Welcome to Rajasthan! Begin your journey in the Pink City, Jaipur. In the morning, visit the magnificent Amer Fort, an architectural marvel with stunning views. Afternoon is perfect for exploring the City Palace, with its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture at Chokhi Dhani, a traditional Rajasthani village resort. Estimated cost: INR 3000 ($40) for attractions. Estimated time spent: 5-6 hours.
Amer Fort: INR 550 ($7), 2-3 hours
City Palace: INR 500 ($7), 2-3 hours
Chokhi Dhani: INR 1500 ($20), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Tapri - The Tea House. This charming café offers a variety of teas, coffees, and delicious breakfast options such as paranthas and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 ($4) per person.
For a delightful lunch, head over to Spice Court. Known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine, this restaurant serves a range of delectable dishes including dal baati churma and laal maas. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 ($11) per person.
End your day with a fantastic dinner experience at Handi Restaurant. Specializing in traditional Indian cuisine, this restaurant is famous for its flavorful kebabs and curries. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1000 ($14) per person.
Friday, September 22: Jaipur Exploration
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hawa Mahal, known for its intricate façade. In the afternoon, discover the beauty of Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory. In the evening, wander through the colorful markets in Johri Bazaar for some local shopping. Estimated cost: INR 1000 ($13). Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
Hawa Mahal: INR 200 ($3), 1-2 hours
Jantar Mantar: INR 200 ($3), 1-2 hours
Johri Bazaar: Variable
Saturday, September 23: Jodhpur Excursion
Embark on a day trip to the Blue City, Jodhpur. In the morning, explore the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, offering panoramic views of the city. Afternoon is perfect for discovering the vibrant streets of the old town, and don't miss the bustling Sardar Market. Estimated cost: INR 2000 ($27). Estimated time spent: 6-7 hours.
Mehrangarh Fort: INR 600 ($8), 2-3 hours
Explore Old Town: Variable
Sardar Market: Variable
Restaurants
Head to Janta Sweet Home for breakfast, a popular spot known for its delicious breakfast items such as paranthas and hot jalebis. The average cost for a meal is about INR 150 ($2) per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, try Indique Restaurant. This rooftop eatery serves authentic Rajasthani cuisine with a modern twist. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 ($7) per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at On The Rocks. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of Mehrangarh Fort and serves an array of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 ($11) per person.
Sunday, September 24: Udaipur Delights
Head to the enchanting City of Lakes, Udaipur. Morning is perfect to visit the grand City Palace, followed by a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola in the afternoon. In the evening, soak in the beauty of the sunset from the iconic Lake Palace. Estimated cost: INR 1500 ($20). Estimated time spent: 5-6 hours.
City Palace: INR 300 ($4), 2-3 hours
Lake Pichola Boat Ride: INR 400 ($5), 1-2 hours
Lake Palace: Exterior view, no cost
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Namaste, a charming rooftop cafe offering a variety of delicious Indian and continental breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 ($4) per person.
If you're looking for a lunch spot, try Ambrai Restaurant which offers stunning views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace. They serve a range of delectable Rajasthani and North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 ($11) per person.
In the evening, indulge in a memorable dinner at Udai Kothi Rooftop, a restaurant offering panoramic views of Udaipur. Enjoy their extensive menu of Indian and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1200 ($16) per person.
Monday, September 25: Pushkar Pilgrimage
Visit the holy town of Pushkar, known for its sacred lake and temples. Morning is perfect for exploring the famous Brahma Temple and taking part in the religious rituals. Afternoon is great for a leisurely stroll around Pushkar Lake and exploring the vibrant markets. Estimated cost: INR 500 ($7). Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
Brahma Temple: No cost, 1-2 hours
Pushkar Lake: No cost, 1-2 hours
Market Exploration: Variable
Tuesday, September 26: Ranthambore Wildlife Safari
Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure at Ranthambore National Park. Early morning, embark on a safari to spot majestic tigers and other wildlife. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Estimated cost: INR 4000 ($53). Estimated time spent: 8-9 hours.
Wildlife Safari: INR 1500 ($20), 4-5 hours
Ranthambore Fort: INR 300 ($4), 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Return to Jaipur
Head back to Jaipur for your departure. If time permits, explore the vibrant markets of Jaipur to collect some souvenirs. Estimated cost: Variable. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rajasthan, don't miss the charming town of Bundi, famous for its step wells and ancient havelis. Also, make time to indulge in the traditional Rajasthani cuisine, such as dal baati churma and ghevar. The locals recommend visiting the lesser-known village of Samode for its stunning palace and rural charm.