Jaipur Literature Festival 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

The Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) is the world-famous literary festival. It is the greatest literary show on Earth, a global celebration where people come together to honor the best in literature, politics, science, and the arts. The 18th edition of JLF is returning in January 2025, scheduled to take place from January 30 to February 3 at Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur.

This year’s edition promises a rich mix of debates, discussions, and cultural showcases, with renowned speakers like Anna Funder, Jenny Erpenbeck, Manav Kaul, Venki Ramakrishnan, Priyanka Mattoo,  Prayaag Akbar, Nassim Nicholas Taleb, Maithree Wickramasinghe, Kallol Bhattacherjee, Irenosen Okojie, Fiona Carnarvon, Cauvery Madhavan, André Aciman, Yaroslav Trofimov, Tina Brown, Stephen Greenblatt, Nathan Thrall, Miriam Margolyes, V. V. Ganeshananthan, John Vaillant, Ira Mukhoty, David Nicholls, Anirudh Kanisetti, and more. Registration is now open, so it’s the perfect time to plan a trip to Jaipur and immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural celebration. CityScope presents the ultimate itinerary for your visit, ensuring you experience the best of both the festival and Jaipur. There’s no better way to Start 2025.

Why Attend JLF 2025?

JLF is more than just a literature festival—it’s a celebration of ideas, cultures, and communities. With its eclectic mix of sessions, cultural performances, and interactive spaces, JLF offers something for everyone. It’s a unique opportunity to meet and engage with writers, actors, journalists, musicians,  politicians and intellectuals. Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of words and ideas in the heart of the Pink City.

So, grab your festival pass, pack your bags, and book your bus, train, or flight. Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the world of words, ideas, and stories in the Pink City. Jaipur awaits you. 

How to Attend

Tickets are available online through JLF’s official website. Early bird passes are highly recommended. 

General Pass: Starts at ₹200 per day
Student Pass: ₹100 (valid for all five days)
Jaipur Music Stage: Starts at ₹499
Jaipur Bookmark: Starts at ₹3,500
Friend of the Festival: Starts at ₹13,500

Accommodation

January is peak tourist season in Jaipur, so booking accommodation early is essential. You can stay at Clarks Amer (the festival venue), or consider options in Malviya Nagar and JLN Marg for a comfortable stay close to the festival grounds.

 

Day 1: January 30, 2025 - Inauguration Day of JLF

To attend the festival, plan to reach Jaipur a day before (January 29). Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, then head to Clarks Amer to enjoy the festival  literary sessions, performances, and discussions.  After spending some sessions, grab lunch at Asia’s largest circle, Jawahar Circle , famous for its Pav Bhaji. Then, return to the festival to explore more sessions and activities.

In the evening, take it easy on your first day and visit nearby attractions like Patrika Gate, World Trade Park, and Gaurav Tower Mall for shopping and leisure.

Day 2: January 31, 2025

Govind Devji Temple

Start your day with a visit to the Govind Devji Temple, a serene spot for spiritual reflection. Don’t miss tasting the delicious Prasad laddoo, a sweet treat offered to devotees.

 

Tea at Sahu Chai

 

PM Modi, French President Macron share cup of tea at Sahuchai

Afterward, savor a cup of tea at Sahu Chai, one of Jaipur's renowned tea spots, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has enjoyed a cup of tea.

Hawa Mahal

Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal, known for its honeycomb structure and panoramic views of the city and snap some beautiful photos of this architectural marvel.

Jantar Mantar

Explore Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing fascinating astronomical instruments. Don’t miss the short film detailing its rich history and purpose.

City Palace

City Palace, Jaipur

End your day with a tour of the City Palace, which combines Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Discover royal artifacts and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Jaipur’s royal history.

Lunch at Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB)

Indulge in a Rajasthani Thali with delicacies like Ghewar and Feeni at LMB, a must-visit spot for food lovers.

Explore Jaipur Local Market

Explore local markets like Bapu Bazaar, MI Road, and Johari Bazaar to shop for jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Day 3:  February 1, 2025

Nahargarh Fort Sunrise

Nahargh Fort Sunrise Point

Begin your day early with a visit to Nahargarh Fort for breathtaking sunrise views of Jaipur. You can opt for a cycling tour around the fort or simply enjoy the sunset from Padao Restaurant, a rooftop café offering incredible evening views of the city. Don’t miss India’s first wax museum located within the fort.

Visit Jaigarh Fort

Next, head to Jaigarh Fort, famous for its military history and housing the world’s largest cannon on wheels, Jaivana. Enjoy panoramic views of Jaipur from the fort.

Explore Amer Fort

Continue your fort exploration with Amer Fort and spend time admiring its grandeur while soaking in the rich history and architecture. Don’t miss the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and Shila Devi Temple. 

Jal Mahal & Chaupati

Jal Mahal, Jaipur

After a day of exploring, relax at Jal Mahal, a beautiful palace in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Take a peaceful walk along the promenade, and enjoy local street food at the lakeside, similar to Mumbai’s Chaupati.

Day 4: February 2, 2025

Tea at Gulab Ji Chaiwala

Gulab Ji Chai, Ganpati Plaza, Jaipur

 

Start your morning with a cup of tea at Gulab Ji Chaiwala, one of Jaipur’s oldest and most loved tea spots.

 

Breakfast at Rawat Mishthan Bhandar

Savor Pyaz Kachori and Mawa Kachori—iconic Rajasthani breakfast treats at Rawat Mishthan Bhandar.

Albert Hall Museum

Visit Albert Hall Museum, showcasing Rajasthan’s rich culture. Don't miss the evening light show that highlights the museum’s Indo-Saracenic architecture.

 

Evening Snacks at Masala Chowk

 

Masala Chowk, Jaipur

 

For evening snacks, head to Masala Chowk, where multiple food stalls serve Jaipur’s iconic street foods in one place.

 

Sunset at Garh Ganesh

Enjoy sunset at Garh Ganesh, experiencing its grandeur with a peaceful trek to the temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The trek combines adventure and spirituality, offering a great experience for health and adventure lovers.

Day 5: February 2, 2025

After exploring the highlights of Jaipur, take a well-deserved rest today. Start your morning by relaxing at Walup, then head out to discover more gems of the city. Visit Jawahar Kala Kendra for a dose of culture, indulge in the famous lassi at Lassiwala, enjoy a cup of coffee at the iconic Indian Coffee House, and explore other local restaurants for a taste of Jaipur's vibrant culinary scene.

 

Celebrate Jaipur’s Nightlife or Enjoy a Cultural Dinner at Chokhi Dhani

Conclude your Jaipur trip with an evening celebration. If you're in the mood for more, enjoy Jaipur's vibrant nightlife at a rooftop lounge with live music, or immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Chokhi Dhani, a traditional village resort. Experience Rajasthani folk dances, puppet shows, and camel rides while soaking in the unique atmosphere. End the night with a lavish Rajasthani Thali, savoring the best of local cuisine and hospitality.

Beyond the Sessions

• Book Bazaar: Explore rare and contemporary books at the festival stalls..
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional dishes like Dal Baati Churma and Gatte Ki Sabzi at the food stalls.
• Networking Spaces:  Meet fellow attendees and speakers in the exclusive lounges.

CityScope Tips for Attendees

• Plan Your Sessions: The festival schedule is packed. Use the JLF website or booklet to bookmark sessions you want to attend.
• Arrive Early: High-profile sessions fill up quickly.
• Explore Jaipur: Combine your JLF visit with a trip to Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, or Local Shopping market.
• Stay Hydrated: January in Jaipur is cool, but the long hours might tire you out.
• Book Your Accommodation Early: Given the peak season, hotels near the festival venue like Clarks Amer or in Malviya Nagar are recommended.

 

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of words and culture at the Jaipur Literature Festival 2025. Whether you’re a book lover, a writer, or simply someone who appreciates the power of ideas, JLF has something for everyone.