Jaipur has made it to National Geographic's "Best of the World 2027" list, a global roundup of 25 places the magazine recommends for travellers next year. The Pink City is the only destination from South Asia on the list, which was released on October 20, 2026. The timing is special: Jaipur turns 300 years old in 2027, and the city is planning a year of celebrations to mark the milestone.
For a city that already draws lakhs of tourists every season, the recognition is a fresh boost, and it has been widely shared by travel lovers and Rajasthan fans on social media.
Why Jaipur made the list
National Geographic picked Jaipur for its striking architecture, living traditions and crafts, and for the big anniversary year ahead. The city was founded on November 18, 1727, by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and was planned on a grid layout by architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, which was rare for its time. Its walled city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
The list also highlights the Jaipur Literature Festival, one of the largest literary events in the world, which marks its 20th edition from January 14 to 18, 2027. The festival draws around 400,000 visitors a year.
Jaipur's 2027 at a glance
| Highlight | Details |
| List | National Geographic Best of the World 2027 (25 destinations) |
| Released | October 20, 2026 |
| Founded | November 18, 1727, by Sawai Jai Singh II |
| Anniversary | 300 years in 2027 |
| UNESCO status | World Heritage Site since 2019 |
| Jaipur Literature Festival | 20th edition, January 14-18, 2027 |
| Best time to visit | October to March |
| Other Asian picks | Chengdu (China), Niigata (Japan), Penang (Malaysia) |
Places you should not miss
Amer Fort
Perched on a hill outside the city, Amer Fort blends Rajput and Mughal styles. Its Sheesh Mahal, the mirror palace, is the star attraction, glittering even with a single candle. The approach paths have been repaired ahead of the anniversary year.
Hawa Mahal
The "Palace of Winds" is Jaipur's most photographed building, with 953 small latticed windows that once let royal women watch street life without being seen. The rooftop cafes across the road offer some of the best views, especially at sunrise.
City Palace and Jantar Mantar
The City Palace is still home to the former royal family, and a modern art show is planned across its courtyards for the anniversary. Right next door, Jantar Mantar has 19 stone astronomical instruments, including a giant stone sundial that still tells the time accurately.
Jal Mahal
This palace seems to float in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Visitors cannot go inside, but the lakeside promenade is perfect for an evening walk. The area is set to host the Jaipur International Kite Festival in January 2027.
How to plan a trip
- Pick the right season: October to March is the most comfortable time, when the desert heat eases.
- Book early for January: With the Literature Festival and kite festival in the same month, hotels may fill up fast.
- Explore on foot: The old city bazaars like Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are best explored slowly, for jewellery, block-printed textiles and blue pottery.
- Try local crafts: Jaipur is known for gem cutting and hand block printing. Many workshops welcome visitors.
- Eat like a local: Do not leave without trying dal baati churma, pyaaz kachori and a glass of lassi.
What it means for India's tourism
A spot on a global list like this often translates into more international visitors, especially from the US and Europe, where National Geographic's picks influence travel plans. For local guides, artisans, hotel owners and small shopkeepers, that can mean a busier 2027. It also puts a spotlight on India's heritage cities at a time when domestic tourism is already booming.
Jaipur also sits on the popular Golden Triangle circuit with Delhi and Agra, so many international travellers combine all three cities in a single trip. A year packed with anniversary events, the Literature Festival and the kite festival gives them extra reasons to stay longer in Rajasthan and explore nearby destinations as well.
With its 300th birthday celebrations on the way, Jaipur's big year is only just beginning, and travellers across the world now have one more reason to put the Pink City on their list.
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