A Week in Rajasthan, India

Wednesday, October 18: Jaipur

Start your trip in the Pink City, Jaipur. In the morning, visit the magnificent Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its intricate architecture. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. End the day with a visit to the bustling Johri Bazaar, known for its vibrant markets offering traditional handicrafts and jewellery.

• Amer Fort: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• City Palace: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Johri Bazaar: Estimated cost - Depends on shopping, Time spent - Flexible

Thursday, October 19: Jaisalmer

Head west to the Golden City, Jaisalmer. Morning starts with a visit to the stunning Jaisalmer Fort, known for its yellow sandstone architecture. Afternoon is dedicated to exploring the intricate carvings and craftsmanship of Patwon Ki Haveli. End the day with a camel safari in the Thar Desert and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the sand dunes.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Estimated cost - INR 250, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Patwon Ki Haveli: Estimated cost - INR 150, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Camel Safari: Estimated cost - INR 2000, Time spent - 4-5 hours

Friday, October 20: Udaipur

Travel south to the romantic city of Udaipur, also known as the Venice of the East. Start your morning with a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visiting the breathtaking Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas (Lake Palace). Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the grandeur of the City Palace, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the city. End the day with a visit to the vibrant and bustling markets of Udaipur.

• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 400, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• City Palace: Estimated cost - INR 300, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Depends on shopping, Time spent - Flexible

Restaurants

• For breakfast in Udaipur, head to Millets of Mewar, a cozy cafe offering a variety of healthy and delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try the Rajasthani Thali at Natraj Dining Hall, a popular restaurant known for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For dinner, indulge in the authentic Rajasthani flavors at Ambrai, a lakeside restaurant offering stunning views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Saturday, October 21: Pushkar

Head north to the sacred town of Pushkar. In the morning, visit the renowned Brahma Temple, one of the few existing temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the bustling Pushkar Lake and its surrounding ghats. Don't miss the vibrant Pushkar Bazaar, offering a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and spiritual artifacts.

• Brahma Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Pushkar Lake and Ghats: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible
• Pushkar Bazaar: Estimated cost - Depends on shopping, Time spent - Flexible

Sunday, October 22: Jodhpur

Continue your journey to the Blue City, Jodhpur. Start your morning by exploring the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, perched on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of the city. Afternoon is dedicated to discovering the intricate architecture of Jaswant Thada, a beautifully crafted marble cenotaph. End the day with a visit to the vibrant Clock Tower Market, known for its spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

• Mehrangarh Fort: Estimated cost - INR 600, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Jaswant Thada: Estimated cost - INR 30, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Clock Tower Market: Estimated cost - Depends on shopping, Time spent - Flexible

Monday, October 23: Mount Abu

Head southwest to the only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu. Morning starts with a visit to Dilwara Jain Temples, known for their intricate marble carvings. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore Nakki Lake and enjoy a boat ride. End the day with a visit to the Sunset Point to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Aravalli Range.

• Dilwara Jain Temples: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Nakki Lake: Estimated cost - Depends on activities, Time spent - Flexible
• Sunset Point: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Ajmer and Pushkar

On the final day of your trip, visit the holy cities of Ajmer and Pushkar. Morning starts with a visit to the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a Sufi shrine attracting devotees from all over the world. Afternoon is dedicated to exploring the spiritual ambiance of Pushkar once again or indulging in some last-minute shopping before departure.

• Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Pushkar: Estimated cost - Depends on activities, Time spent - Flexible

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Rajasthan, don't miss out on visiting the lesser-known destinations like Bundi, known for its stunning palaces and stepwells, and Chittorgarh, home to the largest fort in India. These off-the-beaten-path attractions offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Locals also love exploring the colorful markets of Jodhpur, known for its textiles and handicrafts, and indulging in the mouthwatering Rajasthani cuisine, famous for its spicy flavors and royal heritage.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check out Kayak.