Traveling is an experience that awakens all your senses: fresh places, yummy foods, and perspective-changing experiences all await you each time you travel to a new place. As summer heats up and international travel slowly reopens, we once again feel that unique pull of wanderlust to explore the world and absorb new experiences.
Our hand-knotted rugs are made in the areas surrounding Jaipur, India. Known as the “Pink City” for the beautiful dusty pink hues that tint so much of its architecture, Jaipur is rich with history, color, and culture. In the spirit of wanderlust and your next big excursion, here are four of our favorite off-the-beaten-path things to do in Jaipur:
Visit the Anoki Museum of Hand Printing
The intricate designs that adorn traditional Indian garments are incredibly precious in the modern era of mass-produced clothing. Like the artisans who create our hand-woven rugs, we love to celebrate the handblock artisans who carry on this beautiful and highly skilled artform. Take a deep-dive into the history of hand printing and admire the 400 year old, award-winning UNESCO building that houses this museum. Owned and operated by the Anoki company, this is a small and unique stop among the large bustling city of Jaipur.
Walk the Amer Fort
Located just 20 minutes outside of Jaipur and nearby the Anoki Museum, Amer was once the capital of Jaipur region. Constructed on top of an existing 11th century fort and now an UNESCO historical site, the Amer Fort is a gorgeous and sprawling structure that combines Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. Walk the property or tour via golf cart, and stay for a fine dining meal or the evening light show. A seemingly endless series of four courtyards, palaces, halls, and gardens, we strongly suggest wearing your best walking shoes and favorite sun hat.
Learn about Handmade Rugs on a Knots of Compassion Tour
Hosted by Shipra, an artisan with Jaipur Rugs Foundation, this tour takes you 30 miles outside the city of Jaiper to the village of Manpura. A quiet and intimate alternative to the large tourist attractions, this tour immerses you into rural Indian life. Spend the afternoon dining on homemade foods, sipping tea, and learning the art of hand knotted rug making right in an artisan’s home. This tour can be booked through AirBnb Experiences, and 100% of the ticket price goes to the Jaipur Rugs Foundation to uplift artisans through job opportunities.
Enjoy Cocktails at Bar Palladio
Even in a city as beautiful as Jaipur, there’s few settings more memorable to unwind in than Bar Palladio. Located within the Narin Niwas Palace Hotel, this bar and cafe has a full menu that is inspired by Italy’s produce and culture. The first thing you’ll notice is that the walls, ceilings, and furniture are bathed in a rich, bright blue. The second thing you will notice is that the food and drinks are delicious - a perfect ending to a long day of playing tourist.
Enkay is proud that our handmade rugs connect us to a city as beautiful as Jaipur. We know there’s much more to see than our short list of favorites we’ve shared here, and hope you uncover a few gems of your own on your next trip. When wanderlust tugs at your heart, there’s no limit to the endless adventures you can embark upon. Listen to the call and enjoy the ride!