Cost of Jaipur: Our 3-Week Expense Report
Ever wondered about the cost of Jaipur when exploring the Pink City with kids in tow? We spent 3 weeks soaking up the colors, flavors, and charm of Jaipur—and we tracked every rupee. From tuk-tuk rides past palaces to some of the coolest sites we’ve seen in India, here’s exactly what we spent (and how we saved) while exploring this vibrant Rajasthani gem as a family of four. Spoiler: it’s more affordable than you think.
Accommodation—$1,336.59 or $63.64 per night.
The vacation rental location we stayed at in Jaipur was within walking distance a metro station in the area of Civil Lines. This area was in a nicer part of town. We had a difficult time finding a location with our specifications while staying in Jaipur, so we had to go above our normal budget for our accommodation, knowing we could likely make it up with the cost of food usually being cheaper in India. We were thrilled we booked this place when we got there as our host turned out to be great friends to our family during our stay. Our hosts flew kites with us, took us to their morning workout classes in Central Park, showed us the best culturally enriching temples and where to experience Holi. It was a sad day when we had to leave.
Eating Out – $143.98 or $1.72 per person per meal
- Dinner at the House – Our amazing host made us home cooked Indian food every night we were home. Our kids could not wait for the chapati and us adults could not stop eating the flavorful Indian dishes. We added this to the eating out section as we did not personally cook or make the food ourselves. 500 rupees ($5.77 USD) per dinner that fed all of us. – $109.63.
- Corner Chai – Once we found it, we kept going back. Only 12 cents USD per cup of chai.- $1.15.
- Swiggy for Pizza – $10.14.
- KFC at Airport- The lounge for Priority Pass had a crazy long line so we had to bypass the lounge. But the airport food court had a kids playground. WIN!. –$23.06
Groceries – $164.45
The Civil Lines area offered no shortage of food options. We saw everything from street vendors frying up eggs on the corner, to carts rolling by each day loaded with fresh produce. Local markets were easy to find—and when we didn’t feel like heading out, Swiggy’s Instamart delivered groceries right to our doorstep in minutes. We spent about $7.83 per day for our family of 4 including all the snacks for everyone throughout the day. Here’s how that broke down:
- DMART—$69.26
- Instamart—$80.96
- Local Markets- Bought small everyday goods such as eggs and produce—$14.23
Transportation – $46.47
Our transportation was a mix of trains, tuk-tuks, Uber, taxi and metros while in Jaipur. There is an airport in Jaipur, however we did not use it as we arrived and departed the Pink City by train. When flying, we use Daily Drop Pro to help us search for redemption bookings from points we have earned from our favorite credit card!
- Train from Udaipur to Jaipur- Before we learned about 12go, an online booking company that specializes in transportation throughout SE Asia and India, we booked our ticket through a local broker as we had issues buying tickets at the train station, as well as online as you needed an Indian phone number. $29.33
- Uber: Only needed it a few times at odd hours when there were not as many tuk-tuks— $8.62
- Jaipur Metro— Easy transportation option. —$2.40
- Tuk-Tuks- $16.06
- Train to Agra Round trip- We finally made it to Taj Mahal after 2.5 months in India. —$67.62
- Train to Delhi from Jaipur- $40.42
Tourist Attractions – $70.88
We did a lot and saw a lot. Most experiences were very low cost or free.
- Jantar Mantar – Jantar Mantar is an impressive collection of giant astronomical instruments built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Designed to measure time, track celestial bodies, and predict eclipses, it’s a fascinating blend of science, architecture, and history. It has the world’s largest sundial. $4.64
- Monkey Temple- We paid a tuk-tuk driver for round trip and for his time waiting for us. the temple and area are free otherwise- $9.15
- Amer Fort- Amer Fort is a majestic sandstone and marble palace perched on a hilltop just outside Jaipur, known for its intricate carvings, mirrored halls, and sweeping views. –$11.45
- Isarlat Sargasooli- Isarlat Sargasooli, built in 1749, is a seven-story victory tower in Jaipur’s old city. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding streets and markets. –$2.40
- Taj Mahal- Impressive mausoleum, one of the 7 Wonders of the world. Worth the effort in every way to get to it. $29.45
- Agra Fort- Agra Fort is a massive red sandstone fortress built by the Mughals in the 16th century. Inside, you’ll find royal palaces, audience halls, and views of the Taj Mahal from afar. $13.79
- Govind Dev Ji Temple- We were lucky enough to go to this temple twice during the week leading up to Holi– FREE
- Central Park- Massive park with Polo Grounds, Golf course, 4km walking path, workout areas, large green spaces and morning classes every day from breathwork, to meditation, to Zumba and more. –FREE
Miscellaneous – $3.89
- Dad needed a hair cut- $3.43
- Baggage hold fee at Taj Mahal– $0.46
Healthcare- $112.56
- Our travel insurance is SafetyWing Nomad Insurance– $112.56
Total: $1999.99
What we learned:
- Transportation: Just take a Tuk-Tuk around. The supply is extremely high so you will alway find one at a price you are willing to pay. Be firm with the drivers and move on to the next one if they will not take your offer. If you are going to the pink city, easiest to use the Jaipur Metro.
- Food: Get to know your hosts!
- Accommodations: This vacation rental had everything that we needed. The friendships we made with the host was something that a price tag cannot be placed. Sometimes you just get lucky…
Jaipur, India offers countless budget-friendly attractions, magnificent forts, cultural enriching temples, and a very unique monkey temple experience. We were able to finally make it to the Taj Mahal from Jaipur, although it would have been easier to get to from New Delhi. With three weeks in Jaipur, we had plenty of time to explore the major landmarks at a relaxed pace while also immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural.
