Flight lands at 16:40; expect immigration/baggage by ~18:00. Meet your pre-booked driver or pick up your rental car and start the road portion of your trip.
Overnight at a local hotel or guesthouse in Neem Ka Thana; confirm 24-hour reception when booking as options are basic but convenient for early temple visits.
Short drive to Khatu (Khatu Shyamji) for darshan — temple is an important pilgrimage spot (typically open early morning to late evening) and best visited in the morning to avoid crowds.
Walk among painted havelis and visit Mandawa Fort to see Shekhawati frescoes and handicrafts — great for photography and shopping for textiles and pottery.
Try dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi and other Rajasthani specialties served at haveli restaurants — a memorable culinary experience. Check seasonal kitchen hours during holidays.
Pre-book a New Year’s dinner at your hotel or a popular Jaipur restaurant (places fill up quickly for NYE). Expect special menus and events — confirm timings in advance.
Begin long overnight drive to Delhi (~6–7 hours) so you arrive early morning on 03 Jan; this lets you visit a Delhi temple after 8:00am per your plan. Ensure driver/rest stops for safety.
Arrive early morning in Delhi from the overnight drive; freshen up at a hotel or airport lounge—plan 1–1.5 hours to rest and prepare for the morning temple visit.
Akshardham opens at 8:00; visit after 8:00 for the main temple, gardens and exhibitions. Note: security, bag restrictions and no-cameras rule — plan 2 hours and check ticket/exhibit timings.
Visit India Gate and a short walk around Rajpath / Central Delhi for photos — quick, iconic stop before you head to the airport. Allow time for traffic returning to the airport.
Return to your hotel or directly proceed to the airport; allow 3 hours for airport arrival before your 17:00 flight (arrive by ~14:00). Delhi traffic can be unpredictable, so depart early from central Delhi.