A Week in Rajasthan: City Experiences

Friday, September 29: Arrival in Jaipur

Start your trip in the Pink City of Jaipur. Begin your morning by visiting the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, which offers fantastic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant markets of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, known for their colorful textiles and handicrafts.

• Hawa Mahal: Entrance Fee - INR 200, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Amer Fort: Entrance Fee - INR 500 (Foreigners), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar: Shopping Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Tapri Central, a charming rooftop cafe in Jaipur. Enjoy their wide range of teas and scrumptious Indian breakfast options. Average cost is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to LMB Restaurant in the heart of Jaipur. Known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of flavorful thalis and traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at Handi Restaurant. Located in the bustling MI Road area, this restaurant is renowned for its signature Rajasthani dishes and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Saturday, September 30: Jodhpur

Head to the Blue City of Jodhpur in the morning. Start your day by exploring the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the fort's ramparts. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph. As the evening sets in, take a walk through the bustling Sardar Market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and spices.

• Mehrangarh Fort: Entrance Fee - INR 600 (Foreigners), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Jaswant Thada: Entrance Fee - INR 30 (Foreigners), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Sardar Market: Shopping Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 1: Udaipur

Travel to the romantic city of Udaipur. Start your morning by visiting the enchanting City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola. Explore the palace complex and enjoy the breathtaking view. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to Jag Mandir, a beautiful island palace. As the evening approaches, wander through the lively streets of the old city, exploring the markets and enjoying traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

• City Palace: Entrance Fee - INR 300 (Foreigners), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Cost - INR 400-600 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Exploring Old City: Food Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, October 2: Pushkar

Visit the holy town of Pushkar. Begin your morning by strolling around the sacred Pushkar Lake and visiting the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of the colorful Pushkar Bazaar, known for its handicrafts and camel fair. As the evening sets in, enjoy the tranquility of the sunset at Savitri Temple, perched on a hilltop.

• Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple: Free Entry, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Pushkar Bazaar: Shopping Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Savitri Temple: Rope Car Ride - INR 60 (one way), Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 3: Bikaner

Explore the desert city of Bikaner. Start your morning with a visit to the magnificent Junagarh Fort, known for its impressive architecture. In the afternoon, head to the unique Rat Temple, Karni Mata Temple, where you can encounter thousands of rats considered sacred. As the evening approaches, take a walk through the bustling markets of Bikaner, known for their savory snacks.

• Junagarh Fort: Entrance Fee - INR 300 (Foreigners), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Karni Mata Temple: Free Entry, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Exploring Markets: Food Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Jaisalmer

Visit the Golden City of Jaisalmer. Start your morning with a visit to the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, known as the Golden Fort. Explore the intricate architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, experience the unique desert culture with a camel safari in the Sam Sand Dunes. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani folk dance and music performance under the starry sky.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Entrance Fee - INR 500 (Foreigners), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Camel Safari: Cost - INR 700-1000 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Cultural Performance: Cost - INR 200-400 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, October 5: Return to Jaipur

Return to Jaipur for your departure. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Albert Hall Museum, known for its extensive collection of artifacts. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant markets of Jaipur, such as Tripolia Bazaar and Badi Chaupar, where you can shop for traditional crafts and jewelry. Depart in the evening with beautiful memories of Rajasthan.

• Albert Hall Museum: Entrance Fee - INR 300 (Foreigners), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring Markets: Shopping Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Rajasthan, don't miss the hidden gem of Mandawa, known for its stunning havelis adorned with intricate frescoes. Take a walk through the narrow lanes of the town, marveling at the beautiful artwork on the walls. Another local favorite is the town of Bundi, famous for its step wells and vibrant street art. Explore the unique architecture of the step wells and discover the artistic gems scattered throughout the town.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Rajasthan trip here.