Honeymoon Itinerary: Jaisalmer and Jodhpur

Thursday, September 7: Arrival in Jaisalmer

Start your romantic honeymoon in Jaisalmer, the "Golden City" of India. In the morning, visit the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its narrow lanes, marvel at the intricate architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, take a desert safari and ride a camel through the vast sand dunes of the Thar Desert. As the evening sets in, witness the mesmerizing sunset over the desert and enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner under the starry sky.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Free, 2-3 hours
• Desert Safari: Approx. $30 per person, 4-5 hours

Friday, September 8: Jaisalmer

On your second day in Jaisalmer, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the city. In the morning, visit the Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five beautifully carved mansions. Explore the intricate artwork and learn about the history of these heritage buildings. In the afternoon, visit the Gadisar Lake, a serene oasis in the desert. Take a boat ride and admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding temples and cenotaphs. In the evening, attend a traditional Rajasthani folk dance and music performance to experience the vibrant local culture.

• Patwon Ki Haveli: Approx. $2 per person, 2-3 hours
• Gadisar Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
• Rajasthani Folk Performance: Approx. $10 per person, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Jaisalmer is The Trio Cafe, offering a range of delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
• For a delightful lunch experience, head to Saffron Restaurant. This rooftop eatery offers stunning views of the city while serving a variety of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Royale Restaurant, known for its Rajasthani cuisine and elegant ambiance. From traditional thalis to delectable curries, this restaurant offers an authentic dining experience. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.

Saturday, September 9: Jodhpur

Embark on a journey to the "Blue City" of Jodhpur on your third day. In the morning, visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India. Explore its exquisite palaces, museums, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the fort's ramparts. In the afternoon, take a walk through the vibrant streets of the historic old city, filled with blue-painted houses. Visit the bustling Sardar Market, known for its handicrafts, textiles, and spices. In the evening, head to the stunning Umaid Bhawan Palace and enjoy a romantic dinner at one of its elegant restaurants.

• Mehrangarh Fort: Approx. $5 per person, 3-4 hours
• Old City and Sardar Market: Free, 2-3 hours
• Umaid Bhawan Palace: Dinner costs vary, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Indique serves delicious Indian breakfast dishes such as masala dosa and aloo puri. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• Royal Veena offers a wide range of traditional Rajasthani dishes for lunch, including dal bati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• Tandori Flames is a popular dinner spot known for its tandoori kebabs, butter chicken, and biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Sunday, September 10: Jodhpur

On your last day, continue to explore the beauty of Jodhpur. In the morning, visit the Jaswant Thada, a stunning marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Admire the intricate carvings and serene surroundings of this architectural marvel. In the afternoon, take a jeep safari to the nearby Bishnoi Village, known for its rich biodiversity and traditional rural life. Interact with the locals, observe their crafts, and learn about their sustainable way of living. As the evening approaches, make your way to the Mandore Gardens and soak in the peaceful ambiance surrounded by ancient temples and cenotaphs.

• Jaswant Thada: Approx. $2 per person, 1-2 hours
• Bishnoi Village Jeep Safari: Approx. $25 per person, 3-4 hours
• Mandore Gardens: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Café Sheesh Mahal: Enjoy a delectable breakfast at Café Sheesh Mahal, located in the heart of Jodhpur. Indulge in their wide range of breakfast options including omelettes, pastries, and traditional Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• Gypsy Dining Hall: For a satisfying lunch, head to Gypsy Dining Hall. This restaurant offers a variety of Indian and Rajasthani delicacies including thalis and curries. The warm hospitality and flavorful food make it a must-visit. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Mehrangarh Terrace Restaurant: For a romantic dinner, look no further than Mehrangarh Terrace Restaurant. Located within the Mehrangarh Fort, this rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city skyline and mouthwatering Indian and Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique and off the beaten path experience, consider visiting Khimsar, a small village located near Jodhpur. Explore the magnificent Khimsar Fort and spend a night in its heritage hotel, surrounded by the tranquility of the desert. Another hidden gem is the Osian Desert, situated about 65 kilometers from Jodhpur. Discover the ancient temples, sand dunes, and enjoy a thrilling camel safari in this less-explored desert destination. These hidden gems offer a peaceful and romantic escape from the bustling cities, making them perfect additions to your honeymoon itinerary.