their untold chivalric tales, and the detailed work of art found on the heart of the Thar Desert amaze the tourists. To see the most fascinating elements in your weekend trip, start from Jaisalmer Fort which looks bright golden colour from distant parts of this city. Further extend your trip by visiting Patwon Ki Haveli, which is just a few metres away from the Jaisalmer Fort. Gadisar Lake is around a kilometre from the fort. If you have a fascination with camel rides, Sam Sand Dunes is the best pick for you. For experiencing the varied feel of travelling to Jaisalmer don’t miss to include the Thar Heritage Museum and Silk Route Art Gallery to your schedule.

Popular Tourist Attractions of Jaisalmer:

• Jaisalmer Fort
• Sam Sand Dunes
• Gadsisar Lake
• Nathmalji ki Haveli
• Patwon ki Haveli
• Jain Temples
• Lodurva Temple
• Lakshminath Temple
• Khuri Sand Dunes
• Tazia Tower
• Folklore Museum
• Bhatia Bazaar
• Salim Singh-ki-Haveli
• Deoki Niwas Palace
• Desert National Park
• Fort Rajwada
• Manak Chowk

Shekhawati, Rajasthan

If you are fond of exploring the palaces filled with the finest work of art, visit the Shekhawati Region of Rajasthan where four artistically enriched districts form an exclusive group. From Royal edifices to normal households and step wells, everything is decorated with richly painted murals, paintings and motifs. The havelis in Mukundgarh, Mandawa, Jhunjhunu and Nawalgarh enrich the tourism of this region. For better experiences add the attractions of Sikar and Churu to your plan.