Car rental in Jaipur

Most visitors don't drive themselves in Jaipur. Traffic is dense and unpredictable, and hiring a car with a driver is the normal choice for day trips. Inside the city you rarely need a car at all, because autorickshaws and app-based cabs are cheap and the old city is hard to park in. A rental makes sense for trips beyond Jaipur, especially with family or luggage. In November 2026, listings started from about US$61 a day, but budget for tolls, fuel and parking as well.

When a car is worth it

Abhaneri. The Chand Baori step-well is about 90 km from Jaipur on the road towards Agra. Allow about one and a half to two hours each way.

Pushkar. The lake town is about 145 km away, via Ajmer. Allow around three hours each way, and expect slower going on the town's narrow streets.

Ranthambore. The national park and its fort are about 180 km away. Allow three and a half to four hours each way, so most people stay overnight.

Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. Agra is about 240 km away, roughly four to five hours each way, so it's a long day. Many visitors continue on to Delhi instead of returning.

Before you book

Your licence. India generally expects your home licence plus an international driving permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. UK government travel advice, for example, asks for the 1949 permit alongside a UK licence. A permit issued under another convention, such as the 1968 Vienna one, may not be accepted. How long a foreign licence is valid can vary by state, so confirm with the rental company or an official source before you travel.

A driver. Ask whether the quote includes a driver, whether there is a daily distance limit, and what extra applies to overnight trips. A driver also takes care of parking and navigation.

Where to collect the car. Pick up at Jaipur airport if you're heading straight out, or at a branch on the side of the city you're leaving from. This avoids crossing the centre.

Insurance. Check the excess for damage and what is covered after an accident or a breakdown. Photograph the car before you drive off, including any existing scratches.

Driving in India

The basics. Traffic drives on the left. Expect constant horn use, scooters and autorickshaws cutting in, and cows, dogs and camels on the road. Vehicles sometimes drive the wrong way, so stay alert and avoid driving at night where you can.

Tolls. Toll sections on national highways are paid electronically with a FASTag. Ask whether the car has one and how toll charges are settled.

Traffic and parking. The old city is congested and parking near the main sights is limited. Plan to arrive early and leave the car with your driver or at a car park.

Winter fog. From about December, fog can cut visibility on the highways in the early morning. Leave later in the morning if it's thick.