Jodhpur and Jaisalmer Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Friday, September 8 - Arrival in Jodhpur

Start your trip by arriving in Jodhpur, the "Blue City" of Rajasthan. In the morning, visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, perched on a hilltop, and explore its fascinating history and architectural beauty. Afternoon can be spent at Jaswant Thada, a stunning marble cenotaph, and Umaid Bhawan Palace, a grand heritage hotel. In the evening, wander through the bustling streets of the Blue City, exploring the vibrant markets and tasting local delicacies.

• Mehrangarh Fort: Entrance Fee - ₹600 (~$8), 2-3 hours
• Jaswant Thada: Entrance Fee - ₹30 (~$0.40), 1-2 hours
• Umaid Bhawan Palace: Entrance Fee - ₹30 (~$0.40), 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Café Mehran: Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani breakfast at Café Mehran, known for its delicious parathas and chai. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
• Indique: Indulge in a delectable lunch at Indique, offering a blend of traditional and fusion Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• Odhani: For dinner, head to Odhani and savor authentic Rajasthani thali with a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.

Day 2: Saturday, September 9 - Jodhpur Exploration

In the morning, take a guided tour of the historic Clock Tower and the bustling Sardar Market, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Afternoon can be dedicated to visiting the beautiful Rai Ka Bagh Palace and the stunning Mandore Gardens, known for their intricately carved temples and cenotaphs. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic Kaylana Lake.

• Clock Tower and Sardar Market: Free, 2-3 hours
• Rai Ka Bagh Palace: Entrance Fee - ₹20 (~$0.27), 1-2 hours
• Mandore Gardens: Entrance Fee - ₹50 (~$0.67), 2-3 hours
• Kaylana Lake: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Blue House Café, a charming café located near Clock Tower. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Indian dishes. Expect to spend around 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Shahi Samosa, a popular local eatery known for its delectable samosas. They offer a range of fillings including potato, cheese, and vegetable. A meal here will cost you about 100 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit Indique, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city. Indulge in a delicious assortment of Indian and International dishes, with an average cost of around 800 INR per person.

Day 3: Sunday, September 10 - Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Jaisalmer, the "Golden City" of Rajasthan. In the morning, visit the breathtaking Jaisalmer Fort, an architectural marvel blending ancient history with vibrant markets and beautiful temples. Afternoon can be spent exploring the havelis (mansions) of Patwon Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli, known for their intricate carvings and stunning architecture. In the evening, enjoy a camel safari in the nearby Sam Sand Dunes and witness a mesmerizing sunset.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Entrance Fee - ₹250 (~$3.35), 2-3 hours
• Patwon Ki Haveli: Entrance Fee - ₹100 (~$1.34), 1-2 hours
• Nathmal Ki Haveli: Entrance Fee - ₹50 (~$0.67), 1-2 hours
• Camel Safari at Sam Sand Dunes: ₹1,500 (~$20) per person, 3-4 hours

Day 4: Monday, September 11 - Jaisalmer Sightseeing

In the morning, visit the beautiful Gadisar Lake, a serene oasis surrounded by temples and ghats. Afterward, explore the Bada Bagh, a complex of cenotaphs dedicated to the royal family, showcasing exquisite Rajput architecture. Afternoon can be dedicated to exploring the Desert Cultural Centre & Museum, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani folk dance and music performance.

• Gadisar Lake: Entrance Fee - ₹100 (~$1.34), 1-2 hours
• Bada Bagh: Entrance Fee - ₹100 (~$1.34), 1-2 hours
• Desert Cultural Centre & Museum: Entrance Fee - ₹30 (~$0.40), 1-2 hours
• Rajasthani Folk Dance Performance: ₹500 (~$6.70) per person, 2-3 hours

Day 5: Tuesday, September 12 - Jaisalmer Departure

In the morning, take a final walk through the narrow lanes of Jaisalmer, exploring its unique architecture and vibrant markets for any last-minute souvenirs. Afterward, visit the magnificent Kuldhara Village, an abandoned village with a haunting past. In the afternoon, depart from Jaisalmer with beautiful memories of Rajasthan.

• Kuldhara Village: Entrance Fee - ₹20 (~$0.27), 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Desert National Park near Jaisalmer, where you can spot rare wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the desert landscape. Another hidden gem is Khimsar Village, located between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, offering a glimpse into rural Rajasthan with its traditional mud houses and friendly locals. Families with children can also enjoy a visit to the Machiya Safari Park, a wildlife sanctuary near Jodhpur that houses various species of animals and birds.

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