India has a new reason to celebrate! Jaipur has earned a spot on National Geographic’s Best of the World 2027 list, just in time for its 300th founding anniversary in 2027. With its terracotta-pink hues, iconic architecture, amazing food and rich culture, it’s no surprise the Pink City made the cut.
What Is National Geographic’s Best of the World 2027 List?
National Geographic’s Best of the World list is back for 2027, bringing together 25 destinations from six continents. These places are handpicked by the magazine’s writers, photographers and explorers, and the list is an unranked collection rather than a countdown.
Norway’s Vestland region, with its dramatic fjords, waterfalls and mountains, is among the highlights, while the USA’s Catalina Island won the Readers’ Choice award. The list also travels to Malaysia’s Penang, Egypt’s Luxor, China’s Chengdu, France’s Normandy, Australia’s Melbourne and Armenia. Representing India is Jaipur, the Pink City.
What Makes Jaipur a Top Global Destination for 2027?
Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur effortlessly blends centuries-old heritage with a lively modern spirit. National Geographic highlighted several compelling reasons why this historic city should be at the very top of your travel wishlist:
- A Historic 300th Anniversary: Turning 300 years old in 2027, the city will host a festive atmosphere filled with heritage celebrations, cultural showcases, and special community events throughout the year.
- The 20th Edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF): Scheduled for January 14–18, 2027, the world’s most celebrated literary gathering marks its milestone 20th anniversary, bringing together globally acclaimed authors, thinkers, and over 400,000 literary enthusiasts.
- Architectural Marvels: Jaipur is home to breathtaking architectural icons. Amber Fort’s hilltop views, Hawa Mahal’s lacy windows, and the star-gazing instruments of Jantar Mantar (a UNESCO site) make Jaipur a feast for the eyes.
- Vibrant Craftsmanship: Jaipur is a city where heritage arts are still part of everyday life. One can pick up hand-block printed textiles, then head to Johari Bazaar to browse meenakari and kundan jewellery.
Jaipur at 300: A Planned City Ahead of Its Time
The Old City is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was India’s first planned city. Its founder, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, was an avid astronomer who divided the city into nine squares inspired by celestial bodies from Vedic astrology.
Best Things to Do in Jaipur
- Walk the Old City: Join a heritage walk, visit the City Palace Museum and try a street food tour.
- Admire Hawa Mahal: Its 953 latticed windows (jharokhas) form a five-storey honeycomb facade. They let royal women watch the markets unseen and keep the palace naturally cool.
- Climb Amber Fort: Built in 1592 on a hilltop, it’s most famous for the Sheesh Mahal, a chamber covered in tiny mirrors that sparkle like a kaleidoscope.
- Visit Jantar Mantar: This UNESCO site has 19 massive stone and marble astronomical instruments, including the world’s largest sundial.
- Shop the bazaars: Johari Bazar for kundan and meenakari jewellery, Tripolia Bazar for lac bangles, Bapu Bazar for leatherwork and Chandpol Bazar for handicrafts, stone/marble sculptures, and textiles.
Why Visit Jaipur and Rajasthan in 2027?
A 300th birthday is a rare moment to see a city at its proudest. Jaipur packs royal history, working craft traditions, great food and shopping into one easy trip. And it’s the perfect gateway to the rest of Rajasthan, from Udaipur’s lakes to Jaisalmer’s golden sands and Jodhpur’s blue lanes.
Winter 2026–27 is a great time to go, with pleasant weather and festival season in full swing. Travelling with a group makes it even better: no planning stress, shared stories and plenty of photo ops. Explore JustWravel’s Rajasthan group trip and discover the royal state with fellow travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, so 2027 marks its 300th anniversary.
Jaipur made National Geographic’s Best of the World 2027 list due to its upcoming 300th founding anniversary, exceptional architectural heritage, vibrant living craft traditions, and host role for the landmark 20th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival.
Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace Museum and the Old City are the highlights. Jaipur’s bazaars are also worth a visit.
One can shop for kundan and meenakari jewellery at Johari Bazaar, lac bangles at Tripolia Bazaar, leatherwork at Bapu Bazaar and handicrafts and textiles at Chandpol Bazaar.
The 20th anniversary edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival is scheduled to take place from January 14 to January 18, 2027, drawing over 400,000 visitors to the Pink City.