My Jaipur Diaries

Jaipur is a feast for the senses - a place where vibrant colours, intricate craftsmanship, and the echoes of royal heritage come together in perfect harmony. At So Souk we are endlessly inspired by the artistry of this enchanting city, where every street corner reveals a treasure trove of handmade wonders. Having just come back from the most amazing week in the Pink City I thought I would give you a little insight into my trip and some of my favourite things to do in Jaipur.

Visiting the Pink City is always more than just a trip to meet suppliers, it’s an immersion into a world where craftsmanship and culture intertwine and you can't fail to feel inspired! I always come back brimming with ideas and designs to start sampling. Scraps of fabric find their way into my suitcase ready to inspire next seasons collections. Whether you’re strolling through the bazaars or sipping a beer n a hidden courtyard, the spirit of Jaipur stays with you long after you leave.

Jaipur’s grand palaces and serene courtyards serve as a source of inspiration - pretty murals and intricate jali (lattice) work adorn a wall round every corner.  The faded pastels of City Palace and the sun-drenched courtyards of the Hawa Mahal all remind us of the beauty in detail and the elegance of slow living - principles that are at the heart of So Souk’s philosophy.

One of the highlights of my trip this year was being able to visit the 3 girls whose education we sponsor through our work at So Souk at the Sneh Girls Shikshan Sansthan school just on the outskirts of Jaipur. It's an amazing school and provides education to children from a very struggling area of Jaipur (that would otherwise be sent out to work each day due to their families circumstances). The charity that supports the school was set up by Daisy from Kapara and you can read more about it here.

The other highlight was my visit to the block printers to see some of our new fabric being printed - always so wonderful to see the artisans at work and be reminded of the painstaking dedication, time and effort that goes into this traditional craft. 

If you are thinking of a visit yourself, here are a few of my favourite things to do in Jaipur:

PLACES TO VISIT

City Palace

Located in the heart of Jaipur's Old City, the City Palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings that blend Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. It houses museums showcasing royal costumes, artifacts, and art, providing a deep dive into Jaipur's regal past. 

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)

This iconic five-story structure, built in 1799, features a unique façade with 953 small windows (jharokhas). Designed to allow royal ladies to observe street festivities unseen, it stands as a testament to Jaipur's architectural ingenuity. The best spot to get a view of the Hawa Mahal is the Wind View Cafe opposite - climb the steep steps up to the terrace to grab a coffee and watch all the traffic go by.

Amber Fort

Perched on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, Amber Fort is renowned for its artistic Hindu-style elements. The fort's expansive complex includes grand halls, palaces, temples, and beautifully landscaped gardens, and great panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's definitely worth a visit.

Johari and Bapu Bazaars

For an authentic shopping experience, explore these bustling markets. Johari Bazaar is famed for its exquisite jewelry and gemstones, while Bapu Bazaar offers a variety of textiles, handicrafts, and the renowned Jaipur footwear, known as mojris. Definitely somewhere you need to wander on foot and just soak up the atmosphere and see where your journey leads you.

Albert Hall Museum

As the oldest museum in Rajasthan, the Albert Hall Museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, carpets, and musical instruments, providing insights into the region's rich cultural heritage. 

WHERE TO EAT:

The Johri

The Johri restaurant is a real gem. The most incredible vegetarian menu in a chic but cosy atmosphere with great service.

Townsend Bar and Kitchen

This is a great place for lunch and offers a delightful café experience. Bright and elegant outdoor decor and a good mix or Asian and Italian food alongside more traditional dishes.

Jaipur Modern - Store and Kitchen

A stylish little lunch spot with a boho vibe and a good offering of global dishes.

Bar Palladio

Located in the restored gardens of the Narain Niwas Palace Hotel, Bar Palladio is known for its incredible all-blue decor and classic Italian cuisine. The tented canopies among the wandering peacocks are such a pretty spot for an early evening drink.

Baradari

This is the City Palace’s fine dining destination and perfect if you feel like splurging. The vibe is quite modern but the menu is a blend of contemporary and traditional Rajasthani food.

Where to Stay

The Samode Haveli

I always choose to stay here if I can when I'm in Jaipur. It's a fabulous family home in the heart of the hectic old town, with glorious grounds, a big pool and tinkling fountains. The rooms do vary in style and size, but you can be sure of some serious antiques to admire no matter where you stay. Beyond your room, there are courtyards, alcoves and terraces to explore, and don’t miss a peek at the indoor dining room and its portrait-lined walls. 

The Johri

Located in Jaipur's Jewellers' Bazaar, The Johri at Lal Haveli is a luxurious boutique hotel, a 19th-century home restored for modern travellers.

28 Kothi

A boutique guesthouse in central Jaipur with a pretty modern design that highlights the roots planted by Munnu of Gem Palace half a century ago. 28 Kothi has a Jaipuri heart with thoughtfully added touches to make you feel at home.