A Royal Exploration: Jodhpur and Jaisalmer Itinerary
Saturday December 23: Arrival in Jodhpur
Welcome to the magnificent Blue City! Start your day by exploring the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in the morning. This imposing structure offers breathtaking views of the entire city. In the afternoon, visit the Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant local market, exploring the colorful textiles, handicrafts, and aromatic spices.
Vibrant Local Market: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Janta Sweet Home for a delicious breakfast of traditional Indian dishes. Start your day with their famous Poha, a spicy flattened rice dish. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try Gypsy Dining Hall, known for its authentic Rajasthani thali. Indulge in a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including dal bati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Indique Restaurant. Located on the rooftop of a haveli, this restaurant offers stunning views of the Mehrangarh Fort. Enjoy their flavorful Rajasthani specialties like laal maas and ker sangri. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday December 24: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Jaisalmer, the Golden City. In the morning, visit the stunning Patwon Ki Haveli, a collection of intricately carved sandstone mansions. In the afternoon, explore the Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive architecture and vibrant market. Enjoy a camel safari in the Sam Sand Dunes during the evening, experiencing the mesmerizing sunset and traditional Rajasthani folk performances.
Patwon Ki Haveli: Cost Estimate - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Camel Safari at Sam Sand Dunes: Cost Estimate - INR 1,500, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delectable breakfast at Gypsy Restaurant, known for their wide variety of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to The Trio Restaurant, offering a delightful mix of Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Saffron Restaurant, serving authentic Rajasthani delicacies in a beautiful setting. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Monday December 25: Jaisalmer City Exploration
On this festive day, start by visiting the intricately carved Nathmal Ki Haveli in the morning. Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and architectural marvels of this unique haveli. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region by visiting the Patwon Ki Haveli Museum. As evening falls, head to Gadisar Lake, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride.
Nathmal Ki Haveli: Cost Estimate - INR 30, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Patwon Ki Haveli Museum: Cost Estimate - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Cafe Royale: A cozy breakfast spot located near Nathmal Ki Haveli, offering a variety of delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Desert Spice: A vibrant restaurant located close to Patwon Ki Haveli Museum, known for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
The Saffron Saga: An elegant rooftop restaurant overlooking Gadisar Lake, serving a range of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday December 26: Jaisalmer Desert Safari
Get ready for an exciting day exploring the Thar Desert! Start with a visit to the Bada Bagh, a stunning garden complex with royal cenotaphs. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of dune bashing and enjoy the serenity of the desert during a jeep safari. As the sun sets, indulge in a traditional Rajasthani dinner under the starlit sky, accompanied by cultural performances.
Bada Bagh: Cost Estimate - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Traditional Rajasthani Dinner: Cost Estimate - INR 800, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Jaisalmer Kitchen which offers a wide variety of breakfast options including traditional Rajasthani dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Trio Restaurant located in the heart of Jaisalmer. They serve a mix of Indian and international cuisine with vegetarian options available. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Desert Boy's Dhani where you can enjoy a Rajasthani thali with a view of the desert. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Wednesday December 27: Departure
It's time to bid farewell to this enchanting land. Before leaving, make sure to visit the Salim Singh Ki Haveli in the morning, famous for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. End your trip by exploring the local markets, where you can find unique souvenirs to take home as cherished memories of your royal adventure.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Cost Estimate - INR 50, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Local Market Shopping: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Shri Mishrilal Hotel, known for its delicious lassi (yogurt-based drink) and mouthwatering dal bati churma. Expect to spend around INR 200 per person.
Satisfy your midday hunger with a visit to Gypsy Restaurant, offering a wide array of traditional Rajasthani dishes like Laal Maas (spicy red meat curry) and Ker Sangri (local desert beans). Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Indulge in a lavish dinner experience at Indique, a rooftop restaurant providing stunning views of the city along with a menu featuring Indian and Continental delicacies. Prices vary, but expect to spend around INR 800 per person for a complete meal.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the Mandore Gardens in Jodhpur. These beautifully landscaped gardens are home to ancient cenotaphs and provide a peaceful atmosphere away from the city hustle. In Jaisalmer, don't miss out on exploring Kuldhara, an abandoned village with fascinating folklore and a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Both these places offer a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, away from the usual tourist crowds.