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An Honest Rajasthan Travel Guide: What to See & What to Skip

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This Rajasthan travel guide is the “need to know info” without all the fluff. Rajasthan is the most visited state in India and therefore one of the most written-about travel destinations in the world. Even people spending a week in India (an absolutely wild endeavor) choose to explore Rajasthan 9 times out of 10. 

The truth is…not everything is worth your time and money in Rajasthan. With every single city boasting ancient forts, a handful of temples, and trinket markets your day-to-day can get monotonous and slowly it all starts to blur together.

Obviously, this post is filled with my own personal opinions— but objectively some forts are just prettier than others. Traveling in Rajasthan should be about *experiencing* (and eating) not just seeing and photographing. Your time WILL NOT be best spent seeing everything there is to see in Rajasthan. It’s easy to get sucked into a huge to-do list of sights in each city because most blog posts outline everything you could possibly do rather than telling you what they think is actually worth it . 

People who love Rajasthan often see less — not more. 

The purpose of this quick Rajasthan travel guide is to help you determine what to see and what to skip. Because your time in India is limited and there are so many more regions you could add to your itinerary. 

Rajasthan Travel Guide: What to See + What to Skip

For easy digestion— I’ll go city by city starting with Udaipur. This is the closest destination to Mumbai (one of the main International Airports in India). But if you’re coming from Delhi, you’ll do these destinations in the reverse order. 

The one thing missing from this Rajasthan Travel Guide is where to eat! I actually wrote an entirely separate “ Best Places to Eat in Rajasthan ” post. I included a few really exceptional or unique eats on this Rajasthan travel guide but hit that post for all the rest!

Udaipur (See) 

This is the cleanest, calmest, and most relaxing version of India. Udaipur is the city that even those who hate India can love. That doesn’t mean it’s clean or quiet by any means, it is still India after all, but it’s a beginner-level India that’s comfortable enough for all solo women and new travelers. 

Temperatures are mild here, unlike the vast desert regions of Rajasthan, and that makes wandering the many lakes and palaces the city is known for easy. Udaipur’s biggest flaw is its food scene. Or lack thereof. You have to really depart from the trodden tourist areas here to get any kind of culinary experience.

Udaipur “Wow” factor: 10/10 

Ideal Number of Days in Udaipur: 3 days 

Important things to consider for udaipur.

• Udaipur is a great place to shop. Places to choose from are plentiful and the vendors are much more reasonable and willing to haggle. 
• Rooftops are a big deal in Udaipur. The city is best viewed from a roof near the main lake — or within the old city. I highly recommend you choose a hotel with a rooftop restaurant to enhance your experience in the city. My favorite mornings were spent with a scenic sunrise breakfast. 

Best Guesthouses with a Roof-Top View

Madri Haveli

The Kesar Niwas

Must See Destinations in Udaipur

Sunrise or sunset destinations: royal cenotaphs & bahubadi hills. .

Both these destinations require a rickshaw ride. 

The Royal Cenotaphs are technically closed to the public. But for a small bribe the guard who is always there is more than happy to open the gate for you. This is very typical in India. Here are a few other places you should make a point to visit during your stay.

• City Palace 
• Jagdish Temple 
• Wander across the bridges near the ghats to the other side of the city. 

Getting from Udaipur to Jodhpur 

Bus is the only option and you can expect it to take around 5.5 hours.

Booking transportation in India is a NIGHTMARE. It’s my single least favorite thing about the country. I started using 12.goAsia for buses just so I wouldn’t have to deal with all the touts overinflating the price. Definitely read my Beginner’s Guide to India for more tips on booking buses and trains within the country.

Jodhpur (See) 

The “not-so-blue-city”. If you’re visiting because of the bright blue Instagram shots the city is famous for, you’re probably gonna be disappointed. But if you’re visiting to enjoy incredible views of one of the most impressive forts in Rajasthan, savor a truly ancient city with great street food, and relax at a scenic stepwell then maybe Jodhpur is for you! 

Jodhpur “Wow” factor: 9/10 

Ideal number of days in jodhpur: 2 days .

Obviously, a few extra days in the city would allow you to spend some time relaxing and uncover some hidden gems in this sprawling Indian city. But this is just a general guide for those on a time crunch in India.

Important Things to Consider for Jodhpur

• Choose a place to stay with rooftop views of the fort. This is one of the best parts of the city. 
• The city is not all that blue outside one small corner. If you’re hoping for blue then you should book a stay at the very simple but comfortable and cheap Cosy Guesthouse. 
• You’ll have to haggle at an expert level here. It’s not an ideal place for rickshaw rides or shopping. 
• It is most definitely the desert. This means you’ll want to do most exploring in the morning and evening when temps are low. 

Must Visit Destinations in Jodhpur 

• Clocktower Market in the evening. Just be prepared for chaos. 
• Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell. It’s empty early morning. But midday people sometimes leap from the high point into the well. 
• Mehrangarh Fort. This is one of the most impressive forts in Rajasthan and is definitely on my must-see list. 

Sunrise or sunset destinations:  Photography Point for Sunrise (technically closed to visitors— but I have a blog for that ).

Potential skip destinations in jodhpur.

• Jaswant Thada. If you do my semi-illegal sunrise hike (linked above and below) you’ll see it from the best view. The inside is not all that impressive. 
• Pachiaga Hill sunrise point. Again not as good as my spot but a decent alternative if you aren’t up for a sneaky adventure. 
• Mandore Gardens. It’s a bit far out of town and the “gardens” are really just some ancient-looking temples. It’s very pretty and a great place to see LOTS of Hanuman Langurs up close if that interests you. 

My biggest disappointment about Jodhpur and honestly, much of Rajasthan, was the amount of sewage and trash everywhere. Sanitation is basically at 1800s levels. I suppose when you visit 500-year-old cities that’s to be expected, but it’s still worth noting. 

How to get from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer 

Bus or Train (bus is cheaper). A/C is probably a must since you’re going between deserts. The journey will take at least 6 hours. If you want to book a train you can use my Beginner’s Guide to Travel in India. (*Coming Soon*)

Jaisalmer (Skip) 

Jaisalmer is where I began to distrust many of my fellow bloggers in India. A quick Google of the city returned countless 2-3 day itineraries and glowing reviews of the golden city. But I was disappointed shortly after arrival. 

Jaisalmer is a tiny desert city near the border of Pakistan. Its main attractions are the camel safaris into the semi-nearby Thar desert and the large “living fort” in the center of the town. We have been blessed to experience camel rides and one of the most impressive deserts in the world during a recent trip to Wadi Rum, Jordan . Based on the shaggy scrubland desert of India filled with sickly-looking camels and garbage…we assumed we would be let down by a “safari”. Most of these tours include visits to local villages and song/dance performances at camp that we were not keen to participate in. So, we skipped it. And I don’t regret that. That left us to explore the town of Jaisalmer itself. But there is very little of any value or cultural significance here. 

Why we didn’t love the city…

The fort is little more than one giant tourist market. It does have people living in it, yes, but I have never seen more group tours and pushy trinket shops in one small area than in Jaisalmer. The “Jain temple” requires a 250 rupee entrance fee which after visiting the holy city of Palitana (home to the most impressive and stunning Jain temples in India) I was immediately suspicious of. When the “holy men” inside were seen sweeping up insects and not wearing the traditional Jain monk attire of white robes, I suspected this was not a functional temple and these weren’t devout Jain followers. When each one then asked for “donation” in a demanding and expectant way and put the money directly into their pocket…this theory was confirmed. Jaisalmer was overall a huge letdown. Yes, the fort is pretty and gold. But that’s not worth the massive detour required to reach the city. 

If you are not going to do a camel safari to sleep overnight in the desert, I do not recommend adding the city to your itinerary. Also, you’ll find better camel experiences in other parts of the world—both ethically and scenically. 

Jaisalmer “Wow” factor: 4/10 

Ideal number of days in jaisalmer: 0 days , getting from….

Jaisalmer to Bikaner

If you found yourself in Jaisalmer…

Jodhpur to Bikaner

If you take my advice and skip Jaisalmer…

Bikaner (See) 

Considered by many travelers to be “off the beaten track,” Bikaner is often left off visitor’s itineraries. Admittedly, it doesn’t have a wide array of attractions but the few that it does have are unique enough to warrant a visit. 

Another perk of Bikaner is it is small. It’s quiet. The streets are decidedly less chaotic than other Rajasthan destinations. It’s a good place to take a breather. 

Bikaner “Wow” factor: 7/10 

Ideal Number of Days in Bikaner: 1-2 days 

Must-see attractions in bikaner .

These 4 attractions are truly unique in Bikaner. They make the small city well worth visiting. 

• Rampuria Havelli.  A stunning red Haveli on narrow streets.
• Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple.  A very cool Jain temple with a foundation made of Ghee. (You can’t see it, just smell it.)
• ICAR Camel Center. 
• Shree Karni Mataji Temple (Rat Temple).  It’s exactly as it sounds. A little gross, but so interesting.
• Tanvi Cafe. This restaurant inside a family home is definitely worth a mention and was my favorite place to eat in Bikaner.

What to Skip in Bikaner 

• Junagarh Fort. It’s just not as impressive as the other forts of Rajasthan for the price. 

Where to Stay in Bikaner: The Prince Haveli (Walk-ups Welcome)

Getting from bikaner to pushkar.

This route is best serviced by bus. Transport options between the two destinations are limited.

Pushkar (See or Swap with Bundi) 

A placid lakeside holy city, Pushkar is another *maybe* for most itineraries. From what I can tell it has two purposes and one truly worthwhile attraction. For starters, Pushkar is one of the best places to purchase souvenirs. The entire city is basically one long street crowded with local shops charging some of the lowest prices in Rajasthan. We bought rings for $3, a thick woven shawl for $6, and a brightly colored pashmina for $6. The other reason to visit is the laid-back atmosphere. It’s a small town and has far less traffic than even other small cities on this list like Bikaner. 

I think the main reason most of us like Pushkar is that it offers a scenic place to relax in Rajasthan with pretty lake views. 

Pushkar “Wow” Factor: 7/10

Ideal number of days in pushkar: 2 days , important things to consider in pushkar .

• Don’t accept any offerings from “holy men” by the lake. They are trying to extort money from you. If they follow you to the water just tell them you aren’t going to pay them and they will disappear rapidly. 
• There is no meat or alcohol allowed in the city limits. It’s a holy city.
• You’ll have to take your shoes off within 30 feet of the lake. Again— holy city = holy lake. 

Guesthouse of Choice in Pushkar

Hotel rising star..

Not only was the room comfortable, the food home-cooked and affordable, it was also close to the local bus station and walkable to everything in town. 

Must See Attractions in Pushkar 

Sunset or sunrise: savitri devi temple..

This was the only attraction we loved in Pushkar. You can either walk the staircase to the summit for free for panoramic sunset views or ride the ropeway for 150 rupees (ticket for both ways), which is about $1.80 at this time. We rode it up and walked down because we were feeling lazy. There are loads of monkeys at the top but they didn’t seem too concerned with people. It’s also less than a mile from town so it’s another lovely walk. No rickshaw needed. 

What to Skip in Pushkar

I mean, if you’re here maybe you don’t have to skip it BUT I would not label any of these things as “must-see”. 

• Brahma Temple. Pretty underwhelming. But I understand it is one of the only temples dedicated to Brahma. 

Getting From Pushkar to Jaipur

This one is a short ride (for India) and is easily done on a bus.

Bundi (See or Swap with Pushkar) 

Bundi is another remote, lakeside, slow-moving destination. It’s big perk— VERY few visitors. Consider it a little like Pushkar without all the tourist markets. It has some beautiful old temples and it’s much greener than the rest of Rajasthan. 

We chose Pushkar over Bundi for our Rajasthan travel guide although I feel that either place is a great addition to your itinerary. But you *probably* don’t need to visit both. 

Bundi “Wow” Factor: 7/10

Ideal number of days in bundi: 2 days .

Since I haven’t personally visited Bundi, I’m going to leave the recommendations to other blogs.

Jaipur (See) 

Jaipur is like Delhi in that it is such an astronomically huge city you would be a fool to pretend you know the best places to eat and visit after a week-long stay. And most people stay far less than that. Known as the “pink city” although again — keep in mind this is really just referencing a very small historic neighborhood of the mega-city, Jaipur is a must-see on most travelers’ list because there are many things to do in the area. It is part of the Golden Triangle of India. 

But just because there are a lot of sights doesn’t mean they are worthwhile to visit and shell out the cash. In fact, Jaipur is the perfect example of why you should pick and choose your attractions rather than committing to seeing everything. 

Where to Stay in Jaipur

One thing is 100% certain though. You NEED to stay at Home of the World Guesthouse. It is one of the best guesthouses we have ever stayed at. The host is the warmest most helpful man in India. You get free chai, free family-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner AND it’s a really friendly communal atmosphere, unlike most guesthouses with private rooms. We met the best people there. Including the family who runs the place. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Sometimes they aren’t taking reservations on booking.com but feel free to book them on other sites like Agoda.

Luxury Stay + Day Trip in Jaipur

My other BIG suggestion if you have the budget for it— go visit Dera Amer Wilderness Camp for a luxury overnight glamping stay or a quick walk/lunch at their elephant sanctuary. It’s a great way to support happy elephant lives, see some elephants, and enjoy the serene nature of the 180-acre property. It was my favorite thing we did in Jaipur. 

Jaipur City “Wow” Factor: 7/10

If you visit dera amer : 10/10 , ideal number of days in jaipur: 2-3 days , important things to know for jaipur .

• It’s the most expensive city on this list. 
• It’s also known for the most scams in Rajasthan. 
• You DO NOT want to stay inside the pink city portion of the city. It’s way too chaotic and loud to actually get any sleep. 
• You do however want to stay in the northeastern-ish portion of Jaipur because the city is massive and attractions are so far apart. Home of the world was in the perfect position. 

Must see in Jaipur 

• Hawa Mahal. Lives up to the hype and gives you a chance to see the true pink portion of the city. We didn’t pay to go inside, just stood on the street and looked at it. 
• Amer Fort/Amber Fort. But only from the outside. It’s set on the hillside and really impressive but the inside is totally abandoned and empty. A real disappointment after paying 500 rupees. This is also where they offer elephant rides and have all the sad captive elephants. Please don’t support that. 
• Do hike up to the wall behind it for the best sunset view, however. You can get up onto the wall near the stepwell. Specifically at Kheri Gate. Just climb on top and follow the wall up the mountain.
• Raj Mandir Cinema for a real Bollywood film. 
• Dera Amer Wilderness Camp.
• Patricka Gate. Just go early in the morning before the crowds. 
• The Little Coffee Shop. This became a favorite spot of ours and the coffee is exceptionally good. Not the cheapest at $2 a latte — but totally worth it for those of you missing real coffee at this point. 

I highly recommend joining the Home of the World day tour if you want to see *all* the sights in Jaipur. It’s 1,500 rupees per person (~$18) and unless you plan on taking 5 days and 1-hour bus rides to each place in Jaipur you won’t save much by doing it yourself. You’ll also have the added context of explanations and get to make friends with people at the guesthouse. I don’t recommend tours unless I know they are going to be great. Home of the world tours are. They also have cooking classes if that’s more your thing. 

Places in Jaipur to Skip

• Monkey Temple or Galta Ji Temple.  It’s expensive, far away, poorly maintained and the monkeys are mean to each other. 
• City Palace. The one in Udaipur is more impressive. If you aren’t going to Udaipur then consider it. 
• Going inside Amber Fort. Horrible. Not worth it. 
• Museums. Unless that’s your thing. 
• Block Printing Factory. People will try to get you to go here. It’s a scam.

Getting From Jaipur to Agra

You can easily take a train from Jaipur to Agra (and yes, you want to visit Agra before Delhi). But if you do want to take a bus that you can book online…

Rajasthan Travel Guide: My Recommended Itinerary 

Rajasthan is in no way my favorite part of India. But it is an important historical region that most travelers cannot pass up. I’m not advocating anyone skip Rajasthan, just that they limit the time spent in the region since it’s mostly chaotic cities. I think most travelers can get away with this quick 12-ish day itinerary before moving on to other regions. 

3 days in Udaipur, 2 days in Jodhpur, 2 days in Bikaner, 2 days in Pushkar, 3 days in Jaipur.

Those who have more time and love cities ( this is really the key here ) feel free to add more.

Overall, I spent nearly 2 months in Rajasthan and I am NOT a city person. The reason I tell travelers that they should opt for a quick trip to Rajasthan (or as quickly as possible) is because the trash-filled crowded cities of India can leave you feeling jaded very quickly. India is an incredible destination. There’s nowhere else like it in the world. But it’s also an overwhelming destination for those not accustomed to the sheer volume.

Save This Rajasthan Travel Guide For Later!

Further Reading...

Your Palitana Guide for an Impressive Jain Pilgrimage

Dera Amer Wilderness Camp: An Ethical Indian Elephant Sanctuary

15 Free (or almost free) Things to See & Do in Mumbai

Prapti Sharma

This Rajasthan travel guide cuts through the clutter, providing essential insights without the fluff. As the top destination in India, Rajasthan can be overwhelming. This guide is a lifesaver, helping travelers navigate the myriad forts and temples, ensuring your time and money are well-spent. A must-read for anyone exploring this enchanting state!

Thank you so much for writing this article. Super helpful for first time travelers to India like me!

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How to plan your Rajasthan trip

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Rajasthan , the “Land of Kings”, is India’s largest state by area and it comprises most of the wide and practically inhospitable Thar Desert. Rajasthan is also one of those states that has one of the most historical significances in India. It is home to the chivalrous Rajputs, and its battle-scarred heritage has bestowed legacies of pride and tradition. As an impact of all these characteristics, Rajasthan offers so much to see. But with long travel distances between major sites, a trip here requires careful and detailed planning. We had spent multiple weeks in planning, re-planning, fine-tuning, and finally fixing our trip itinerary. Hence, we thought it will be helpful for everyone to share the plan of Rajasthan trip .

Rajasthan is the jewel in India’s crown. From fairy-tale palaces and epic forts to colourful festivals and wildlife encounters, this is India at its vibrant best. …perfect intro to Rajasthan given by Lonely Planet .

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Rajasthan is also the land of great battles and one of the best places to visit in India , which we grew up reading the stories in our high school history books. The place with its ethnic beauty exemplifies grandness and as the locals sing “ Padharo Mhare Desh ” (English: welcome to our land..), our hearts melt into the culture and tradition of Rajasthan, the Rajputs. With magnificent forts, marble temples and each city painted in its own color, the state also hosts an immense number of foreign tourists with local Rajasthani delicacies as well as western cuisines.

So, in December 2017, we went on a 10-day trip to Rajasthan, and trust me, it was beyond ‘amazing’!! Although there’s a lot to share, we thought that we should start with the most important thing – How to plan your Rajasthan trip . In this article, you will find:

Best time to visit rajasthan, how to reach rajasthan.

• Best places to visit in Rajasthan

Modes of transport within Rajasthan

• Our travel itinerary

ALSO READ: ? 25+ Breath-taking Travel Photos of Kerala to inpire you

Summers in Rajasthan last from March to June and are particularly harsh with temperatures rising up to 48-50°C during the day. That being said, if you do plan to visit Rajasthan trip in the summer, head to places like Mount Abu, Kumbhalgarh or Ranakpur. The weather there will be pleasant and the views offered are breathtaking.

Monsoon is a far more pleasant experience, the temperatures tend to drop across the state and the rain showers transform the arid landscape of Rajasthan. July to September is a particularly good time to visit if you wish to avoid the crowds you’d usually find during peak tourist season. Flora and Fauna offered by Keoladeo National Park during monsoon is picturesque and a must-visit if you plan to travel to Rajasthan during the Monsoon.

The temperatures continue to drop once the monsoon has passed, and come October winter sets in that lasts till February. During December and January, there can be a severe variation in temperatures during the day and the night. In fact, temperatures are known to drop as low as 0°C and below. This is the best time to visit Rajasthan as the desert sun is not as intense and the days are pleasant. Most of the festivals held in winter are planned as tourist attractions, with visitors coming in from different parts of the world.

Tip: If you plan your Rajasthan trip during October-February, you should start planning 3-4 months in advance to get good deals on accommodation and commuting.

Rajasthan is a tourist hub and therefore well-connected by air. Whether you’re flying in from within the country or from another one, you’ll find that there are a host of options you can choose from based on your itinerary. The three major airports of Rajasthan are in Jaipur (international), Jodhpur (domestic) and Udaipur (domestic).

Rail is one of the better ways to travel to Rajasthan from anywhere within India as it is both, comfortable and economical. The state is well-connected to all the major cities across the nation and there are several routes to opt from. Overnight trains from Delhi and Mumbai reach most of Rajasthan’s major cities.

ROAD (Rajasthan Road trip)

Rajasthan has 20 national highways passing through the state, spanning a distance of 6300+ kms. The NH-8 ( one of the most gorgeous highways of India ) which connects Mumbai to Delhi is the busiest national highway in Rajasthan and runs through Ajmer, Jaipur, Udaipur and Chittorgarh. You can very well choose to drive to Rajasthan (just like we did) or hop onto a bus operated by the Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation.

TIP: if you are coming from outside India, it might be a good idea to land in Delhi international airport, and then head to Rajasthan via road or rail.

Places to visit in rajasthan.

Rajasthan, being the largest state in India, has the best places to visit . Some of them are Jaipur , Ajmer, Pushkar, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Jodhpur .

These are the top 4 cities of Rajasthan (click on each to open the individual city guide)

ALSO READ: ? Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh – 7 Himachal Destinations That Must Be On Your Bucket List

There are 2 ways of travelling within Rajasthan.

• Booking a cab for the entire trip from any of the tour operators. The major cities in Rajasthan are quite distant from each other and it takes a minimum of 6-7 hours to reach one city from another, which can be quite tiresome! The highways are smooth and maintained well but will be dusty due to sand and dry weather. Hence, rent-a-car or rent-a-cab for a comfortable ride.
• For solo/couple backpackers or travelers on a long exploration, using autorickshaws, local buses or trains will make it a relishable local experience.

We had rented a cab for the entire trip from an online tour operator. There are a lot of travel operators in Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat who offer taxi service for the Rajasthan tour planner . We were just 2 of us; however, we preferred to book a Toyota Etios for a comfortable journey. It should also be kept in mind that the car you choose should have sufficient trunk-space to carry luggage as you go on a long trip.

Taxi charges in Rajasthan: Taxi fares (in 2018) are around 11 Rs/km for a 4-seater (like Etios etc) and around 14 Rs./km for a 7 seater (like Innova). A minimum amount has to be paid for 250 kms per day excluding driver charges, which is around 250 Rs. Per day. Also, these fares increase as the peak season arrives. So it’s better to get your deal done at the earliest.

Alternatively, if you wish to go on a luxury trip, you can take a look at Palace on wheels, Maharaja express which as the name would suggest, is a Palace inside a train!!

Our Rajasthan travel itinerary

After a lot of homework, many weeks in planning and fine-tuning, we finalized this as our trip itinerary:

Apart from the one mentioned above, here are some additional tour itineraries which will help to plan your Rajasthan road trip :

1. For people traveling from nearby states, a short trip of 5-6 days to Rajasthan can be planned which may include the cities of Jaipur-Ajmer-Pushkar-Udaipur and back. The next trip may include Jodhpur-Jaisalmer-Bikaner and back. You can even do only Jaipur and Udaipur. There are plenty of things to do and places to see in Udaipur and Jaipur. 2. Mount Abu is at the border of Gujarat and it takes nearly 9-10 hours to travel from Jaipur. So it is recommended to visit the place during a trip to Gujarat. 3. We could not cover the Ranthambore National park, Bharatpur Bird sanctuary, and the Kumbalgarh fort. 4. To visit the beautiful Kumbhalgarh fort and experience the evening light and sound show, it is required to stay at Kumbhalgarh for a night. Also, it can be reached from Udaipur, which is only 100 km from Kumbhalgarh. 5. A 14-15 day trip can also be planned which will be sufficient to cover the National parks as well as the Bird sanctuaries.

ALSO READ: ? Why Bhutan is the Ideal Choice for an Indian traveler’s First Foreign Trip

More travel itineraries can be found here  and here to inspire you further.

We hope all the information provided here will help to plan your Rajasthan trip. Feel free to contact us , in case you need any additional information to plan your Rajasthan road trip . Look out for our upcoming blogs about our visit to each of the cities of Rajasthan.

Rajasthan trip Planner – PIN IT to read later

reference: ( 1 ), ( 2 ), ( 3 )

48 thoughts on “How to plan your Rajasthan trip”

excellent and impressive blog site. I really want to thank you, for providing us much better details.

Wow very nice. Photography excellent.

thank you so much 🙂

That really helpful for me thanks for sharing as an amazing blog about Rajasthan.

Thanks for putting up this informative post. Planning a trip to Rajasthan this winter, and this has been incredibly helpful. 🙂

Thank you so much Dona… we are glad that you found it so helpful.. feel free to contact us if you need any further information.. Have a great trip!

Wow nice…

Informative post.Thanks for sharing this post with us.

Thank you! 🙂

Such a nice and informative post. I have spent months backpacking in Rajasthan and just love this state for its sheer grandeur and majestic aura.

Thank you so much anshul. 🙂

Wow great article! Would be a fun trip.

This is a great place to visit to experience such a rich culture.

Indeed, Rajasthan is rich in culture and history.

Looks amazing. And the photos are incredible, keep up good work!

Thank you 🙂

I recently visited Rajasthan last March and loved everything about it. The history, the architecture, and the amazing people. Your pictures capture the beauty that is Rajasthan. Very informative post.

Thank you so much Paul.. I am sure you would have had a great trip too!

Wow, very informative post. Would love to India soon. Those are great photos. Thanks for sharing ♥️ ♥️ By any chance you are interested on doing collaborations, you can check out the collaborations portal of Phlanx.com and connect with amazing brands!

Xoxo, Tiffany

Thnak you Tiffany… I would definitely check out the Planx. 🙂

that is a hefty itinerary.

After reading this article, I will visit Rajasthan as soon as possible ! keep it up !

Thank you sooo much.. we are glad that we were able to insiopire you! 🙂

Rajasthan is indeed a beautiful place. It is always in my bucket list. Will visit Rajsthan soon.

Yes, it’s indeed a beautiful places and an absolute must visit for all travel enthusiasts… Cheers!

Such a detailed post on Rajasthan. Lovely pictures. Book marking this post, will be helpful when I visit.

Hello Ishani.. Thank you so much.. we are glad you liked it.. Cheers! 🙂

Well written and also it’s good to have this information while travelling there…!! 🙂

Thanks a lot 🙂

Very thorough content. Im sure there would lots of unique interesting experiences there for many to enjoy.

Thank you so much 🙂

Very well organized content and easy to navigate.

Bookmarking this for my Rajasthan trip.

As always, love the pictures!

Keep travelling!

Thank you Dona! feel free to share your rajasthan adventures on our blog! Cheers!

This looks absolutely magical! would love to visit here.

Yup.. it’s a must visit for every travel enthusiast.

Wow that is so beautiful!

Beautiful pictures and such thorough information. Thank you! Very helpful!

Thank you Stacy! 🙂

Great article. I don’t know why I found it so late. I’m planning to visit Ranthambore this summer. I just hope I don’t scare away the tigers and get to see some ;P . Btw, Mt. Abu is very close to Udaipur. It took me around 3hrs by road.

Thank you Spidey! we actually got a little late in publishing this article. Enjoy Ranthambore.. feel free to share your travel story on our blog with some great pictures! 🙂

Good read .. I loved the way the article captures the nitti gritties of planning for a trip to Rajasthan .. map of the journey route gives a visual clarity..

Quick suggestion: Addition of detailed places to visit at each location would have added value to the article.

Kudos to the ‘Minion-Padharo maro desh’ .. It’s hilarious ..

Thank you Nitu.. we are glad that readers like you appreciating the details.. 🙂 Regarding your suggestion – yes, we are planning something of that sort, and in a visually attractive way! 🙂 cheers!

Nice photography n well written…..

Super informative …!!! ??

Thank you bhaai! 🙂

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Perfect Rajasthan Itinerary for 7 Days (What I Did)

· my personal recommendations after traveling through rajasthan. ·.

India is blossoming into one of the most important countries in the world, and it is filled with incredible places to visit. While we enjoyed visiting the Taj Mahal and Delhi, Rajasthan was the true highlight of our trip. This post will lay out the perfect Rajasthan itinerary for 7 days of travel, created out of weeks of research out outreach before we visited.

This post contains affiliate links that may earn a commission on purchases at no additional cost to you.

We captured part of our Rajasthani experience in this vlog. You can also find our Udaipur trip on Youtube!

Many visitors head to the capital of New Delhi or to southern hubs like Mumbai and Goa, but Rajasthan is a special place that you won’t want to miss. On our most recent trip to India, we spent a week in New Delhi and Agra and another week traveling through Rajasthan. Rajasthan travel can be either glamorous or stressful depending on how you plan your trip, and we hope these tips help you plan a great trip.

Full disclosure: I’m not selling any tours in this post. I find that so many blog posts about India are stuffed with sales pitches and tour provider plugs. This post will contain none of that, and I am not partnering with anyone to provide this information.

Where Is Rajasthan?

Rajasthan is a state in northwestern India. It shares a border with Pakistan on its northwestern edge. It is several hundred miles to the west of Delhi.

Rajasthan is known mostly for its deserts. The Great Indian Desert, or Thar Desert, covers most of Rajasthan’s surface. The people outside of the major cities are mostly part of nomadic tribes and laborers who have been in this area for hundreds of years. 

Most Popular Places to Visit in Rajasthan

While there is more to Rajasthan than just major cities, they serve as the best waypoints on any trip through the state. Rajasthan is massive, and getting from one city to another usually takes at least four hours by car and can be as much as twelve hours, depending on where you go. 

There are five cities that most visitors flock to: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, and Bikaner.

Jaipur is the biggest city in Rajasthan and it is the most commonly visited one, too. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is the closest to Delhi and sits at the east end of Rajasthan. The city got its name when all of its buildings were painted pink to honor the British Queen Victoria. 

Nowadays, the city is known for its opulent palaces, wildlife sanctuaries, forts, and temples. The most notable palace is the pink sandstone Hawa Mahal. This massive palace along with the famous Amber Fort draws crowds from all over!

Jaipur forms the eastern point of the Golden Triangle of Rajasthan. This is a nickname for the three most culturally significant cities in Rajasthan.

One major reason to visit Jaipur is to stay in one of the city’s luxurious boutique hotels. Since Jaipur is the biggest city in Rajasthan, it is also among the most accessible. While many parts of Jaipur are inaccessible in their own right, these hotels feel like the homes of royalty.

Jaipur Airport is the largest airport in Rajasthan, which is another reason this city is so popular to visit. It makes for the perfect gateway to Rajasthan for international tourists.

Jodhpur is Rajasthan’s blue city, and it is located on the edge of the Thar desert. Known for its Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur is a great place to visit on a Rajasthan trip. It is the second-largest city in Rajasthan, and its history is as rich as anywhere else in the state.

The old city is known for its clock tower and Jaswant Thada, as well as its rooftop restaurants. Jodhpur is the closest Rajasthani city to Jaipur, which is why many visitors choose these two cities to see on their Rajasthan tour itinerary.

For a 7 day Rajasthan itinerary, Jodhpur can be the perfect stop between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.

Jaisalmer is the most remote of any city on this list. It practically hugs the Pakistan border in northwest India. While most of Rajasthan is in the desert, Jaisalmer is known as the true desert city.

The Jaisalmer Fort, or Sonar Qila, is the city’s focal point. Located in the heart of the city, this is a living, breathing, majestic fort with thousands of actual residents. If you want to visit a local market or soak in the desert views, this is the place to go.

Jaisalmer forms the western point of the Golden Triangle of Rajasthan, and is actually known as the Golden City. If you want to do desert activities, like a camel safari or a picnic in the sand dunes, Jaisalmer is absolutely the place to go. Jaisalmer is especially famous for its luxury desert camping resorts.

Getting to Jaisalmer can be a pain, and that is the biggest hurdle to visiting. It is hundreds of miles away from the other major Rajasthani cities. It does have its own airport and railway station, but both are small and not very useful.

My Jaisalmer Travel Guide contains everything you need to know about the city before you visit.

Known as both the City of Lakes and the White City, Udaipur is a special place located in southern Rajasthan. Sitting on the manmade Lake Pichola, this city is loaded with stunning temples and forts. It forms the southern point of the Golden Triangle of Rajasthan.

The most famous place to visit in Udaipur is the City Palace, which is a massive and beautiful palace museum located in the old city. The Monsoon Temple, or Nahargarh Fort, is another stunning highlight high in the mountains with stunning views. The Jagdish Temple is another place you won’t want to miss.

Udaipur felt worlds different from the other places we visited in India. To us, it was very refreshing. We enjoyed many dinners at rooftop restaurants, visited striking palaces and temples, and stayed in a luscious white marble palace.

My Udaipur Travel Guide contains everything you need to know about the city before you visit.

While Jaisalmer is the desert city, Bikaner is actually the best city to visit for camel rides! Bikaner is famous for its camel breeding, and this lures thousands of visitors each year. It is located in the northern part of Rajasthan, not too far from the Pakistan border.

One of the biggest reasons to visit Bikaner is that it is less popular with tourists. The city has plenty of charm, but it doesn’t see nearly the crowds that Jaipur and Jodhpur see. This makes for relaxing desert safaris, a hassle-free camel ride, and an intimate opportunity to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.

Bikaner is very far from some of the other cities on this list, which is one of the main reasons it tends to get excluded from the typical 7 day Rajasthan itinerary.

Where Should You Visit in Rajasthan?

Rajasthan is one of the most-visited states in all of India. Many of its cities are ranked among the best places to visit in all of India, which is a massive country! 

We spent weeks figuring out where we wanted to go. The palaces of Jaipur, deserts of Jaisalmer, lakes of Udaipur, and temples of Jodhpur all called to us in different ways. Ultimately, after talking with friends of ours who live in India, we decided to spend our days in just Jaisalmer and Udaipur, and we did not regret that decision one bit.

Since places in the state are so far apart, you need to budget travel time into any 7 Day Rajasthan itinerary. We decided to allocate three days to Jaisalmer, three days to Udaipur, and one day to travel between them. This would have been the perfect amount of time if it weren’t for some hiccups we encountered.

If we had more time, we absolutely would have added Jaipur or Jodhpur to our itinerary. But with only 7 days, we figured it was better to see two places well rather than four places for just a day each.

How Do You Get Around Rajasthan?

Rajasthan is absolutely massive, and there isn’t great public transportation between the major cities. While there are railways and airports connecting many of these cities, actual train and flight routes are very limited.

As intimidating as it may seem, the best way to get around Jaisalmer is by hired car or van.

We initially booked flights to get from Jaisalmer to Udaipur. There was going to be a layover in Delhi. Our flight departing from Jaisalmer was delayed two full days, and our original flight arriving in Jaisalmer was delayed a full day too.

This was after the pandemic, so that isn’t even an excuse. Talking to friends, I discovered it is very common for Jaisalmer’s airport, as well as other Rajasthani airports, to be abruptly shut down for military reasons.

This can put a damper on any Rajasthan itinerary for 7 days.

We were stranded in Jaisalmer with no flights or trains heading out any time soon. We asked our hotel for a reputable transfer service, and booked a driver all the way to Udaipur. The driver picked us up at 4am and drove us happily 11 hours to Udaipur.

Driving in Rajasthan

Some people opt to rent their own car while in Rajasthan. I have mixed opinions about this. The traffic outside of major cities is not bad and driving would be pretty easy on the highways.

But once you get off the highways, I think it is a whole different story. The roads through the small towns are prone to traffic jams, and it is very easy to lose cell phone service out in the rural parts of Rajasthan. We lost service at many points along our trip.

I would not recommend renting a car, simply because a hired driver is very affordable and is accustomed to driving in the area. Our 11-hour drive for 5 people from Jaisalmer to Udaipur, in a private, new, air-conditioned van, cost just $211.

Driver Recommendation for Rajasthan

We booked our ride with Lucky Tours and Travel. This is an agency that operates all throughout Rajasthan. The company charged us just $211 for a comfortable 11 hour drive from Jaisalmer to Udaipur.

You can either contact them via their website or on Whatsapp at +919414141491. We had a perfectly fine ride with them and I’d use them again if I returned. I get no commission from you booking with them.

Is Rajasthan Safe to Visit?

All in all, Rajasthan is a very safe place to visit in India. Like anywhere, there is a risk of pickpocketing and scamming. However, this is not very common, especially if you take common precautions.

We never felt threatened while in Rajasthan.

Jaisalmer is a bit seedier than Udaipur, but we felt safe in both cities. We also felt perfectly safe traveling through the countryside from Jaisalmer to Udaipur.

To be fair, I would not have felt safe driving a rental car through some of the towns that we drove through. I felt much more comfortable having an Indian person at the wheel, as the roads were narrow and we passed through a lot of very impoverished areas.

For reference, our group included three women, one man, and one toddler. We never felt like targets, nor did we get taken advantage of despite clearly being foreigners. Compared to other places in India, Rajasthan is very safe and can be enjoyed without too many worries.

Rajasthan Itinerary for 7 Days Snapshot

• Day 1: Early flight into Jaisalmer, check into luxury desert camping
• Day 2: Spend day in Thar desert with desert camping resort
• Day 3: Explore Bada Bagh and Jaisalmer Fort
• Day 4: Transit to Udaipur
• Day 5: Explore Old Udaipur, sunset boat ride
• Day 6: Luxurious brunch followed by Monsoon Palace and rooftop dinner
• Day 7: Visit Jagmandir, flight home

Full 7 Day Rajasthan Itinerary: Everything to Know

Day 1: Arriving in Jaisalmer

Recommended Hotel: The Kafila Desert Camp

Jaisalmer is very small and there are very few flights into and out of the city’s airport. Your best bet is to arrive into Delhi a day before and take the earliest possible flight from Delhi to Jaisalmer. From the Jaisalmer airport, I recommend taking a pre-booked taxi to your accommodation.

I think the best way to start your Rajasthan trip is by heading straight to a luxury desert camping resort. There are a lot of these, and many have good reputations. I had a hard time finding trustworthy reviews online, and ultimately chose The Kafila Desert Camp.

It was the perfect choice, and I detailed my full experience at the Kafila Desert Camp in another blog post. Check that out if you are considering going!

I recommend at least two full days, if not more, at the camp. Since the airline delayed our flight by over 24 hours, we had very limited time here. Still, we had a delicious candlelit dinner, went stargazing in the sand dunes, rode camels and horses, and more.

Day 2: Enjoying the Thar Desert at a Luxury Desert Camp

This is the perfect time to explore and soak in what the desert has to offer. In my opinion, the desert is a much better attraction that the city of Jaisalmer itself. Visit a local village, ride camels, enjoy cultural performances, eat breakfast on the sand dunes, and do whatever else your resort offers! If time permits, I recommend taking advantage of every amenity that your camp offers, as they are normally free of charge.

Day 3: Explore Bada Bagh and Jaisalmer City

Recommended Hotel: Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa

On this morning, I recommend packing up your things and heading to another hotel located closer to the city. On your way to Jaisalmer, stop at Bada Bagh, which is a complex of stunning cenotaph ruins located to the west of the city. 

After this visit, head to the Jaisalmer Fort, which is the main highlight of Jaisalmer City. Thousands of people inhabit the fort to this day, and it has plenty of restaurants, stores, markets, temples, hotels, and more to explore. Once you’ve had your fill exploring the Fort, head to your hotel and rest up for the long travel day.

Day 4: Transit from Jaisalmer to Udaipur

Recommended Hotel: Aurika Udaipur

I recommend booking a private car or van to take you from Jaisalmer to Udaipur. I recommend an early start, as the trip takes 10-12 hours by car and goes through many small towns along the way. Pack food, because there are not many places to stop along the way.

If you have extra time, this is the spot in the itinerary where you could add days to visit Jodhpur. Jodhpur is only a short drive out of the way, and it makes for the perfect waypoint. However, if you are creating a 7 day Rajasthan itinerary, I advise skipping Jodhpur and heading straight to Udaipur.

Once you get to Udaipur in late afternoon, check in and grab a bite to eat at Atari restaurant.

Day 5: Explore Old Udaipur and the City Palace

Recommended Udaipur Hotel: Aurika Udaipur

On your first full day in Udaipur, you’ll want to explore the highlights of the old city. Most notably, this includes the Jagdish Temple, the City Palace. The City Palace can take several hours to get through, as it is massive and filled with things to see.

After exploring the old town, I’d recommend getting dinner at Rainbow Restaurant for great views of the lake. The food is good and the prices are very affordable.

After this, return to your hotel and enjoy any amenities it offers.

Once again, we highly recommend Aurika Udaipur as your hotel of choice. It’s safe, luxurious, and the breakfast buffet was the best we had in all of India.

Day 6: Visit the Monsoon Temple and Take a Sunset Cruise on Lake Pichola

I recommend starting your day out with a luxurious lunch at the restaurant at Udaivillas. This place books up sometimes weeks in advance but is delicious and very elegant. It’s pricey, but its an experience you’ll want to have.

Once you’ve finished, head to the foot of the Monsoon Temple. The Monsoon Temple was our favorite part about Udaipur, but visiting it can be a real trek. 

The temple is located on top of a tall mountain, and you need to hire an official driver to take you up the windy roads to the top. It feels incredibly dangerous, but it wound up being fine.

Once at the top, the views are incredible. You can see for miles in every direction, including over the downtown parts of Udaipur. The palace itself is nothing compared to the City Palace, but the views are worth the trip.

Once you get back down, I recommend heading to the port where boats leave for sunset cruises. This is close to the Rainbow Restaurant. The boat ride is stunning and relaxing and very affordable.

Day 7: Check Out of Hotel, Fly Home

On your last day, you’ll want to leave ample time to check out of your hotel and get to the airport. Udaipur’s airport is located roughly 40-50 minutes outside of the city, and traffic can make the time go way up. 

Checking out of your hotel can also take some time, as the nice resorts tend to operate a bit more slowly. The Udaipur airport has virtually no amenities, so you’ll want to leave enough time to get there, but not too much time to where you’re sitting in a drab airport for hours.

If you want to see how our itinerary panned out, you can watch our Jaisalmer and Udaipur youtube vlogs linked below.

Tips for a Longer Than 7 Day Rajasthan Itinerary

The plan I outlined above is the perfect 7 day Rajasthan itinerary, in my opinion, because it visits two of the most unique cities in Rajasthan. Not only are Jaisalmer and Udaipur unique from the rest of the state, they’re also very different from one another.

If you have more time than just a week, I recommend adding Jodhpur as a stop. As I said in the 7 day Rajasthan itinerary above, Jodhpur is the perfect halfway point between Jaisalmer and Udaipur.

If you have enough time to create a Rajasthan tour itinerary of two weeks or more, I advise ending your trip in Jaipur, which has a major international airport and is the biggest and busiest city in Rajasthan.

Please comment if you have any other questions about visiting Rajasthan! We’d love to help!

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Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Rajasthan Itinerary for 7 or 14 Days (+ Map)

With its magnificent forts, beautiful palaces, vibrant culture and rich history, the state of Rajasthan is one of the top travel destinations in India. If you’re asking me, a trip to India isn’t complete without visiting this colourful state. Rajasthan is huge, however, and there is a lot to see here. Therefore, it can be a little overwhelming to start planning an itinerary. But that’s exactly where this guide comes in handy – this Rajasthan itinerary for 1 or 2 weeks covers the highlights and it’s perfect for first-timers .

Some of the places included in this itinerary are the holy city of Pushkar , the so-called blue city – Jodhpur and the city of lakes – Udaipur . It will bring you along architectural marvels like the Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort and the Toorji Ka Jhalra stepwell.

If you’d like to see more of India, this itinerary can easily be combined with a visit to Delhi and the Taj Mahal .

But without further ado, let’s dive into this Rajasthan itinerary for 7 or 14 days!

>> Read next: 16 Facts About Rajasthan

Rajasthan Itinerary for 1 or 2 Weeks

In the first section of this post, you will find all the places included in these itineraries . I also added a note saying in which of the itineraries the place is included.

Next, you will find the 7 and 14-day Rajasthan itineraries and a map showing you where the places are located. Keep in mind that Rajasthan is huge and that it would take nearly 11 hours to get from Jaipur to Jaisalmer.

>> Read: South India VS North India: 9 Differences

Places to see in Rajasthan

So, let’s start with the best places to see in Rajasthan in 1 or 2 weeks! From the astonishing Hawa Mahal in Jaipur to the photogenic blue houses of Jodhpur, Rajasthan offers an abundance of beautiful sights!

*Included on 7 and 14-day itinerary

Both of these itineraries start with two days in Jaipur , the capital of Rajasthan and India’s so-called Pink City . Jaipur is easily reachable from Delhi by train, the ride takes about 4 to 5 hours.

Here, you will find some spectacular sights like the marvellous Hawa Mahal , the enormous Amer Fort , the beautiful Monkey Temple and the colourful Patrika Gate .

Jaipur is also one of the stops on the popular Golden Triangle tourist route , which connects the Pink City to Delhi and Agra (where you will find the Taj Mahal).

With its beautiful palaces, forts and temples, this is a city that cannot be missed on any Rajasthan itinerary!

🛕 Highlights of Jaipur

• Hawa Mahal: This stunning palace is famous for its 953 windows. These were used by the royal women, who could not appear in public. They used to peek out of the windows to catch a glimpse of everyday life.
• Amer Fort: This is my favourite fort in Rajasthan! It was built by Raja Man Singh in the 16th century and you will find some pretty impressive architecture within its walls. One of its most famous sights is the Sheesh Mahal , which is often called the “Glass Palace”.
• City Palace: Built in 1727, the City Palace is the place where the Maharaja reigned until 1949. You will find some beautiful courtyards, gates and rooms inside.
• Jantar Mantar : Located right across the street from the City Palace, Jantar Mantar is an ancient astronomical observatory that’s worth visiting as well.
• Patrika Gate: This colourful gate was built in 2016 and serves as an entrance to Jawahar Circle Garden. It’s one of the most photogenic places in Jaipur so don’t forget to bring your camera when you visit it!

The next stop for both of these itineraries will be Pushkar – one of my favourite places in India. This is one of Rajasthan’s oldest cities and also one of its holiest ones, making it one of India’s top cultural destinations .

Pushkar is located by the holy Pushkar Lake, which is surrounded by numerous ghats . Apart from the lake and ghats, some of Pushkar’s most famous sights are the Brahma Temple , the Pap Mochani Temple and the Savitri Temple . The last two are located on top of a hill and they offer a magnificent view over Pushkar.

It’s believed that Pushkar Lake was created when Lord Brahma vanquished the demon Vajranash using a lotus flower. When this flower fell to the ground, it created Pushkar Lake. Today, the city is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

🛕 Highlights of Pushkar

• Ghats: Strolling along the ghats by the holy Pushkar lake is one of the best things to do in Pushkar. You will see that rituals and offerings happen here regularly.
• Brahma Temple: Being a holy city, Pushkar is home to many temples, but the Brahma Temple is the most important one. It’s located close to the lake and it’s one of the few temples dedicated to Brahma.
• Pap Mochani Temple: It’s a short hike up a hill to get to this temple, and you will be rewarded with a spectacular view over Pushkar once you reach the top!
• Savitri Temple: To reach the top of this hill, you can either take the cable car or hike and once again, you will be rewarded with an amazing view over Pushkar.
• Gurudwara Sahib : This famous Sikh temple was built in 1549 after Guru Nanak Dev visited Pushkar. It’s a stunning white temple that’s definitely worth seeing.

Jodhpur is the second-largest city in Rajasthan and another one of my favourite cities in India! It’s dubbed the Blue City because of its many blue houses that make the city incredibly photogenic.

But there is more to Jodhpur than the blue houses alone!

This city is also home to the enormous Mehrangarh Fort , which was built by the founder of Jodhpur in the 15th century and overlooks the blue city. Just a 15-minute walk from here, you will find Jaswant Thada – a beautiful memorial that was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singhjill and is made entirely out of white marble.

Other things you cannot miss on a visit to Jodhpur are the Toorji Ka Jhalra stepwell , Pachetia   Hill for sunset and the Clock Tower and Sardar Market – which are the heart of the city.

🛕 Highlights of Jodhpur

• Blue Houses: One of the best things to do in Jodhpur is to stroll around the old town in search of the beautiful blue houses .
• Mehrangarh Fort : Built by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, in 1459, this incredible fort is Jodhpur’s most famous landmark. It’s quite spectacular, to say the least, and it overlooks the blue city.
• Jaswant Thada : Just a 15-minute walk from the fort, this beautiful memorial consists entirely of white marble. It was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singhjill.
• Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell : Rajasthan is famous for its step wells and this one is very easy to reach, as it’s located in the middle of Jodhpur. The Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell used to be the main source of water for the city.
• Pachetia   Hill : Pachetia Hill overlooks the blue city and it’s the best place to watch the sunset over the blue houses.
• Clock Tower and Sardar Market : This is the heart of the old city. It’s a nice area to stroll around, shop at the market and drink a delicious lassi.

After visiting the blue city, it’s time to head to Udaipur – the City of Lakes or the Venice of the East . This city is often dubbed India’s most romantic city and it’s easy to understand why!

Udaipur is famous for its mesmerizing lakes, floating palaces, beautiful temples and stunning viewpoints. It’s also a great place to relax on one of the many rooftop terraces.

There are many great things to do in Udaipur, from soaking up the atmosphere at the ghats of Lake Pichola to visiting the City Palace and the beautiful Ahar Cenotaphs . If you’re a sucker for beautiful viewpoints, you will want to take the Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway too. This ropeway will bring you to the Sri Karni Mata Temple, which offers a spectacular view of the city.

Udaipur is also famous for hosting the Dharohar Dance Show  at Lok Dharohar Haveli . This is said to be the most spectacular traditional Rajasthani dance show in all of Rajasthan!

🛕 Highlights of Udaipur

• Jagdish Temple: This Hindu Temple’s architecture is stunning! You will find numerous statues of elephants, horsemen, musicians and dancers on its beautiful facades.
• Lake Pichola and Ghats: Strolling along Lake Pichola while enjoying the view is one of the best things to do in Udaipur. Make sure not to miss Gangaur Ghat and Ambrai Ghat while you’re there.
• City Palace: Constructed in 1553, the City Palace of Udaipur is the largest royal complex in the state of Rajasthan. You will find stunning palaces and halls inside!
• Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway : This cable car ride will take you to Machhala Hill, from where you will have a spectacular view over Udaipur.
• Ahar Cenotaphs : These empty tombs are a unique place to visit in Udaipur. They’re a must-see for history buffs and lovers of architecture.
• Dharohar Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli : A spectacular show with Rajasthani dance performances and a puppet show.

*Included on 14-day Rajasthan itinerary

If you have two weeks in Rajasthan, then it’s time to head to Jaisalmer next. This small desert city is located northwest of Rajasthan, not so far from the border with Pakistan.

Jaisalmer is home to India’s only living fort , where you will find plenty of beautiful Havelis. You will also find the peaceful Gadisar Lake here, which used to be the city’s only water source.

What Jaisalmer is most famous for, however, is its desert safaris . Although I did enjoy the desert safari, it’s good to know that the Thar Desert only has small sets of dunes and most parts are scrubs.

This being said, I still think checking out the Thar Desert is worth it! Just don’t expect it to be all sand dunes as this is not the case.

If you’re looking for a good agency to book a desert safari (because believe me, there are many and they’re not all good), I can recommend Trotters Jaisalmer . I went on an overnight desert safari with them and it was amazing! We were a small group of three people and there was no one else in the set of dunes they brought us to.

🛕 Highlights of Jaisalmer

• Jaisalmer Fort: This living fort is full of beautiful temples and golden Havelis . You will also find multiple viewpoints from where you can watch the sunset here.
• Gadisar Lake: This lake was built around the 12th-13th by the first king of Jaisalmer. It’s a peaceful place that’s surrounded by ghats and shrines.
• Bada Bagh: Here, you will find the funerary cenotaphs (empty tombs) that were built to commemorate the royalty of Jaisalmer. They’re beautiful pieces of architecture that are very common in the north of India.
• Desert safari: Spending a night in the desert dunes is an amazing experience that you won’t forget! Don’t be afraid to ask around before booking a tour though, as there are plenty of operators and they all claim to be the best. I booked my tour with Trotters Jaisalmer and can recommend them.

*Included on 14-day itinerary

The last stop on the 14-day Rajasthan itinerary is Bikaner, a city that is most famous for its proximity to the unique Karni Mata Temple  or the Rat Temple . In order to reach this temple, you will have to take the local bus to Deshnok, which is 30 km (18.6 mi) from Bikaner.

As you might have guessed, what makes the Karni Mata Temple so special is that it’s full of rats. In fact, it’s the only temple in the world that worships rats! Over 25,000 black rats and a few white ones live within its doors. It’s considered good luck if you can spot one of the white ones, as these are considered the incarnations of the Hindu deity Karni Mata and her sons.

But why rats? I hear you ask.

Well, there are two legends associated with why rats are being worshipped at the Karni Mata Temple:

• The rats are soldiers who deserted a nearby battle. Although this was punishable by death, Karni Mata decided to spare them and turned them into rats instead.
• When one of the sons of Karni Mata’s sister drowned, Karni Mata begged Yama, the god of death, to bring him back. Yama told her this would interfere with the cycle of birth and death but told her he could reincarnate all the family’s sons as rats. Karni Mata then promised the rats would serve at her temple forever.

Although we can’t be certain which of these legends led to the creation of the Rat Temple, one thing is certain – bringing a visit to India’s Karni Mata Temple will be an unforgettable experience! This is one of the most unusual landmarks in Rajasthan .

🛕 Highlights of Bikaner (besides the Rat Temple)

• Junagarh Fort: This beautiful fort was constructed by Raja Rai Singh in the 16th century. You will find stunning palaces, courtyards, pavilions and balconies inside.
• Rampuria Haveli: Rampuria Haveli was constructed in the 15th century for the wealthy merchant family with the same name. Although you cannot visit it on the inside, the outside alone is worth checking out and there are some other beautiful Havelis on the same street.

>> Read: How to AVOID Getting Sick in India: 10 Tips You Need

7 days in Rajasthan itinerary and map

You can find the itinerary and map for the 7-day Rajasthan itinerary below. Seven days is just enough time to see the state’s highlights.

Day 1-2: Jaipur Day 3: Travel from Jaipur to Pushkar (2,5 hours) and visit Pushkar Day 4: Travel from Pushkar to Jodhpur (5 hours) Day 5: Jodhpur Day 6: Travel from Jodhpur to Udaipur (5,5 hours) Day 7: Udaipur

14 days in Rajasthan itinerary and map

If you have more time to spare and are planning a 14-day long trip to Rajasthan, then Jaisalmer and Bikaner are two extra places that you can visit. You can find the map and Rajasthan itinerary for 2 weeks below.

Day 1-2: Jaipur Day 3-4 : Travel from Jaipur to Pushkar (2,5 hours) and visit Pushkar Day 5: Pushkar Day 6-7: Travel from Pushkar to Udaipur (6 hours) Day 8: Udaipur Day 9: Travel from Udaipur to Jodhpur (5,5 hours) Day 10: Jodhpur Day 11: Travel from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer (5 hours) Day 12: Jaisalmer Day 13: Travel from Jaisalmer to Bikaner (5,5 hours) Day 14: Bikaner

>> Read: The Cost of Travel in India

Best time to visit Rajasthan

The best time to visit Rajasthan is during the winter months, from October to February . At this time of the year, the temperature won’t be too high.

It’s not recommended to visit Rajasthan during the summer months, which are from April to June. It will be scorching hot at this time of the year with temperatures rising up to 48°C.

Rajasthan can also be visited during the monsoon season, from July to September. This is the time of the year that I visited the state. There’s no denying that there is rain during the monsoon (and that it’s still quite hot) but it doesn’t rain every day. Overall, I think the monsoon season is a good time to visit Rajasthan if you want to travel outside of the peak season.

How to get around in Rajasthan

There are multiple ways to get around Rajasthan, depending on where you’re going. Trains and tourist buses are perfect for longer distances, while local buses and rickshaws are great for short distances.

• Train : Rajasthan’s major cities are well connected by train. This is an easy and reliable way to get around the state. Note that there are many different types of trains in India , so make sure to do some research in advance.
• Bus : Another easy way to get around Rajasthan is by taking the bus. There are plenty of local buses for short distances and tourist buses for longer distances.
• Private driver : The most comfortable way to get around is by taxi or private transportation but this is also the most expensive one.
• Rickshaw : You will find plenty of rickshaws in the cities. These are perfect for short distances but be prepared to haggle as rickshaw drivers tend to charge foreigners ten times the normal price. A great way to get a fair price is by downloading the Ola app , though. It works just like Uber but includes bikes and rickshaws.

Tip : When you’re travelling in Rajasthan, it’s better to book your bus and train tickets in advance. This way, you will know for sure that you have a seat. I used 12GoAsia to book my tickets, this is the only website I could find that accepts payments with non-Indian credit cards.

Rajasthan itinerary FAQs

How many days are enough for rajasthan.

1 to 2 weeks is perfect to cover most of Rajasthan’s tourist sites. Although you could go on a short 2 or 3-day trip to Jaipur, for example, there are many beautiful places to see in Rajasthan, so I would recommend staying in this state for at least 1 week.

Which is the best month to visit Rajasthan?

>> Read: Solo Travel in India: A Guide (Best Places, Tips & Safety)

Tips for travelling in India

India can be a little overwhelming and confusing for first-time visitors. It may not be the easiest country to visit, but it sure is one of the most fascinating ones.

In order to get the most out of your trip to Rajasthan, there are some things you need to be aware of. So here are some useful tips to help you adjust to India easily.

• Dress appropriately: India, and especially the state of Rajasthan, are conservative so be mindful of the culture and dress modestly. It’s okay for women to wear Western clothes but this is not the right place for hot pants and spaghetti tops. I’ve written a detailed post about the subject here: What to Wear in India: Tips + Outfit Ideas . Make sure to check it out to prepare for your trip.
• Be wary of scams: Unfortunately, scams are common in India, so be wary of them. Research common scams of the place you’re heading to in advance. This way, you won’t be fooled by them.
• Learn how to haggle: The price is always negotiable – in many shops, the vendor will quote a high price and expect you to offer a lower one. This will go back and forth until you find a price that works for both of you.
• Buy a local sim: A local sim doesn’t cost much and this way, you will have access to the internet to look things up at any time.
• Take off your shoes before entering temples: If you’re going to visit many temples, it’s a good idea to wear flip-flops, as these are easy to take off.
• Know the Indian head bobble: While people in most countries nod by moving their heads up and down, Indians nod in a different way – they shake their heads from side to side. This can be a little confusing at first, so it’s good to be aware of it.
• Avoid PDA: Avoid public displays of affection if you’re travelling in India with your partner as this is considered inappropriate in Indian culture.
• Have an open mind: If this is your first visit to the country, you might experience some culture shock. Be prepared for this and accept the fact that things won’t be like they are at home.
• Bring traveller’s diarrhoea medication: Even when they’re careful, many travellers experience the so-called Delhi Belly , so it’s good to be prepared.

>> Read next: What to Pack for India as a Woman

Rajasthan itinerary: Final thoughts

I hope you love the colourful state of Rajasthan as much as I do. India is one of my favourite places in the world and I truly loved exploring Rajasthan – it’s simply magical!

If you have more time in India after finishing your Rajasthan itinerary, you could head to the Taj Mahal next. You could also head back to Delhi or go to Mumbai for a day and visit Goa – the possibilities are endless.

Other itineraries for India: – 15 Days in South India: An Itinerary – Golden Triangle Itinerary in India: 4, 5 or 6 Days

Read more about India: – Indian Landmarks to See on Your Trip – The Ultimate India Travel Bucket List: 34 Ideas – Souvenirs from India That Don’t Suck – What is India Famous For? 28 Interesting Facts – Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal

India Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 🚃 Use  12GoAsia  to book trains and buses in India. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars  to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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RAJASTHAN ITINERARY | Plan Your Perfect 7, 14 or 21 Day Trip!

This Rajasthan Itinerary covers how to get the best out of your trip to India’s land of kings with the best places to visit, how to travel in Rajasthan, plus our tips for off-beat travel in Rajasthan and how to avoid the crowds! 

This post contains compensated  affiliate  links. You can read our full disclosure over here . 

Plan the Perfect Rajasthan Itinerary for 7, 14, or 21 Days!

There’s no doubt that Rajasthan is worthy of its popularity among visitors to India: There’s nowhere in India that’s quite like Rajasthan – for its sheer colour, grandeur, contrast and ability to impress.

Rajasthan was my first (of many subsequent) experience(s) of solo female travel in India and it remains one of my favourite places to visit in India to this day.

It’s sheer size is also a conundrum for visitors – getting around and across Rajasthan takes time, and it’s not possible to see the whole of Rajasthan in a few days. (Worry not though – we do have some suggestions on what do to if you have less time for Rajasthan though, see below).

Rajasthan stretches over 342,000 square kilometres (132,000 square miles) and makes up over 10% of the total geographical area of India. Travelling Rajasthan you’ll cover desert, mountains, lakes, forests and grasslands.

There is plenty to experience in Rajasthan for history buffs, wildlife lovers, shoppers, foodies, and adventure travellers too.

These itineraries are designed to help you get the best out of your time in Rajasthan and leave you with many fond memories of India’s grandest state.

IMPORTANT: Please read our notes below under “how to use this itinerary” for the colour coding!

Rajasthan Travel – Know Before you Go

If it’s your first time visiting Rajasthan, or India, here are a few things to know in advance:

• As mentioned, Rajasthan is a huge state. Getting from Jaipur to Jaisalmer takes about 12 hours – so don’t plan too much in and leave days in between travel. Distances are long, so you’ll want a couple of days in each place!
• The easiest “entry” city for Rajasthan is Delhi. Delhi is only 4 hours from Jaipur (by train/road). If Rajasthan is the focus of your India trip, we recommend booking international flights in and out of Delhi as opposed to other major Indian cities.
• Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Rajasthan is relatively conservative. You may not see many women outside after dark (especially outside the big cities) and dressing conservatively is appropriate. If you’re travelling as a (solo) woman, we recommend adjusting to fit in with the local culture a bit (e.g. not wandering around by yourself much at night). Read my full guide to what to wear in India here .
• Some of Rajasthan’s best known landmarks have become popular Instagram spots. If you want photos of these places without crowds in (or you just want some peace and quiet), get up (very) early .
• The most popular and best time to visit Rajasthan is in the winter (October – early March). However that’s also when everyone visits Rajasthan. If you want off-season prices and a quieter experience you could visit July – September during monsoon, which is not very heavy in Rajasthan.
• In winter, Rajasthan can get really cold at night. In Jaipur in January I shivered away as temperatures dipped down to 5 degrees celsius at night (many buildings do not have heating). Bring at least one warm layer (sweater / fleece / jacket) for the evenings. In the daytime, in the sun it can still be warm.
• There are plenty of opportunities to ride elephants and camels in Rajasthan, but know that the ethics of many of these activities are questionable (at best) – the animals are often not well treated / looked after.

READ MORE in our  Rajasthan Travel Guide (includes packing list, travel tips & more)

Tourist Hustle & Scams in Rajasthan

Seeing as Rajasthan sees a lot of tourists, it’s home to some occasionally elaborate but usually un-original tourist scams that pray on first time visitors. It’s worth being aware of these, although don’t spend too much time worrying about them.

• The classic guesthouse commissions racket is alive and well. Rickshaw drivers will want to take you to guesthouses that pay them commission. If they tell your hotel is closed, burned down etc just ignore them / find another driver.
• Touts for transport who try and meet you off trains etc want to offer you overpriced taxi rides – just ignore them and use the official taxi line / use pre-paid taxis from stations.
• Rickshaw free “shopping tours” or free “sightseeing tours”. If anything is “free” it will involve you being taken to any number of shops that pay the driver a commission.
• In Jaipur there are a number of gemstone scams. Don’t buy gems unless you know what you are doing.
• In Pushkar, beware  Pooja scams where “holy men” offer to perform a ceremony for you- there’ll be a request for a large donation at the end.
• Always agree a price for services, tours etc ahead of time. If you don’t, it’s going to get awkward at the end. If someone tries to “show you around” at tourist sites, they are going to want paying.
• If shopping in markets, always hustle hard. Don’t feel bad about it – Rajasthan is used to cash rich, time poor tourists and the prices are inflated.
• Check your change, even at official ticket counters, and check they have not given you old, pre-demonetisation notes (which are worthless).

Highlights of Rajasthan

If you’re in a hurry and are wondering which are the best places to visit in Rajasthan, these are some of our favourite experiences from the “ princely state “:

• Drinking saffron chai  in the streets of Jodhpur’s “Blue City” , after a walking tour of Jodhpur’s incredible fort
• Filling peaceful mornings in the holy town of Pushkar with people watching on the g hats  by the lake
• Staying in a royal ancestral homestay in Chandelao
• Wandering the old streets and step wells in Bundi
• Waking up to watch the sunrise over Lake Pichola, Udaipur

Getting Around Rajasthan

Our favourite and recommended way to travel in Rajasthan is by train, if you are up for a bit of an adventure! You can read the full (and long) lowdown on train travel in India in our guide here.  We recommend 12asia.go for booking trains online without and IRCTC account. Where trains are not available, buses often are (we recommend Red Bus as a handy way to check routes and times).

There are also a couple of sections of the journey where hiring a car & driver would be an advantage – for instance between Udaipur and Jodhpur so that you can take in Kumbalgarh and the temples at Ranakpur .

You can also hire a car and driver for the duration of your trip if you want to visit places not easily reached by public transport – we always recommend booking drivers through hotels you are staying at for a good recommendation.

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How to Use this Rajasthan Itinerary Guide

We’ve colour coded the itinerary suggestions, depending on how much time you have. Under each destination you’ll see a coloured box indicating the time we recommend spending in that place (according to your total length of time in Rajasthan.

Towards the end of the itinerary you’ll find places which are only suggested for longer itineraries – but you can switch these into shorter itineraries if you are willing to forgo other places in stead.

It’s up to you to tailor your own perfect trip based on these suggestions 🙂

The colour coding is as follows: 

07 Day Itinerary   14 Day Itinerary   21 Day Itinerary

Make sure you scroll down beyond the places summary for a map and detailed route for each itinerary! 

Places to Visit in Rajasthan on your Trip

2 Days   3 Days   3 Days

Rajasthan’s biggest city, Jaipur is also one of the most popular places to visit. The Pink City captures the imagination of many and there are enough forts and palaces, havelis and bazaars to keep you busy here for days! Just come prepared to bargain hard 😉

THINGS TO DO

• Visit the City Palace ,   Johori Bazaar and Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur
• Take yourself on a walking tour of the Pink City at your own pace
• Head out to Amer to see the Amer (Amber) Fort 
• Discover Jaipur by bicycle for a unique experience
• The Hawa Mahal is beautiful from outside but doesn’t offer much additional value from going inside (and is not recommended for those with chlostrophobia). The shop owners opposite the Hawa Mahal will try and get you to come up to their “view point” which involves a cafe with the most over-priced drinks in India 😉
• Make a visit to Anokhi printing museum & shop to learn about traditional block printing, or take a block-printing workshop
• Want to do something Different? Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride to see Jaipur from the skies!

Family-owned Arya Niwas  ( mid range ) | Chalo Eco Hostel ( budget ) | Samode Haveli ( luxury)

LMB Restaurant (Johori Bazaar) serves up reliably delicious vegetarian curries at a good price | Lassiwala (MI Road) serves up delicious Lassi (come early to avoid disappointment) |  Peacock Rooftop Restaurant  (at Hotel Pearl Palace) offers views and great value food.

1 Day   1 Day

A haven of calm compared to Jaipur (relatively speaking!) Bundi is a bit of a gem. You can happily spend a day or two here, wandering old streets, navigating through the (less busy than Jodhpur’s) blue city, and pondering the city’s beguiling palace.

• Explore Bundi’s step wells ( boaris ). In total there are about 60! The most impressive is Raniji-ki-Baori (the Queen’s step well).
• Bundi Palace and Taragarh Fort – you can buy both tickets together at the Palace entrance to save circling back on yourself. The Fort offers some nice views over the palace and city but keep a look out for the monkeys as the grounds are quite wild still (taking a stick with you is recommended).
• Wander Bundi’s old blue city at your own pace on a walking tour

Haveli Bruh Bhushanjee is family run and has great views from the rooftop!

Krishnas Chai is one of the best tea stops in the old city |  Out of the Blue  serves good Italian food if you need a break from curries.

1 Day   2 Days   2 Days

The Blue City has a real local charm that leaves many travellers smitten. Despite being a popular spot, that doesn’t seem to bother the locals who seemed as friendly as can be. I didn’t go to Jodhpur with particular expectations, but found that there is something special about this place that made me want to stay a while.

• You can’t miss Mehrangarh Fort (it towers over the whole city) and is a sight to be hold. Grab an audio tour for a more enlightening experience.
• On your way down from the fort, wander through the beautiful Rao Jodha desert rock park
• Take a walking tour of the Blue City 
• Visit Umaid Bhawan Palace east of the old city, the museum is open to the public although the hotel & royal residence are not.
• Something different? Go zip lining with Flying Fox!

Our favourite – Castleview Homestay is a beautiful restored Haveli ( Budget) | Suraj Haveli ( Midrange ) |  RAAS Hotel ( Luxury )

The  Omelette Shops just by the Northern Gate of Sardar Market serve tasty, cheap omelette sandwiches (perfect for a snack) | Indique  is a beautiful rooftop place to eat | Shri Mishrilal Hotel (Sardar Market) serves the best Lassis.

Chandelao is a small village, about 40kms from Jodhpur, which nobody much has heard of. Which is why we’re featuring it. For a break from the tourists and tour buses, get off the beaten path here with a visit to this beautiful historical home and homestay (more like a hotel – this is a beautiful place) at Chandelao Garh.

The homestay is the ancestral home of part of the Jodhpuri royal family. Run by Mr Praduman Singh, the welcome is warm, and they arrange “safaris” (jeep trips) around the surrounding village, countryside and local towns. You can learn more about rural life in Rajasthan as well as seeing wildlife and birds. The easiest way to get here is to arrange a pickup/transfer from Jodhpur directly with Chandelao Garh.

Check availability and rates for Chandelao Garh here .

2 Days   2 Days   3 Days

Dubbed India’s most romantic city , the  Venice of the east and anything James Bond it can lay its hand on ( Octopussy was filmed here 36 years ago but you’ll still have to hear about it), Udaipur is unapologetically touristic and commercial. But don’t dismiss it just yet. You may just find yourself, too, falling under Udaipur’s spell…

• Get up early and visit Udaipur’s City Palace . Arrive before the gates open (09.30) and you may have the place to yourself (I did) as you admire the morning light over Lake Pichola before the tour groups arrive
• Take a boat trip on Lake Pichola – try for around sunset if you can. It’s worth taking one that stops and lets you explore Jag Mandir – one of the island palace hotels on the lake (the other one is the Taj, which you can only visit if you are staying at). Tickets for the boat trip including Jag Mandir can be bought (separately) at the City Palace ticket counter.
• Visit the  Monsoon Palace  if you have time – the palace itself gets mixed reviews and is rather faded, but the views over Udaipur and the Lake are wonderful.
• On your second day in Udaipur consider a half or full day trip to Kumbhalgarh   – a 15th Century Marwari fortress about two hours from Udaipur.
• Something different? Learn about making Rajasthani puppets at this workshop !

We recommend staying on the quieter, Hanuman Ghat area of town where you can look at the view of the City Palace (which is stunning when lit up at night):

Panorama Guest House ( Budget ) | Lake Pichola Hotel   (Midrange) |   Taj Lake   Palace   ( Luxury)

We loved Millets of Mewar Cafe  (Hanuman Ghat) which serves vegan and gluten free options, while supporting the local community | Queen Cafe  (Bajrang Marg) has a homely vibe and great vegetarian Indian dishes.

Ranthambhore or Sariska

1 Day   2 Days

This is your chance to get back to nature, jump in an early morning Jeep Safari, and experience the magic of the Indian jungle. You may get lucky and see a Bengal Tiger – Tiger populations have been on the rise again in India in recent years, and Ranthambhore has a relatively high density of tigers.

Ranthambhore, however is becoming increasingly overcrowded and encircled by resorts so we recommend going elsewhere to see tigers and experience the jungle if you can. Madhya Pradesh offers some of the best tiger viewing opportunities in India (Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Pench). Sariska is an alternative in Rajasthan and although they have fewer tigers and a complicated history , your visit can make all the difference to the conservation of tigers there – we highly recommend it.

Here it’s all about slowing down and following the beat of the jungle. Book your accommodation and Jeep Safaris ASAP as they are super popular and get booked up. You can book your Jeep Safaris through your accommodation or directly through the Rajasthan Forest Dept website .

SARISKA: Utsav Camp Sariska in Alwar

RANTHAMBORE: Nahargarh Ranthambhore

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW FOR SAFARIS

• Wear neutral colours (greens, beige) to blend in. Avoid bright colours and wear layers as it’s cold on winter mornings.
• Smoking and flash photography are NOT allowed
• Be quiet, listen to what’s around you and don’t chatter or make loud noises. That’ll reduce your chances of seeing wildlife immediately
• We don’t recommend taking the cantors (large busses). Although cheaper, the chances of seeing wildlife is less from these, they are loud and disruptive, and views are restricted. Take a smaller jeep instead.
• Make sure you don’t leave any waste behind you, avoid any use of plastic. You don’t want a tiger dying from eating your water bottle.
• Forestry departments have strict quotas of visitors per day, so book as soon as you can. Many national parks close for the monsoon season (May-October).
• Most resorts offer packages with evening and morning safaris. Evening safaris are beautiful, but the morning ones are when you have the chance of seeing more wildlife…

2 Days   2 Days

Pushkar is centred around its holy lake, said to have been created with Lord Brahma dropped a lotus flower. Today it is an important pilgrimage site which Hindus should try to visit once in their life time. The Lake is surrounded by bathing ghats  and the town is home to one of the few Brahma temples in the world.

Aside from its devotional significance, Pushkar is a hippy town which attracts travellers in search of some rest and some spiritual influence. A mix of the devotional and the touristic, Pushkar is a great place to escape the big cities and just relax for a couple of days.

Given its religious status, Pushkar is a dry town (no alcohol).

Part of the point of Pushkar, is you don’t really have to do anything. It’s more about being than doing. My favourite activity here was morning chai at the Jaipur Ghat , people-watching over the lake and bathing ghats . If you get itchy feet after a day or so, you can:

• Explore Pushkar’s Market – a predictable mix of tie-dye, “kashmiri” shawls and tribal jewellery. Haggle hard.
• Head out of town (rent a motorbike) and explore the Shiva Temples about 8km out of town, which takes you through quiet villages.
• Walk up to Savitri Temple , about 15 minutes up the hill for a beautiful view down over Pushkar (especially beautiful early morning or for sunset.

Pushkar is more of a budget traveller haunt so the options here reflect that.

Hotel Everest ( Budget ) | Inn Seventh Heaven ( Midrange ) | Hotel Brahma Horizon ( Luxury )

Pushkar is full of roof-top cafes offering much of the same traveller food, from banana pancakes to more authentic curries. We love  Sunset Cafe  (Jaipur Ghat) for its setting |  Honey & Spice  (Laxmi Market) for its homemade cakes& south Indian fare.

Located in the far northwest of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is home to a living fort (a real-life sandcastle) and is a popular place for going on desert and camel safaris. Unfortunately many of the camels have seen happier days (a lot of them are skinny and scarred) and we have yet to find an ethical safari operator. The desert is also more like scrub – with a couple of sand-dunes in between – it’s not the place to live out your Lawrence of Arabia fantasies.

• The highlight of Jaisalmer is its honey-coloured Fort which is home to some beautiful  havelis.  You can visit the fort museum and grab an audio-tour of the palace areas (but if you’ve visited plenty of other Forts by this point, wandering around the (free) commercial areas of the Fort may be enough).
• Take a Tour of Jaisalmer’s beautiful Havelis
• Jain Temples lie within the fort walls and are a maze-like, interconnecting set of beautiful sandstone temples.
• Gadisar Lake is a good spot to people watch, especially around sunset.

The surge in guesthouses and restaurants inside Jaisalmer Fort is hastening its erosion, as more water has to be pumped in and cracks get worse. For this reason we do not recommend staying inside Jaisalmer Fort and suggest staying outside the Fort instead (you get better views, too). These options are all outside the Fort:

Hotel Renuka   ( Budget ) |  Shahi Palace   ( Midrange ) | 1st Gate Home ( High End )

Desert Boy’s Dhani has Rajasthani cultural displays and an authentic menu | Natraj  serves great south Indian  dosas  with a side view of the beautiful Haveli next door.

Also spelt Osian, Osiyan is a small town about 40km outside of Jaisalmer, and a chance to experience life in the  real Rajasthani desert away from the commercialism of Jaisalmer.

We recommend staying at HACRA, a sustainable and community lead homestay project who have a rustic homestay where you can experience living in simple huts and learning more about life for Rajasthani’s living in the desert.  This was one of my favourite experiences travelling through Rajasthan and taught me a lot about desert life.

There’s also the option to stay at their new “ Maharaja Camp ” which consists of higher end  glamping. 

HACRA offer a number of packages and tours which include meals during your stay. They recommend two nights as a minimum.

Often overlooked on Rajasthan itineraries, I ended up in Bikaner sort of by mistake. And I’m glad I did. Bikaner is a bustling town in North Eastern Rajasthan, and celebrates its camel festival annually in January or late December. Bikaner sees a fraction of the tourists of say, Jaipur, but has plenty to do, and Junagarh Fort is particularly beautiful.

• Hara House (see below) have just launched a more ethical version of the Camel Safari . Working with local farmers who treat these animals well, it’s possible to go for an overnight desert stay in their desert camp at Chandasar. Riding is only permitted for short periods and most of the travel is done in carts.
• Wander the lovely Junagarh Fort and Old City
• Visit Bhandasar Temple , one of Bikaner’s Jain temples, carved from beautiful yellow stone. Behind Bhandasar is a Hindu Lakshminath temple, too.
• You can also visit the famous  Rat Temple , around 30km south of Bikaner. Not for the squeamish!

Hara House ( Budget ) | Narendra Bhawan ( Midrange/Luxury )

Bikaner is famous for its sweets and spicy food. Sweet shops and some basic restaurants such as Laxmi Hotel are opposite the railway station.

7 Day Rajasthan Itinerary Route

Our one week Rajasthan Itinerary route looks like this:

Day 0 Delhi

• Search Trains from Delhi to Jaipur here

Day 1-3 Jaipur

• Search Trains from Jaipur to Jodhpur here

Day 3-4 Jodhpur

• Travel from Jodhpur to Chandelao by Taxi, stopping at Ranakpur Jain Temples  & Kumbalgarh Fort

Day 5 Chandelao

• Travel from Chandelao by taxi or connect back in Jodhpur for a bus to Udaipur

Day 6-7 Udaipur

• Search Trains from Udaipur to Delhi here if you are heading back to Delhi

READ MORE: First Time Delhi Travel Guide

14 Day Rajasthan Itinerary Route

Our two week Rajasthan itinerary looks like this:

• For Ranthambore, take a train from Delhi to Sawai Madhopur Railway Station (10kms from Ranthambore). Search trains here. 
• For Sariska, take the train from Delhi to Alwar, where most accommodation is located. Search trains here.

Day 1 Ranthambore or Sariska

• From Ranthambore, take a direct train from Sawai Madhopur to Jaipur. Search trains here.
• From Sariska, take a direct train from Alwar to Jaipur. Search trains here. 

Day 2-4 Jaipur 

• Some trains travel from Jaipur to Bundi – but not daily, but there are daily direct buses. Search buses & trains here. Trains are usually available from nearby Kota city. 

Day 5 Bundi

• Travel by bus or train from Bundi or Kota to Ajmer (Pushkar is 30 mins by taxi/auto from Ajmer). Search buses & trains here.  

Day 6-7 Pushkar

• Take a taxi/rickshaw to Ajmer station and get a train to Udaipur. Search trains from Ajmer to Udaipur here.

Day 8-9 Udaipur

• Search buses from Udaipur to Jodhpur here , or take a taxi for this leg and stop at Ranakpur Jain Temples & Kumbalgarh Fort  on the way.

Day 10-11 Jodhpur

• Search trains from Jodhpur to Bikaner here . 

Day 12-13 Bikaner

• Search trains from Bikaner back to Delhi here. 
• Or Search trains form Bikaner to Agra here. 

READ: A Complete Guide to Train Travel in India for Visitors! 

21 Day Rajasthan Itinerary Route

Our three week Rajasthan itinerary looks like this:

Day 1-2 Ranthambore or Sariska

Day 3-5 Jaipur 

Day 6 Bundi

Day 7-8 Pushkar

Day 9-11 Udaipur

• Take a taxi from Udaipur to Chandelao, and stop at Ranakpur Jain Temples & Kumbalgarh Fort  on the way.

Day 12 Chandelao

• Take a taxi or transfer from Chandelao to Jodhpur.

Day 13-14 Jodhpur

• On some days there are trains from Jodhpur to Osiyan (journey time 1 hour). These are not bookable online but you can see the timetable here . Otherwise take a taxi or arrange a transfer with HACRA.

Day 15-16 Osiyan

• Take the train from Osiyan to Jaisalmer – you may need to take it from Jodhpur as trains from Osiyan are less regular. Search trains from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer here . 

Day 17-18 Jaisalmer

• Search trains from Jaisalmer to Bikaner here. 

Day 19-20 Bikaner

• Or Search trains from Bikaner to Agra here. 

 Read more about Travel in India on Soul Travel Blog: 

First Time India: How to Prepare and What to Expect

Our Favourite India Group Tours – Itinerary Guide

A Complete Guide to Train Travel in India for Visitors

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• JAIPUR , JAISALMER , JODHPUR , PUSHKAR , RAJASTHAN , UDAIPUR

The Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days or More

• October 7, 2023

Rajasthan is one of our favourite states in India. So, if you’re here looking for the best Rajasthan itinerary, you’ll be pleased to know you’ve come to the right place. We recently spent close to 3 weeks in Rajasthan, which is why it’s easy for me to suggest itineraries for 5 days, 7 days, and even 2 weeks. In this Rajasthan Itinerary, I’ll be sharing all the best places to visit, how to get around, where to eat & sleep, along with all of our top tips for travelling this fast-paced state in India.

If you ask me, no trip to India is complete without visiting Rajasthan. It’s arguably the most exciting state in all of India and without doubt the epitome of Indian culture. It’s a land of grandeur architecture, enchanting cities, mystical deserts, and rich royal history. All of which decorated in a plethora of vivid colour. Rajasthan is big, it’s loud, it’s crazy, and it will att@ck your senses in the best possible way.

When planning a Rajasthan Itinerary, it’s easy to underestimate just how big the state is. If the state were a country, it would be around the 63rd largest country in the world, which is pretty staggering. It’s therefore not too surprising to find that each city in Rajasthan has an entirely different vibe. You’ll have the time of your life hopping from the golden city to the pink city, and if time permits, onto the blue and white cities too.  

Having said that, it can be a daunting prospect planning your route in this truly vast and profound state. Thankfully, we’ve done all the leg work, and we’re here to help. So let’s get to it, here’s the best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 days or more. 

*Before You Travel to Rajasthan,  have you got your travel insurance sorted?  Cover yourself for the unexpected, read  why you really need travel insurance  or  get a quote from World Nomads .

*Have you got your travel Visa sorted? Check if you need one here and retrieve a quote. It’s simple, fast and reliable.

*Don’t leave home without any  backpacker essentials  with our free printable packing list.

How Many Days to Spend in Rajasthan

As I’ve already mentioned, Rajasthan is an enormous state; so you could spend an entire month here and still barely scratch the surface. I’m sure some of you are backpacking India for an extended amount of time, in which case I recommend spending at least 10-14 days in Rajasthan. However, if you are visiting India for only 2-3 weeks , you’ll likely want to cut that time in half if you are to see other areas of India as well.  

Usually, when I put together itineraries, I focus on a specific length of time. However, it’s such a diverse group of travellers visiting Rajasthan, that I figured it isn’t a one size fits all on this occasion. So my conclusion was that I’d give a full low down on all of my favourite cities in Rajasthan, followed by suggested itineraries for 5 days, 7 days, and 14 days. Of course, you can follow my Rajasthan itinerary, or you can put together your own, using all the information in this blog post about the best cities in Rajasthan.

Rajasthan Itinerary Highlights

I go into quite a lot of detail regarding the best places to see and things to do in this Rajasthan. So if you’re short for time, or want a taster of what to expect, here is a quick overview of our Rajasthan highlights.

• Spend the night in the desert on an overnight camel safari in Jaisalmer
• Dance like nobody’s watching at the evening aarti by Pushkar Lake
• Enjoy authentic and delicious Rajasthani cuisine
• Stay at one of the beautiful lakeside hotels in Udaipur
• Marvel the ornate details of Jaipur’s City Palace
• Attend festivals and fayres, such as the one of a kind Pushkar Camel Fayre
• Watch the sunset from the ancient Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur
• Experience jaw-dropping panoramic views from the Monsoon Palace in Udaipur
• Hunt for Bengal Tigers at the Ranthambore National Park
• Visit the extraordinary Galta Ji (Monkey) Temple in Jaipur
• Hunt for wares in the colourful local bazaars

The Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan

OK, now let’s start planning your Rajasthan itinerary, by taking a look at all the best places to visit. I’ll include a little overview of the area itself, as well as recommendations on what to do, where to sleep, where to eat etc.     

Jaipur is a magical city, exploding with history, culture, energy, and jaw-dropping architecture. Famed for being the ‘ Pink City’  thanks to its trademark terracotta architecture, it’s one of the most visited cities not only in Rajasthan but in the whole of India. It also forms a part of the ever-popular golden triangle route .

With a population of over 3 million, Jaipur is the epitome of organised chaos. Vehicles, people, and a variety of wildlife from cows to camels fight their way for a space in the bustling metropolis. Just walking the streets is a spectacle in itself. Yet despite the mayhem, Jaipur is a vibrant, atmospheric, and exciting place to be.  

At the same time, the Pink City is bursting with world heritage sights and landmarks that are unbelievably impressive. You can soak in incredible views of the city at one of the many forts. Marvel over the architecture of the grand royal palaces; And visit one of a kind temples such as the Galta Ji Monkey Temple.

In short, Jaipur is a vital addition to any Rajasthan Itinerary.

The Best Things to do in Jaipur

Here’s a handful of the best things to do in Jaipur, but for more, see our 2 Day Jaipur Itinerary .

Patrika Gate

Patrika Gate is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Jaipur. Not only that, but with its one of a kind decorative design, it is easily one of the most  instagrammable places in India . We were left mesmerised by the vibrant and intricate walkways, that serves as a true reflection of Rajasthani culture. A must see! 

* For more info, see our complete guide to   Patrika Gate here .

Amber Palace

The Amber Palace, constructed from red sandstone and marble, is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Jaipur. It was once residence to the Jaipur Royal Family before they relocated to the City Palace. However, in our opinion, Amber Palace is the most impressive out of the 2. Inside the palace grounds, you will find a series of pristine gardens, intricate courtyards, and photo opportunities, including a stunning mirrored room.  

While we suggest making Amber Palace a priority on your Jaipur Itinerary, we have to ask that you don’t participate in elephant rides. Many tourists opt for elephant rides up to the palace entrance, without knowing the horrors behind animal tourism . 

* For more info see our complete guide to Amer Fort & Amber Palace here.

Galta Ji (Monkey) Temple

Galta Ji Temple is one of the most unusual temples we visited throughout our time in India. While the official name is Galta Ji, most refer to it as Monkey Temple, due to the thousands of monkeys that occupy the grounds. Built within a mountain pass in the Aravali hills, natural springs from the mountain replenish the temples 7 holy baths. Here you will find pilgrims bathing in the sacred water, believed to cleanse away sins and revitalise the body.

*For more info, see our complete guide to   Monkey Temple Jaipu r here.

Nahargarh Fort

Historically, along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort helped form a defensive wall around the old Royal City. Located high in the Aravali mountains, the breathtaking fortress provides an unrivalled view over the bustling city below. The fort is famed for being an architectural wonder, as well as being one of the best sunset spots in Jaipur.  

*For more info, see our complete guide to Nahargarh Fort here .

Jaipur is one of the most photogenic cities in India . If you’re keen to hit all the best Instagram spots in one day, you might wish to consider the best-selling tour with Get your Guide. Click the link below for rates and availability.

Book Your Tour : Jaipur Instagram Tour

Where to Eat in Jaipur

• Lunching & Brunching:  Tapri the Teahouse $$
• Sunset Drinks & Food:   Tattoo Cafe $
• Best Local Food:   25 Degrees East $$
• Street Food:   Masala Chowk $

Where to Sleep in Jaipur

• Hostel:    Hostel Lumb’s Nest
• Budget:   Blue King
• Mid-Range:  Umaid Bhawan
• Luxury:   Fairmont Jaipur

For more places to stay in Jaipur,  you can check the latest prices here.

Next up we head to the White City of Rajasthan, or as it’s more commonly known, Udaipur. In my opinion, Udaipur is another unmissable spot to include on your Rajasthan itinerary. However, you’re probably noticing a pattern whereby I say this about every damn city on this list. If you’re short for time, I’m aware I’m probably not making this too easy for you. But, it just means you’ll have to save what you miss for another trip.

Anyhow, I digress. Let’s get back to what makes Udaipur so awesome. When I think of Udaipur, I imagine opulence, romance, and tranquillity. This city is remarkably beautiful, and something about it made us want to stay a lot longer than our itinerary would allow.  

Udaipur’s history is rich and royal, evident by the sumptuous palaces which are abundant throughout the city. The Udaipur City Palace is one of our favourites in Rajasthan. And you can’t help but dream looking out at the old Lake Palace which is now a 5* hotel. 

What’s more, the serenity of the lakes and surrounding nature, had us forgetting we were even in a city at all. Commonly referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur offers a rare chance to relax on your trip through strenuous Rajasthan.  

The Best Things to do in Udaipur

Here’s a handful of the best things to do in Udaipur, but for more, see our 2 Day Udaipur Itinerary .

Udaipur City Palace

It isn’t without reason that the city palace is one of the top things to do in Udaipur. The grandeur marble & granite structure stands proudly as the landmark of the city, and we, for one, were taken aback by its sheer magnificence .   If we were to recommend just one City Palace to visit in Rajasthan, it would have to be this one.

* For more info, see our complete guide to   Udaipur City Palace here .

Monsoon Palace

When you arrive in Udaipur and spot the ethereal looking castle stood proudly in the hills; that my friends is the Monsoon Palace. The palace once served as a royal residence to the  Mewar Dynasty   and set 944m above sea level provides breathtaking panoramic views over the city. For the same reason, it is considered one of the  best spots to watch sunset in Udaipur .

*For more info, see our complete guide to   Monsoon Palace Udaipur here .

Dharohar Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli 

For a taste of authentic Rajasthani culture, the Dharohar Dance Show is an unmissable experience when visiting Udaipur. Set within the courtyard of Bagore Ki Haveli, you can expect a vibrant and entertaining performance that showcases the tradition and culture of Rajasthani folklore. The artistry of the performers is spectacular, and combined with the charming setting, makes for an unforgettable evening.  

Lake Pichola

Udaipur is also known as the ‘city of lakes, and Lake Pichola is the most famous with a lot of the action centred around it. Boasting a jaw-dropping backdrop of the Aravalli mountain range, I’d freely say it’s one of the most picturesque locations in all of India. A variety of hotels, ghats, restaurants, and rooftop bars surround the lake so that you can enjoy the view from several different vantage points. Relaxing around the lake with a beer in hand turned out to be one of our favourite things to do in the Udaipur.

Where to Eat in Udaipur

• Healthy Breakfast:   Grasswood Cafe
• Local Food:   Namaste Cafe
• Vegan Food:  Millets of Mewar
• Western Food : Jheels Coffee Bar & Bakery
• Sunset Drinks:  Sun & Moon

*Vegetarian? Check out our guide to the best vegetarian restaurants in Udaipur .

Where to Sleep in Udaipur

• Hostel:  Gypsy Child Lake Hostel
• Budget:  Jagat Villa Guesthouse
• Mid-Range: Jagat Niwas Palace
• Private:  Taj Lake Palace

For more places to stay in Udaipur, you can check the latest prices here . Or see our guide to the best lake facing hotels in Udaipur .

So we’ve covered the white, pink, and blue cities, now we have the ‘golden city’. Jaisalmer got its nickname as the golden city thanks to its abundant desert dunes, and medieval architecture clad in golden sandstone. A perfect amalgamation of culture, history, and adventure, Jaisalmer turned out to be one of our favourite destinations in all of India.

Upon arriving into Jaisalmer, we couldn’t help but feel like we’d step foot into a fairytale. The momentous Jaisalmer Fort stands as a citadel and centre point of the city, while ornate temples, luxurious Havelis, and serene lakes adorn the golden city. 

The highlight of Jaisalmer, however, has to be the desert safaris. Climb atop a camel and make your way deep into the Thar desert, where you can camp beneath the stars and sing traditional desert songs around a campfire. If riding camels isn’t up your street, you can take a jeep safari instead. But either way, an overnight desert safari is a must.

Best Things to do in Jaisalmer

Here’s a handful of the best things to do in Jaisalmer but for more, see our 2 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary .

Overnight Camel Safari

Jaisalmer borders the mysterious Thar desert, and one of the essential things to do when visiting the  ‘golden city’,  is a camel safari. From trotting through the golden dunes atop camels, followed by campfire nights under the milky way, it is no wonder that tourists travel from far and wide to take part in this magical experience. Even if you are planning a short Rajasthan trip itinerary, you should make this experience a priority. With tours ranging from 1/2 a day to 3 days+, there is something to suit everybody.

*For more info, check out our complete guide to an overnight camel safari in Jaisalmer .

Jaisalmer Fort

Nestled alongside the golden Thar desert, Jaisalmer Fort is not your average fort. It is unique, as it’s one of the only residential fortifications in the world, with houses that date back generations, as well as temples, shops, and restaurants too. Exploring the fort is one of the most exciting things you can do in the golden city as you never know where the labyrinth of alleyways might lead you. Hunting for rooftop bars, epic viewpoints, talented artisans, and eerie fortune tellers, was one of our favourite ways to spend the day.

Gadisar Lake

One of the more relaxing places to visit in Jaisalmer is Gadisar Lake. It’s a sacred lake to Hindus, and the religious temples ‘floating’ in the water add to the magic. It’s a peaceful spot to visit alone, and you’ll often find several locals and tourists meditating here during sunrise or sunset. But it’s also a fun place to visit with your family or travel buddy when you can go boating on the lake, or enjoy a walk around the embankment.

Where to Eat in Jaisalmer

• Cheap Eats : Free Tibet $
• Dinner with a view : Lal Garh $$
• Breakfast : Kuku Coffee Shop $

Where to Sleep in Jaisalmer

• Hostel:  Swan Hostel 
• Budget Private:  Bohemian Guesthouse
• Mid-Range: Hotel Victoria
• Luxury:   Suryagarh Jaisalmer  

Out of all the cities in Rajasthan, Pushkar is probably the most laidback. The town itself is small in comparison to other cities in the state. And you quickly feel like part of a community as you bump into the same familiar faces everywhere you go. It’s a place of creative expression, and one of the highlights is the evening aarti where you can dance around the lake and witness all kinds of talent.

Considered a holy city, you will often see religious ceremonies taking place around Pushkar lake. These can be fascinating to watch, but you should avoid the ‘priests ‘ like the plague. They will insist you have to wear a wristband to enter the lake area. And once they’ve put it on you, they’ll ask for an extortionate payment while guilt-tripping you about karma.  

An important event in the Pushkar calendar is the annual camel fair. If you are lucky enough to be in town for that, you’re in for a real treat. This event is weird but wonderful, and a perfect example of just how crazy things can get in India. We loved it!

Best Things to do in Pushkar

Here’s a handful of the Pushkar highlights, but for more see this list of the  best things to do in Pushkar . 

Pushkar Lake

Pushkar Lake is the centre point of the town, and it’s the first place you should head to once you arrive. You’ll immediately understand what I mean by how laidback Pushkar feels relative to other cities in Rajasthan. You’ll also understand what I said about the relentless priests. Regardless of the scams, the lake is a holy place for Hindus, and you must take off your shoes before stepping foot onto its banks. This rule is for everybody, so be respectful and remove your shoes. I highly recommend visiting the lake at sunset for the daily evening aarti, which is always a magical way to end the day.   

Savitri Temple

Savitri Temple is one of many interesting temples in Pushkar, but this one is especially impressive due to its hilltop location. To reach the temple, you can take a short hike from the lake, or there’s a cable car. It’s a 20-25 minute climb on foot, so if you’re fit and able, I recommend the scenic hike. The views over Pushkar intensify the higher you climb, and you’ll encounter several monkeys & other wildlife on the way. For the best experience, it’s best to visit for sunrise or sunset.  

Pushkar Camel Fayre

If you’re fortunate enough to be in Pushkar for the camel fayre, you’re in for quite the experience. It’s the only time of year when the town is anything but peaceful; however, the wild festivities are one of a kind, and it’s one of our favourite memories of India. Historically, the event started as a camel trading market, and over the years it’s grown in both popularity and eccentricity. Now it’s a full-blown festival, with crazy competitions, live performances, market stalls, funfairs, and of course, lots and lots of camels.

Where to eat in Pushkar

• Pizza:  La Pizzeria
• Falafel:  Ganga Laffa
• Healthy : Cafe Nature’s Blessing
• Breakfast:   Deja Brew
• Local:   Street Food

Where to sleep in Pushkar

• Hostel :  Backpackers Paradise  
• Budget Private:  Mayur Guest House
• Mid-Range:   Hotel Brahma Horizon  

For more places to stay in Pushkar, you can check the  latest prices here .

The next city worth considering for your Rajasthan trip itinerary is Jodhpur. Also known as the “The Blue City”, Jodhpur is famous for its colossal fort, blue houses, and impressive temples. Unfortunately, we didn’t get around to visiting Jodhpur due to contracting a nasty case of the ‘Delhi belly.’ But we know of many travellers who speak very highly of their time there.  

As I haven’t visited Jodhpur for myself, I wouldn’t like to make recommendations; therefore, I suggest you check out this awesome list of   things to do in the blue city .

If you’re keen to wander a little off the beaten track in Rajasthan, you should certainly consider visiting Bundi. Bundi is a peaceful historic town that allows you a taste of what it’s like in the ‘ real India ‘. A luxury, or should I see experience, that is often lost in more touristic destinations.

Again, our timeframe didn’t allow us to make it to Bundi on our last trip, but if I had my time in Rajasthan over, I’d make it a priority. The history of the city fascinates me, with legends of old tribes and heroic battles. Not to mention the plethora of nature which includes rivers, lakes, and waterfalls.

As I haven’t visited Bundi for myself, I wouldn’t like to make recommendations; therefore, I suggest you check out this  Bundi Travel Guide .

Ranthambore National Park

Another spot I wish I’d had the chance to visit is the   Ranthambore National Park . The park is a prime destination for spotting tigers in their natural habitat, and who doesn’t want to lay their eyes on the majestic Bengal tiger? It has to be one of the ultimate Indian experiences, up there with visiting the Taj Mahal, and it’s not an opportunity that arises so often.

So why didn’t we visit? Ultimately, it came down to timing. We only had a 2-month visa for India, so, unfortunately, we had to compromise some stuff. You’ll have to make tough choices all the time in India. There’s just so much to see, and even with all the time in the world, it would never be enough.

Anyhow, to spot the endangered Bengal tiger in the wild, you have an excellent chance at Ranthambore. Depending on your itinerary & budget, you might prefer to visit Sariska Tiger Reserve instead, which has a lower concentration of Bengal tigers and is the cheaper option. Either way, if you spot a tiger, I want to know about it, so please send us your pics!

Suggested Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days

• Jaisalmer – 2 Days
• Jodhpur – 1 Day
• Jaipur – 2 Days

Suggested Rajasthan Itinerary for 7 Days

• Pushkar – 1 Day
• Udaipur – 2 Days

Suggested Rajasthan Itinerary for 14 Days

• Pushkar – 2 Days
• Jodhpur – 2 Days
• Jaipur – 3 Days
• Ranthambore – 1 Day
• Bundi – 2 Days

Tips & Advice for Travelling Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a vibrant, wild, and exciting place to travel. At the same time, it can be overwhelming, confusing, and even sometimes scary. So here are some travel tips and advice that we accumulated during our time in Rajasthan. Hopefully, it will help ensure a fun, safe, and stress-free trip of a lifetime.

Best Time to Visit Rajasthan

The best time to visit Rajasthan is during the Indian Winter, which runs from October to February. During this time you can expect perfect weather for sightseeing – Ie. The temperatures are cooler, and there is very little rain. It’s also the period where many festivals take place in Rajasthan, such as Diwali, Pushkar Camel Fayre, and Dev Deepawali. If you are sensitive to the heat, you may wish to keep mornings and late afternoons free outdoor activities, as the lunchtime hours get incredibly hot all year round. It’s advisable to avoid Rajasthan altogether during the months of Summer or Monsoon.  

Getting Around in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a well-connected state, and you can generally travel from city to city with ease and at very little expense. Our favourite way to get around is by bus, as they are affordable, you can book very last minute, and you can travel through the night. I highly recommend travelling through the night as not only do you save a night on accommodation, but it means you avoid travel time eating into your valuable exploring time. We always booked our buses using  redbus.com   as they have an English speaking helpline should there ever be any issues with your booking.

Another option is to travel via train, which is slightly more expensive but arguably a tad more comfortable. The only issue with train travel is you need to book in advance, which means there isn’t much room for flexibility should you want to stay longer in one place, and cut short in another. You can book trains up to 6 months in advance using  12go Asia.

Most of the bigger cities in Rajasthan also have airports; however, I’d avoid this mode of transport when going from city to city. Often you have to change over in Delhi as there are no direct flights, and it works out far more expensive than travelling by train or bus.  

Safety in Rajasthan

The topic regarding safety in Rajasthan and India, in general, is as complex as the country itself. Every individual has a different experience, and while there are many horror stories, we can honestly say we encountered nothing overly negative ourselves. By that, I mean we were not the victims of crime, theft, physical/verbal abuse and the like.  

Having said that, there were times when we felt uncomfortable and scared. Sometimes it was warranted, other times, it was not. You see, the biggest issue for us travelling India as a lesbian couple wasn’t even our sexuality, it was our gender. Being a foreign woman in India arouses a lot of attention. And like I said earlier, what we recognise as socially acceptable behaviour is not necessarily the same in Indian culture. For example, staring, taking photos without asking, or invasion of personal space can come across as intimidating, even when it’s not. 

So girls, be prepared to carry yourself confidently and don’t be afraid to say something should anybody cross the line. Unfortunately, there are many reports of women being groped by local men. If you find yourself in this position, it’s best to call him out, as other locals will step in to help you and probably give him a slap while they’re at it.

Otherwise, the biggest threat to tourists is petty theft crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. We suggest keeping your belongings close to you at all times and use a small padlock or compartmental bag to keep your valuables safe. When travelling at night, avoid being alone in parks or dark areas.

Finally, It pays to make yourself aware of the  common scams in India , so in turn, you can avoid them.

Travel Insurance

With that, don’t even think about going to Rajasthan without travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. If the unlikely event that something goes wrong, you’ll want the best cover money can buy.

For this reason, we always recommend World Nomads for travel insurance. They are affordable, offer a variety of packages and add ons, and allow you to make amendments to your policy while travelling. Say, for example, you go scuba diving or hiking a mountain, World Nomads will amend your plan accordingly. It’s a super handy feature that we’ve used numerous times including the time we  trekked to Annapurna Base Camp .

If you need further convincing, read our article on  why you need travel insurance . Or get an on-the-spot quote from World Nomads using the form below.

Alcohol, Drugs, & Parties in Rajasthan

If you’re looking to party, Rajasthan isn’t the place. You’ll want to get yourself to the likes of Goa , Manali, or Hampi . But if you enjoy a few drinks of an evening time, alcohol is easy to find at many bars and restaurants. Just check in advance so that you’re not disappointed when you go to order. 

The local drug of choice is, of course, Bhang. For those of you who don’t know what Bhang is, it is an edible form of cannabis. You’ll find Bhang shops all over Rajasthan, selling Bhang Lassis – a tasty beverage mixed with milk, sugar, and fruits. Or alternatively bhang cakes or cookies. Bhang forms a big part of ancient Hindu tradition, and they believe it cures many ailments. It produces a similar effect as smoking cannabis; however, it can last longer and also take a lot longer to kick in. If it is your  first time experimenting with Bhang , it is worth educating yourself on the effects before partaking.

Social Etiquette in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is one of the holiest and most socially conservative states in all of India. It’s important to keep in mind that what might be socially acceptable in your home country, is likely to be viewed entirely different here. Thankfully, most Indians are forgiving toward foreigners to a certain extent; however, to avoid unwanted attention and embarrassment, it’s good to know the dos and don’ts. In which case, I recommend this article regarding  social etiquette in India , which includes dress codes, table manners, temple etiquette etc.

At the same time, you’ll likely be surprised by some of the aspects of Indian culture. And in all honestly, you’ll probably be offended from time to time. But again, it’s important to remember that the culture is entirely different from the western world, and embracing the unique Indian culture is all part and parcel of the experience.

Stay Connected in Rajasthan

If, like us, you rely on the internet when you travel (let’s face it, who doesn’t anymore), we have the perfect solution. After coming home to too many hefty phone bills and buying countless international sim cards, we were desperate for an affordable solution. 

That’s when we discovered TravelWifi.  TravelWifi’s portable pocket wifi  allows us to quickly and securely connect when we need it the most. Click the link for more information on coverage, packages, and the latest offers.

More on India

Planning a trip to India? Check out some of our other articles to help plan your trip:

• Plan your trip by following one of our One Month India backpacking routes.
• Explore the golden city with the help of our 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary and go on an overnight camel safari .
• Meander the elegant Pink City and see the best of Jaipur in 2 Days , visiting Nahargarh Fort , Amber Palace , and Jaipur City Palace .
• Spend at least 2 days in Udaipur , visiting the Monsoon Palace and Karni Mata Temple .
• Check out the beautiful beaches of South Goa .
• Visit the mystical Hampi ruins and spend some time on the eccentric Hippie Island .

Did you enjoy our Rajasthan Itinerary?

That concludes  The Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days or More .   We hope you enjoy your time in this magical part of India. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, through our contact us page. Don’t forget to follow us on  Instagram here ,  where we share further travel advice & inspiration.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission,  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free travel tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

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4 Responses

Great informative articles, I am planning my next trip to Jaipur and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. Really useful resource.

Hello Remya, we hope you have an amazing trip! Thanks for the comment!

Namaste! Charlotte & Natalie, Thanks for writing interesting and informative travel article about my desert-land Rajasthan and its colourful cities Jaipur the pink, Pushkar a holly, Udaipur the lakes and Jodhpur the famed blue houses and Thar desert.

Your travel articles helps travelers and also people like me who is small local travel organiser from Rajasthan – Keep up the good work. thanks

Hello Gemar, thank you for taking the time to comment, we appreciate your compliment!

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Fun-n-Frolic in The Land of Sand and Forts with A 10-Day Rajasthan Itinerary

Welcome to Rajasthan, the jewel in India's glorious crown! A state of evocative experiences, unmatched sights and sounds, colours and cultures, history and heritage. The colours of Rajasthan are a sight to savour. 

The kaleidoscopic display of fiery red turbans, canary yellow saris and emerald green lehengas greet you as you step foot in this majestic state. Inviting you with camels plodding over soft sands of Thar, Rajasthan itinerary beckons you to come and explore its myriad sights. 

The glimmering lakes, carved temples and decorated havelis present a glimpse into the glorious past of this state of Maharajas and Rajputs! Rajasthan is a state that will surprise you at every turn and each place you visit, will capture your heart.

With so many reasons to visit, is it any question that this place serves as the perfect destination to introduce your kids to the wonderfully rich past of their country? A Rajasthan itinerary is an ideal way to bond with your loved ones and have a memorable time.

Getting around

You can travel across Rajasthan by air, train or road, and each option is enjoyable. The major airports are in Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur. Trains connect almost all cities in the state. Highways are in excellent condition and the scenery of the rugged Aravalis and golden Thar Desert, sprinkled with green forests, make for enjoyable drives.

If you wish to drive around the state you can hire a self-drive car from every major city. You can also hire taxis for the same. Prices start at ₹8/km, exclusive of fuel charges, toll charges and other miscellaneous expenses.

What to expect from your Rajasthan itinerary

Enthralling, mystical and historical Jaipur is the perfect place to start your sojourn in Rajasthan. Jaipur is the perfect mix of chaotic streets intermingled with towering palaces. City Palace is the beating heart of the city while Amber Fort, the star attraction of Jaipur, stands menacingly on the edges. This lively city is best explored on a cycle rickshaw or in an auto!

What to see

1. Start your journey with a visit to the enchanting City Palace and learn all about the history of the Maharajas of Jaipur. Entrance fees is ₹35 and opening time is from 9.30am to 5pm.

2. Jal Mahal is a palace built in the middle of Maansarovar Lake. Surrounded by water hyacinths, and adorned with quintessential Rajput architectural styles, the palace is a sight to behold. Entrance is free, however, and now that this is a luxury resort, you can stay for tea and enjoy the views.

3. Spend the evening shopping for some amazing block-print cloth pieces at Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing.

City Palace, Jaipur. Credits: MaxPixel

Start your second day early and continue your journey through Jaipur. Today visit Jaipur's most admirable fort, Amber and roam around the city exploring unending sights.

1. Start your day by a visit to Jaipur's star attraction, Amber Fort. Entrance fee is ₹10 and camera fee is ₹50 for still and ₹100 for video camera. It is open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, all days.

2. Visit Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest astronomical observatory in Northern India. Entrance is free.

3. A five-storey high red sandstone structure complete with over 950 windows is the formidable Hawa Mahal. The pink monument is a gem in Jaipur's cityscape. Entrance fees is ₹5 and you can visit it between 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur. Credits: Pixabay

Shop here: Johari Bazar (for jewellery), Nehru Bazar (for some gorgeous juttis ) and Bapu Bazar for everything else.

Eat here: Chokhi Dhani for the most authentic and traditional Rajasthani meal; Ambrosia for some multi-cuisine fine dining; Natraj for some lip-smacking thalis; Anokhi Cafe for some organic sandwiches and home-baked cakes.

Sleep here: Jaipur has some amazing options to chose from. Check out The Lalit for unmatched luxury or Umaid Bhawan for a heritage stay. For more options, check here .

Bikaner is a dust-swirling town where you go for a true Arabian Nights experience. It has the charm of a village, but the facilities of a city. Mostly unexplored by tourists and still far from the hustle of overbearing crowds, Bikaner is a bustling, vibrant city with enough to keep you amused for a day or two. Start early morning from Jaipur and reach Bikaner by lunch.

1. Start your Bikaner exploration with a visit to the Bikaner Camel Research Centre and learn about the various breeds of camels! Also, try the camel milk ice-cream here. Open from 2pm to 6pm, entrance to this place is ₹30. Camera fees is ₹50 and a ride on a camel costs ₹50 per person.

Camels at Bikaner Camel Research Centre. Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Start your second day early and spend it visiting the famous sights that make Bikaner a must-visit Rajasthan city.

1. Visit one of India's oldest forts, Junagadh Fort, one of very few that was never beseeched. It houses a museum as well where you can learn about the life of Bikaner's royal family. Entrance fees is ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for students carrying valid student id proof. You can visit the fort between 10am to 4.30pm.

2. Visit Laxmi Niwas Palace, the former residential palace of the former king of erstwhile Bikaner state. Now converted into a luxury hotel, Laxmi Niwas Palace is a true example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.

3. For those looking for some adventurous spiritual learnings, head to Karni Mata temple, a mere 32km from Bikaner. This is a temple where the goddess is worshipped right alongside thousands of rats!

Junagarh Fort, Bikaner. Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Eat here: Bhujia Bazar for some unmatched street food, Heeralal's for a multi-cuisine experience, Chappan Bhog for the best rajkachori in town (according to most foodies) and Cafe Indra for some good old pizza, burgers and coffee!

Sleep here: Experience the best of luxury at Narendra Bhawan or enjoy some pampering at Vesta Bikaner Palace . For more options, check here .

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan's Golden City, evokes the imagery of the exotic camel ruled villages and ancient trade routes. Shrouded in the golden hue of the adjacent Thar Desert and the high-rise fort, Jaisalmer truly is a city that will leave you reliving the bygone era. It is not just the Jaisalmer Fort that is built using the golden-honey sandstone, but every haveli in town, big or small, is made from the same material, washing the entire city with a mellowed, yellowed tinge. Here you feel like you are forever in the 'sepia' filter! Reach Jaisalmer by lunch, and start your siesta with the city after some rest.

1. Start your exploration of Jaisalmer with a visit to Gadisar Lake. A 650-years-old lake, it is still the major source of water for the city. Entry is free, but the boat rides are chargeable at ₹10, ₹50 and ₹100 for a row boat, a paddle boat and a shikara respectively. You can visit the lake from 8am to 8pm.

2. Explore the narrow streets with renovated houses and havelis , all sporting intricately carved front doors and windows.

Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer. Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Start your second day in Jaisalmer with an early morning visit to the Sam Sand Dunes. End the day with dinner at one of the many cafes inside the Jaisalmer Fort.

1. Visit the Sam Sand Dunes and witness the sun rise among the massive desert dunes. Go for an early morning sand dune safari today. You can opt for a camel or a jeep safari. Safaris generally begin at 5am, and include a pick up and drop off at the hotel. A camel safari starts from ₹850/person and a jeep safari costs around ₹1250/person.

2. Come back and go straight to the Jaisalmer Fort. The fort is unlike any other in Rajasthan, with numerous families, businesses and restaurants still inside the fort. It almost feels like another city in there. Entrance fees is ₹50 and closing time is 5pm.

3. Visit one or all of the seven Jain temples, located inside the fort itself. There is no entrance fee, but you are expected to pay a small amount inside the temples. Closing time is 5pm.

4. Visit Patwa-ki-Haveli, a complex of five houses built in the 19th century. The havelis today evoke the richness and grandeur of the century and each room demands your attention as you walk by. Entrance fees is ₹50 and closing time is 6pm.

Jaisalmer Fort. Credits: Koshy Koshy for Flickr

Eat here: Desert Boy's Dhani for a good Rajasthani meal and some traditional performances accompanying your dinner; 1st Gate Home Fusion for a rooftop restaurant and stunning views of the city; Saffrom for a multi-cuisine, fine-dining experience.

Sleep here: Check out Heritage House for a decent family stay or stay at Suryagarh for a real royal experience. For more options, check here .

A sea of blue rooftops, Jodhpur is magnificent. The second largest city in Rajasthan, the blue city takes your breath away with every corner. The domineering Mehrangarh Fort sits atop the city and frames the city skyline with pride. At the base of the fort lie blue houses in all shapes and sizes in a tangle of winding, glittering, medieval streets. Jodhpur is endearing and intimidating at the same time and no Rajasthan itinerary is complete without visiting this rare gem!

1. Start with a visit to Jodhpur's robust Mehrangarh Fort. A magnificent spectacle and an architectural masterpiece, the fort gives you a glimpse into the luxe lifestyle of the kings and queens of bygone eras. The timings to visit the fort are between 9am to 5pm. The entrance fees is ₹100. Still camera fees is also ₹100 while video camera fees is ₹200.

2. Visit five uniquely different areas of the fort, Moti Mahal (pearl-coloured), Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors), Phool Mahal (hall of flowers), Zenana Deodi (the queen's chambers) and Chamunda Mataji Temple (the temple of the queen's favourite goddess).

3. Jaswant Thada, royal cenotaphs built in marble are just a kilometre walk from the fort. You can visit the picturesque location by paying a mere ₹30 as entrance fees. Camera fees is ₹25 and it is open from 8am to 6pm.

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur. Credits: Wikimedia Commons

On day two, explore the city at length. Visit the numerous lanes near the clock tower and hunt for the best bandhej (English translation) in the city. Also some adventurous activities can instantly enhance your day!

1. Start your day with a visit to the nearby Bishnoi Villages. Gorgeously-clad womenfolk and charming men in pretty head gear make for some compelling conversations.

2. Get your blood pumping as you zip out of Mehrangarh Fort, through the sea of blue houses and land in the old quarter of Brahmpuri. There are six different types of zip lining available, with the shortest being 70m and the longest being 300m. Flying fox offers zip lining in Jodhpur starting from ₹1,600 for children and ₹1,900 for adults.

3. For those looking for even more adrenaline-filled fun, paragliding in Jodhpur is a must do. Sky Ventures offers tandem paragliding, where you get a chance to see the dunes of Thar from high in the sky! It costs around ₹2,990 per person.

Blue city of Jodhpur. Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Shop here: National Handloom (for the best quality rugs and handicrafts), Thar Handloom (for premium quality, traditional cloth and sarees), Suncity Spices (for spice mixes for everything, from biryanis to meats) and Bishnoi Village Art (for sourcing authentic and reasonably-priced traditional handicrafts and textiles).

Eat here: Indique is a candlelit rooftop restaurant at the Pal Haveli serving amazing Indian delicacies and superb views of the fort, Clock Tower and Umaid Bhawan. Jhankar Choti Haveli is a traveller's favourite and famous for whipping up yummylicious vegetarian delights. Cafe Frespresso at Clock Tower for some vegan-friendly and gluten-free organic delights!

Sleep here: The Ajit Bhawan Palace is a great place for some luxury and pampering, whereas the Kothi Heritage offers a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. For more options, check here .

Lakes, palaces, forts, temples and romantic backdrops frame the beautiful city of Udaipur. The tranquility of boat rides in its many lakes, the colourful ancient bazaars, the old-world feel of its hotels and homestays and spectacular countryside makes Udaipur one of the most beautiful destination in Rajasthan. A favourite among travellers from India and abroad, Udaipur has served as a backdrop for many films as well, from Ye Jawani Hai Deewani to the James Bond film, Octopussy .

1. No visit to Udaipur is complete without a visit to the City Palace. The white marbled structure rises above the shimmering Lake Pichola and is one of the best places for an unobtrusive view of the white city. The entrance fee is ₹250 and the camera fee is another ₹250.

2. Inside the City Palace complex are many small and big palaces, museums and gardens, all encompassing a rich blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, medieval, European and Chinese architecture. Do visit the Amar Vilas, Badi Mahal, Krishna Vilas, Durbar Hall, Manak Mahal, Peacock Square and Sheesh Mahal among others.

3. Head down to Lake Pichola and spend a leisurely evening on its banks. You can also take a boat ride on the lake and admire the many havelis , now converted into hotels, on its banks. The cost of a regular boat ride is ₹325 per person. However, you can also take a private boat tour for up to six people, which costs around ₹3,000.

4. After you are done with Lake Pichola, head to 1559AD, a beautiful rooftop restaurant on the edges of the lake and have a tasty dinner while you enjoy the lit up lake and the palaces all around.

City Palace, Udaipur. Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The next morning, begin your day with a visit to one of the many gardens in Udaipur. Proceed towards the old city and shop to your heart's content here.

1. Start your day at Saheliyon ki Badi. It has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants and is a perfect place to just chill under the shade of trees for a while. The entrance fees is a mere ₹5 and the park is open from 9am to 7pm.

2. Visit Jagdish temple, an iconic structure visible from almost all corners of the Old City. The temple walls and the shikara or tower are decorated with carvings of Vishnu, scenes from Lord Krishna’s life and figurines of nymphs or apsaras .

3. Proceed towards the Old City lanes and explore the narrow bazars for some amazing leheriya dupattas and sarees. Also among many shops, you can find intricately designed gota patti lehengas and amazing leather jootis (footwear) and bags.

4. Head to the Sajjan Garh fort for the most beautiful sunset views. Perched on top of a distant hill like a fairytale castle, this melancholy palace may seem in a neglected state, but the views of the city from here are unmatched.

5. End the day at Sukhadia circle. The illuminated, three-tired fountain in the middle of this circle is now a popular landmark. Enjoy street food such as dabeli and pao bhaji at one of the many stalls around Sukhadia circle.

Lake Pichola, Udaipur. Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Shop here: Bambino Arts for granite etched portraits and artwork, Hathipole for juttis , Jagdish Chowk near the Jagdish temple for traditional kurtis and leather bags.

Eat here: 1559 AD near Lake Pichola for some amazing views accompanied with delicious food, Apni Dhani for traditional Rajasthani meal at affordable prices, Ambrai for a romantic dinner date sans the kids and O'Zen for decent coffee, cold beer and amazing street views!

Sleep here: Udaipur is known for its palatial resorts as well as cozy homestays. Check out Karohi Haveli for a heritage stay or go all out and splurge for a luxe stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas. For more options, check here.

Rajasthan is a desert state, so summer months here get really hot and it's unadvisable to book a Rajasthan itinerary during this time of the year. However, winters here are pleasant with chilly nights and sunny days! This is actually one of the most perfect vacation destinations in the months of December and January.

How to reach

It's easy to reach Rajasthan from all major cities in the country.

By Air: Flights from Delhi to Jaipur start from ₹2,100 per person, one way. Flights from Udaipur to Delhi start from ₹2,500 per person, one way.

By Train: There are around nine trains from Delhi to Jaipur and the average price of the ticket is ₹800 per person . There are three trains from Udaipur to Delhi and the average price of the ticket is ₹1,500 per person. You can book your tickets online on IRCTC .

By Road: There are many state transport buses running between all major towns of Rajasthan and Delhi. Multiple private operators also run on this route. Alternatively, you can drive to Jaipur via NH8.

How did you enjoy your Rajasthan itinerary? Share your experience on Tripoto and help other travellers plan their next vacation.

Also read:  city mall kota , rajasthan holiday packages ,  Banswara Rajasthan , Bhangarh fort haunted

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THE PERFECT RAJASTHAN ITINERARY FOR ONE WEEK

Posted by neha patnaik | INDIA , TRAVEL GUIDES

Rajasthan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in  INDIA and for good reason! This colourful land of palaces and forts is filled with history and culture and is a must visit place for any traveler. This 7 days Rajasthan itinerary is just enough to give you a taste of this state and show you some of the highlights and lesser known sites.

In this 7 days Rajasthan itinerary, you will get enough time to visit three of the most beautiful places: Jaipur ,  Udaipur and Jodhpur. You will get to see some of the magnificient royal forts and palaces, catch a few stunning sunrises and sunsets, marvel at a 500 year old temple in the middle of nowhere and visit a couple of lesser known gems. Are you excited yet? If you have some additional days in hand, you can use that to explore some more places with my alternative itineraries.

This trip will be a thrilling experience and be prepared to return home with unforgettable memories. I hope you enjoy Rajasthan as much as we did and get a lot of useful information and tips from this Rajasthan itinerary to plan your trip and have a great vacation!

Check out and plan more trips to these Incredible Indian destinations :

THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN FORT KOCHI

THE BEST 2 DAYS ITINERARY FOR JAIPUR

THE ORCHHA (MADHYA PRADESH) TRAVEL GUIDE

THE MUNROE ISLAND (KERALA) TRAVEL GUIDE

THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MEGHALAYA 2023

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN UDAIPUR IN 2023

ABOUT THIS RAJASTHAN ITINERARY

To follow this Rajasthan itinerary you will need 7 full days. So try to reach on the previous evening/night. If that’s not possible, I will suggest an alternative itinerary for day 1.

Rajasthan is a very large state and all these 3 cities are far from each other. You will spend quite a bit of time on inter city transportation. If you want to see all the places mentioned here in this Rajasthan itinerary and maximise your time, I would not suggest using public transportation.  Private cars will be a very comfortable and time saving option in this scenario. We actually did Jaipur to Udaipur by flight, but if that’s not within your budget I will suggest you to take a taxi and have a stop at Kumbhalgarh fort. If you do want to travel by bus/train, make sure to book train tickets from much before and factor in the additional time required.

You can do this itinerary independently and do not require a full time guide.

We typically travel on our own and rarely take tours or hire guides. But Rajasthan is filled with so may historical sites that it does make sense to hire guides there. Luckily, most of the big ones like Jaipur city palace, Udaipur city palace and Mehrangarh fort in Jodhpur offer their own in house guides who can be hired for a reasonable charge. The guide charges are very transparently displayed at the ticket offices of these sites. I loved hearing the palace history and interesting stories from the guides, so this is something I most definitely recommend that you should do too.

Lastly, my itineraries are usually packed with a lot of sightseeing and a few sunrise and sunset missions. Its okay if you want to leave out a few things and sleep in. After all, it’s a vacation right! Pick and choose the places according to your interest and tweak the itinerary to fit you!

Before getting started with this article, here are some essential resources you will need to plan your trip.

• FLIGHTS: Check and compare flight prices using  SKYSCANNER or Google Flights.
• ACCOMODATION: Get the best range of stay options at BOOKING.COM.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: Get your trip insured in these uncertain times with  WORLD NOMADS.
• TRANSPORT: I book all my bus/train/taxi transfers using 12goAsia , a very safe, affordable and convenient option for booking all your transportation requirements.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT RAJASTHAN:

The best time to visit is from December to March and this peak tourist season. Most popular sites start getting crowded from 10am onwards. So be ready to reach right at opening time if you want some stunning shots minus people and to take in the sights in some peace. Summer begins from April and sightseeing in the high temperatures becomes very difficult and exhausting.

7 DAYS RAJASTHAN ITINERARY

DAY 0: Arrive in Jaipur

DAY 1: Jaipur: Sunrise, Amer Place, Panna meena kund, Jagat Shiromani temple, Hawa mahal, Galtaji monkey temple, sunset at Gaitore ki chattriyan

DAY 2: Jaipur: Patrika gate, City palace, Albert Hall museum, Sunset at Nahargarh fort

DAY 3: Jaipur to Udaipur via Kumbhalgarh Fort

DAY 4: Udaipur: City palace, Temple, Sunset Boat Ride, Folk Show

DAY 5: Udaipur: Sunrise at Bahubali hills, Ahar cenotaphs, Karni mata temple, Sajjangarh fort/Fateh Sagar Lake

DAY 6: Udaipur to Jodhpur via Ranakpur Jain temple

DAY 7: Jodhpur : Blue City, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada and Umaid Bhawan

DAY 8: FLY BACK

DAY 1: JAIPUR

SUNRISE AND AMER FORT

You can start this Rajasthan itinerary with a stunning sunrise from the Amer fort walls at 6-6:30am. You will get one of the best views of Jaipur from here. After that, cross the street and head inside to Amer fort which opens at 8am.

Amer/Amber Fort is massive with many different sections within it. It’s easy to spend 2-3 hours here and definitely hire a guide to take you through it while telling the history. There are a lot of instagrammable spots here (Ganesh Pol being one). It’s best to arrive right at opening time so that you can avoid crowds. Places of interest: Suraj pol, Sila Devi temple, Ganesh pol, Diwan-e-aam, Sukh niwas and Sheesh mahal. Entry fee: Rs 25, guide charges extra.

From Amer fort, you can explore 2 other places that are located nearby: Panna Meena ka kund (a popular stepwell) and Jagat Shiromani temple which has beautiful architecture. You will only need a few mins at these 2 places.

NOTE: The sunrise mission involves climbing 400+ steps. Skip it if you have children, elderly citizens, bad knees/medical conditions or if you just wanna sleep in!

HAWA MAHAL (Palace of the Winds)

This 5 storey structure designed in the shape of a honeycomb is one of Jaipur’s iconic sites. It’s best viewed from one of the cafes across the street (Windview café and Tatoo café) where you can also have your lunch.

GALTAJI MONKEY TEMPLE

Post lunch, you can visit this temple complex which lies within a mountain pass set around a natural spring. The Sita Ramji temple here is inhabited by monkeys and has been featured in the National geographic.

GAITORE KI CHATTRIYAN

End your first day with a stunning sunset at this beautiful site which is the crematorium site of the Jaipur royal family and a place to enjoy some peace and tranquility away from the city.

DAY 2: JAIPUR

PATRIKA GATE

Start the day with a visit to one of the most colourful and prettiest places: Patrika Gate. This is an elaborate pink gate that has a corridor lined with colourful art and murals. Go at 7-8am to avoid the crowds. Entry: Free

JAIPUR CITY PALACE

The complex consists of several courtyards, temples and pavilions. It also houses the most famous doors in India which can be found at Pritam Niwas Chowk. There is also a section dedicated to artists where you can buy artwork and handicrafts. You will need 2-3 hours to see most of the stuff.

ALBERT HALL MUSEUM

The oldest museum of Rajasthan which has beautiful architecture and also houses an Egyptian mummy. The outer gate is a popular photography spot.

NAHARGARH FORT

End your Jaipur stay with a beautiful sunset at Nahargarh fort. The fort is vast and also houses a museum and restaurants.

WHERE TO STAY IN JAIPUR:

• BLUE BEDS HOSTEL (BUDGET)
• PEARL PALACE HERITAGE BOUTIQUE HOTEL(BUDGET)
• ALSISAR HAVELI (MID RANGE)
• SURYYA VILLA (MID RANGE)
• THE OBEROI RAJVILAS (LUXURY)
• RAMBAGH PALACE (LUXURY)

In Jaipur, we chose to stay in Alsisar Haveli . A beautifully restored old haveli which is located only 10 mins away from Hawa Mahal. The rooms are clean and comfortable, there is a pool and an in house restaurant. The service is pretty good. They also arrange private cars for sightseeing and have a sister property at Ranthambhore national park. The price is on the higher end of the midrange category but if you are looking for a unique and experiential stay, this haveli is our recommendation for Jaipur.

CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE JAIPUR TRAVEL GUIDE AND ITINERARY

ALTERNATIVE ITINERARY OPTION: If you arrive on day 1, skip the sunrise. Depending on your time of arrival head over to the Jaipur city palace and then check out Albert museum. If you have time, go for sunset to Nahargarh fort. On Day 2, head to Patrika gate and Amer Palace. Post lunch, check out Hawa Mahal.

DAY 3: JAIPUR TO UDAIPUR VIA KUMBHALGARH FORT

Today will be your first road trip from Jaipur to Udaipur. The distance between the 2 places is almost 400 kms and it takes around 7 hours by road. To make it more memorable, make a detour at Kumbhalgarh Fort. This is a pretty popular option and there are a number of private car operators who offer this service.

KUMBHALGARH FORT

Kumbhalgarh is a world heritage site and was built sometime in the 13 th century by the Rana of Kumbhar. The fort is massive and it’s wall is the second longest one in the world after the ‘Great wall of China’. There are a number of temples within the fort complex and a light and sound show is also held.

It will be evening by the time you reach Udaipur and check in. So take it easy for tonight, have a nice lakeside dinner and sleep early as the next 2 days will be full of sightseeing.

DAY 4: UDAIPUR CITY PALACE, SUNSET BOAT RIDE AND FOLK SHOW

UDAIPUR CITY PALACE

The most important place to visit in Udaipur as well as the best! Out of all the palaces we visited in Rajasthan, this one was my favourite. It’s the second largest palace in India after the Mysore palace and you can easily spend 3-4 hours here. There are so many pretty corners and lots of interesting stories to hear from the guides. Do hire a guide as you will need him. Must visit corners include: Badi mahal, Krishna vilas, Sheesh mahal, Mor Chowk and the insta famous Blue Room.

Entry: Rs500/pp plus additional guide charges

JAGDISH TEMPLE

The local temple with beautiful intricate designs, drop by after visiting the city palace and also do some shopping in the nearby souvenir stalls.

SUNSET BOAT RIDE ON LAKE PICHOLA

One of the highlights of this 7 days Rajasthan itinerary is doing this super romantic sunset boat ride. The view of the setting sun on the lake surrounded by the Aravalli range is truly breathtaking. You can share a boat or shell out some extra to have a private ride.

Price: Group tours usually cost Rs500/pp. Private ones will charge Rs 2000-3000/boat.

DHAROHAR FOLK SHOW

After the boat ride, ask your boatman to drop you at Gangaur ghat for the very creative folk show at Bagore ki haveli (2mins walk from the ghat gates). The show starts at 7pm daily and is filled with folk music, dances and puppet shows. It’s a nice peek into Rajasthani folk culture. Entry fees: Rs 200/pp plus additional camera charges.

DAY 5: BAHUBALI HILLS, AHAR CENOTAPHS, KARNI MATA TEMPLE AND SAJJANGARH FORT/FATEH SAGAR LAKE

BAHUBALI HILLS AND BADI LAKE

Begin the day with a sunrise mission at one of the best places in Rajasthan: Bahubali hills and Badi Lake. The stunning Aravalli mountains overlooking the emerald lake presents a picture perfect postcard and you will fall in love with the place. It’s a very easy 15 mins walk to the top view point. Reach by 6:30 am to catch the sunrise. Hire a tuk tuk driver the previous day who will take you there. It takes around 30 mins from the old city. Following the sunrise, return back to your hotel for breakfast followed by a visit to Ahar cenotaphs.

AHAR CENOTAPHS

These are the burial monuments of Udaipur’s past rulers and lie around 10-12kms from the old city. These forgotten monuments are locally known as Chattris and are a must visit for any culture lover. Entry: Rs 25.

KARNI MATA TEMPLE

Take a cable car ride and visit this temple that is located atop a hill. Rides begin from 9am and cost between Rs 150-400.The views from above are nice and its also a good place to see the sunset.

SUNSET AT SAJJANGARH FORT OR FATEH SAGAR LAKE

You can choose to visit any one of these two places for a beautiful sunset depending on your interests.

If you are looking for some adventure, Sajjangarh fort is the place. A hilltop palace popularly called as Monsoon palace, it can be reached by trekking or via jeep rides. It overlooks the Sajjangarh wildlife sanctuary that is popular for bird watching. The sunset from the top is a beautiful sight. Entry Fees: Rs 100 and it’s open till 6pm.

For some family friendly fun, head over to Fateh Sagar Lake and do some boating.

WHERE TO STAY IN UDAIPUR

Its best to stay near Pichola lake in the old city. This is the heart of the city, both congested and charming and near to most of the major attractions. Some of my recommendations would be:

• Zostel (Budget)
• Moustache (Budget)
• Lake Pichola hotel (mid range)
• Jagat Niwas Palace (mid range)
• Taj Lake palace (Luxury)

In Udaipur, we chose  Lake Pichola Hotel which is situated right besides Lake Pichola and has one of the best locations. All the rooms have a balcony overlooking the lake and the ghats which is a great spot to see the sunrise. There in house rooftop restaurant ‘Upre’ is very popular for dinners. Excellent buffet breakfast and they also arrange for boat rides on the lake. Price wise, falls in the midrange category. Highly recommended for Udaipur.

Alternative transportation options from Jaipur to Udaipur:

*If you want to save both time and money, taking the night train from Jaipur to Udaipur is the best option. Reach Udaipur in the morning and you still get a full day of sightseeing.

*If money is not a problem and you want to save time, catch the morning flight. It takes just under an hour to arrive at Udaipur.

Depending on your mode of transportation and time of arrival, make the necessary changes to this itinerary and plan your sightseeing.

You can see and book Jaipur to Udaipur transport options here.

READ THE COMPLETE UDAIPUR TRAVEL GUIDE HERE

DAY 6: UDAIPUR TO JODHPUR VIA RANAKPUR JAIN TEMPLE

The distance between the 2 cities is 250 kms and will take around 5 hours. Again make a stop to see one of the most beautiful temples in India: Ranakpur Jain temple, a very important Jain pilgrimage site.

The temple was constructed in the 15 th century to honour Adinath, the first Tirthankar of Jain cosmology. It is located deep in the forest and mountains and you will get a feeling of being in the middle of nowhere. The architecture is simply stunning with plenty of intricate designs on the roof and pillars. Definitely a must visit place !

Timings for tourists: from 12 noon-5pm

By the time you will reach Jodhpur, it will be evening. Check in and head to the local clock tower to see some of the famous Blue streets. Also located nearby is a pretty stepwell: Toorji ka Jhalra.

DAY 7: JODHPUR SIGHTSEEING: BLUE CITY, MEHRANGARH FORT, JASWANT THADA AND UMAID BHAWAN

BLUE STREETS:

Begin your last day of this Rajasthan itinerary with a visit to one of Jodhpur’s most famous places: the Blue City ! Hire a local tuk tuk driver to take you to the older part of Jodhpur called Chandpole or Navchowkiya. From there walk through the narrow bylanes where the houses and walls are all painted in Blue. It’s a photogenic colour for sure, but the place is also a bit dirty. Go early around 8am before photography tours begin.

MEHRANGARH FORT

The most important place to visit in Jodhpur, Mehrangarh fort is the largest in Rajasthan. It was built in the 14 th century by Rao Jodha, who laid the foundations of Jodhpur. Its massive and make sure to hire a guide for all the shortcuts.

JASWANT THADA

Located just a short distance from Mehrangarh fort, this beautiful cenotaph is the burial monument of Raja Jaswant Singh 2. It is built of white marble and is commonly known as the Taj mahal of Mewar.

UMAID BHAWAN PALACE

One of the largest royal residences in the world, this palace is divided into 3 parts: the private residence of the royal family, the Taj hotel and a museum that is open to the public.

WHERE TO STAY IN JODHPUR?

In Jodhpur, we chose to stay at   Ratan Vilas , a former royal summer palace with traditional designs, expansive courtyards and beautiful gardens. The rooms are huge and well decoarated. There is an in house pool and a decadent relaxed vibe all around. Service is excellent and its near enough to the main market. Mid range price but well worth the money.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME IN RAJASTHAN

JAISALMER: The Golden City is known for the famous Jaisalmer fort and the Thar desert. Located 280 kms from Jodhpur. Perfect for the culture lover.

RANTHAMBHORE NATIONAL PARK: One of the most famous tiger reserves in India and located 200 kms from Jaipur. Perfect for the adventure and wildlife lover.

AJMER: Houses the famous Ajmer sharif Dargah. Perfect for the spiritual seeker.

PUSHKAR: Famous for it’s one of a kind camel fair that is held annually every winter. Also houses the only Brahma temple in India.

MOUNT ABU: The only hill station in Rajasthan, it has plenty of Hindu and Jain temples.

Hopefully, this one week Rajasthan itinerary gave you all the information and inspiration needed to plan your trip ! Please feel free to comment if you have any questions. Happy planning !

MORE PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA

MEGHALAYA: Explore one of India’s most beautiful states which abounds in gorgeous waterfalls, stunning lakes and tons of natural scenic beauty all around ! Read my Meghalaya Travel Guide Here.

FORT KOCHI:  One of India’s most important cultural centres that is an eclectic fusion of Dutch, Portugese, British, Jewish and Indian influences. Today it is a boho chic city with an international arts scene.  Read my complete Travel Guide here.

DARJEELING: Plan the perfect romantic escape to one of India’s most famous hill stations which has incredible mountain views, an old vintage toy train and mouth watering food choices! Read my Darjeeling Travel Guide Here.

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How To Plan Rajasthan Trip- 5 Step Guide For Your Rajasthan Tour

The very fact of being on a  trip to Rajasthan   feels so surreal. Keeping aside all the other factors, the varying topography here alone can blow gaskets. And why wouldn’t it? There are hills, camps, palaces,  forts , and what not waiting for you to bask in the glory.

The opulence of the state is on another level and you’ll understand it once you pay it a visit. So, are you in for it? Or are you planning a  Rajasthan adventure  soon and can’t figure out where to start? Well, we have all the information you need.

HOW TO PLAN A RAJASTHAN TOUR PLAN?

Step 1: start with the basics. short-list destinations.

First and foremost, you need to decide your itinerary. It is imperative to have a blueprint in mind of the places that will be adorning your trip. Here is a roundup, in case you need a brush-up on any of  Rajasthan’s top destinations .

Rajasthan’s capital and home to the crown of India: Hawa Mahal,   Jaipur  epicenter for any Rajasthan adventure.

For travelers who love history and a tint of modern lifestyle, Jaipur becomes a melting pot of both.

A total of 2 days is enough to move in and around the city covering all the major tourist spots like   Amer Fort ,  Jal Mahal, City Palace,  Rusirani Village, and experiences like a Hot Air Balloon ride.

2. Udaipur:

Udaipur   is the utopia of romance, preferred by couples on their India Honeymoon. If you are visiting it otherwise, the city will surprise you with its plethora of artificial lakes, water palace turned resort, and bicycle rides around the city.

The numerous things to do in Udaipur can be wrapped up in a 2 to 3-day span. If you want to stay here and visit places around it, then, destinations like Kumbhalgarh, Ranakpur , and Chittorgarh will serve you well.

Except for the winter season, July-September is also a good time to pay this place a visit.

3. Jaisalmer:

Best known for its  desert camps,   Jaisalmer  is the golden city of Rajasthan.

Everything existing in its vicinity is covered in sheer gold. With experiences like Camel Safari and village stay, a trip to Jaisalmer takes about a day and a half. And, that’s when you include all its top tourist places like Patwon ki Haveli, Jaisalmer Fort, and Gadisar Lake.

Jodhpur is the blue city of Rajasthan that brims with cultural tokens. In fact, this city is one of the top places to consider when you are planning a Rajasthan trip on your own.

2 days are enough to get hold of the city’s vibe and if you still crave for more, you can drive to the nearby Bishnoi Village for a day trip to redefine authenticity.

5. Ranthambore National Park

For every nature lover on Indian  wildlife adventure tour ,  Ranthambore National Park is a star.

Famous, for its Great Bengal Tigers,  Ranthambore  provides a monochromatic background to the life of these striped beasts.

A morning tour and an evening tour are enough here to trace the pugmarks and sport a tiger. Furthermore, staying inside the national park amid nature’s ecstasy is too a possibility here.

Famed as the “Bollywood of Rajasthan”,  Mandawa  is a hamlet in the Shekhawati region of the state, majorly famous for its fresco wall paintings.

This village is home to mammoth mansions, decked up in age-old illustrations depicting the rich culture of India and the world.

Furthermore, one day is enough to be through the thick and thins of this place and takes back memories for life.

Pushkar  is a famous village best known for its Camel Fair that’s held annually every November. It’s the perfect foreground for dwelling deep into the cultural aspects of the region.

However, it’s not only the culture but the town’s religious relevance too, that makes it a big name in this game.

Bikaner has probably the best architectural places in all of Rajasthan.

Its ornate buildings are one of a kind and its museum display does take one back in time.

A trip to Bikaner can be concluded in a total of 2 days. In, you’ll be able to see the Junagarh Fort , Lalgarh Palace, and even National Camel research institute.

If you are visiting Rajasthan in summer, Mount Abu will be the only destination not scorching with heat. Set on a rocky plateau, this hill station is best known for its century-old Dilwara Temples. Come here for a day or more to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.

The best time to visit Rajasthan is between September and February. However, the peak tourist season is in December-January when the state is flooded with tourists from around the globe. So, try planning accordingly.

Furthermore, avoid the hot summer months. And, if in case it isn’t possible, Mount Abu is one good option to go for.

Do you want to add destinations by the virtues of the  festivals in Rajasthan?  Here is a list that can help you.

Are you still not able to decide what destinations to short-list? Try looking at these destinations concerning themes.

Spirituality:  Pushkar, Mount Abu, and Udaipur.

Shopping:  Jaipur (See our Shopping in Jaipur blog for the same), Jodhpur and Bikaner.

Adventure:  Desert Safari in Bikaner and Jaisalmer, Adventure sports Kota.

Wildlife:  Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur.

Rural experiences:  Chandelao Garh, Bishnoi Village, and Rusirani.

History and Heritage:  Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer.

STEP 2:  DECIDE HOW LONG YOU WANT TO TRAVEL

Wondering how many days are required to  visit Rajasthan?  Well, approximately an 8-12 day itinerary is perfect for taking a Rajasthan tour.

If you are looking for a Rajasthan tour plan for 3 days, you should stay in Jaipur and excurse the city and a local village nearby called Rusirani . In that case, you can take the  timeless Golden Triangle Trip (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur)   as well.

Moreover, if you want a Rajasthan tour for 5-days you can explore the exciting Udaipur to Jodhpur Rajasthan road trip.

However, if you are willing to invest more time, then you can seriously come across some unparalleled gems that embrace the treasure trove of this state.

Here are some sample itineraries we think you will like.

STEP 3:  ADD EXPERIENCES TO THE TRIP

The last thing you will want to do is take a trip just for the gram.

Rajasthan has so much to offer that even if you can take back a tiny percentage of it, consider yourself lucky.

Sign up for experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Etch into your memory the drama of the estate that’s a never-ending saga. To make it easy for you to figure out, here is the list of what is imperative to have a blueprint in mind of the placings you can do:

• Take a Desert Safari on a Camel or an SUV/Jeep in the deserts of Jaisalmer. Camp there and spend the night in the absolute wilderness.
• Hot air ballooning in Pushkar and Jaipur.
• Village walks in Bishnoi and Rusirani village.
• Sign up to learn a local art form in Chandelao Garh.
• Take a spa on a boat in Udaipur.
• Push your adrenaline a notch up while zip-lining in Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur).
• Take an elephant ride to Amer Fort (Jaipur).
• Do some bird watching on a rickshaw in Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
• Catch a glimpse of the fierce Great Bengal Tiger at Ranthambore National Park.
• Trace the princess trails on horseback in Udaipur.

STEP 4:  DECIDE HOW YOU WANT TO TRAVEL

Once you’ve finalized the destinations you have in mind. It’s time to choose how you’d like to travel around. You can choose from airways, railways, and roadways while planning a trip to Rajasthan.

Rajasthan is a veteran in the travel games. So, the major cities here do have airports, connecting them to all the other parts of India. However, as we stated, that’s just for the major cities.

For all the smaller destinations you still have to rely on roadways and railways. Here is the list of destinations that do have an airport:

Jaipur International Airport Jaisalmer Airport -Domestic Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur- Domestic Jodhpur Airport- Domestic Bikaner Airport -Domestic

Another simple way to travel to Rajasthan is via train. Every prominent city or town of this state is joined by rail services.

However, major tourist spots like Jaipur and Kota have railway stations that join them to major cities of the country.

Rajasthan has a large network of national and state highways. To be honest, all these highways are always in top-notch condition, and riding on them is a treat.

Even the not-so-famous ends of the state are joined by roads, although not as good as the highways. However, for people who love driving, these secluded routes and twisty boulevards do offer some unique treats.

Note: If you are a little tight on budget, you can take state government buses that join almost every city, town, and village. Believe us it is just a little chaos you’ll have to handle here, otherwise, they make up for a great option.

Decide on what fits your pocket. All the information is available on Google Maps. Just extensively research and get yourself the best route and ride.

Step 5:  Book Hotels

It’s no brainer that hotel booking is the most important aspect of the whole planning fresco. However, during the peak of season months, this simple task can turn into hunger games as bookings start months before the date of travel.

What to do in that case? Well, book at least a month or 15 days before you travel.

On your trip to Rajasthan, you’ll come across a plethora of good hotels. However, if you are a sucker for unique experiences, there is so much in store for you.

Here is a list of some unique lodging experiences in Rajasthan.

• can book yourself a stay in the luxury tree-houses of Chandelao Garh and Jaipur. Sleeping amid lush greenery and enjoying all the luxuries of life is the -highlight of these places.
• Fancied living in a palace? Well then, your dream will come to life in Jodhpur
• Fan of the fresco paintings? How about living in a mansion that is laden with it? Book your mansion stay in Mandawa and enjoy the hospitality of rural Rajasthan.
• Camping on the beach in the company of balmy winds and golden sands is an experience of a lifetime you can catch while lodging in Jaisalmer.
• Sleeping in the middle of a lake in a castle is an experience only in the Lake City Udaipur Enjoy the luxury of  Rajasthani culture  in the absolute middle of nowhere.
• In Rajasthan, you can live in rural households with the locals and enjoy their primitive lifestyle for a change in perception. Rusirani and  Bishnoi Villages  are perfect for that.
• You can be too sleepy to the lullaby of tiger roars in the golden jungles of Sawai Madhopur.

Step 6:  Budget Your Trip

Yes, we know it may sound a little boring but to be honest it will be your saviour while you are on your trip.

So, sit down and decide how much you can spend. If you need a checklist for your Rajasthan trip expenses, here you go:

• Traveling expenses
• 2. Expenditure on lodging
• 3. Food expenses
• 4. Expenses for moving in and out of the monuments
• 5. Shopping expenses

Sounds like a lot to do? Well, instead of working your brains off, give all the worries to us, your personal Rajasthan tour operators. We’ll help you with everything including planning and budgeting. Moreover, we will even be by your side 24/7 during your journey. Just request a quote here and we are sure our  tailor-made tours  will definitely catch your eye.

Like we always tell you, we have your back.

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Perfect Rajasthan Itinerary

Rajasthan is known as the Land of the Kings. This state in north-western India is full of unforgettable places to visit. In this article, we share our tried and tested Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days to help you plan your visit and see the most of Rajasthan.

Our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days features the cities of India’s Golden Triangle, the lakeside city of Udaipur and Ranthambore National Park.  It includes visits to 10 of the best historical places in Rajasthan: Delhi-Mandawa-Bikaner-Jaisalmer-Jodhpur-Udaipur-Pushkar-Jaipur-Ranthambore-Agra.

Our tried and tested Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days is full of detailed information and maps about the route we took around Rajasthan. It also highlights the best historical places in Rajasthan to visit (with video guides) and helpful information about where to stay in Rajasthan.

Off the Tourist Treadmill’s Rajasthan Itinerary for 14 Days

By following our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days, you will visit 10 unforgettable historical places in India:

Delhi – Mandawa – Bikaner – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Pushkar – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Delhi

📍 Here is a map of our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days.

Our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days starts and ends in India’s capital city of Delhi . Your journey includes a visit to Agra in Uttar Pradesh. No first visit to northern India is complete without a glimpse of the Taj Mahal !

Watch our YouTube video to see some of the historical places you will visit during our suggested Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days:

We hired a driver for our road trip around Rajasthan. He was our local guide and fixer. His expert knowledge meant we experienced some hidden gems along the way. You can find more information about this at the end of our post.

If you decide to travel by train, it is advisable to book your first-class tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Day 1 – Mandawa, Rajasthan

Our driver met us at the Indira Gandhi National Airport in Delhi.

📍 Here is a map from Delhi to Mandawa .

It’s worth knowing that it will take you longer than shown to reach each destination. The state of the roads restricts the speed at which you can travel.

Our first stop on our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days was Mandawa , a lesser-known town in the north of Rajasthan in the Shekhawati region.  It probably wouldn’t feature on a typical Rajasthan tourist map,  but we came here to explore traditional ‘ havelis ’.

What to See in Mandawa, Rajasthan

During the 17th to 19th centuries, wealthy merchants built grand ‘havelis’ in this region which are traditional town houses or mansions. In addition to being homes, havelis were also displays of wealth and were richly decorated both inside and out with painted murals.

To experience the havelis in Mandawa, we opted for a walking tour with a guide. Many are being restored as they are falling into decay. Even so, the fading beauty of these havelis is intriguing.

Painted murals depict English and Indian culture and are reminiscent of Italian frescoes. The design of these havelis is as well-thought out as the decorative facades. Most had inner courtyards for women and outer ones for men to prevent women from being snatched by the local Maharaja!

Where to Stay in Mandawa, Rajasthan

Fittingly, our home for the night was the Hotel Shekhawati ($15 per night – approximately £12). This was an ancient haveli covered in faded painted murals which now offers basic but clean and welcoming accommodation.

In the early hours of the morning, we were awoken by unfamiliar chanting. First the call to Muslim prayer, then the call to Hindu prayer. Sweet Masala Chai (tea) on the roof is the only solution at this hour of the morning!

Mandawa has an approximate Hindu population of 15,000 and a Muslim population of 10,000. Both communities live respectfully side by side. Quickly, you realise the deep spirituality and tolerance of India.

The early morning chants are broadcast by loudspeakers across towns and cities. They soon become a familiar sound and constant companion on your journey around Rajasthan.

Day 2 – Bikaner, Rajasthan

The drive to Bikaner was hair-raising at times. Roads in India are like nothing we’ve ever experienced before. Flooded roads like rivers, non-existent roads, roads under construction or even roads through construction sites! Regardless of what lay in its path, the Suzuki Swift faithfully carried on and followed the route!

📍 Here is a map from Mandawa to Bikaner

You can experience the roads in India for yourself by watching our entertaining YouTube video:

What to See in Bikaner, Rajasthan?

Bikaner is a city situated in the Thar desert . It’s a hectic place full of blaring horns, cars, buses, trucks, tuk-tuks, people and animals jostling for a place on the roads. Off the main street is a bustling labyrinth of bazaars selling anything and everything. Bikaner is also known for its famous Junagarh Fort .

Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

Visiting Junagarh Fort was our first experience of the impressive forts in Rajasthan. This red sandstone fort was built for the Royal Family of Bikaner. It remained almost unconquered during its history despite not being built on a hilltop.

The fort has stunning palaces, courtyards, pavilions and balconies. Its walls are adorned with carved stone, marble, mirrors, paintings and inlaid precious stones.

Rat Temple (Karni Mata Temple), Deshnoke, Rajasthan

If you want a truly unique experience, 30km outside of Bikaner at Deshnoke is the Karni Mata Temple . It is also known as the Rat Temple !

This is an extraordinary temple crawling with thousands of sacred rats.  It may not be high on your list of things to see in Rajasthan, but it’s a fascinating sight to behold.

This Hindu temple is dedicated to Karni Mata (an incarnation of the Hindu warrior goddess, Durga). Locals worshipping here believe that the rats are kaabe (reincarnations of Karni Mata’s devotees). They are fed by descendants of the Depavats family.

Worshippers and visitors mingle together in this unusual place. No shoes are allowed in the temple, so take a spare pair of socks to wear if you are visiting.

If a rat runs over your feet or if you see an albino rat, it is considered lucky. However, tread carefully! According to temple law, any rat accidentally killed must be replaced by a rat made of gold or silver!

📍 Here is a map from Bikane r to Deshnok .

Where to Stay in Bikaner, Rajasthan?

In Bikaner, we stayed at the Hotel Sagar ($51 – approximately £40).

A short walk along the road from our hotel, we found the Laxmi Niwas Palace . This is a red sandstone palace. It used to be the residential palace of the former King of Bikaner state. Visitors are welcome to stroll around the interior of this luxury hotel.

Day 3 & 4 – Jaisalmer (Golden City), Rajasthan

The journey by car from Bikaner to Jaisalmer is 6 hours. The route was unremarkable and the roads were unfinished.

📍 Here is a map from Bikane r to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer or Golden City is situated in the Thar desert . The impressive Jaisalmer Fort is one of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The city of Jaisalmer is built on a ridge of yellow sandstone. It is crowned by Jaisalmer Fort which looks like an enormous sandcastle. Within the fort’s walls are many palaces, residential dwellings and impressive Jain temples .

What to See in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan?

We spent two nights here as there are many interesting things to see and do in Jaisalmer.

Camel Ride in the Thar Desert, Rajasthan

On our first evening in Jaisalmer, our driver arranged a sunset camel ride in the Thar Desert. Don’t have visions of being in the Thar Desert on your own! This is a serious commercial tourist operation.

Nevertheless, we had a majestic ride into the desert sand dunes. Our camel guide soon left the train and found us a quiet spot to watch the sunset alone. Michael Jackson (my camel!) had a rest while we enjoyed a cold beer (delivered by a runner!) and a stunning sunset.

Gadsisar Lake & Tilon-Ki-Pol (Gate of Tilon), Jaisalmer

Early in the morning, we visited the incredibly scenic Gadsisar Lake . This is an artificial lake made by the Maharaja around 1400 AD. The vast reservoir was built to trap rainwater and supply the arid desert city of Jaisalmer.

Access to the lake is through the Tilon-Ki-Pol (Gate of Tilon) which was built by a rich royal courtesan, Tilon. Originally, the King refused permission for her to build the gate. He felt it would be beneath him to pass under the gate to reach the lake.

Defiantly, she still built the gate! To avoid it being demolished, she put a temple on top. Apparently, today’s Royal Family still refuse to go through Tilon-Ki-Pol.

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

On this occasion, our driver arranged a guide for us to explore this sandstone structure with its maze of streets. Incredibly, Jaisalmer Fort is constructed by blocks of sandstone with no cement.

There is only one way in and one way out of Jaisalmer Fort. To enter, you pass through four gates. Intricate carvings adorn many of the buildings inside. Many of the 4,000 residents of the fort are direct descendants of the city’s former warriors and priests. There is no escaping the history of this place, it’s steeped in the past.

Chandraprabuh Temple, Jaisalmer

Make sure you don’t miss out on visiting Chandraprabhu . This stunning Jain temple was built in 1509. It was the first of seven temples built within Jaisalmer Fort in the 15th and 16th Centuries.

The temple’s intricate carvings, corridors and ceilings are amazing. Look out for the statues of the 24 Jain prophets. These are housed in individual recesses around the temple.

Nathmal-Ji-Ki Haveli, Jaisalmer

The Nathmal-Ji-Ki Haveli was built for the former Prime Minister. The exterior has intricate carvings and both sides are almost identical. However, there are some tiny differences. The two architect brothers who designed this haveli were fiercely competitive.

Entrance to the haveli is free. Towards the end of the tour, you will be expected to browse the traditional trinkets on sale.

Bada Bagh (Big Garden), Jaisalmer

At the end of the day, we headed to the outskirts of the city. You can visit the crumbling Royal Cenotaphs (chhatris) of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer state.

Bada Bagh is set on a hill and was once a garden complex. You can clamber over the hills and sit amongst the domed structures. The architecture makes for some great sunset photographs.

You can book a guided tour which includes all of these sights and a camel ride in the desert. Click here for more details of this day trip.

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan?

For spent two nights in Jaisalmer and stayed at the Pleasant Haveli ($37 – approximately £29). It had a rooftop restaurant with a magnificent view of Jaisalmer Fort.

Day 5 – Jodhpur (Blue City), Rajasthan

Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. It is situated roughly in the middle of this region.

📍 Here is a map from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

Jodhpur is also known as the Blue City because the cube-shaped houses are painted blue. There are many theories about the reasons for the blue colour.

Some say it is to keep the houses cool. Others think it was to show which homes belonged to families of the priestly Brahmins caste. Another theory is that copper sulphate kept termites at bay.

To this day, the reason appears to remain mysterious.  Jodhpur is definitely worth visiting and you can make up your own mind.

What to See in Jodhpur, Rajasthan?

Jodhpur is a vibrant city with has some impressive buildings to explore.

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Dominating the skyline and looking down on the old city of Jodhpur is the mighty Mehrangarh Fort . It was constructed by Roa Jodha in 1460. Mehrangarh is one of the largest forts in India spreading across 5 km.

It is one of the best forts to visit in Rajasthan. Majestically, the fort’s structure merges completely with the 125 m hill on which it is built above Jodhpur. In some places, the fort’s impenetrable walls are 36 m high!

A winding road leads up to the fort. You enter through 7 gates built by different rulers to mark battle victories.

The museum in Mehrangarh Fort is full of Rajasthani treasures including old royal palanquins, elephant howdahs, intricately decorated armoury and paintings.

Jaswant Thada

Not far from Mehrangarh Fort is Jaswant Thada . This serene memorial was built in 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

The beautiful cenotaph sits by a small lake and is set in tranquil, lush green gardens. Jaswant Thada is a beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture. It is constructed of milky-white marble. In places, the marble has been so highly polished and finely carved that it is translucent.

This mausoleum offers fantastic views across the Mehrangarh Fort and the city of Jodhpur.  Of all the monuments in Rajasthan, this place offers a quiet oasis. It’s a stark contrast to the bustling city of Jodhpur.

Explore the Night Market

As dusk settled, we strolled around the maze of tiny backstreets of Jodhpur and explored the night market. This is situated near the Clock Tower. The Clock Tower Market is known for its spices.

Where to Stay in Jodhpur, Rajasthan?

We stayed in the Hare Krishna Guesthouse in Jodhpur (£10). This basic hotel was situated right under the Mehrangarh Fort and had a great view from the roof top terrace. It was also very close to the Clock Tower and market.

If you are looking for an adventure, why not think about an overnight stay in the desert? Click here for details of this camel safari from Jodhpur.

Day 6 & 7 – Udaipur (City of Lakes), Rajasthan

The drive to Udaipur had a very different landscape. The route became increasingly green with arable land. On the way to Udaipur, our driver took us to the incredible Ranakpur Jain temple built in the sides of a valley in the Aravalli mountain range .

📍 Here is a map from Jodhpur to Udaipur

Ranakpur Jain Temple (Chaturmukha Dharana Vihara), Rajasthan

The Ranakpur Jain temple is an important pilgrimage site for followers of Jainism. You will be asked to remove your shoes and any leather goods (including belts) before entering the temple.

This beautiful 15th Century temple is built entirely of marble. It has over 1,444 exquisitely carved columns. None of the pillars are the same.

As soon as you enter this temple, you feel at peace and in the presence of a higher order. The temple has been described as a ‘heavenly plane’ and ‘heaven on earth’. It’s easy to see why.

This Ranakpur Jain temple has been designed with beautiful open spaces. These openings allow nature to be at one with the temple. The combination of magnificent marble structures and green spaces give the temple an ethereal feeling.

Undoubtedly, this is one of the most beautiful places we visited in Rajasthan.

What to See in Udaipur (The City of Lakes), Rajasthan?

Udaipur is known as the City of Lakes because it has 5 main lakes. These are Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, Rajsamand Lake and Jaisamand Lake.

Understandably, Udaipur has been described as The Venice of the East and the most romantic spot in India. Udaipur is an overwhelmingly beautiful city. It is certainly one of the most famous places to visit in Rajasthan.

There are many historical places to visit in Udaipur.

Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Courtyard or Garden of the Maidens), Udaipur

Our first experience of Udaipur was the pretty gardens of Saheliyon-ki-Bari . The gardens are set on the Fateh Sagar Lake . The gardens were built from 1710 as a green retreat for the Queen, her maids and female companions.

You can walk around the beautiful elephant fountains and lotus pools.

City Palace, Udaipur

City Palace is a a magnificent example of a Rajasthan palace. It’s a sprawling palace complex built over the course of 400 years on the East of Lake Pichola .

The City Palace complex is entirely built of granite and marble. It has an amazing façade which is 244 m in length and 30.4 m high.

The palaces are connected by courtyards ( chowks) with zig-zag corridors to avoid surprise attacks. The Peacock Courtyard (Mor Chowk) was one of my favourites.

The interior of the palace is stunning. The artefacts on display are also unbelievable and include a decadent display of crystal furniture.

Jag Mandir, Udaipur

Once you’ve visited the City Palac e, head towards the lake. From here you can take a boat tour around Lake Pichola which ends at Jag Mandir . Lake Pichola is an artificial freshwater lake constructed in 1362. It is the oldest lake in Udaipur.

Jag Mandir is a palace built on a natural island in Lake Pichola . It was constructed in 1551 as a summer resort and pleasure island for the Royal Family. Today it is a small hotel which is open to visitors.

You can walk around the grounds and flower gardens, then enjoy the view from the restaurant/bar. You could also have a treatment the spa.

The entry pavilion next to the landing jetty is lined with enormous elephants carved in stone. Even today, the present Maharana hosts parties here. Jag Mandir can also be rented for private parties.

Boat trips depart hourly from Rameshwar Ghat within the City Palace complex. A return trip costs around 700 Rupees (approximately £8).

For other ideas about places to visit in Udaipur, click here for our useful post about the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur in 1 Day .

If you would like to visit the Monsoon Palace just outside of Udaipur, you can take this full day private city tour . You will also visit City Palace and Lake Pichola.

Where to Stay in Udaipur, Rajasthan?

For 2-nights we stayed in the Shaharkot By The Lake Hotel ($32 – approximately £25). This hotel is perched on Lake Pichola underneath the City Palace walls.

Our hotel had an amazing view of Jag Mandir (the Lake Garden Palace). The Taj Lake Palace (formerly known as Jag Niwas) also appears to float magically on the water. This is now a luxury hotel.

Day 8 – Pushkar, Rajasthan

On the drive to Pushkar , our driver asked if we wanted to visit another temple. This temple was a complete surprise. It is definitely not a big tourist attraction but is worth visiting if you enjoy authentic experiences like us.

📍 Here is a map from Udaipur to Pushkar

Eklingji Temple, Eklingji (Kailashpuri), Rajasthan

About 22 km outside of Udaipur is the ancient Hindu temple of Eklingji . This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in 734 AD.

We joined lines of local worshippers and pilgrims to visit this peaceful place. You must remove your socks and shoes before entering the temple. Photographs inside are prohibited. Lockers are provided to store your possessions.

When you are ready, women and men line up separately to enter the temple. You file past locals making marigold garlands as offerings.

In the middle of this temple is a 4-faced idol of Eklingji made of black marble. The statue is 50 ft high and its 4-faces depict four forms of Lord Shiva.

What to See in Pushkar, Rajasthan?

Pushkar is a deeply spiritual and mystical town which is sometimes called tirtha-raj (King of pilgrim sites).

The town is set around a sacred lake with 52 bathing ghats. Mahatma Gandhi ’s ashes were sprinkled at the Gandhi Ghat .

The lake is said to have appeared when Brahma dropped lotus petals on the ground. As a result, it is an important Hindu pilgrimage site. Devout Hindus should visit Pushkar at least once in their lifetime to bathe in the holy water. No public displays of affection are supposed to be shown here.

Without doubt, this small town is atmospheric and authentic. There are over 400 blue-coloured temples on the banks of the lake. Spontaneously, throughout the day and night, Pushkar comes alive with processions of people chanting and drumming through the streets.

By trekking to the top of a hill, you can reach the Saraswati temple and enjoy the panoramic view of Pushkar Lake . Pushkar’s main street is a long treasure-trove of bazaars, so don’t miss out on shopping and street food.

Where to Stay in Pushkar, Rajasthan?

We stayed at the Hotel Everest ($7 – approximately £6) which was a few minutes’ from Pushkar Lake and the market.

It also had an amazing rooftop terrace. We watched the local children flying their kites in preparation for Pushkar’s Kite Festival in January.

Day 9 & 10 – Jaipur (Pink City), Rajasthan

Jaipur or Pink City is the capital of Rajasthan and the largest city of the state.

📍 Here is a map from Pushkar to Jaipur

What to See in Jaipur?

There are many places to visit in Jaipur. The city forms part of India’s Golden Triangle and has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites : the Jantar Mantar and the Amber Fort .  Other Jaipur attractions include the Hawa Mahal and Jaipur City Palace .

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal is a red and pink sandstone building. It is also known as the Palace of Winds or Palace of the Breeze.

The Hawa Mahal is a palace which was constructed in 1799. It was built so that the royal ladies could watch everyday life in Jaipur without being seen.

The extraordinary 5-storey façade looks like a honeycomb. It has 953 windows called jharokhas decorated with detailed latticework. These windows were designed to let the wind pass through in the height of the summer.

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

Another interesting place to visit in Jaipur is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jantar Mantar . This is an astronomical observatory built in 1726.

Around Jantar Mantar, there are enormous stone structures. They measured the distances and positions of celestial objects with the naked eye.

Jaipur’s observatory has 19 instruments. The most significant is the Samrat Yantra which is the largest sundial in India .

Jaipur City Palace

The City Palace or Jaipur Palace is another of the important historical places to see in Jaipur.

The palace complex was built in 1729 as the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Most of the palace is still a royal residence today. However, the 7-storey high Chandra Mahal Palace is a museum which you can visit.

Amber Fort, Amer (just outside of Jaipur)

Places to visit near Jaipur include the Amber Fort in Amer which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

On our second day in Jaipur, we headed off to this imposing fort. It is set high above the city with a defensive wall which can be seen for miles.

Elephants take tourists up and down the hill to the Amber Fort. However, animal welfare groups are concerned about the well-being of these animals.

Construction of this red sandstone and marble palace started in the 1600s.  It is an opulent palace which has four storeys, each with a courtyard:

1. Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience)

2. Diwan-i-Khas, (Hall of Private Audience)

3. Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), or Jai Mandir

4. Sukh Niwas (A cool climate is artificially created by winds blowing over a fountain.)

Despite the crowds at the Amber Fort, it offers some beautiful sights. It is also fun to explore the labyrinth of corridors and stairs which link parts of the palace complex. The views from the Amber Fort are also spectacular.

Walking Tour of Jaipur, Rajasthan

After visiting the Amber Fort, our driver dropped us back in the old part of the city.

To get a feel for local life, traditions and customs in Jaipur, we followed one of the Lonely Planet’s walking tours . We found the city easy to navigate. If you get lost, just ask a local!  Jaipur sightseeing on foot was a great way to soak up the sights and sounds of the various bazaars which circle the old city.

Alternatively, this guided tour includes all the main sights in Jaipur including the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and City Palace. It also includes a visit to the Amber Fort.

LMB Hotel, Jaipur

When we were hungry, we decided to check out the LMB Hotel (Laxmi Misthan Bandar). This is a popular vegetarian restaurant in the old city which was established in 1954. While you wait for a table, check out the sweet treats on display.

For more detailed information about Jaipur, read our post about the Best Places to Visit in Jaipur .

Where to Stay in Jaipur, Rajasthan?

During our time in Jaipur, we stayed at the Crimson Park, The Heritage Jalmahal ($53 – approximately £42). The hotel was quite ostentatious but in a good location for visiting the city.

Just 100 yards along the road, you will find the Jal Mahal (Water Palace) in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake .

Day 11 – Ranthambhore National Park, Rajasthan

If you want a chance of seeing tigers in their natural habitat, it is worth making the long drive from Jaipur to Ranthambhore National Park .

Another way to save time is to take a guided trip to Ranthambore from the city of Jaipur. Click here for more details.

📍 Here is a map from Jaipur to Ranthambhore

Although numbers of tigers have declined here owing to poaching, Ranthambhore is reputed to be one of the best national parks in the country for seeing tigers.  When you visit Rajasthan, you may want to take the opportunity of spotting a tiger in the wild.

If you book a safari, you have the option of a 20-seater or 6-seater open top vehicle. The tours operate in the morning starting at about 06:30 or the evening from about 14:30. Our choice was an evening tour in a 6-seater vehicle.

Ranthambhore National Park is divided into zones and vehicles head into one of the zones. The roads in Ranthambhore are rocky so it is a bumpy ride! Take a scarf to cover your mouth and nose as it gets dusty with so many jeeps on the roads.

Disappointingly, we saw no tigers and very little other wildlife in the park. Just two deer and partridges! However, other guests returning to the hotel from morning trips had seen tigers. Whilst we still dream of seeing tigers in the wild, this was a memorable experience.

Where to Stay in Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Our choice of hotel was the Nahargarh Ranthambhore ($208 – approximately £163) because of its proximity to the National Park (750 yards).

This is a stunning hotel surrounded by a 16th century fortress. It resembles an old palace complex and has three fabulous outdoor pools. Our only regret was not staying here for two nights to relax after so many days on the road.

Day 12 – Agra, Uttar Pradesh

En route to Agra, we visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site , Fatehpur Sikri.

📍 Here is a map from Ranthambhore to Agra

Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

This red sandstone palac e sits on a rocky ridge which is 3 km in length and 1 km wide. Surrounding the palace is 6 km walls on three sides. The fourth side is bordered by a lake. Fatehpur Sikri was built in the 16th century and within the complex is an ancient mosque .

In contrast to other historical places in Rajasthan, Fatehpur Sikri was extremely touristic. Be prepared to say no to a lot of sellers, including young children.

What to See in Agra, Uttar Pradesh?

Of course, the star of Agra is the Taj Mahal . However, there are other things to see and do including the delightful Baby Taj . We highly recommend you include all of these Indian sights on your Rajasthan itinerary.

Taj Mahal, Agra

Of course, no visit to northern India would be complete without visiting the Taj Mahal . This spectacular marble mausoleum is another UNESCO World Heritage Site . It was completed in 1648 in memory of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal .

Despite the enormous crowds and scaffolding during our visit, the Taj Mahal has an undeniable serene and poignant beauty. It’s easy to see why the poet, Rabindranath Tagore, described this masterpiece as

‘one tear drop … glisten[ing], spotlessly bright on the cheek of time, forever and ever.’

There are big queues to enter this famous monument, so skip the line by buying your tickets here in advance . It is also worth knowing that foreign tourists pay more to enter the Taj Mahal.

Agra Fort, Agra

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agra is the Agra Fort which was built in 1573.

Standing in the shadows of the Taj Mahal, this enormous oval-shaped fort served as the main residence of the Emperors of the Mughal dynasty until 1638. The capital was then moved from Agra to Delhi.

Agra Fort’s double walls tower 20 m above the Yamuna River and measure 2.5 km in circumference. The fort was built in red sandstone brought from Rajasthan. Some of the structures were later rebuilt in white marble by Shah Jahan.

Originally, the Agra Fort was built for military purposes. However, Shah Jahan transformed Agra Fort into a palace. Fatefully, Agra Fort later became his prison.

The Tomb of I’timad-Ud-Daulah (Baby Taj), Agra

Whilst you are visiting Agra, make sure you don’t miss the exquisite Baby Taj .

This tomb was completed in 1628 with white marble from Rajasthan. The Baby Taj is often referred to as the ‘ jewel box ’. It is regarded as the inspiration for and first draft of the Taj Mahal.

The intricate craftmanship of this mausoleum is something to behold. You can only stand and gaze at the walls in wonder.

Unlike the Taj Mahal, the interior and external marble walls are studded with semi-precious stone decorations in stunning mosaic patterns.

In addition to being such a beautiful sight, the Baby Taj also seems to be a well-kept secret. We had the place almost to ourselves.

Where to Stay in Agra, Uttar Pradesh?

Whilst in Agra, we stayed at the Hotel Taj Resorts (£29). From the hotel, it was an easy walk to the entrance of the Taj Mahal.

Day 13 – Delhi

Our two week Rajasthan itinerary ended in Delhi for the flight home via Kuwait City.

📍 Here is a map from Agra to Delhi

How to Plan Your Rajasthan Itinerary for 14 Days

To travel to India, we flew with Kuwait Airways from London Heathrow to Delhi. We had a stopover in Kuwait City . This was the most economical option. However, it also enabled us to visit Kuwait City with an exit visa on the way home.

To accomplish our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days, we decided to hire a car with a driver . Our decision was based on the distance we wanted to cover in Rajasthan. It was also beneficial having a knowledgeable local as an experienced guide and fixer. This made our Rajasthan trip very easy.

The company we chose was extremely helpful. They advised us about our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days via email so that we ended up with a tailor-made experience. For more details read our post about how to hire a car with a local driver in Delhi .

You can easily adapt our Rajasthan itinerary for 14 days to suit your needs. You can spend more or fewer nights in any of the places. If you want to visit somewhere else, add it to your Rajasthan itinerary. If you need more help planning a travel itinerary, you may enjoy our post about How to Plan a Tour Itinerary .

Is it Worth Visiting Rajasthan?

The Land of the Kings certainly lived up to its name. In our opinion, it is definitely worth visiting Rajasthan . The architectural magnitude and beauty of Rajasthan’s forts, palaces, temples and lakes are overwhelming and awe-inspiring.

Instantly, the past is brought back to life. Visitors to Rajasthan are transported back to ancient times of bloodshed, bravery, romance and sacrifice. However, Rajasthan’s true treasure is not the opulent displays of wealth or the gold, silver and precious stones.

What stays with you is the people who live around these stunning historical places in Rajasthan. What is memorable is the culture, deep beliefs, chaos, vibrancy and the feeling of being alive. It’s an adventure not to be missed!

We certainly feel our two week Rajasthan itinerary showed us the best places to visit in Rajasthan. For more advice about travelling in Rajasthan, click here for our 7 India Travel Tips .

A Final Note About Incredible India

India is the seventh-largest country by area and the second-most populous country on the planet. There is nowhere like India. It is a country of contrasts with landscape which ranges from deserts to cities, from mountains to beaches.

India can polarize people’s opinions even before they decide to travel here. It’s like Marmite. You either love it or you hate it. For many people, India is an acronym for I’ll Never Do It Again.

Would we visit again? Without hesitation, yes! India is unique: the colours, the smells, the noise, the dust, the dirt, the livestock and the spirituality.

You cannot be indifferent to India. It tugs at your senses and overwhelms you with its raw energy. India is chaos, it’s vibrant and it makes you feel alive. It’s one of those places that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

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Sarah de Winne

Sarah De Winne creates and edits content for the Off the Tourist Treadmill and Enjoy Retirement Life blogging websites and YouTube channels.  She has a professional background in education and is passionate about sharing quality and engaging information.  Sarah currently lives in the south-east of England in the UK.

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This was so interesting as I’ve never been to India before. Great post! http://Www.livingwithlils.wordpress.com

India is an amazing place. Be sure to visit!

India is one place i would love to go! your trip looks amazing and the Rajasthan area is so rich iin history and culture. Its one place on my bucket list x

Rajasthan is an amazing place to start when thinking of a visit to India. This state has so much to offer and many beautiful sights to explore.

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Fodor's Essential India: with Delhi, Rajasthan, Mumbai & Kerala Written by locals, Fodor’s Essential India is the perfect guidebook for those...

Steeped in tales of chivalry and romance, and famous for its striking desert landscape, massive forts, and fabulous palaces, Rajasthan represents, for many, the quintessential India. With the legendary cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer, built by the mighty Rajput warriors, and the indigenous tribal and artisan communities, Rajasthan is a unique combination of royal and tribal India.

The variety of Rajasthan's landscape is unparalleled: the region is packed with awe-inspiring forts, sparkling palaces, tranquil lakes and gardens, and exquisite temples and shrines. The crafts and folk art produced here are world-renowned. Once called Rajputana ("Abode of Princes"), this vast land consisted of more than 22 princely states before most of them were consolidated into modern Rajasthan in 1949. Each of the 22 states was ruled by a Rajput, an upper-caste Hindu warrior-prince, and the Rajputs were divided into three main clans: the Suryavanshis, descended from the sun; the Chandravanshis, descended from the moon; and the Agnikuls, who had been purified by ritual fire. When they were not fighting among themselves for power, wealth, and women, the Rajputs built the hundreds of forts, palaces, gardens, and temples that make this region so enchanting.

The Rajputs' contribution to cultural life in Rajasthan lives on to this day, and with the amalgam of so many states, each with its rituals and ways of life, Rajasthan is extremely culturally diverse. Communities vary in everything from the colors of their sandstone buildings to the languages they speak—a local saying has it that you hear a new dialect every 4 km (2½ miles). Travelers will notice the brilliant colors of the local women's lehangas (long skirts with separate veils), designed to stand out against the starkness of the desert. Women also wear elaborate jewelry, and Rajasthani men are famous for their turbans—called saafas —which vary in style from region to region and caste to caste; the style of wearing high turbans with a tail is preferred by Rajputs, for instance, while pagris (compact turbans, often orange) are worn by businessmen. Even facial hair is unique in these parts: Rajputs, in particular, sport long, Salvador Dalí–like handlebar moustaches.

Although Rajasthan has many social problems, most notably widespread rural poverty, low literacy rates, and child marriages, its cities and people remain lively. Cultural festivals, crafts fairs, and religious gatherings take place throughout the year. With its bright colors and rich folk traditions, and the sheer variety of experiences it has to offer the traveler, Rajasthan easily earns its place as one of India's most popular tourist destinations.

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Different travel routes for Rajasthan – Delhi – Agra

Last Updated on November 23, 2023

Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan are probably the most visited places in India by foreign tourists. The Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur being the most popular of those. But Rajasthan as a state is quite varied and diverse, it is not all about Forts and Palaces. You have a tiger safari in Ranthambore, the desert in Jaisalmer and Bikaner, small rural villages, and the spiritual town of Pushkar. Combine this with great food and some lovely charming boutique hotels and homestays and you can easily spend 2 weeks in this region.

With this blog we have given a few options of different travel routes to Rajasthan you may take depending on your interests and number of days you have to travel. If you do need help in planning your time through Rajasthan and other regions, we can help you customize your trip to India.

Table of Contents

Route 1 – Golden Triangle plus one more city (7-8 days)

We believe the Golden Triangle i.e. Delhi – Agra – Jaipur, by itself is slightly overrated and touristy as a travel route. Delhi and Jaipur are bustling cities that offer a combination of monuments, markets and diverse places to eat. However, they do not offer much time for relaxation. Agra, solely in terms of a city, is fairly disappointing. However, the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort and other monuments are breathtaking and make a trip to Agra worthwhile. But whilst saying this, combine these cities with offbeat homestays, interesting activities and you can have a completely different experience. So if you do only have 5-6 days in India, we could still help you plan it differently.

If you have a little more than a week to spare for your holiday, you can easily add one more city apart from Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

One of the following options is possible to include in a weeklong Golden Triangle trip to India.

Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi

If you love the forests you can include a stop at Ranthambore National Park. Using a detour it can be placed between Jaipur and Agra. Ideally spend two nights here, go for the morning and evening Tiger Safaris and relax at your hotel/resort during the time in between. Another offbeat destination (especially for bird enthusiasts) could be the Bharatpur bird sanctuary.

Recommended mode of travel : Private car with driver . It can also be done using a combination of train rides and a car.

Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Mandawa – Delhi

Looking for something rural and less touristy with interesting architecture and fresco paintings; include a stop at Mandawa in the Shekhawati Region.

Recommended mode of travel: Private car with driver.

Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Udaipur – Delhi

Include Udaipur for a romantic end to your trip. Although Udaipur is a little touristy it is an absolutely charming city. Stay in a haveli hotel in a room with the view of the lake or in one of the luxurious resorts in the outskirts of the city.

Recommended mode of travel: Private car with driver + train ride + flight.

Route 2 – Classical Rajasthan Tour(12-14 nights)

Delhi – agra – jaipur – jodhpur and udaipur, plus one more city.

A more complete Rajasthan experience should include a couple of stops in Southern Rajasthan. The towns in Southern Rajasthan are more relaxed, offer a combination of stunning architecture and landscape. Start with the hustle and bustle of Delhi – Agra – Jaipur and end your trip with stops in Jodhpur and Udaipur.

Recommended mode of transport: Private car with driver between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, a train from Jaipur to Jodhpur, then another car from Jodhpur to Udaipur and a flight back to Delhi. En route to Udaipur from Jodhpur, you can also visit the splendid Jain temples of Ranakpur. This trip can be done the other way round too i.e. fly Delhi to Udaipur and then trace your way back to Delhi.

If you do not like to compromise on your comfort you can exclude the train journey and look at a rented car all through.

If you have a little more time you can also include a rural stop at either Rawla Narlai or Deo Garh Mahal between Jodhpur and Udaipur. Or you could also add a tiger safari in Ranthambore, stay in Pushkar the hippie and spiritual city, or even visit Jawai and catch some leopards in action.

Unveil Luxury: India’s Premium Hotel Selection

One of our German clients Henning did a similar trip staying at interesting homestays. You can see the details of his trip for further details.

Route 3 – Rajasthan, all the way around (14 nights)

Jaisalmer is a magical desert city by the edge of the Thar Desert. Getting to Jaisalmer takes a little effort, but it is worth the travel. Try and stay within the fort walls that offer gorgeous views of the city. Take a camel ride in the dunes around sunset or even better spend a night in the desert. It is a magical experience to be surrounded by sand dunes under the starry night sky.

There are a few points one should bear in mind when including Jaisalmer; It can get notoriously hot and should be avoided April onwards. Jaisalmer is best accessible from Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur by overnight trains. These trains need to be booked well in advance, ideally two months in advance.

Recommended mode of travel: Private car with a driver between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, followed by an overnight train and then another car from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur to Udaipur. Train options are possible between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur too.

This trip can be done the other way around i.e. starting with Udaipur.

If you have more time you can include a stop at Ranthambore National Park or the hippie-spiritual town of Pushkar.

Also Read: Top Rajasthan Destinations

Route 4 – All across Rajasthan with A trustworthy car and driver (14-18 nights)

If you have the luxury of time you can do a long loop across Rajasthan covering Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Udaipur.

This trip is best enjoyed in a comfortable car with a driver that is with you all through your trip.

Try spending more time in Jaisalmer as it is usually the halfway point of your trip and you would be driving a lot. Remember Rajasthan is dotted with wonderful heritage hotels; old Havelis (Villas) and Palaces and many of them are very affordable. Ensure you pick your accommodation wisely. Stay in a healthy mix of hotels, some in the heart of the old city and then at times perched by the edge of the city.

Route 5 – Rajasthan during Festivals

You can time your Rajasthan trip to coincide with one of the many festivals that are celebrated in Rajasthan and India. Here is a list of a few festivals:

S ometime between end October and early to mid November, Diwali is celebrated. The exact dates change from year to year. Diwali is celebrated across most of India, especially with much more gusto in North India and Rajasthan. No matter where you are in Rajasthan during Diwali you will see the festivities all around. The general mood is festive.

Note – Noise and air pollution are elated during Diwali and it is a busy time for Indians to travel, so book in advance.

Holi (the festival of colours) – If you are willing to brave the onslaught of colours and a street party, plan a trip in March to coincide with the festival of Holi. Pushkar is the best town to celebrate Holi.

Note – the colours can be toxic and people are inebriated on the streets so one should be careful while travelling. However, if you are at a hotel with many tourists that organize a holi party you would get to participate in the festivities and still be safe.

Pushkar camel camp fair

The camel and cattle fair of Pushkar is another interesting festival one can include during their trip to Rajasthan. The celebrations are spread across a week. The first 5 days are the most active and interesting. The celebrations are restricted to only Pushkar and it is advisable to book well in advance.

Music Festivals

Jodhpur and Jaisalmer have music festivals each year. The exact dates change each year. The Rajasthan International Folk Festival in Jodhpur takes place in the month of October. And, in Jaisalmer in the month of February each year. If you can plan in advance as there’s nothing like planning your Rajasthan trip around a festival.

In conclusion, Rajasthan is a great state to visit as the first trip to India. If you are looking at other options to travel to India you can also see two-week travel routes for North India . And, if you would like to personalise your trip to India, do just fill out this short form and we will get back to you with an indicative travel plan.

Learn More: Twenty Must-Visit Places in North India

About Harsh Sonawala

Harsh Sonawala is the co founder of India Someday and since his childhood, he has travelled to different parts of India and the world. The thrill of travelling and sharing his experiences with others was the reason behind starting India Someday. Other than the office where he is conjuring up marketing ideas, he can be found scuba diving in the Andamans or relaxing in a chalet in the Himalayas.

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Very informative. I’m interested in starting from Delhi, Agra, fatehpur sikri, BhartpurRanthambore, Jaipur,Ajmer,Pushkar,Chitor, Udaipur, Mount Abu,Ranakpur,Bikaner, Janislmer to Ganganagar to Ludhiana Punjab. How many days and price by car include 3 to 5 star hotels? Timeing month of November for two people

Thanks for your comment. Plan your trip and we figure something out for you.

Your India Someday Team

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The Great Rajasthan Road trip – An 11-Day Itinerary for Offbeat Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a destination that finds its place on every traveller’s list, Indians and foreigners alike. The magnificent architecture coupled with the rich Rajasthani heritage and cuisine, as well as its unique traditions makes Rajasthan an intriguing place to visit. There are so many distinguished sites in the state that most visitors end up missing the equally breathtaking offbeat destinations which can be easily accessible by road. One should definitely plan a road trip in Rajasthan during the festive season from October to February.

Rajasthan is full of treasures waiting to be discovered. All you need is to pack your bags and get exploring! And what better way there is, than hitting the roads. 

We have curated a list of the unknown gems of Rajasthan covering over 1800 km in 11 days . We start the itinerary from Jaipur, the state capital, travel through the artistic lanes of Bundi and Chittorgarh, visit the deserts of Jaisalmer, take a pit stop at Bikaner, explore the offbeat streets of Khimsar and Pushkar to finally return to Jaipur. Read on to find how you can make your next trip unforgettable and unique!

The great Rajasthan road trip Itinerary

Day 1: Jaipur to Bundi  

Distance : 218 km 

Time Taken : 4 hours

Lined with the blue houses, hills, lakes, bazaars, and temples, Bundi gives a glimpse of the offbeat Rajasthan. Visit Taragarh Fort for its brilliant architecture and observe a picturesque view of the town below. Naval Sagar, an artificial lake, is another popular attraction with a half-submerged temple of Lord Varuna. 

The rich heritage of over eight centuries is visibly evident in the city of Bundi. The people here are still simple and take pride in following their customs. The town is also renowned for its artistic abilities and has produced several vocalists and musicians. Shop from the local markets to find beautifully crafted art pieces as a souvenir.

Where to stay : Hotel Bundi House, Haveli Katkaun Bundi, The Ummaid Bagh Bundi.

[Also read: Bundi: A Trip To A Bygone Era]

Day 2: Bundi to Chittorgarh

Distance : 154 km 

Time Taken : 2.5 hours

Chittorgarh is the land of glory, with countless stories of valiant rulers and great wars. The legacy is passed on to the younger generations and is visible in the town’s rich culture and heritage. The Chittorgarh Fort is the major attraction of the town. You can also visit Keerthi Stambh, Rana Kumbha Palace, Vijay Stambh, Padmini Palace, Kalika Mata Temple to take a deep dive into the stories of the past. 

Where to Stay : Rajasi Palace, Aravalli Hill Resort, Rang Mahal

Day 3: Chittorgarh to Udaipur

Distance : 111 km

Time Taken : 2 hours

Udaipur is listed as one of the most romantic cities in India and is amongst the top most visited destinations in the country. Udaipur’s picturesque beauty can be witnessed in the large lakes, eloquent forts, amazing palaces, and pleasant gardens. There are numerous palaces and landmarks to be seen in the city. City Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Nehru Park, Jagadish Temple, and Sahelio ki Bari are a few attractions that capture the essence of Udaipur in their breathtaking architecture. Udaipur should be a part of everyone’s road trip list from Rajasthan.

Where to Stay : Radisson Blu Hotel, Shri Jagdish Mahal Heritage Hotel, Swaroop Vilas

Day 4: Udaipur to Ranakpur

Distance : 64 km 

Time Taken : 1.5 hours

You absolutely can’t miss the Ranakpur temple when you are visiting Rajasthan! Built in the 15th century, it is said the temple took 50 years to come to life. It is one of the largest and most important temples in Jain culture. The temple campus houses various other temples like Amba temple, Surya temple, Chaumukha temple, and Suparshvanatha temple. Go for a Horse Safari in Ranakpur or explore the beautiful terrain of the Aravali Mountains on a horseback. Places like Ranakpur are easily accessible by road from any part of Rajasthan and the trip in the dessert is nothing like other.

A Jeep Wildlife Safari will help you explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. For the adventure-seeker in you, trek from Ranakpur to Thandiberi for panoramic views of the town. 

Where to Stay : Jungle Camp Resort, Krishna Resort, Club Mahindra Circle 

Day 5: Ranakpur to Jodhpur

Distance : 156 km

Time Taken : 3 hours

From the azure stucco houses to the ornate palaces and mansions, Jodhpur is a sheer visual treat for travellers. Start with a walk through the city, and discover Jodhpur’s heritage in its nooks and crannies, lanes, and alleys while on your. Join a walking or photography tour. You can also visit the famous Mehrangarh Fort and Museum, or the burial place of Rajaram Meghwal. Head to the Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park or the Clock Tower and watch the stunning sunset colours and panoramic views of the city. If you are a food-lover, do join the popular Jodhpur Food Trail, where you can sample classic and signature dishes of the city at legendary joints. You can also book a desert safari and ride through the sandy trails.

Where to Stay : Rani Mahal, Jodhpur Heritage Haveli, RAAS

Day 6: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

Distance : 262 km

Time Taken : 4 hours 44 mins

Jaisalmer or the Sun City of Rajasthan is home to massive sandcastles standing tall, rising from the centre of the Thar Desert as a reminder of a glorious bygone era. The Jaisalmer Fort is a lively urban centre that is home to about 3,000 people living within the walls. The honeycombed winding narrow lanes are lined with temples and houses along with an array of restaurants, guesthouses, and handicraft shops.

Patwon-ki-Haveli, Bada Bagh, Gadisar Lake, and Nathmal Ki Haveli capture the beauty of the place. Sam Sand Dunes is an ideal spot to start your desert safari and also to camp under the stars.

Visit the heritage village, Kuldhara which is about 25 km from Jaisalmer, when you are here.

Where to Stay : Hotel Royal Haveli, Jaisalmer Marriott Resort.

[Also read: A Guide to the Desert Festival Jaisalmer]

This evening, a gully in old town #Bikaner . #rajasthan #desertdiaries #roadtrip #shotoniphone pic.twitter.com/oIW83k7LIO — Arati Kumar-Rao (@AratiKumarRao) February 21, 2018

Day 7: Jaiselmer to Bikaner

Distance : 329 km

Time Taken : 5.5 hours

From a temple dedicated to 25,000 black rats to a festival where camels get dressed up and dance, the city of Bikaner has everything surprising in store for you. Take a tour of the Junagarh Fort to witness the impeccable architecture, visit the magnificent Lalgarh Palace, shop your heart out at Kote Gate, and relinquish the local cuisines when you are in Bikaner.

Where to Stay : Lalgarh Palace, Lakshmi Niwas Palace, Hotel Bhanwar Niwas

Day 8: Bikaner to Khimsar 

Distance : 153 km

A colourful hamlet hidden in the centre of Rajasthan, Khimsar is a must-visit for art and culture enthusiasts. Take a trip to the Khimsar Fort, a luxury heritage hotel for a royal experience. Take a camel ride or a desert safari in the Khimsar Dunes Village. Eco-friendly huts, folk music and good vibes will welcome you here. Witness the majestic views of the Thar Desert from this village. Khimsar is also home to some rare species of antelopes including the black buck. The Panchala Black Buck Reserve will give you a peek into the rich flora and fauna of the place. The Nagaur Fort situated close to the reserve is a must-visit for its brilliant architecture. 

Where to Stay : Khimsar Sand Dunes Resort, WelcomHotel by ITC

Day 9: Khimsar to Pushkar

Distance : 182 km

Time Taken : 3 hours 50 minutes

The town of Pushkar is one of the oldest in the country, its history dating back to the 4th Century BC. The lake in the city has numerous bathing ghats and hundreds of temples surrounding it. The town also borders the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, so you can even plan a camel safari. There are desert camps near Pushkar, tons of bazaars and an annual hot air balloon festival if you want to get more out of your trip. 

Where to stay : Hotel Pushkar Fort, The Pushkar Bagh

[Also read: The Outstanding Pushkar Camel Fair]

Day 10: Pushkar to Ajmer

Distance : 16 km

Time Taken : 30 minutes

Surrounded by Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan, the quaint city of Ajmer is a paradise for all types of travellers, especially the ones in pursuit of peace. There are innumerable things to do in Ajmer, and we can vouch that be it just sitting by the lake or learning about the heritage of the city, every experience here is truly soul-satisfying. Visit the Ana Sagar Lake to indulge in boating, seek blessings in Ajmer Sharif Dargah ; visit Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, Akbar Palace and Museum and shop in the local bazaars.

Where to Stay: Hotel Canvas Inn, Ram Niwas Palace

Day 11: Ajmer to Jaipur 

Distance : 132 km

Time Taken : 2 hours 45 mins

Now that you are back from your great exploration, take a tour of the Pink City. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a fine blend of royalty, old-world charm, and modern lifestyle. Unwind at a spa, indulge in a wholesome meal at Chokhi Dhani and experience the charming landscape, which is dominated by red sandstone and marble structures, before you say goodbye to the place.

Where to Stay: Radisson Blu, Hotel Peppermint Stay

[Also read: Jaipur Kite Festival]

Rajasthan is a golden land in the country, filled with soul-satisfying experiences for all kinds of travellers. This was an 11-day itinerary covering the offbeat and known locations of Rajasthan. Have you done a road trip to this beautiful state of Royals, Rajasthan? Let us know in the comments.

Download our Savaari car rental app  for a smooth and pleasant journey.

Useful travel links

• Gadkari inaugurates, lays foundation stone of 11 NH projects worth ₹5600 crore in Rajasthan
• Rajasthan: Neem Ka Thana-Kotputli road to be built as a four-lane highway

Last Updated on February 2, 2024 by Swati Deol

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My Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Jaipur, India

• January 8, 2021
• india , self-alluring , solo , travel , wanderer , wanderlust

Jaipur, the Capital of Rajasthan, never fails to impress! It has always been a different experience every time I visit the city. Blushed in pink, the city is filled with stunning forts and palaces, spacious gardens, and broad avenues. A perfect blend of royalty and culture! In short, a visit to Rajasthan is incomplete without a short trip to the pink city of Jaipur. 

Jaipur was the first city I travelled solo in all of India. With bustling bazaars, beautifully structured architecture, and comforting hospitality, Jaipur gave me the experience of a lifetime. The ancient walls perfected in pink hue guard the city’s regal monuments that are considered the best embodiment of the bygone era. From the Hawa Mahal to the Nahargarh Fort, every monument in Jaipur tells a story of India’s illustrious history!

Beaming with enchanting markets that proudly depict Rajasthan’s glorious heritage, the walled city lives up to its reputation as a planned metropolis in the largest state of North India. The city is the right combination of ancient lifestyle left behind by royals and the modern lifestyle developed over time. On one side, you will find vibrant shopping malls. On the other, some striking forts and palaces will leave you wanting for more of the pink city. 

While walking through the quaint lanes of Jaipur all by myself, I realised how wonderful the city is for tourists, particularly  solo female travellers . Here, I present to you, my ultimate solo travel guide to Jaipur!

1. Reaching the city

Jaipur is very well-connected with major cities across the country through roads, railways, and flights. 

Taking a train is the best and cheapest way to reach Jaipur from any part of India. If you take a train from Delhi, it will take a maximum of 5 hours to reach the city. However, you must keep a good eye on your luggage on the trains and at the platforms to ensure its safety from theft. 

My favourite mode of public transport to get here from Delhi is the bus. It is also one of the safer options for solo female travellers in the country. However, make sure to check the reviews of your transport on Google just to be on the safe side. Tickets are readily available in buses at various bus stands and online platforms. From Delhi, I took a direct Volvo bus to Jaipur, and I reached the city in less than 5 hours. And the best part is you can also find a sleeper coach in the bus. Read my tips on using Indian public transport without any fuss. You can also take a cab from Delhi or any other city in Rajasthan, depending on your budget. 

Regular flights operate from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai to Jaipur International Airport. You can save time, and also visit an extra palace in the pink city!

Before visiting Rajasthan, read  15 non-touristy things to do in the northern state of India .

2. Best time to visit Jaipur

Even though travellers from around the world flock to Jaipur all-round the year, I believe the winter season is the best time to visit! Between October and March, days are pleasant and nights are cold, helping you escape the extreme heat during summer. You can also get an opportunity to experience various festivals that take place during these months—for instance, the Kite Festival and Jaipur Literature Festival in January and the Elephant Festival in March are special for its own reasons.

While planning a trip to Jaipur in Summers between April and June, solo female travellers must know that days are scorching and dry! You may find the hot wind blowing during the day, draining your energy off from the long day tours. Therefore, I suggest you plan your trip to the pink city during the winter season to make the most of your trip.

If you are already planning for a trip across Rajasthan, you can also read my blog on another famous city in the state,  My Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Jodhpur .

3. How to roam around in the city

As Jaipur is known for various tourist attractions, I will highly recommend hiring TUK-TUK (petrol rickshaw) or TAM –TAM (electric rickshaw), which will help you travel around the monuments and forts in the city. However, make sure you bargain with the operators very strongly to get the best prices for your commute. Pro tip: Tuk Tuk drivers tend to overcharge people. Therefore, try to use your bargaining skills to save some money to have a great lunch later. I made use of multiple Tuk-Tuk to roam around the city during my visit, and it was the best local experience ever! 

However, depending on your budget, you can also choose to book cabs through a mobile app like Uber or an Indian app called Ola . I highly recommend you download these apps before traveling to India for an easier commute across different cities/places. You can also find personal cab operators who will charge around 1600-2000 Indian rupees for an entire day to take you around various attractions in the city. 

4. Where to stay

• In Jaipur, I enjoyed staying in Hotel Paradise, located at Sikar Road. It is located outside the central part of the city. For budget travellers and backpackers, I would highly recommend Zostel, where you can meet people from all over the world and share your travel stories over lunches or bonfires. 
• There are some good hotels for affordable rates, for example, Atithi Guest House, Madhuban, and Arya Niwas. However, you cannot expect the first-class service here.
• Luxury seekers can experience Jaipur’s regal heritage at the imperial Umaid Mahal and Alsisar Haveli. These hotels have a hefty price tag and will provide you a traditional Rajasthani living. But tell you what, it is all worth your money! 
• When in Rajasthan, a night at the heritage stays is a must! Nothing beats the heritage stay in Jaipur, which provides you a modest townhouse living at the experience of royalty. You can book a stay at Rambagh Palace or Jai Mahal Palace for an extraordinary retreat at this Haveli.

5. Must-visit places

The Amer Fort sits around 10km away from the central city of Jaipur. It is a beautifully carved fort with a fairy-tale grandeur that reflects stunningly on Lake Maota’s surface. It is the best sight to behold forever! 

Take a TUK-TUK or TAM-TAM or even a cab to reach here. The fort has an exquisite sandstone Diwan-e-Aam, along with a grand yellow-hued gate called the Ganesh Pol. Some of the fort’s star attractions are the Sheesh Mahal, Jai Mahal, and Sukh Niwas. As I walked around the fort, I truly felt like a queen who owned the fort. I’m not even kidding!

Take an early morning trip to the fort to enjoy sightseeing with less to no crowd at all. Also, it is a UNESCO-listed monument. 

It is open from 8 am to 5:30 pm to visitors. Ticket prices vary from Rs 100 for Indian visitors to around Rs 500 for foreigners. This amount also includes the fee of a camera, if you have one. My favourite part was the elephant ride at the fort. I loved it!

The Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal is a famous monument in Jaipur. This five-storeyed structure has semi-octagonal overhanging windows that give it a look of a facade. This 222-year old Mahal is known as the tallest building in the world without any foundation. With more than 900 ornate windows, this palace is worth a visit despite being very touristy! You can also rent audio guides from the store to learn more about this remarkable monument’s history. It is open from 9 am to 6 pm. The entry ticket costs Rs 50 for Indian visitors and Rs 200 for foreigners.

Jantar Mantar

This larger-than-life abstract observatory is nothing more than a spectacle! Erected in 1734, this Jantar Mantar has an incredible collection of astronomical instruments. It is significantly one of the five observatories built across India. 

If you intend to learn more about this sculpture, I would recommend hiring a private local guide. Don’t worry, there is a plenty of options on Airbnb!

City Palace

A resplendent fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the City Palace is an integral part of the walled city of Jaipur. Filled with several gardens and courtyards, this palace is a must-go in the pink city. Located at Jaipur’s heart, the City Palace is hardly a kilometre away from the Hawa Mahal. You can take a walk to the palace or hire a Tuk-Tuk according to your preferences. It is open to visitors from 9:30 am to 5 pm. 

Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh means ‘abode to tigers’. Known as the Tiger Fort, this monument provides the perfect backdrop to the north of Jaipur. Overlooking the pink city, this fort is located at the Aravali mountain in the city. I’d say a solo trip to Jaipur is incomplete without a visit to this architectural marvel! Decorated with delicate murals, this fort looks even spectacular in the floodlit at night. Also, you can take a lot of pictures for your Instagram feed here. 

There’s also a wax museum and sculpture park within the fort that you cannot miss out. After my visit to the fort, I took a walk to a famous Chinese restaurant whose Hakka noodles were drool-worthy! I forget its name, but there are many restaurants near the fort. Make sure to choose the one with a local crowd in it! 

6. My new found love – Rajasthani Cuisine

Chokhi dhani.

If you want to experience the vivid culture of Rajasthan, Chokhi Dhani is the place! It is a luxury hotel that offers a mela(fair)-like ambience to its visitors with a rural experience and warm hospitality. Enjoy true Rajasthani culture with various authentic foods to choose from. In addition to that, traditional folk dances accompany you as part of the entertainment. It is one of my favourite experiences in the pink city. Everything about it glorified joy, from puppet shows to traditional sport activities! However, make sure to make your  booking in advance to enjoy a hassle-free time at Chokhi Dhani . 

Tea-lovers gather at this small restaurant in Jaipur’s Vidyadhar Nagar. They make some of the best Kulhad tea in Jaipur. Enjoy it with some light snacks for breakfast.

Gulab Nagari

It is one of my favourites and a renowned rooftop restaurant in the city where you can enjoy good food with a great view!

For traditional Rajasthani dishes, you can also try Apno Rajasthan, Spice Court, or Copper Chimney.

7. Shop till you drop!

From traditional jewellery, puppets to block-printed clothes, you will find all kinds of items in the famous Johari Bazaar (market). Johari Bazaar is particularly famous for its bandhani and block-printed textiles. With beautiful gems and handicrafts, it is also a paradise for jewellery lovers! It is just a kilometre away from Hawa Mahal. After paying a visit to the Palace of Winds, you can hit this market for all your shopping needs! 

You can buy Jaipur’s famous marble artifacts at the Chandpol Bazaar. If you are into leather products, visit the Bapu Bazaar for traditional pair of Rajasthani mojri (shoes) for just Rs 500-Rs 700. You can also visit the Sireh Deori shop, opposite Hawa Mahal, to buy some traditional Jaipuri quilts, jewellery, and footwear. 

However, please make sure not to get scammed by the vendors! Read my blog on how to bargain like a local in India to know the insights into haggling. If you still need help, I’d suggest you take a local tour guide hired via Airbnb Experience to these local markets. 

8. Unmissable

When in Jaipur, don’t forget to watch a film at the Raj Mandir Cinema. Situated at Bhagwan Das Road, this huge cinema is one of the most popular tourist spots in Jaipur. Buy a cinema ticket to watch the movie in the meringue auditorium that looks like a giant pink cake! However, make sure to book the ticket in advance.

9. Must note

I would highly recommend you buy a composite ticket that is valid for two days from the date of purchase. It provides you an entry to a list of attractions – Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar observatory, Albert Hall Museum, Sisodia Rani Garden, and Vidhyadhar garden. You can avail of this ticket at any palaces or forts. Trust me, it saves a lot of time! For foreign tourists, the ticket price is Rs 500, while for Indians, it is Rs 150.  

While you are here, you can also read my blog on   My Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to the Taj Mahal .

10. Tips and Tricks

• Bargain as much as you can! Whether you are hiring a rickshaw or shopping for souvenirs around the city’s busy markets, bargaining is very crucial to help you save a tonne of money! You must know that people tend to overcharge tourists in many Indian cities. 
• Don’t give any form of charity of money to beggars while travelling around the city. 
• Try to carry limited cash while walking through the local markets just to be on the safe side. However, you must take cash in smaller bills while shopping for souvenirs in local markets.

11. Fun facts that will amaze you!

I bet these interesting facts about Jaipur will compel you to book your tickets to the city right away.

• Jaipur is believed to be India’s first planned heritage city, dating back to the year 1730 in the 18th century.
• It is called the pink city because, in 1876, the entire city was painted terracotta pink to mark the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria’s visit. After that, Jaipur became popular as the pink city across the world.
• The city organises the largest literary festival, attended by authors, writers, filmmakers, poets, social activists, and visitors worldwide. Read my blog on 25 interesting things to do in Rajasthan to know about more amazing facts.

As I conclude my travel guide to Jaipur, I implore you to pack your bags and head to the pink city to experience colours, chaos, and grandeur. T aking a walk through the clean streets sprawling with cycle-rickshaws, motorbikes, cars, and other vehicles is an experience in itself. Also, don’t forget to relish the delicious street food of Rajasthan! All the best for your spectacular solo trip across India. 

An introverted blogger who is looking to make unforgettable solo travel memories with one short life.

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Planning a Rajasthan Tour? Your Step-by-Step Guide for an Unforgettable Experience!

Step 1: begin with essentials. narrow down destinations.

First and foremost, crafting your itinerary is crucial. Having a well-defined plan in mind for the destinations that will grace your trip is imperative. If you need a quick refresher on any of Rajasthan's top destinations, here's a roundup to assist your decision-making process.

Jaipur: Unveiling the Royal Tapestry

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, stands adorned with the crown jewel of India: Hawa Mahal. It serves as the epicenter for any Rajasthan adventure, seamlessly blending history with a hint of modern lifestyle.

For enthusiasts of history and those seeking a touch of contemporary living, Jaipur emerges as a captivating melting pot. Allotting a total of 2 days allows you to navigate the city thoroughly, embracing major attractions such as Amer Fort, Jal Mahal, City Palace, Rusirani Village, and indulging in unique experiences like a Hot Air Balloon ride. Explore the regal charm and dynamic fusion that Jaipur has to offer.

Udaipur: A Romantic Haven

Udaipur, often hailed as the utopia of romance, is a top choice for couples embarking on their India Honeymoon. Even if your visit isn't romantically inclined, the city's charm will enchant you with its abundance of artificial lakes, a water palace transformed into a resort, and leisurely bicycle rides around its scenic landscapes.

Exploring the myriad attractions of Udaipur can be comfortably accomplished in a 2 to 3-day timeframe. Should you decide to extend your stay and venture into the surrounding areas, destinations like Kumbhalgarh, Ranakpur, and Chittorgarh promise rich experiences.

Aside from the winter season, consider the months from July to September as an alternative timeframe to explore Udaipur. Discover the timeless allure and diverse offerings that make Udaipur a captivating destination.

Jaisalmer: The Golden Oasis

Renowned as the golden city of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is best known for its enchanting desert camps that cast a golden hue over everything in its vicinity.

Immersing yourself in the vibrant experiences of Camel Safari and village stays, a trip to Jaisalmer typically spans about a day and a half. This duration encompasses exploration of its top tourist attractions, including the intricate Patwon ki Haveli, the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, and the serene Gadisar Lake. Discover the golden oasis that is Jaisalmer, offering a unique blend of cultural richness and desert allure.

Jodhpur: The Cultural Canvas

Jodhpur, famously known as the blue city of Rajasthan, exudes a cultural richness that is truly unparalleled. It stands as one of the top recommendations when planning a solo Rajasthan trip.

In just 2 days, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant vibe of the city. If your appetite for exploration persists, a drive to the nearby Bishnoi Village is a perfect day trip, redefining authenticity and offering a deeper understanding of the region's cultural tapestry. Delve into the cultural canvas that is Jodhpur, a city that seamlessly blends tradition with a modern touch.

Ranthambore National Park: A Wildlife Wonderland

Ranthambore National Park stands as a star attraction for every nature lover embarking on an Indian wildlife adventure tour. Renowned for its majestic Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore offers a monochromatic backdrop to the lives of these striped wonders.

A morning and an evening tour are sufficient to trace the pugmarks and catch a glimpse of a tiger in its natural habitat. Moreover, the possibility of staying inside the national park amidst nature's ecstasy adds another layer to the experience. Explore the wildlife wonderland that is Ranthambore National Park, where nature's drama unfolds against a picturesque canvas.

Mandawa: Rajasthan's Bollywood of Art

Known as the "Bollywood of Rajasthan," Mandawa is a charming hamlet nestled in the Shekhawati region, celebrated for its mesmerizing fresco wall paintings.

This village is a treasure trove of grand mansions adorned with age-old illustrations, vividly depicting the rich culture of India and the world.

Moreover, a single day is ample time to explore every nook and cranny of this artistic haven, ensuring you carry back memories that will last a lifetime. Dive into the cultural canvas of Mandawa, Rajasthan's very own Bollywood of artistry.

Pushkar: Where Culture and Spirituality Converge

Pushkar, a renowned village, steals the spotlight with its annual Camel Fair, a grand event held every November. It serves as the perfect backdrop for delving deep into the cultural tapestry of the region.

However, it's not just the cultural allure; the town's significant religious relevance elevates its prominence in this grand tapestry of experiences. Explore Pushkar, where culture and spirituality converge to create an enriching and unforgettable journey.

Bikaner: Architectural Marvels Unveiled

Bikaner stands out with some of the most captivating architectural wonders in all of Rajasthan.

Its ornate buildings are truly one-of-a-kind, and the displays in its museums transport visitors back in time.

A journey to Bikaner can be comfortably experienced in just 2 days. Within this timeframe, you can explore the grandeur of Junagarh Fort, the regal Lalgarh Palace, and even delve into the fascinating exhibits at the National Camel Research Institute. Uncover the architectural marvels that define Bikaner, where history and artistry seamlessly converge.

Mount Abu: Rajasthan's Summer Sanctuary

During the scorching summer months in Rajasthan, Mount Abu emerges as a refreshing escape. Nestled on a rocky plateau, this hill station is renowned for its century-old Dilwara Temples.

Whether you come for just a day or choose to extend your stay, Mount Abu offers a haven of relaxation and breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in the cool tranquility of this summer sanctuary, the only destination in Rajasthan not ablaze with heat during the warmer seasons.

Sariska Tiger Reserve, Alwar: A Wildlife Marvel

Nestled in the heart of Alwar, Rajasthan, the Sariska Tiger Reserve stands as a testament to India's rich biodiversity. Home to majestic Bengal tigers, elusive Indian leopards, and a plethora of vibrant bird species, this sanctuary offers a captivating safari experience.

The landscape, adorned with grasslands and rocky hills, sets the stage for an immersive wildlife adventure. Beyond its natural wonders, Sariska boasts historical treasures like the Kankwari Fort and the ancient Shiva temple, Neelkanth.

Embark on a safari, choosing between jeep and canter options, to witness the untamed beauty of Sariska. The ideal time to explore this wildlife marvel is from October to March, ensuring a memorable encounter with nature's finest in Alwar.

Keoladeo Ghana National Park | Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Explore the natural wonders of Keoladeo Ghana National Park, renowned as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Located in Rajasthan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Witness the captivating spectacle of migratory birds, including Siberian cranes and painted storks, against the park's scenic backdrop. Immerse yourself in the park's diverse ecosystems via well-maintained trails, ideal for bird watching and photography. Plan your visit during the peak season from October to February for optimal avian sightings. Keoladeo Ghana National Park offers a serene escape into nature, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of biodiversity and tranquility.

Note: The Ultimate Rajasthan Travel Guide

The prime time to experience the splendor of Rajasthan is from September to February. However, the pinnacle of tourist activity occurs in December-January, attracting visitors from across the globe. Plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your Rajasthan adventure.

Avoid the scorching summer months; if a visit during this period is unavoidable, consider the cool respite of Mount Abu.

Would you like to align your destinations with the vibrant festivals of Rajasthan? Here's a helpful list:

Still uncertain about which destinations to shortlist? Consider these themes:

• Spirituality: Pushkar, Mount Abu, and Udaipur.
• Shopping: Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner.
• Adventure: Desert Safari in Bikaner and Jaisalmer, Adventure sports in Kota.
• Wildlife: Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur.
• Rural experiences: Chandelao Garh, Bishnoi Village, and Rusirani.
• History and Heritage: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer.

Craft your Rajasthan journey based on your interests and preferences, and let the rich tapestry of this incredible state unfold before you.

Step 2: Determine Your Travel Duration

Contemplating the ideal duration for your Rajasthan exploration? An itinerary spanning approximately 9-20 days is perfect for a comprehensive Rajasthan tour.

For a brief 3-day Rajasthan tour, a stay in Jaipur coupled with an excursion to the nearby village of Rusirani is recommended. You can also opt for the timeless Golden Triangle Trip (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur) within this timeframe.

Should you have 5 days to spare, consider embarking on an exciting Udaipur to Jodhpur Rajasthan road trip.

For those willing to invest more time, an extended visit unveils unparalleled gems that showcase the rich tapestry of this state. Below are sample itineraries to spark your interest:

Step 3: Elevate Your Journey with Unforgettable Experiences

Avoid the cliché and make your Rajasthan trip more than just a photo op. Rajasthan offers a plethora of enriching experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Here's a curated list to help you create enduring memories:

Ensure your Rajasthan journey is more than just a visual spectacle by immersing yourself in these unique and authentic experiences. Each activity adds a distinctive chapter to your travel tale, making your trip to Rajasthan truly unforgettable.

Step 4: Choose Your Mode of Travel

For exploring Rajasthan, decide how you want to travel:

• Major cities like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner have airports.
• Choose air travel for faster connections, especially to and from major cities.
• Rajasthan has an extensive rail network connecting prominent cities and towns.
• Opt for trains, a convenient and well-connected mode of transport.
• Rajasthan boasts well-maintained national and state highways.
• Enjoy a scenic road trip, even to less-frequented destinations.
• State government buses offer budget-friendly travel options.
• Google Maps provides detailed information for route planning.
• State buses are economical but may involve some inconvenience.

Choose the mode of travel that aligns with your budget and preferences, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey through the diverse landscapes of Rajasthan.

Step 5: Secure Your Hotel

Undoubtedly, booking your hotel is a pivotal aspect of your entire plan. However, during peak months, this straightforward task transforms into a competition as reservations open months ahead.

What to do in such a situation? Well, secure your booking at least a month or 15-20 days before your trip. Conveniently book online to suit your preferences and ensure a smooth experience.

Step 6: Plan Your Rajasthan Adventure with Ease

While it might not be the most thrilling aspect of trip planning, budgeting plays a crucial role in ensuring a seamless journey. Take a moment to set your financial parameters, and to simplify this process, refer to our checklist for Rajasthan trip expenses:

• Traveling Expenses: Account for transportation costs, whether it's flights, trains, or other modes of travel within Rajasthan.
• Lodging Expenditure: Calculate the expenses for your accommodation during the trip. Research and choose options that align with your budget and preferences.
• Food Expenses: Plan for meals, including dining out and any special culinary experiences you might want to try in Rajasthan.
• Monument Access Costs: Budget for entrance fees to the various monuments you plan to visit. This will ensure you can explore the historical sites without any last-minute financial surprises.
• Shopping Expenses: Rajasthan is known for its vibrant markets. Allocate a budget for souvenirs and treasures you may want to bring back home.

Feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry. Instead of grappling with details, entrust all your concerns to us—your dedicated Rajasthan tour operators. We manage everything from meticulous planning to budgeting, and our support is available 24/7 throughout your journey. Simply request a quote, and our tailor-made tours are certain to captivate you.

Rest assured, we've got your back at every turn. Your Rajasthan adventure awaits, stress-free and personalized just for you.

• Tour Guide Service

Transportation in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the northwest state of India and share border with Gjrat, MP, UP, Haryana and Punjab. Rajasthan major cities can be easily accessible from all the other major cities of India and abroad. Rajasthan is well connected by all the major means of transport available nowadays. Rajasthan, known for heritage cities and places, is a popular travel destination and attracts domestic and international tourist in massive numbers. National and International airports, highways, rail network and well manage state transportation are the backbone of Rajasthan tourism.

How to Reach Rajasthan by Flights (Air)-

Rajasthan has three major airports – Jaipur International airport, Udaipur airport and Jodhpur airport. There are other small airports like Nal airport, Jaisalmer airport and Kota airport. Many domestic and international flights connects Rajasthan to all major cities of India and world. Only The Jaipur International Airport operate both domestic and international flights. Other airports are domestic airports.

Jaipur International Airport Domestic flights : From/To: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Indore, Chandigarh, Jammu, Goa, Pune. International flights : From/To: Dubai, Sharjah, Muscat, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok

Udaipur Airport Domestic flights (direct) : From/To: Delhi, Mumbai

Jodhpur Airport Domestic flights (direct) : From/To: Delhi, Mumbai

How to Reach Rajasthan by Road-

Rajasthan has very well connected network of roads with maor cities of India. Rajasthan has many highways which makes it easily accessible from all parts of the country. NH-8 which is also India’s first 4-8 lane highway is one of the most popular one. Rajasthan is directly connected by road to Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Indore. National Highway no.3, 8, 11, 11 A, 12, 14, 15, 65, 76, 79, 89, 90 connect Rajasthan to the rest of the country. Buses, tourist taxis, and autos are the main modes of road transport.

RSRTC provide the local bus service and connecting the important towns and cities of Rajasthan from adjoining states.

Official website of RSTRC- http://rsrtc.rajasthan.gov.in/

How to reach Rajasthan by Train (Railways)-

Rajasthan is well connected to major parts of India by a strong network of trains. There are about 146 railway stations in Rajasthan which connects different cities of Rajasthan with other cities of India. Jaipur, Kota, Bikaner, Ajmer, Udaipur and Jodhpur are some major railway stations of Rajasthan. Trains like Palace on wheels also runs to attract tourist. Thar Express from Munabao, Jaisalmer to Zero Point Railway Station near Khokrapar, Pakistan is a internation train which connects Rajasthan to Pakistan as well. Indian Railways also runs specal trains during fairs and festivals in Rajasthan. Train services connects Rajasthan to all the important cities of India including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Pune, etc.

Get latest information here: Official indian railway site http://www.indianrail.gov.in/ Official Website of North Western railways: http://www.nwr.indianrailways.gov.in/

Aircraft Services in Rajasthan

Airports in Rajasthan

Airports in Rajasthan connects Rajasthan to major cities, states of India and other countries of the world. Airways is one of the fastest means of travel these days with the advantage of luxury and comforts.... more »

Buses From Delhi to Jaipur

Railway Stations in Rajasthan

Railway in Rajasthan is a part of North Western Railways and connects almost all major cities of Rajasthan to other parts of India with its 146 railway stations. Rail lines are laid like snakes in... more »

Rajasthan National Highways

Rajasthan State Highways

Rajasthan state highways are well maintained and metalled up for easy and comfortable travelling of people. State Highways are the roads which connects different districts headquaters, tehsils and important towns within the state and connect... more »

RSRTC Bus Service From Jaipur To Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Other States

RSRTC Rajasthan – Bus Services and Online Tickets

Trains in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is an important state of the country by all means and Indian rail is making every efforts in its socio-economic development . Trains in Rajasthan connects its major cities like Jaipur, Kota, Jaisalmer, Bikaner,... more »

How Much Does a Rajasthan Tour Cost: A Comprehensive Guide

Rajasthan, often called the “Land of Kings,” is a vibrant blend of history and culture. This Indian state invites travelers with its stunning array of opulent palaces, grand forts, and rolling sand dunes, all steeped in age-old traditions and celebrations. As you enter this world where history and modernity intertwine, the welcoming smiles of locals in vivid attire and the enchanting rhythms of folk music from lively markets create an immersive and colorful experience.

Planning a trip to Rajasthan involves more than just a sense of adventure; it requires careful financial planning. Being aware of the costs involved is essential for a variety of reasons. It enables you to customize your trip according to your budget, ensuring that it’s both enjoyable and affordable. Whether your plans include staying in historic havelis converted into heritage hotels, going on camel safaris in the Thar Desert, or diving into local culture at festivals and markets, having a well-defined budget is key to a smooth and worry-free experience.

Being aware of the expenses associated with a Rajasthan tour, including accommodation, transport, food, and activities, enables you to make savvy decisions about your travel dates, lodging, and itineraries. This knowledge not only enriches your trip but also ensures you get the best value. With this guide’s insights on the costs of exploring Rajasthan’s iconic destinations like Jaipur’s forts, Udaipur’s lakes, and Jaisalmer’s deserts, you’ll be equipped to plan a deeply engaging and cost-effective journey through this land of stunning beauty and rich culture.

Table of Contents

5 Things to Consider When Costing and Pricing for Rajasthan Tour

1. time of year: peak vs. off-peak seasons.

The cost of touring Rajasthan can vary significantly depending on the time of year. The peak tourist season, typically from October to March, coincides with cooler, more pleasant weather. During this period, the prices for accommodations and tours are generally at their highest, driven by increased demand. The vibrant festivals, such as Diwali and Holi, also fall within this period, offering unique cultural experiences but at a premium cost.

In contrast, the off-peak season, which includes the hot summer months from April to September, sees a considerable drop in prices. The scorching heat during these months reduces tourist footfall, leading to more competitive rates in hotels and fewer crowds at popular sites. However, this time is also characterized by the monsoon, which can be unpredictable but also brings a unique charm to the landscape, transforming the arid regions into lush green spaces.

2. Type of Accommodation: Budget to Luxury Options

Rajasthan offers a wide range of accommodation options catering to all budgets. Backpackers and budget travellers can find affordable guesthouses and hostels, particularly in cities like Jaipur and Udaipur. Mid-range hotels offer comfortable amenities at reasonable prices, ideal for family travellers. For those seeking a touch of royalty, Rajasthan is renowned for its luxury heritage hotels, which are often restored palaces and forts. These opulent accommodations provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience, complete with royal treatment, but at a significantly higher price point.

3. Transportation: Costs of Different Modes

The cost of transportation within Rajasthan varies based on the mode and comfort level. Public buses and trains offer the most economical options for getting around, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. However, for more convenience and time efficiency, hiring private taxis or renting cars can be considered, though these options are more expensive. In cities, auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common for short distances and are relatively inexpensive. For a unique experience, you might also consider camel safaris in desert areas, which, while being a novelty, come with their price tags.

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4. Tour Type: Guided Tours vs. Independent Travel

The choice between guided tours and independent travel significantly impacts your overall costs. Guided tours, while more expensive, offer the convenience of pre-planned itineraries, often including transportation, accommodation, and sometimes meals. They provide a hassle-free experience with the added benefit of knowledgeable guides who enhance the cultural and historical understanding of the places visited. Independent travel, on the other hand, is usually more budget-friendly and offers greater flexibility. It allows for a more personal and adventurous exploration of Rajasthan, though it requires more planning and navigation on your part.

Each of these factors plays a crucial role in shaping the cost of your Rajasthan tour. Understanding and balancing them according to your preferences and budget will help in planning a trip that is both fulfilling and financially manageable.

5. Itinerary Days: For Unmissable Destinations & Experiences

For those looking to delve deeper into the wonders of Rajasthan, several popular itineraries offer a comprehensive exploration of this captivating region. These tours, ranging from a quick 4-day escape to an extensive 21-day adventure, cater to a variety of interests and timeframes.

For instance, the 14-Day Rajasthan and Varanasi Itinerary is a perfect blend of cultural richness and spiritual depth, combining the royal allure of Rajasthan with the sacred vibes of Varanasi. On the other hand, the 10-Day Rajasthan Trip offers a more concise yet fulfilling tour of the state’s iconic cities.

For those with a penchant for deep cultural immersion, the 14-Day Rajasthan Cultural Tour and the 8-Day Rajasthan Tribal Tour provide unique insights into the local traditions and lifestyles. Meanwhile, the extensive 21-Day North India Tour from Mumbai offers an epic journey through Rajasthan and beyond, showcasing the diverse tapestry of North India.

For travellers with limited time, the 5-Day Jodhpur-Udaipur Luxury Itinerary presents a lavish experience in two of Rajasthan’s most enchanting cities. Alternatively, the 7-Day Rajasthan Tour and 6-Day Itinerary offer a quick yet comprehensive glimpse into the state’s beauty.

Each of these itineraries is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the best of Rajasthan, from its majestic forts and palaces to its vibrant bazaars and serene landscapes. Whether you seek a brief encounter or an extensive exploration, these tours promise unforgettable experiences in the heart of India’s most colourful state.

Calculating and Managing Your Total Expenses for a Rajasthan Trip

Accommodation costs.

Accommodation is one of the most significant components of travel expenses in Rajasthan. Prices can vary widely:

• Budget Accommodations: Hostels and guest houses offer basic amenities and are perfect for backpackers or solo travelers. Prices range from INR 300 to 800 per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: These establishments provide comfortable amenities, including air conditioning and in-house dining, typically costing between INR 1,500 to 4,000 per night.
• Luxury Hotels and Heritage Properties: For a royal experience, these hotels, often converted palaces or forts, offer opulent settings and world-class services. Prices start from INR 5,000 and can go upwards of INR 20,000 per night, depending on the property and season.

Food and Dining

The culinary experience in Rajasthan is an integral part of its charm. Dining costs vary:

• Street Food and Local Eateries: Offering delicious local flavors, street food and small eateries are wallet-friendly options, with meals costing between INR 50 to 200.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: These establishments provide a more extensive menu and comfortable seating, with meal prices ranging from INR 300 to 700.
• Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants, especially in luxury hotels, offer exquisite dining experiences, with prices typically above INR 1,000 per person.

Transportation

Getting around in Rajasthan can be done in various ways:

• Public Transport: Buses and trains are the most economical options, with fares as low as INR 50 for short distances and INR 300 for longer intercity travel.
• Taxis and Private Cars: Hiring a private car or taxi offers convenience and flexibility, with daily rates ranging from INR 1,500 to 3,000, excluding fuel.
• Auto-Rickshaws and Cycle Rickshaws: Common for short distances within cities, fares start at around INR 20 and go up based on distance and negotiation skills.

Entrance Fees

Tourist attractions in Rajasthan often charge entrance fees:

• Major Forts and Palaces: Entrance fees for forts like Amer Fort in Jaipur or Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur range from INR 200 to 500 for international tourists, with additional charges for camera usage.
• Museums and Cultural Sites: These usually have lower entrance fees, ranging from INR 50 to 200.
• Guided Tours: Opting for guided tours at these sites can enhance the experience but will add to the cost, usually around INR 300 to 1,000, depending on the site and tour length.

Understanding these major expense categories can help travelers budget effectively, ensuring a memorable and well-planned trip to the enchanting state of Rajasthan.

Sample Budgets for Various Types of Travelers Exploring Rajasthan

Backpackers: budget-friendly travel.

For the adventurous backpacker looking to explore Rajasthan on a shoestring budget, here’s a typical cost breakdown:

• Accommodation: Hostels and budget guesthouses can cost about INR 300 to 800 per night.
• Food: Street food and local eateries offer meals for INR 50 to 200.
• Transportation: Using public transport like buses and trains, expect to spend around INR 100 to 300 daily.
• Sightseeing: Entry fees for major attractions can be around INR 200 to 500, with additional costs for guided tours if desired.
• Daily Budget: Approximately INR 700 to 1,500.

Mid-Range Travelers: Comfort Within Reach

For families or travelers seeking a balance of comfort and cost:

• Accommodation: Mid-range hotels offer rooms at about INR 1,500 to 4,000 per night.
• Food: Enjoy meals in mid-range restaurants, averaging INR 300 to 700 per meal.
• Transportation: Renting a car or hiring taxis for day trips can cost INR 1,500 to 3,000 per day.
• Sightseeing: Allocate around INR 200 to 500 for entrance fees, and consider occasional guided tours.
• Daily Budget: Roughly INR 3,000 to 6,000.

Luxury Travelers: The Royal Experience

For those indulging in the opulence and luxury of Rajasthan:

• Accommodation: Luxury hotels and heritage properties can charge INR 5,000 to 20,000 or more per night.
• Food: Fine dining experiences in upscale restaurants or hotel dining can cost over INR 1,000 per meal.
• Transportation: Private car hires with a driver, offering the utmost convenience, may run from INR 2,500 to 5,000 daily.
• Sightseeing: Opt for exclusive private tours and experiences, which can vary greatly in price but offer a personalized touch.
• Daily Budget: Approximately INR 10,000 to 30,000 or more, depending on choices.

These sample budgets provide a framework for different types of travelers to plan their Rajasthan tour , catering to a range of preferences from economical to luxurious. They help in setting realistic expectations and in planning an itinerary that aligns with one’s financial comfort zone, ensuring a journey that is both enjoyable and within budget.

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Cultural Experiences in Rajasthan: Exploring Costs and Expenditures

Local festivals: celebrations of heritage and tradition.

Rajasthan’s calendar is dotted with vibrant festivals that offer a glimpse into its rich culture and traditions. Participating in these festivals can be a highlight of your trip, but it’s important to consider the associated costs:

• Diwali and Holi: Celebrated with great fervor, accommodation and transportation costs often surge during these festivals. Budget an additional 20-30% over standard rates.
• Pushkar Camel Fair: A unique cultural event showcasing cattle trade, music, and dance. Accommodation in Pushkar during the fair can be pricey, so book well in advance. Expect to pay a premium for stays and local tours during the fair.

Cultural Tours: Exploring the Heart of Rajasthan

Cultural tours in Rajasthan offer deep dives into its history and lifestyle:

• Heritage Walks: Guided walks through ancient cities like Jaipur or Udaipur cost around INR 500 to 1,000 per person.
• Palace Tours: Exploring opulent palaces like the City Palace in Udaipur or Jaipur can cost INR 300 to 700 for entrance, with additional charges for guided tours.
• Village Safaris: Experience rural life with safaris to villages, costing about INR 1,500 to 3,000 per person, including transportation.

Workshops and Classes: Hands-On Cultural Immersion

Engage in traditional arts and crafts or culinary workshops:

• Cooking Classes: Learn to cook Rajasthani cuisine , with classes ranging from INR 1,000 to 2,500 per person.
• Textile Workshops: Participate in workshops on block printing or textile dyeing, typically costing INR 1,000 to 2,000.
• Dance and Music Lessons: Experience the local arts with lessons in folk dance or music, priced around INR 500 to 1,500 per session.

These cultural experiences not only enrich your understanding of Rajasthan’s heritage but also support local communities and artisans. While they add to the cost of your trip, they offer invaluable insights and memories that transcend the monetary value. Budgeting for these activities allows you to fully engage with the cultural heart of Rajasthan, making your trip a truly immersive experience.

Money-Saving Tips for Your Rajasthan Trip: Budget-Friendly Advice

Traveling during the off-season.

One of the most effective ways to save money while travelling in Rajasthan is to plan your trip during the off-season:

• Lower Costs: Accommodation and transportation costs are significantly lower outside the peak tourist season (October to March).
• Less Crowded: Fewer tourists mean more bargaining power, especially in markets and for room rates.
• Unique Experiences: The off-season, especially the monsoon period, offers a different perspective on the landscape and culture.

Booking Accommodations and Transport in Advance

Planning can lead to considerable savings:

• Early Bird Discounts: Many hotels and transport services offer discounts for early bookings.
• Wider Selection: Booking early gives you a wider range of options, allowing you to choose the most cost-effective ones.
• Avoiding Price Surges: Especially important during festivals or events when prices can skyrocket at the last minute.

Local Dining and Shopping Tips

Eating and shopping like a local can not only save money but also enhance your travel experience:

• Street Food and Local Eateries: Opt for local food joints and street vendors over tourist-oriented restaurants to enjoy authentic cuisine at lower prices.
• Market Bargaining: When shopping in local markets, don’t hesitate to bargain. It’s a part of the local shopping culture, and vendors often quote higher prices to tourists.
• Avoid Tourist Traps: Stay clear of eateries and shops near major tourist attractions, as they tend to be overpriced. Instead, explore a few streets away to find more reasonable prices.

Additional Tips

• Public Transportation: Utilize local buses and trains for intercity travel, which are far cheaper than private taxis.
• Combo Tickets: Some tourist attractions offer combo tickets that provide access to multiple sites at a discounted rate.
• Carry a Water Bottle: Buying bottled water can add up; carrying a refillable bottle reduces costs and is environmentally friendly.

By incorporating these money-saving tips into your travel plans, you can significantly reduce your expenses while still enjoying the rich cultural and historical offerings of Rajasthan. These strategies not only help in managing your budget but also provide a more authentic and immersive experience of the local lifestyle.

In conclusion, it is important to consider the key point

Exploring the majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan is an experience like no other. From the grandeur of its palaces and forts to the vibrancy of its festivals and bazaars, Rajasthan offers a journey through history, culture, and tradition. However, like any travel adventure, it requires thoughtful planning, especially regarding the financial aspects.

In recap, the key points to consider for a cost-effective Rajasthan tour include:

• Understanding Seasonal Variations: Be aware of how peak and off-peak seasons affect costs. Traveling during the off-season can lead to significant savings.
• Accommodation Choices: Rajasthan offers a range of options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious heritage hotels. Choose based on your budget and preferences.
• Dining and Shopping: Embrace local eateries and markets for authentic and affordable experiences, avoiding tourist traps.
• Transportation Modes: Balance cost and convenience by choosing between public and private taxis based on your itinerary and comfort level.
• Cultural Experiences: Budget for unique local experiences like festivals, cultural tours, and workshops, which enrich your travel experience.
• Advance Planning: Book accommodations and transport in advance to secure the best rates and avoid last-minute price surges.
• Smart Spending: Use money-saving tips like eating local, bargaining in markets, and using combo tickets for sightseeing.

Let me clarify the main point:

Exploring Rajasthan’s majestic beauty doesn’t necessarily mean high expenses. With strategic planning and mindful budgeting, you can experience this vibrant region in a financially sustainable and enriching way. The true essence of an unforgettable journey lies in the rich experiences and the connections forged with the land and its people, not in extravagant spending. From the sun setting over Jaisalmer’s dunes to the lively streets of Jaipur and the tranquil lakes of Udaipur, Rajasthan offers a wealth of priceless experiences. By planning smartly, you can fully immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of this land, creating lasting memories.

The cost of touring Rajasthan depends on various factors like trip length, accommodation type, transportation choices, activities, and personal dining preferences. Budget travelers might spend around $50 to $100 daily, mid-range travelers could budget between $100 to $200 per day, while those seeking luxury might spend over $200 per day. This estimate includes accommodation, meals, local travel, sightseeing, and miscellaneous expenses. Keep in mind that costs can fluctuate with seasons, and additional activities or shopping might increase your overall budget.

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