Rajasthan on a Shoestring Budget: 5-Day Itinerary

Sunday, December 3: Jaipur

In the morning, visit the stunning Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the intricate architecture and enjoy panoramic views of Jaipur. In the afternoon, head to the City Palace, a magnificent palace complex with beautiful courtyards and museums. End the day by wandering through the bustling markets of Jaipur, where you can find handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani items. Estimated cost: Low. Estimated time spent: Full day.

• Amer Fort: Check prices
• City Palace: Check prices
• Jaipur Markets: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Evening.

Monday, December 4: Pushkar

Start the day by exploring the sacred town of Pushkar. Visit the famous Brahma Temple and take a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant streets filled with shops selling textiles, jewellery and handicrafts. Don't forget to try some delicious street food. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing sunset from the top of Ratnagiri Hill. Estimated cost: Low. Estimated time spent: Full day.

• Brahma Temple: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Pushkar Lake: Free. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Pushkar Markets: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Afternoon.
• Ratnagiri Hill: Free. Estimated time spent: Evening.

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Rose Cafe, a charming little spot with a cozy atmosphere. They serve delicious homemade pastries and a variety of heartwarming breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• For lunch, visit The Laughing Buddha Cafe, a popular hangout spot known for its relaxed ambience and mouthwatering fusion food. Try their signature Buddha Bowl and enjoy a refreshing drink. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at The Pushkar Palace Restaurant. Located inside a stunning palace, this restaurant offers a regal atmosphere and a menu filled with authentic Rajasthani delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.

Tuesday, December 5: Udaipur

Discover the enchanting city of Udaipur, often called the "Venice of the East." Start your day with a boat ride on Lake Pichola, enjoying the breathtaking views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir. Explore the magnificent City Palace complex and visit the fascinating vintage car museum. In the evening, wander through the charming streets of the old city and watch a cultural performance at Bagore Ki Haveli. Estimated cost: Low. Estimated time spent: Full day.

• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• City Palace: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Vintage Car Museum: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Bagore Ki Haveli: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Evening.

Wednesday, December 6: Jaisalmer

In the morning, visit the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the narrow alleys, ancient havelis, and visit the Jain Temples within the fort. In the afternoon, head to the Sam Sand Dunes near Jaisalmer for a thrilling camel safari and witness a magical sunset over the desert. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner and cultural performances under the starry sky. Estimated cost: Low to Moderate. Estimated time spent: Full day.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Jain Temples: Donation-based entry. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Sam Sand Dunes Camel Safari: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Afternoon to evening.

Thursday, December 7: Jaipur (Return)

On your last day, return to Jaipur and take a heritage walk through the vibrant bazaars, some of the best shopping spots in Rajasthan. Explore the famous Johari Bazaar for jewellery, Bapu Bazaar for textiles, and Nehru Bazaar for handicrafts. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the delicious street food of Jaipur. Estimated cost: Low. Estimated time spent: Half day.

• Johari Bazaar: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Bapu Bazaar: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Nehru Bazaar: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.
• Street Food: Cost varies. Estimated time spent: Morning.

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Tapri Central which offers a wide variety of breakfast options including delectable tea and snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, try the traditional Rajasthani thali at Laxmi Mishthan Bhandar. It serves a scrumptious spread of local delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• For dinner, indulge in the royal ambiance and authentic Rajasthani cuisine at 1135 AD. This restaurant is located in a restored historic palace and offers a delightful dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions in Rajasthan, consider exploring the old havelis in Mandawa, famous for their frescoes and architecture. Visit Ranthambore National Park for wildlife enthusiasts, where you can spot tigers and other exotic wildlife. If you're interested in rural life, spend a day in the village of Rawla Narlai, where you can experience authentic Rajasthani culture and stay in a heritage hotel at an affordable price.