As one of the top honeymoon destinations in India, it should be of no surprise that Jaipur is full of attractions encouraging romance. From luxurious hotels to one-of-a-kind experiences, the Pink City — so named for the rose hued stone used on buildings throughout the city — is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with each other.
If romance is what you’re looking for during your holiday in Jaipur, build your itinerary around these five experiences.
Book One of Jaipur’s Legendary Hotels
As a major tourist destination, it only makes sense Jaipur offers many hotel options. From full service resorts to remodelled palaces, a large number of Jaipur’s accommodations are ideal for romance. For the ultimate in privacy and luxury, book a room at the Tree of Life Resort & Spa, which offer private villas with king-sized four-poster beds, private gardens and swimming pools. Closer to the city centre, the Raj Palace offers sumptuously decorated rooms and attentive service; splurge on the Presidential Suite, a multi-floor private pavilion with its own gardens, gym, pool and spa to sleep where the former maharajah once rested his head.
Of course, since the Presidential Suite is among the world’s most expensive hotel rooms, you may want something more affordable while still luxurious. Book one of the luxury tents at the Oberoi Rajvilas for a unique experience. Far from a simple tent, these elaborate rooms feature air conditioning, comfortable beds and 24-hour butler service, making them the perfect place to spend quality time together.
Elephant Ride
Nothing says romance like a shared experience; riding on the back of one of nature’s largest and most majestic animals is an experience neither of you will soon forget. Few people visit Jaipur without taking a ride on an elephant through the city; in fact, in the past royalty made their way to the city’s Amber Fort exclusively on the backs of elephants. While you may not be royalty, you too can enjoy this mode of transportation. Bring your camera, as these rides present plenty of photo opportunities.
Hawa Mahal
One of the most recognisable landmarks in Jaipur, Hawa Mahal — the Palace of the Winds or Palace of the Breeze — is a red-and-pink sandstone structure part of the City Palace. With its distinctive façade of 953 windows decorated with intricate lattice, Hawa Mahal is worth exploring because of its beauty and history. For those seeking romance, the palace is the ideal backdrop for a romantic stroll and photo shoot. In the early morning hours, the palace appears golden in the sunlight and it’s not uncommon to see couples posing for photos with the striking palace as the setting.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
No matter where you are, the notion of soaring above the land in a balloon is romantic –and Jaipur is no exception. During your holiday in Jaipur, book a private romantic balloon ride for a different view of the city and the surrounding desert landscape of Rajasthan. When you reserve your ride, talk with the balloon operator about any special experiences or celebrations you want while you’re in the air. Some operators will decorate the basket for you, prepare a champagne toast, provide a cake or offer other add-ons to make your flight more memorable and romantic.
Jal Mahal Palace
While once in disrepair and slightly dilapidated, this former palace located in the Man Sagar Lake has undergone a significant restoration. The palace itself is not open to visitors, but it’s possible to walk around the lake on a boardwalk and take in the views of the structure, which seems to float above the waters of the lake. A large project is underway to develop the area around the palace that will eventually include restaurants, shopping and other diversions.
Jaipur is one of India’s most romantic cities, full of history, mystery and beauty. Whether you simply relax and enjoy each other’s company in one of the city’s luxury hotels, enjoy pampering spa treatments or spend your time exploring the many attractions, you’ll return home with shared memories that will last a lifetime.
About the Author: Amodini Malhotra writes about weddings, honeymoons and romantic getaways for a travel site.
