Welcome to Jaipur, the Pink City of India! Start your trip by checking into a family-friendly hotel and exploring the local markets for some traditional Rajasthani handicrafts. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Amer Fort and enjoy an elephant ride to the entrance. As the evening approaches, head to the magnificent City Palace to witness the Sound and Light Show. Estimated cost: Accommodation - Check hotel prices.
City Palace: Entrance fee - $7, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Tapri Central - A charming cafe offering a range of breakfast options such as sandwiches, parathas, and traditional Indian tea. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Lunch: Spice Court - Located near Amer Fort, this restaurant offers a variety of Rajasthani delicacies and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Dinner: Peacock Rooftop Restaurant - Enjoy a stunning view of the city while feasting on delicious Indian and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 900 INR per person.
Saturday, January 6: Exploring Jaipur
Start your morning by visiting the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, and take some stunning photographs. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich history of Jaipur by exploring the Jaigarh Fort, known for its impressive collection of ancient artifacts and breathtaking views of the Aravalli hills. As the evening sets in, visit Chokhi Dhani, a traditional village resort, for an authentic Rajasthani dinner and cultural performances. Estimated cost: Entrance fees - $2-3, Dinner - $15 per person, Time spent - Full day.
Hawa Mahal: Entrance fee - $3, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Chokhi Dhani: Entrance fee - $10 per person, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to On The House, a charming cafe with a menu offering a mix of traditional Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, try Peacock Rooftop Restaurant, located near Hawa Mahal, serving delicious Rajasthani cuisine with a stunning rooftop view. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, indulge in the authentic flavors of Rajasthan at Spice Court, known for its Rajasthani thali and live folk music performances. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Sunday, January 7: Day Trip to Ajmer
Take a day trip from Jaipur to Ajmer, a city famous for its religious significance. In the morning, visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a popular Sufi shrine, and seek blessings. In the afternoon, explore the serene Ana Sagar Lake and indulge in a picnic with your family. As the evening approaches, visit the nearby town of Pushkar and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Pushkar Camel Fair (if it coincides with your trip dates). Estimated cost: Transportation - $20-30, Time spent - Full day.
Ajmer Sharif Dargah: No entrance fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Ana Sagar Lake: No entrance fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Pushkar Camel Fair: Entrance fee - $5 per person (if applicable), Time spent - Evening
Monday, January 8: Journey to Jaisalmer
Leave Jaipur behind and embark on a road trip to Jaisalmer, the Golden City of India. Enjoy the scenic drive through the desert landscapes of Rajasthan. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, marvel at its intricate architecture, and delve into the history of the region. As the evening sets in, visit the famous Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of beautifully carved mansions showcasing traditional Rajasthani craftsmanship. Estimated cost: Transportation - $50-70, Time spent - Full day.
Patwon Ki Haveli: Entrance fee - $2, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Anokhi Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Anokhi Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a range of healthy and organic options, including freshly baked breads, homemade granola, and freshly squeezed juices. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Laxmi Misthan Bhandar: For lunch, head to Laxmi Misthan Bhandar, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its traditional Rajasthani thali. Indulge in a variety of flavorful dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and papad ki sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Suryagarh Restaurant: For dinner, experience the royal flavors of Rajasthan at Suryagarh Restaurant. Known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine, this restaurant offers a range of delicious dishes like laal maas, ker sangri, and ghevar dessert. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Restaurants
For a delicious and authentic Rajasthani breakfast, head to The Trio in Jaisalmer. This charming restaurant offers a wide variety of local breakfast dishes, including pyaaz kachori and mirchi vada. The average cost for a meal here is about $5 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try The Yellow Tree Café in Jaisalmer. This cozy café serves a mix of Indian and international cuisines, with options like burgers, pasta, and thali meals. The average cost for a meal here is about $8 per person.
If you're looking for a memorable dinner experience, dine at Saffron in Jaisalmer. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of Jaisalmer Fort while serving delicious Indian and Rajasthani dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about $12 per person.
Tuesday, January 9: Discovering Jaisalmer
Start your day by visiting the stunning Gadisar Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Enjoy a boat ride and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Desert Cultural Center and Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Jaisalmer. As the evening approaches, embark on a camel safari in the Sam Sand Dunes and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the desert. Estimated cost: Boat ride - $5, Museum - $3, Camel safari - $20-30 per person, Time spent - Full day.
Desert Cultural Center and Museum: Entrance fee - $2, Time spent - 2 hours
Camel Safari: Cost - $20-30 per person, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Kaku for freshly brewed coffee and a variety of continental and Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
For lunch, try the rooftop restaurant at Saffron Restaurant & Terrace for stunning views of the city and delicious Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at The Trio Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Wednesday, January 10: Departure
As your memorable journey comes to an end, spend your morning exploring the local markets of Jaisalmer to pick up some souvenirs. Bid farewell to the Golden City and head back to your hometown with beautiful memories of Rajasthan. Estimated cost: Shopping - Varies, Time spent - Half day.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Jaipur, don't miss the opportunity to visit the unique and enchanting Jal Mahal, a palace located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake. It offers a picturesque backdrop and is the perfect spot for a family photoshoot. Another hidden gem is the Amer Sagar Lake, about 12 km away from Jaisalmer, known for its serene ambience and stunning views of the surrounding desert. Both these attractions provide a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots.