7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Rajasthan

Friday, August 25: Arrival in Jaipur

In the morning, visit the iconic Amber Fort, a magnificent palace located on a hilltop offering stunning views of the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the City Palace, a complex of palaces, gardens, and courtyards showcasing Rajasthani architecture. In the evening, wander through the bustling Johri Bazaar, known for its vibrant markets and traditional Rajasthani handicrafts.

• Amber Fort: Cost estimate - INR 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• City Palace: Cost estimate - INR 500, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Johri Bazaar: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, August 26: Jaisalmer

Start your day by exploring the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Golden Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, visit the Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five havelis showcasing intricate architecture. Catch the sunset at the stunning Sam Sand Dunes and enjoy a camel safari. Spend the evening strolling through the vibrant local markets.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Cost estimate - INR 250, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Patwon Ki Haveli: Cost estimate - INR 100, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sam Sand Dunes: Cost estimate - INR 500 (camel safari), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Local Markets: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, August 27: Jodhpur

Start your day by exploring the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India. Afterward, visit the serene Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Clock Tower market, known for its spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal at a local restaurant.

• Mehrangarh Fort: Cost estimate - INR 600, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Jaswant Thada: Cost estimate - INR 30, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Clock Tower Market: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Restaurant: Cost estimate - INR 300, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, August 28: Udaipur

Start your day by visiting the beautiful City Palace, a grand complex overlooking Lake Pichola. Take a boat ride on the lake to the serene Lake Palace, now a luxury hotel. In the afternoon, explore the Saheliyon Ki Bari, an enchanting garden with fountains and marble elephants. Watch the sunset from the sunset point at Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace).

• City Palace: Cost estimate - INR 300, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Cost estimate - INR 400, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Saheliyon Ki Bari: Cost estimate - INR 50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace): Cost estimate - INR 80, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, August 29: Pushkar

Start your day by visiting the sacred Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. Explore the vibrant Pushkar Bazaar, known for its handicrafts, jewelry, and clothes. Visit the Savitri Temple for panoramic views of the city and enjoy a peaceful evening by the lake.

• Pushkar Lake: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Brahma Temple: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Pushkar Bazaar: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Savitri Temple: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, August 30: Ajmer

Start your day by visiting the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a popular Sufi shrine. Explore the serene Ana Sagar Lake and enjoy a boat ride. Visit the Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, an ancient mosque with intricate architecture. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Naya Bazaar for shopping and local street food.

• Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ana Sagar Lake: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra: Cost estimate - INR 30, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Naya Bazaar: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, August 31: Ranthambore National Park

Embark on an early morning safari in Ranthambore National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and various bird species. Explore the Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the afternoon. Enjoy the natural beauty of the park and spot wildlife from the fort's vantage points.

• Ranthambore National Park Safari: Cost estimate - INR 1,000, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Ranthambore Fort: Cost estimate - INR 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, visit the serene town of Bundi, known for its historic step wells and beautiful painted havelis. Explore the lesser-known city of Alwar, home to the stunning Neemrana Fort Palace, now converted into a heritage hotel. Both these destinations offer a glimpse into Rajasthan's rich history and architecture at affordable prices.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check Kayak.