Exploring Rajasthan: A Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

Wednesday, October 18: Jaipur

Begin your Rajasthan adventure in the magnificent Pink City of Jaipur. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Amber Fort, a majestic hilltop fortress with stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the City Palace, a grand complex that offers a glimpse into the royal heritage. End your day with a visit to the bustling Johari Bazaar, known for its vibrant markets and traditional handicrafts.

• Amber Fort: Cost estimate - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• City Palace: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Johari Bazaar: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 19: Pushkar

Embark on a journey to the holy town of Pushkar. Start your morning by visiting the famous Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Pushkar Lake and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Explore the bustling market in the evening, where you can shop for vibrant textiles and unique handicrafts.

• Brahma Temple: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Pushkar Lake: Cost estimate - INR 100 for boat ride, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Market: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• The Rose Cafe offers a cozy atmosphere and serves delicious breakfast dishes such as omelettes and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 150-200 INR per person.
• The Laughing Buddha Cafe is a popular lunch spot with a beautiful rooftop seating area. Enjoy their selection of vegetarian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200-300 INR per person.
• At Pink Floyd Cafe, you can experience a unique dining experience with themed decor and live music. They serve a variety of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300-400 INR per person.

Friday, October 20: Jodhpur

Continue your journey to the enchanting Blue City of Jodhpur. Begin your morning with a visit to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the bustling lanes of the old city, known for their vibrant markets and delicious street food. End your day with a visit to the serene Jaswant Thada, a stunning marble cenotaph.

• Mehrangarh Fort: Cost estimate - INR 600 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Old City Markets: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Jaswant Thada: Cost estimate - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 21: Udaipur

Head to the romantic city of Udaipur, often called the Venice of the East. Start your morning with a visit to the magnificent City Palace, showcasing Rajput architecture and breathtaking views of Lake Pichola. In the afternoon, take a serene boat ride on the lake and admire the stunning Lake Palace. In the evening, explore the colorful markets and enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dance performance.

• City Palace: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Cost estimate - INR 400 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Markets: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 22: Jaisalmer

Travel to the golden city of Jaisalmer, known for its magnificent sandstone architecture. Begin your morning with a visit to the stunning Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, explore the intricate havelis (mansions) of Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli. End your day with a camel safari in the breathtaking Thar Desert, watching the sunset over the dunes.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Cost estimate - INR 250 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Patwon Ki Haveli: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Camel Safari: Cost estimate - INR 1500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, October 23: Bikaner

Continue your Rajasthan exploration with a visit to the vibrant city of Bikaner. Start your morning with a tour of Junagarh Fort, known for its exquisite architecture and stunning courtyards. In the afternoon, visit the famous Karni Mata Temple, home to thousands of sacred rats. End your day with a visit to the National Research Centre on Camel, learning about the importance of camels in the desert ecosystem.

• Junagarh Fort: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Karni Mata Temple: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• National Research Centre on Camel: Cost estimate - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Ajmer and Jaipur

Conclude your Rajasthan journey with visits to Ajmer and a return to Jaipur. In the morning, visit the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a Sufi shrine of great spiritual significance. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Ana Sagar Lake and enjoy a picnic by its serene shores. Return to Jaipur in the evening and spend your remaining time exploring the city's markets and enjoying delicious Rajasthani cuisine.

• Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ana Sagar Lake: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jaipur Markets: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Rajasthan, consider visiting the following off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals:

• Bundi: A charming town known for its ornate palaces, stepwells, and beautiful lakes.
• Ranthambore National Park: Go on a thrilling safari to spot magnificent tigers and other wildlife.
• Nahargarh Biological Park: A wildlife sanctuary where you can see animals like lions, tigers, and panthers in their natural habitat.

For hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.