In a major moment for Indian tourism, Jaipur has earned a coveted spot on National Geographic's 'Best of the World 2027' list. This prestigious recognition places the Pink City among 25 global destinations handpicked for the year ahead.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
The timing for
this honour is no coincidence. National Geographic's selection highlights a major milestone for Jaipur: the city will celebrate its 300th anniversary in 2027. Founded in 1727 by the visionary Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is renowned for being one of India's first planned cities, designed by architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya based on principles of Vastu Shastra. This anniversary makes 2027 a particularly special year to visit, with the city expected to be buzzing with cultural showcases and heritage celebrations. The recognition from a publication as respected as National Geographic, which has been an arbiter of spectacular places for over a century, elevates the city's global stature.
More Than Just a Pretty Pink Facade
National Geographic's editors pointed to Jaipur's seamless blend of history and modernity as a key reason for its inclusion. The city's famous architectural wonders, from the honeycomb-like facade of the Hawa Mahal to the imposing hilltop Amber Fort, are central to its identity. The UNESCO World Heritage sites of Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory, and the Walled City itself, are testament to its rich past. But the award also recognizes the living, breathing culture that thrives within these historic walls. The city is a vibrant hub for traditional craftsmanship, including jewellery making, textile block printing, and its famous blue pottery.
The Literary Heart of South Asia
Another significant factor in Jaipur's selection is its role as a major cultural epicentre, most notably as the host of the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF). In January 2027, JLF will mark its 20th edition, a landmark for what is considered one of the largest free literary festivals in the world. Drawing hundreds of thousands of people annually, the festival brings together globally acclaimed authors, thinkers, and Nobel laureates, complemented by a vibrant music stage that celebrates folk and fusion sounds. This confluence of intellect and art solidifies Jaipur’s reputation as a city of ideas.
In Esteemed Global Company
Jaipur finds itself alongside a diverse and impressive list of global destinations for 2027. The unranked list of 25 places was curated by National Geographic's global community of travel experts and editors. Other locations on the list include the dramatic fjords of Vestland, Norway; the historic port city of Penang, Malaysia; and Luxor, Egypt, which will experience a total solar eclipse in 2027. The inclusion of destinations with major anniversaries or cultural events is a theme, with Baltimore, Maryland, also featured for the 200th anniversary of the American railroad. This places Jaipur's 300th anniversary in a context of global celebrations, inviting the world to join the party.
