In a monumental acknowledgment of India’s cultural legacy, Jaipur—the royal capital of Rajasthan—has been ranked the 5th best city in the world by Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2025. As per the magazine’s latest global survey, readers from around the world awarded Jaipur a score of 91.33 out of 100, placing it above world favourites like Florence and Kyoto.
With its royal charm, historic architecture, and vibrant street life, the Pink City is no longer just India’s pride—it’s a global gem.
Top 10 Cities to Travel in 2025 — Travel + Leisure (Official Source)
Travel + Leisure released the World’s Best Cities list in July 2025. These rankings are based on votes from millions of readers and travellers, who rated cities on sights, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and value.
Here are the top 10 cities from the official Travel + Leisure 2025 survey:
| Rank | City | Country | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | San Miguel de Allende | Mexico | 93.44 |
| 2 | Chiang Mai | Thailand | 91.94 |
| 3 | Tokyo | Japan | 91.63 |
| 4 | Bangkok | Thailand | 91.48 |
| 5 | Jaipur | India 🇮🇳 | 91.33 |
| 6 | Hoi An | Vietnam | 91.15 |
| 7 | Mexico City | Mexico | 90.98 |
| 8 | Florence | Italy | 90.08 |
| 9 | Kyoto | Japan | 89.91 |
| 10 | Cusco | Peru | 89.74 |
What Sets Jaipur Apart?
Jaipur’s ranking is no accident—it reflects a growing global admiration for immersive, cultural travel experiences.
Key Reasons Jaipur Stands Out:
- Architectural Grandeur:
From the Hawa Mahal to the Amer Fort, the city is a living museum of Rajputana glory. - Cultural Richness:
Folk music, puppetry, miniature art, and hand-block textiles remain central to daily life. - Heritage Hospitality:
Jaipur’s palace hotels like Rambagh Palace and Raj Mahal Palace redefine regal luxury. - Warmth of Locals:
The city’s hospitality—rooted in the Rajasthani ethos of “Atithi Devo Bhava”—received glowing praise from international travellers. - Sustainable Growth:
Recent initiatives in heritage conservation and urban planning have made Jaipur a model of sustainable tourism.
“This recognition isn’t just a win for Jaipur but for India’s legacy of hospitality and cultural depth,” said Rajasthan Tourism Minister Diya Kumari, who is herself a descendant of Jaipur’s royal family.
Top Places to Visit in Jaipur: A Must-See Guide for First-Time Visitors
Whether you’re a first-time traveller or returning for a deeper cultural dive, Jaipur promises an unforgettable journey. Here are some must-visit attractions:
1. Amer Fort (Amber Fort)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this majestic fort offers panoramic views, mirror-adorned halls, and an elephant ride like no other.
2. Hawa Mahal
The iconic “Palace of Winds” with its 953 lattice windows is an architectural marvel and a photographer’s dream.
3. Jantar Mantar
This 18th-century astronomical observatory is also UNESCO-listed and features the world’s largest stone sundial.
4. City Palace
A fusion of Mughal and Rajasthani styles, it houses royal artefacts and opulent courtyards.
5. Albert Hall Museum
Jaipur’s oldest museum, filled with ancient manuscripts, paintings, and artefacts.
6. Johari Bazaar & Bapu Bazaar
Heaven for shoppers—buy gemstones, block-printed textiles, mojaris, and blue pottery.
7. Galtaji Temple (Monkey Temple)
Nestled in a hilly gorge, this ancient Hindu pilgrimage site is known for its natural springs and monkey population.
8. Patrika Gate
Instagram-famous for its vibrant, mural-filled arches, Patrika Gate is the modern symbol of Jaipur’s rich identity.
A New Era of Indian Tourism: Jaipur and Beyond
Jaipur’s global recognition isn’t a standalone victory—it’s part of a larger Indian travel resurgence. With international tourists increasingly seeking authentic, soulful, and off-the-beaten-track experiences, India is emerging as a hotspot for both cultural and wellness tourism.
Take for instance the Vantara Jamnagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat—a new conservation marvel attracting eco-travellers from across the globe. Initiatives like these complement the cultural treasures of cities like Jaipur and showcase India’s diverse tourism landscape.
🧘♂️ Spiritual Side Trips from Jaipur
Those seeking inner peace and transformation often blend their Rajasthan visits with spiritual retreats. One such place making waves in 2025 is the Baba Kali Kamli Vanprastha Ashram in Rishikesh. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a wellness traveler, India offers deeply enriching soul journeys.
🏞️ Jaipur in the Larger Indian Travel Narrative
In a country teeming with undiscovered beauty, Jaipur’s success opens the gateway to India’s charming smaller towns and villages. As travel trends shift toward slower, meaningful travel, even the lesser-known parts of India are stepping into the limelight.
Explore India’s rural charm with this curated list:
👉 The Ultimate 2025 Bucket List: 10 Most Picturesque Villages in India
From snow-covered villages in Himachal to coastal gems in Kerala, these hidden spots perfectly complement the grandeur of cities like Jaipur.
Best Time to Visit Jaipur in 2025
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Oct – Mar | Cool, festive, and ideal for sightseeing |
| Summer | Apr – Jun | Hot but good for off-season travel deals |
| Monsoon | Jul – Sep | Lush surroundings, less crowd |
Pro Tip: Plan your trip around festivals like Teej, Diwali, or the Jaipur Literature Festival to experience the city’s cultural vibrance at its peak.
Final Thoughts: Jaipur as India’s Cultural Crown Jewel
Jaipur’s place in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Cities list for 2025 is more than a badge of honour—it’s a symbol of India’s rising appeal in luxury and cultural tourism. Its architectural marvels, culinary depth, and heartfelt hospitality offer not just a vacation but a transcendental experience.
As the global travel industry reorients itself toward meaningful exploration, Jaipur shines bright—a perfect blend of past and present, tradition and innovation.
✈️ Ready to Travel?
If Jaipur isn’t already on your bucket list for 2025, now’s the time. Whether you’re after royal palaces, bustling bazaars, soulful getaways, or eco-conscious sanctuaries like Vantara Jamnagar, India has something for every traveller.
📌 Bookmark this post and start planning your unforgettable Indian adventure today!
