Exploring Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer: A 5-Day Adventure

Friday, December 22, 2023: Udaipur

Start your journey by exploring the city of Udaipur, known as the "Venice of the East." In the morning, visit the iconic City Palace, a majestic palace complex offering stunning views of Lake Pichola. Spend the afternoon exploring the labyrinthine streets of the old city, stopping by the Jagdish Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In the evening, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to witness the picturesque sunset over the lake.

• City Palace: INR 300 (estimated cost), 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Jagdish Temple: Free, 1 hour (estimated time spent)
• Lake Pichola Boat Ride: INR 400 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Saturday, December 23, 2023: Udaipur to Jodhpur

Leave Udaipur and head towards the captivating city of Jodhpur. In the morning, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, a magnificent fort perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Blue City. Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling markets of Jodhpur, particularly the famous Clock Tower Market. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants while overlooking the beautifully lit Mehrangarh Fort.

• Mehrangarh Fort: INR 600 (estimated cost), 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Clock Tower Market: No entrance fee, 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Rooftop Restaurant Dinner: INR 800 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Sunday, December 24, 2023: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

Continue your journey to the golden city of Jaisalmer. In the morning, explore the grand Jaisalmer Fort, made of golden sandstone and known for its intricate architecture. Spend the afternoon visiting the havelis (traditional mansions) of Jaisalmer, such as Patwon Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli. In the evening, experience the magic of the Thar Desert with a camel safari, followed by a cultural dance performance and dinner under the starry sky.

• Jaisalmer Fort: INR 250 (estimated cost), 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Patwon Ki Haveli: INR 100 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Nathmal Ki Haveli: INR 40 (estimated cost), 1 hour (estimated time spent)
• Camel Safari: INR 1,200 (estimated cost), 4 hours (estimated time spent)

Monday, December 25, 2023: Jaisalmer

Explore Jaisalmer further on your second day. In the morning, visit the stunning Gadisar Lake, a man-made reservoir surrounded by temples and ghats. Spend the afternoon discovering the vibrant markets of Jaisalmer, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani attire. In the evening, attend a mesmerizing Rajasthani folk music and dance performance at a local cultural center.

• Gadisar Lake: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Jaisalmer Markets: No entrance fee, 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Rajasthani Folk Performance: INR 500 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Tuesday, December 26, 2023: Jaisalmer to Udaipur

Head back to Udaipur, concluding your memorable journey through Rajasthan. In the morning, explore the serene Saheliyon-ki-Bari, a beautiful garden adorned with marble artifacts and fountains. Spend the afternoon enjoying a leisurely boat ride on the serene Fateh Sagar Lake, surrounded by breathtaking hills. In the evening, savor a delectable dinner at one of the lake-facing restaurants, soaking in the tranquility of this charming city.

• Saheliyon-ki-Bari: INR 40 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Fateh Sagar Lake Boat Ride: INR 350 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Lake-Facing Restaurant Dinner: INR 600 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Udaipur, don't miss out on visiting the serene and lesser-known Jag Mandir Island Palace. This tranquil island palace is a great escape from the bustling city and offers breathtaking views of Lake Pichola. In Jodhpur, take a detour to the Toorji Ka Jhalra stepwell, an architectural marvel that showcases the city's ancient water management system. Lastly, in Jaisalmer, venture into the quiet lanes of the old city to discover hidden havelis, each with its own unique tale and architectural beauty.

Check out hotel and flight prices for your trip here.