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In Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Cities 2025 readers’ survey, Jaipur—India’s iconic “Pink City”—secured the 5ᵗʰ position, scoring 91.33, ranking above famed destinations like Florence (score ~90.08). Jaipur is the only Indian city to ever feature in the top five, marking a milestone for Indian tourism.
Globally resonant, Jaipur impressed readers with a compelling mix of:
Cultural richness: Whether it's vibrant street bazaars or traditional Rajasthani performances, Jaipur offers immersive experiences.
Architecture & heritage: Home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites—Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar, and the Walled City—Jaipur ranks among a rare group of cities with this heritage density.
Luxury and hospitality: Palatial heritage hotels like The Oberoi Rajvilas and Rambagh Palace epitomize regal hospitality and refined ambiance.
Culinary & shopping appeal: From block-printed textiles and blue pottery to Rajasthani street food and gemstone markets, the city captures local authenticity and global fascination.
Travellers favored Jaipur for its emotional impact—places that resonate beyond beauty and luxury. They praised its balance between heritage and modernity, exceptional value for experiences, and consistently warm hospitality in a culturally vibrant setting.
This underscores a landmark moment—no Indian city has previously entered the elite top‑five list of Travel + Leisure. Jaipur’s inclusion symbolizes institutional recognition of India’s depth in culture, heritage, and hospitality on the world tourism stage.
Tourism Boost: Jaipur’s elevated status is likely to spur greater international interest, leading to higher footfall and extended stays.
Economic Benefits: Growth in tourism supports handicraft artisans, heritage hotels, local guides, and small businesses in Rajasthan’s economy.
Cultural Diplomacy: Jaipur’s global acclaim enhances India’s soft power, positioning it as a treasure trove of heritage travel destinations.
As Rajasthan’s tourism minister noted, this recognition reflects not just city pride, but national cultural strength, supported by proactive heritage-preserving policies.
In an era where global travelers seek meaning, not just sightseeing, Jaipur offers a blend of history, warmth, and curated experiences:
Stunning palace architecture set in pink-hued streets
Sensory journeys through artisanal markets and traditional cuisine
Literary and cultural events like the recently relocated Jaipur Literature Festival, a major international cultural gathering Wikipedia
Such immersive experiences strike a deep chord with modern explorers looking for authenticity and engagement.
Jaipur’s leap to 5ᵗʰ place in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Cities 2025 survey is truly a historic first for India. It represents global recognition of Jaipur’s unique combination of heritage architecture, cultural depth, hospitable spirit, and immersive tourism offerings. The city is no longer just a must-visit; it’s now a world-class destination that resonates deeply with travel enthusiasts.
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