Chennai to Jaipur Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Chennai to Jaipur? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2034km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Chennai to Jaipur
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 30h 00m | ₹19,425 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | 2h 45m | ₹7,119 - ₹14,238 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹1,120 – ₹4,141 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹3,626 – ₹11,484 |
How to Travel: Chennai to Jaipur
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Flight
Speed, long distances, business travel
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 2034km long-distance journey, consider flying (2h 45m) to save time, or take a train for a more scenic and relaxed experience.
Before You Leave Chennai
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Idli and Sambar - Soft, steamed rice cakes served with lentil soup and chutney (try at Murugan Idli Shop).
- local_dining Dosa - Crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with potatoes or other fillings (try at Saravana Bhavan).
- local_dining Chettinad Chicken - Spicy chicken curry with a blend of aromatic spices (try at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant).
Saravana Bhavan • Various locations
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Chennai to Jaipur route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Amravati
Nellore
Nagarjunasagar
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a historic town in Tamil Nadu renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed group of monuments. These monuments, primarily carved from granite, date back to the 7th and 8th centuries during the Pallava dynasty. The town also boasts a beautiful coastline and is a hub for stone carving.
attractions Top Attractions
Shore Temple
The Shore Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest stone temples in South India. It comprises three temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu, built in the 8th century.
Arjuna's Penance
Arjuna's Penance is a massive bas-relief carved onto two huge boulders. It depicts scenes from the Mahabharata and is one of the largest open-air reliefs in the world.
Five Rathas
The Five Rathas are monolithic rock-cut temples, each carved in the shape of a chariot. They are named after the Pandava brothers and Draupadi from the Mahabharata.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Seafood - Freshly caught fish, prawns, and crabs (try at Moonrakers)
Nalgonda
Top Attractions in Jaipur: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Jaipur, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Amber Fort
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 ₹100 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-17:30 dailyAmber Fort is a majestic fort located on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was the former capital of the Kachwaha Rajputs before Jaipur was established.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - to avoid crowds and heat
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a guide to learn about the fort's history and architecture, or use a reliable audio guide.
-
Hawa Mahal
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyHawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of Winds,' is a unique five-story structure with 953 small windows. It was built in 1799 to allow royal women to observe street festivals without being seen.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - for the best light for photos
💡 Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best photos.
-
City Palace
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹300 (Indians), ₹700 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:30-17:00 dailyCity Palace is a sprawling complex that houses several courtyards, museums, and art galleries. It is still the residence of the Jaipur royal family.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime
💡 Insider Tip: Consider hiring an audio guide to learn about the palace's history and significance.
-
Jantar Mantar
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyJantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the 18th century. It features a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments.
Best Time to Visit: Midday - to see the instruments in action
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a guide to understand the function of each instrument; otherwise, it might seem like a collection of sculptures.
-
Nahargarh Fort
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹50 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) • 🕐 10:00-17:30 dailyNahargarh Fort is perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Jaipur. It was built in 1734 as a defensive structure.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset - for panoramic views of the city
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of the city. The fort's restaurant offers a decent dining experience.
-
Jal Mahal
⏱ 30 minutes (for viewing) • 💰 Free (viewing from the shore) • 🕐 Open 24 hours (viewing from the shore)Jal Mahal, also known as the 'Water Palace,' is a beautiful palace located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Only one story is visible above the water, while four stories are submerged.
Best Time to Visit: Evening - for the best lighting
💡 Insider Tip: Visit in the evening when the palace is beautifully lit.
Where to Eat in Jaipur: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Jaipur
Don't leave Jaipur without tasting these local specialties:
- Dal Baati Churma - A traditional Rajasthani dish of lentils, wheat balls, and sweet crumble (try at Laxmi Misthan Bhandar).
- Laal Maas - A spicy mutton curry cooked with red chilies (try at Handi Restaurant).
- Gatte ki Sabzi - A curry made with gram flour dumplings (try at Spice Court).
- Kachori - A deep-fried snack filled with lentils or potatoes (try at Rawat Misthan Bhandar).
Recommended Restaurants in Jaipur
Handi Restaurant
North Indian, Mughlai • ₹₹₹ (₹1000-1500 for two)
Specialty: Laal Maas
A popular restaurant known for its delicious non-vegetarian dishes and rooftop seating. The atmosphere is lively and the food is flavorful.
📍 MI Road
Spice Court
Rajasthani, North Indian • ₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Gatte ki Sabzi
A charming restaurant serving authentic Rajasthani cuisine in a traditional setting. The ambiance is cozy and the food is well-prepared.
📍 Achrol House, Jacob Road
Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB)
Indian Sweets, Snacks • ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two)
Specialty: Dal Baati Churma
A legendary sweet shop and restaurant serving a variety of Indian sweets, snacks, and meals. A must-visit for its traditional flavors and wide selection.
📍 Johari Bazaar
Rawat Misthan Bhandar
Indian Snacks • ₹ (₹200-400 for two)
Specialty: Kachori
A local favorite known for its crispy and flavorful kachoris. A great place to grab a quick and tasty snack.
📍 Sindhi Camp
Where to Stay in Jaipur: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Zostel Jaipur
Price: ₹400-800/night
Location: Near Railway Station
A popular hostel with dorms and private rooms, offering a social atmosphere and budget-friendly prices. It is ideal for backpackers.
Moustache Jaipur
Price: ₹500-900/night
Location: Near MI Road
Another well-regarded hostel offering clean and comfortable accommodations. They also offer tours.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Umaid Bhawan - A Heritage Style Boutique Hotel
Price: ₹2,500-4,500/night
Location: Civil Lines
A charming heritage hotel with traditionally decorated rooms and a rooftop restaurant. It offers a comfortable and authentic experience.
Hotel Indiana Pride
Price: ₹2,000-4,000/night
Location: Near Airport
A modern hotel with well-appointed rooms and a range of amenities, including a swimming pool and a restaurant. Good for business travel.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Rambagh Palace
Price: ₹25,000+/night
Location: Near Rambagh Circle
A stunning palace hotel offering opulent rooms, world-class dining, and impeccable service. It offers a royal experience.
The Oberoi Rajvilas
Price: ₹30,000+/night
Location: Goner Road
A luxurious resort set in beautiful gardens, offering elegant villas, fine dining, and a serene atmosphere. Perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Best Time to Travel from Chennai to Jaipur
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Jaipur:
Best Time: October to March
Temperature: 22-32 degrees C
Weather: The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing. Days are sunny and warm, while evenings are cool.
Why Visit: This is the best time to explore Jaipur's forts and palaces comfortably. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities and cultural events. Many festivals take place during this period, adding to the city's charm.
Important Note: This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.
Shoulder Season: July to September
Temperature: 30-35 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season brings occasional rainfall and high humidity. The temperature remains high, but the rain provides some relief.
Why Visit: The monsoon season offers lush greenery and fewer crowds. Some hotels offer discounts during this period. However, outdoor activities may be disrupted by rain.
Important Note: Check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities. Some attractions may have limited hours.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: Extreme heat makes it very uncomfortable to explore the city. The sun is harsh, and the air is dry.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting Jaipur during these months due to the unbearable heat. Outdoor activities are difficult, and sightseeing can be exhausting. The heat can also lead to health issues.
Important Note: If you must visit, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Drink plenty of water and wear light clothing.
Practical Travel Tips for Jaipur
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1,500, Mid: ₹3,000, Luxury: ₹8,000+
ATMs: Widely available
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for smaller transactions, while cards are accepted at larger establishments.
Bargaining: Expected in markets and auto-rickshaws
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice cubes.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable vendors. Be cautious of spicy food if you are not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Sunstroke, dehydration, and stomach upsets are common. Carry sunscreen, rehydration salts, and any necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Available at the airport and local shops. Airtel and Vodafone are popular networks.
WiFi Availability: Available at hotels, cafes, and restaurants
👕 What to Wear
Wear light and breathable clothing, especially during the summer months. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Carry a scarf to cover your head if required.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chennai to Jaipur
Related Routes from Chennai
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Other Routes to Jaipur
Traveling to Jaipur from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
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