Jodhpur and Jaisalmer 5-Day Itinerary: City Experiences
Friday, October 20: Arrival in Jodhpur
Morning: Arrive in Jodhpur and check into your hotel. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India. Explore the various palaces and museums within the fort complex while enjoying panoramic views of the blue city.
Afternoon: Head to the bustling marketplace of Sardar Market, located near the clock tower. Dive into the vibrant and chaotic atmosphere, browse through the colorful textiles, handicrafts, and spices, and try some local street food.
Evening: Witness the grandeur of Umaid Bhawan Palace during the golden hour. Take a leisurely stroll in the palace gardens and enjoy the architectural marvel. End the day by indulging in a traditional Rajasthani dinner at a local restaurant.
Sardar Market: Varies based on purchases, 2-3 hours
Umaid Bhawan Palace: View from outside, no entrance fee, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Café Royale: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Café Royale, known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Indique: For a flavorful lunch, head to Indique and savor their delectable Rajasthani thali. With a beautiful rooftop setting overlooking the city, the average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Rasoda: Indulge in an authentic Rajasthani dinner at Rasoda, offering a range of traditional dishes like dal bati churma and gatte ki sabzi. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Exploring Jodhpur
Morning: Begin your day by visiting Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Enjoy the serene surroundings and learn about the history of the Marwar rulers.
Afternoon: Head to the bustling streets of the Old City and explore the iconic blue houses. Take a walking tour through the narrow streets, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and visit local craftsmen and artisans.
Evening: Spend a relaxed evening at the stunning Mandore Gardens, located a short distance from the city. Explore the intricately carved temples, memorials, and the Hall of Heroes showcasing various Rathore rulers.
For breakfast, head to Shri Mishrilal Hotel, a popular local spot known for its delicious Puri Sabji and lassi. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try On the Rocks, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city and serving a variety of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at the renowned Mughal Mahal, known for its authentic Mughlai cuisine. Enjoy dishes like butter chicken and biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Journey to Jaisalmer
Morning: Check out from your Jodhpur hotel and journey towards the golden city of Jaisalmer. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Thar Desert landscapes.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Jaisalmer, visit the stunning Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Golden Fort. Explore the narrow alleys, visit Havelis (merchant houses), and witness the exquisite architectural details.
Evening: End your day with a camel safari in the sand dunes near Jaisalmer. Enjoy the mesmerizing sunset views and experience the desert's tranquility.
For breakfast, head to Cafe Royale in Jaisalmer. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of delicious breakfast items, such as eggs, pancakes, and Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try Trio Restaurant in Jaisalmer. Known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of thalis and curries. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Desert Boy's Dhani in Jaisalmer. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani cultural evening with live music and dance performances while indulging in a sumptuous buffet dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Discovering Jaisalmer
Morning: Explore the beautiful Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five intricately carved havelis. Admire the breathtaking architecture and learn about the rich history of the merchants who once resided here.
Afternoon: Visit the Gadisar Lake, a picturesque man-made lake surrounded by temples and ghats. Take a boat ride or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake.
Evening: Witness the magnificence of the intricate sandstone carvings at the Nathmal Ki Haveli. Wrap up your day by experiencing a mesmerizing Rajasthani folk dance and music performance.
Rajasthani Folk Performance: INR 200-300 (approx. $2.80-$4.20), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Blue House Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this charming cafe known for its beautiful blue interiors and rooftop seating. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Desert Boys Dhani: Indulge in a traditional Rajasthani thali for lunch at this restaurant, offering a wide array of authentic local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Trio: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at this contemporary restaurant that serves a delectable fusion of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Departure
Morning: Enjoy a hearty breakfast and spend some time exploring the local markets. Pick up souvenirs such as handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry as a reminder of your incredible journey.
Afternoon: Check out from your hotel and depart from Jaisalmer. If time allows, visit the Bada Bagh, an ancient cenotaph complex located on the outskirts of the city.
Local Market: Varies based on purchases, 2-3 hours
Bada Bagh: INR 50 (approx. $0.70) entrance fee, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Sheesh Mahal, situated in the heart of Jodhpur. This charming café offers a variety of breakfast options, including freshly baked pastries and eggs cooked to perfection. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, gourmet lovers should visit Indique Restaurant in Jodhpur. With its stunning rooftop terrace overlooking the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, you can enjoy a delightful lunch accompanied by breathtaking views. The menu features a mix of Indian and international dishes, with an average cost of about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, make your way to Trio Restaurant in Jaisalmer. Located within the heart of the city, this rooftop restaurant offers a magical ambiance with mesmerizing views of Jaisalmer Fort. Indulge in their delicious Rajasthani cuisine, which includes specialties like Laal Maas and Ker Sangri. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Jaisalmer, venture off the beaten path by visiting Kuldhara, an abandoned village with a mysterious past. Experience the eerie atmosphere and learn about the legend surrounding the village. Another local favorite is exploring the local cuisine, especially the famous Rajasthani thali, which offers a variety of delectable vegetarian dishes. Be sure to try some traditional sweets like ghewar and mawa kachori.
For local experiences in Jaisalmer, consider staying in a homestay or a desert camp to immerse yourself in the Rajasthani culture and hospitality. These options offer a unique opportunity to interact with locals, enjoy traditional music and dance performances, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.