Read:
Love Jaipur
Seven years after she launched her first Love Jaipur, Rajasthan at JLF, Fiona Caulfield is working on its fifth edition. It is to be launched early next year, and the Bengaluru-based writer who specialises in travel guides for “discerning luxury vagabonds” says you can count on additions like “the Amrapali museum, Caffé Palladio, and the revitalised JKK”; Jawahar Kala Kendra was relaunched earlier this year to host multi-genre exhibitions.
Stay:
28 Kothi
If Instagram-worthiness is a top factor when you're picking a place to stay on your travels, book one of the five rooms here at once. Each is named after a jewel — Spinel has hot pink interiors, while moonstone is white, peridot is teal and sapphire, blue. Located centrally, just behind the Governor's house, the property features quirky decor to brighten up your friends' timelines and wide lawns where one can request a candle-lit (vegetarian) dinner. At 28, Shivaji Nagar, Civil Lines. Rooms start from Rs 7,000. Visit 28kothi.com for details. 7665834022
Eat:
Tapri Central
For your chaat fixation, head to this vibrant tea house that embodies a boho vibe. Tables are hard to come by on the weekends, but it's worth the wait. Apart from the usual puchke and vada pav that's available at all the mithai bhandars, try the dal pakwaan for a crisp and satisfying snack.Try their wide selection of chais and herbal teas (the Kashmiri Kahwa is exceptional) as well. Meal for two costs Rs 800. B4 E, 3rd Floor, C Scheme. 01412360245
Shop:
Hatwara Flea Market
If you're in the city over the weekend, stray beyond Bapu Bazaar for your shopping fix. Visit this pop-up market that appears on Saturday mornings right next to the wholesale flower market near the Chandi ki Taksal gate. Sort through the mundane to find treasures like vintage advertisements, wooden home decor and beaded jewellery. The Stitching Project
This social enterprise is dedicated to creating fine textiles with the artisans who know it best, while making sure that they are paid fairly for their work. The studio is located in Pushkar, which is about two and a half hours away from Jaipur. Pick up totes, quilts, shrugs, tops and more, made from locally sourced, eco-friendly material like unbleached cotton and upcycled silk saris. From February 19 to March 4, 2018, founders Fiona Wright and Praveen Nayak organise the Indian Inspiration Creative Camp, for an immersive craft experience that ends right after Holi. They also conduct workshops on how to make patchwork wallets, block print experience, eco dye, Sujani embroidery and indigo and henna leaf vats. Alternately, customise a creative camp experience. For details, visit the-stitching-project.com . 9982032755
Vintage Car Rally
Nothing grabs attention on the roads like a well-maintained vintage car. The 20th edition of the Vintage and Classic Cars Rally will take place on February 3 and 4, 2018, at the Taj Jai Mahal Palace. From the first edition, where the show hosted about 14 cars, now you can see over 100 of these beauties, from a 1964 Ford Mustang and 1950 Jaguar XK 120 to a 1934 Rolls Royce and 1937 Mercedes 170 V. Follow the Rajputana Automotive Sports Car Club on Facebook for updates.
Jaypore Journeys
Online retailer Jaypore, in collaboration with Breakaway, presents a curated journey amidst the forts and printed fabrics of Jaipur. Learn all about Bagru printing from an award-winning master craftsman, visit a traditional block maker and printer, visit the Anokhi Museum with an expert guide and indulge in some retail therapy at places that other tourists might not have heard of. Stay will be arranged at 47 Jobner Bagh, a luxury guest house in the heart of the city. Write to journeys@jaypore.com for details.
Mita's Picks
Mita Kapur is the founder and CEO of Jaipur-based Siyahi, a literary consultancy. She also conceptualises and produces literary festivals and events.
Dress- RASA
Manish and Madhulika Tibrewal run this charming boutique that features contemporary hand block prints on both apparels and home decor. They also tailor on request, so pick up a customised piece if you're in the city for a while. At S-55, Ashok Marg, C-Scheme. Open from 10.30 am to 7.30 pm. 7877444555
Leather - Kassa
Lovers of leather goods must shop here. Run by Arpan Patel and Aarushi Kumar, their collections feature fashion-forward and practical bags, accessories, jewellery, jackets and shoes. They also have an eco-friendly line and bespoke options. At Narain Niwas Palace, Rambagh. Open from 10 am to 7 pm. 9024613578
Jewellery - Umrao Jewels
Get your fine jewellery at this family-run jeweller, who specialises in handcrafted pieces. The collections range from from vintage Art Deco and Art Nouveau to Mughal heritage kundan and meena work. At "The Kanota", Narain Niwas Palace, Narain Singh Circle. 9929266600
