Rajasthan Adventure: A 7-Day Journey through the Jewel of India
Friday, December 1: Arrival in Jaipur
Welcome to the "Pink City" of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Start your day by exploring the magnificent Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, visit the City Palace and its museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of Rajasthan. As the evening unfolds, witness the stunning sunset from Nahargarh Fort, offering panoramic views of the city.
Brunch N' Munch: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Brunch N' Munch, known for their freshly baked pastries and hearty egg dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Spice Junction: For lunch, head to Spice Junction to indulge in authentic Rajasthani cuisine. From spicy curries to flavorful biryanis, this restaurant offers a variety of options. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Candlelight Delights: Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner at Candlelight Delights, a rooftop restaurant offering breathtaking views of Jaipur. The menu features a fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Saturday, December 2: Exploring Jaipur
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Hawa Mahal, renowned for its intricate latticework. In the afternoon, dive into the vibrant markets of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, offering a plethora of textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. As the evening approaches, witness a mesmerizing traditional dance performance at the Jawahar Kala Kendra.
Hawa Mahal: Estimated cost - INR 50 (~$0.70) | Estimated time - 1-2 hours
Johari Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases | Estimated time - 2-3 hours
Bapu Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases | Estimated time - 2-3 hours
Jawahar Kala Kendra: Estimated cost - INR 200 (~$3) | Estimated time - 2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast in Jaipur, head to Anokhi Cafe Jaipur. This charming cafe offers a variety of vegetarian dishes and has a serene courtyard. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For an authentic Rajasthani lunch experience, try Spice Court. Located near the City Palace, this restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For a splendid dinner, dine at 1135 AD. Housed in a restored royal palace, this restaurant serves exquisite Mughlai and Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Sunday, December 3: Journey to Jaisalmer
Embark on a picturesque drive to the enchanting "Golden City" of Jaisalmer. Explore the breathtaking Jaisalmer Fort, known for its intricate architecture and stunning views. In the afternoon, lose yourself in the narrow lanes of the bustling Patwon Ki Haveli, adorned with ornate carvings. As the evening ensues, indulge in a camel safari in the magical Sam Sand Dunes of the Thar Desert.
For breakfast, head to The Trio, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Indique, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of Jaisalmer Fort while serving traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, experience the grandeur of Saffron, a fine dining restaurant specializing in Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy the elegant ambiance and exquisite flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Monday, December 4: Discovering Jodhpur
Head towards the "Blue City" of Jodhpur, known for its marvelous architecture and vibrant culture. Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, overlooking the city from a hillock. In the afternoon, explore the colorful and bustling markets of the old city, including the famous Clock Tower market. Wrap up your evening with a visit to the beautiful Jaswant Thada mausoleum.
Start your day with a delectable breakfast at Shri Mishrilal Hotel, renowned for its mouth-watering lassi and traditional Rajasthani sweets. Average cost for a breakfast is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head over to Gypsy Dining Hall, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of Rajasthani dishes like dal bati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at On The Rocks, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. Savour their flavorful Rajasthani thali or try their deliciously crafted fusion dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 5: Exploring Udaipur
Travel to the "City of Lakes," Udaipur, renowned for its enchanting palaces and serene lakes. Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent City Palace, showcasing a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the stunning Lake Pichola, admiring the picturesque landscapes. As the evening sets in, witness a cultural dance performance at the Bagore Ki Haveli.
City Palace: Estimated cost - INR 300 (~$4) | Estimated time - 2-3 hours
Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 400 (~$6) | Estimated time - 1-2 hours
Bagore Ki Haveli: Estimated cost - INR 200 (~$3) | Estimated time - 2 hours
Restaurants
Head to Millets of Mewar for a healthy and delicious breakfast. This rustic cafe offers a variety of millet-based dishes and fresh fruit smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Rainbow Restaurant, a rooftop eatery with panoramic views of Udaipur. They serve a range of Indian and continental dishes, including mouthwatering thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Ambrai Restaurant for dinner. Located near Lake Pichola, this restaurant offers stunning views of the City Palace and delicious Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 6: Tranquility in Pushkar
Travel to the sacred town of Pushkar, nestled around the tranquil Pushkar Lake. Begin your day by visiting the famous Brahma Temple, dedicated to the Hindu creator deity. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant Pushkar Bazaar, where you can find unique handicrafts and spiritual artifacts. As the evening descends, witness the soul-stirring Aarti ceremony held at the ghats of Pushkar Lake.
Brahma Temple: Estimated cost - No entrance fee | Estimated time - 1-2 hours
Pushkar Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies depending on purchases | Estimated time - 2-3 hours
Aarti Ceremony: Estimated cost - No entrance fee | Estimated time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Brahma Sunrise Cafe: Enjoy a morning meal with a view at Brahma Sunrise Cafe, located near Pushkar Lake. Try their delicious breakfast options like pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Ganga Cafe: For a satisfying lunch, head to Ganga Cafe situated in the heart of Pushkar. Indulge in their flavorful Indian thali or savor their delicious pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Pushkar Royal Dining: End your day with a delightful dinner at Pushkar Royal Dining, offering a range of Indian and international dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering tandoori specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, December 7: Farewell in Bundi
End your adventure in the charming town of Bundi, known for its magnificent forts and step wells. Begin your day by exploring the exquisite Taragarh Fort, offering panoramic views of the town. In the afternoon, visit the intricately carved step wells of Bundi, such as Raniji ki Baori and Nagar Sagar Kund. As the day comes to a close, stroll through the vibrant lanes of the old town, soaking in the architectural wonders.
Step Wells: Estimated cost - No entrance fee | Estimated time - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to Café Lake View for breakfast and enjoy a relaxing meal with stunning views of Lake Jait Sagar. Average cost for a meal is about 250 rupees per person.
Savor traditional Rajasthani cuisine at Natraj Restaurant for lunch, known for its delicious thalis and affordable prices. Average cost for a meal is about 150 rupees per person.
Experience fine dining at the Haveli Restaurant for dinner, offering a range of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Don't forget to explore the hidden gems and local favorites while in Rajasthan. In Jaipur, visit the lesser-known Panna Meena Ka Kund, an ancient step well in Amer town. In Jaisalmer, experience the tranquility of the Bada Bagh cenotaphs amidst the desert landscape. In Udaipur, take a leisurely walk in Saheliyon Ki Bari, a beautiful garden adorned with fountains and marble structures. Finally, in Bundi, visit the Bundi Palace, famous for its elaborate frescoes and murals.