Here’s a line-up of some of the most alluring spots to unleash the magic of your Instagramming moments in Maharaja Swai Jai Singh II’s luminous city.

Chhoti Chaupar & Badi Chaupar

In the Walled City, these two iconic market squares and the lanes they feed with streams of visitors provide the most thrilling experiences of the vibe that makes Jaipur such an alluring shopping destination. Spend endless moments finding the shot you love best as you trawl the squares alive with a rousing mosaic of colours and activities all bundled together. From vibrant textiles to jewellery, from artisans at work to the villagers in town for the day decked up in colourful turbans and swirling skirts — your camera has no choice but to go into overdrive.

Hawa Mahal

The iconic palace of the winds is a classic favourite. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, who built this look-out for the ladies of the royal household in 1799, would never have dreamed that visitors in the 21st century would go gaga over its 953 “Jharokaas”.

But remember, the best shots won’t come from the street level. You need to find a nice perch across the street in some café to find the shot of the elegant exteriors that pleases you the best. The Tattoo Cafe is a sound spot for your Insta-ventures. The interiors of the palace also offer some nice shots.

City Palace

The stunning interiors and gateways are always game for Insta hunters. It really sets the gold standard for the most shining Insta moments. There are four stunningly designed entryways in the central courtyard — the Lotus Gate, the Peacock Gate, the Rose Gate and the Leheriya Gate. Pritam Niwas Chowk is another good spot. Both the Lotus Gate and the Peacock Gate will have your fingers and your eyes itching to get some shots that are quite distinct from what you’ll find on the Net. There’s plenty of photo fodder in the sprawling complex filled with elegant gardens and courtyards, and a nice museum wing.

Jawahar Circle

The stunning archways with their vibrant hues are blowing away the new crop of photographers with their splendour. The iconic Patrika Gate is a storied structure. With each panel sharing a unique tale, it celebrates Rajasthan’s astonishing heritage. Jawahar Circle with its lovely musical fountain proudly claims the title of Asia’s largest circular park. Unleash the lensmen in you to pick up all the action and architectural beauty of this spot.

Jal Mahal

This stunning water palace set in the calm waters of the Man Sagar Lake, on the Amer Road, is a scenic spot all day long. From sunrise to sunset, it’s a vital hub of Jaipur’s most exotic offerings. Though entry to the Jal Mahal is restricted, you'll find many angles to pick up its most charming facades. As the last rays of the sun linger and the evening shadows slowly start melting into the growing darkness, the silhouette of the palace is just magical.

Jaigarh Fort

The pull of this historic fort for your lens is unimaginable. With its panoramic views of Amer Fort and the Aravalli range, it’s a lovely place to steep yourself in its atmospheric vibes. The crusty old fort with its humongous walls hasn’t run out of steam for its allurements for history buffs and insta junkies. You can create your own drama around Jaivana, the historic cannon, which whispers tales of its storied past.

Nahargarh Fort

This ancient fortress is a superb subject for the lensman. Its sprawling expanses offer a variety of angles to shoot its many features. Sunset is a favourite time to catch the wonderment of its visual appeal.

Amer Fort

A veritable treasure trove of Insta subjects, Amer is a lensman's paradise of plenty. For its architectural grandeur — a seamless fusion of iconic Mughal-Rajput features — Amer is simply a delight to shoot. The grand Sheesh Mahal, or the palace of mirrors, is the pièce de résistance. Paeans have been sung of its enduring beauty and charms.

Panna Meen Ka Kund

This beautiful 16th-century baori has a lovely vibe. Located near the Anokhi Museum, near Amer Fort, the architectural splendour of this stepwell is an enduring inspiration for Insta-buffs.

Visitors exploring the length and breadth of Jaipur and beyond its outskirts have found their own (many) private moments of Insta-joy. The more you explore the city, the more it reveals its hidden gems to the camera’s eye. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal for your Insta-ventures.