Welcome to Rajasthan! Begin your journey in the "Pink City" of Jaipur. In the morning, explore the iconic Amber Fort, a majestic palace complex nestled on a hilltop. Admire the intricate architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afternoon calls for a visit to the City Palace, a splendid blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Wrap up the day by strolling through the vibrant markets of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, offering a wide array of traditional handicrafts and textiles.
Amber Fort: INR 500 ($7) per person, 2-3 hours
City Palace: INR 350 ($5) per person, 1-2 hours
Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar: Shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Chokhi Dhani Restaurant. Indulge in traditional Rajasthani cuisine with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Spice Court. This restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisines in a charming courtyard setting. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Handi Restaurant. Known for its delectable North Indian and Mughlai dishes, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, November 13: Jodhpur - The Blue City
Head southwest to Jodhpur, famously known as the "Blue City." In the morning, explore the colossal Mehrangarh Fort, a formidable structure with stunning views of the city. Witness the intricate carvings and expansive courtyards. Afterward, visit Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph showcasing the architectural marvel of Rajasthan. As the evening unfolds, take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets of the vibrant blue houses in the old city, absorbing the traditional essence of Jodhpur.
Mehrangarh Fort: INR 600 ($8) per person, 2-3 hours
Jaswant Thada: INR 50 ($0.70) per person, 1 hour
Exploring the Blue City: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Clock Tower Restaurant: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this rooftop restaurant overlooking the iconic clock tower. Indulge in a variety of local delicacies such as poha and paratha. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Midday Marwari: For a fulfilling lunch, head to Midday Marwari and savor the flavors of authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Feast on delectable dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indique: Experience a regal dinner at Indique, offering stunning views of Mehrangarh Fort illuminated at night. Relish the fusion of Rajasthani and international flavors with dishes like laal maas and murg badami korma. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 14: Lake Pichola Serenity in Udaipur
Travel south to the enchanting city of Udaipur, also known as the "City of Lakes." Start the day with a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, admiring the stunning palaces and soaking in the tranquility. In the afternoon, visit the majestic City Palace, a grand complex showcasing intricate architecture and offering captivating views. Conclude the day with a visit to the famous Jag Mandir Palace, an island palace known for its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture.
Lake Pichola Boat Ride: INR 400 ($5.50) per person, 1-2 hours
City Palace: INR 300 ($4) per person, 2-3 hours
Jag Mandir Palace: INR 350 ($5) per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Millets of Mewar, a charming café serving organic and healthy options. Enjoy their delicious smoothie bowls and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 250 per person.
For lunch, try Ambrai Restaurant, located on the waterfront with breathtaking views of Lake Pichola and City Palace. Indulge in their authentic Rajasthani thali and enjoy the serene ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
For dinner, Maharana Terrace offers a rooftop dining experience with panoramic views of the city. Savor their delectable Indian and international cuisine, including mouthwatering kebabs and curries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 1200 per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Pushkar - The Sacred City
Embark on a spiritual journey to the holy town of Pushkar. Morning calls for a visit to the sacred Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. Explore the bustling Pushkar Bazaar, known for its vibrant handicrafts and souvenirs. In the afternoon, experience the serene ambiance of the Pushkar Lake and witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony. Embrace the tranquility of this spiritual town as the evening unfolds.
Brahma Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Pushkar Bazaar: Shopping costs vary, 1-2 hours
Pushkar Lake and Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Café Lakeview: Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a view of the serene Pushkar Lake. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Pushkar Vegetarian: Indulge in a traditional Rajasthani thali for lunch at this popular vegetarian restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Pushkar Rooftop Restaurant: Experience the flavors of Rajasthan while dining under the stars at this rooftop restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Thursday, November 16: Jaisalmer - The Golden City
Venture west to the captivating "Golden City" of Jaisalmer. Begin the day by exploring the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its intricately carved architecture. Dive into the rich history at Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five grand havelis showcasing exquisite artwork. As the sun sets, head to the Sam Sand Dunes for a thrilling camel safari, witnessing the mesmerizing desert landscape and enjoying traditional Rajasthani folk music and dance performances.
Jaisalmer Fort: INR 50 ($0.70) per person, 2-3 hours
Patwon Ki Haveli: INR 100 ($1.40) per person, 1-2 hours
Camel Safari at Sam Sand Dunes: INR 1,000 ($14) per person, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Monica's Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Trio Restaurant, offering a wide range of Rajasthani and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dine in the evening at Desert Ship Restaurant, known for its rooftop seating and stunning views of Jaisalmer Fort. Enjoy their delectable Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Friday, November 17: Jaipur - Departure
Return to Jaipur for your departure. If time permits, visit the Hawa Mahal, a unique pink sandstone palace known for its intricate latticework. Explore the local markets for some last-minute shopping, seeking out traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and souvenirs. Bid farewell to Rajasthan as you board your flight back home, cherishing the enchanting memories of this royal adventure.
Hawa Mahal: INR 200 ($3) per person, 1-2 hours
Last-minute Shopping: Costs vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A great option for breakfast is the Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar, known for its delicious traditional Rajasthani sweets and snacks. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Chokhi Dhani Village Restaurant to experience authentic Rajasthani cuisine in a rustic village setting. The thali meal here offers a variety of dishes and the average cost is about Rs. 800 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a sumptuous meal at Handi Restaurant, renowned for its flavorsome Mughlai and North Indian delicacies. Indulge yourself in their aromatic kebabs and curries at an average cost of about Rs. 1000 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rajasthan, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the serene Abhaneri Stepwell near Jaipur, a stunning ancient stepwell showcasing intricate carvings. In Jodhpur, relish a traditional Rajasthani thali, a sumptuous meal consisting of various authentic dishes. Lastly, in Udaipur, take a walk through the peaceful Saheliyon-ki-Bari, a delightful garden adorned with fountains, kiosks, marble elephants, and beautiful sculptures.