Winter transforms Jaipur into a season of vivid streets, serene forts and lively markets. This Jaipur winter itinerary is planned across four days, giving you the opportunity to explore historic landmarks, culinary delights and cultural experiences at a relaxed pace. With cooler temperatures, sightseeing in this region of the country is comfortable, photography is easier, and evenings are perfect for leisurely strolls or courtyard meals.
Experiencing Makar Sankranti in Jaipur: A Sky Painted in Paper
If you were to stand upon a terrace in the city on the 14th of January, you would witness a remarkable transformation. The skyline of Jaipur, usually dominated by the rugged Aravallis and the architectural domes of ancient temples, disappears behind a mosaic of thousands of kites.
Kite flying, or Patang Bazi, is the heartbeat of this festival. It is a pursuit that transcends age and social standing. From the narrow lanes of the walled city to the expansive rooftops of suburban villas, every eye is turned skyward. The air is dense with the spirited cries of “Wo Kaata!”, as expressive as football crowd chants; colourful kites engage in friendly duels.
While I spend much of my time preserving the history of our family estate, Dera Mandawa, I find that this is the day when the history stops sitting in books and becomes alive around us. This event stands out amongst other Rajasthani festivals because of how it turns the entire city into a shared playground. We see the same enthusiasm in the youth today as was recorded in the royal chronicles of centuries past.
The Sacred Rituals and Philanthropy
While the kites take over the sky, the ground remains rooted in ancient practices. Makar Sankranti is a day of Daan, or charity. In our region, we believe that any act of kindness performed on this day is multiplied many times over, bringing merit to the family and the community.
One of the most enduring sights during this time is the feeding of cows. In every neighbourhood, residents gather to offer green fodder to the sacred animals. This practice of Gau Seva is central to our ethos. Many families also participate in the ritual of Gupt Daan, which refers to anonymous giving, ensuring that the act of charity remains humble and focused on the recipient rather than the giver.
The ritualistic dip in holy waters is another cornerstone of the day. Many locals travel to Galtaji Temple, the ancient Hindu pilgrimage site known as the Monkey Temple, to bathe in the natural springs.
A Feast for the Senses: Traditional Meals
No celebration of traditional festivals in Rajasthan is concluded without a culinary spread of local dishes that provide comfort and nourishment. During Makar Sankranti, kitchens across the city become hubs of aromatic activity. The ingredients used during this cold season are specifically chosen for their Ayurvedic benefits and prepared to provide warmth and energy to the body during the seasonal transition.
The use of Til and Gud, or sesame and jaggery, is prominent in the season. You will find Til Ke Ladoo and Gajak in nearly every household. Sesame seeds provide essential oils, while jaggery is a natural source of iron and warmth. There is a beautiful sentiment attached to these sweets, often expressed through the invitation to eat these delicacies and speak kind, sweet words to one another.
Another seasonal delicacy is Feeni. This is a Jaipur speciality consisting of thread-like sweets made of flour and ghee. When dipped in sugar syrup, it becomes a refined treat that is synonymous with the winter months. To balance these sweets, we often serve savoury, spicy fritters such as Dal Pakodi and Mirchi Bada. There is a simple, profound pleasure in sitting on a sun-drenched terrace with a plate of hot pakodis and a steaming cup of masala chai while the festivities unfold above. It is these simple moments that define true Rajasthani traditions.
Terrace Culture During the Festival
The architecture of Jaipur has always complemented our way of life. The rooftops and chhatris of the city were designed for more than just aesthetics. They serve as vital social hubs that come alive during this time of year.
During Makar Sankranti, the roofs effectively become the primary living room. Families spend the entire day outdoors, equipped with music systems, picnic baskets, and an endless supply of kites. These rooftop festivities are a notable aspect of Rajasthani festivals. They allow us to connect with our neighbours from a distance, creating a city-wide extravaganza that stretches from sunrise until long after the sun has set.
Lanterns in the Twilight
As the evening approaches and the kites finally descend, the spectacle continues in a different form. The white night kites take over, illuminated by spotlights, followed by the breathtaking release of Tukals, or paper lanterns.
Watching hundreds of glowing lanterns drift toward the stars is a must-see experience in the Pink City. It represents the lifting of darkness and the collective aspirations of a city rising into the heavens. This visual mastery is why Makar Sankranti remains one of the most photographed cultural festivals in Rajasthan, reminding us of the light that the new season brings.
Experience the Magic of the Season
Makar Sankranti is a reminder of the harmony between nature’s cycles and the human spirit. It is a time for renewal, for looking upward, and for sharing our bounty with others.
As the sun moves northward, we look forward to the brighter days ahead and the many stories yet to be told in this historic city.
We welcome you to our heritage property in Jaipur to experience the true essence of our land. We invite you to stay with us and witness Makar Sankranti and our other lively traditional festivals in Rajasthan firsthand throughout the year.
