Step into the mesmerising world of Rajasthan and embark on the ultimate adventure with an 8-day Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer itinerary!

This captivating journey will take you through the vibrant cities of India’s royal state, offering a kaleidoscope of rich history, cultural treasures, and breathtaking landscapes.

Please note that this is a fast-paced Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer itinerary covering the most popular sights. However, if you have any specific interests or time constraints, customise the itinerary accordingly.

Let’s begin.

The Ultimate Rajasthan Adventure: 7-Day Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer Itinerary!

Day 1: Arrival in Jaipur and exploring the Pink City

Your adventure begins in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, famous for its historic buildings and vibrant markets.

Day 1: Places to Explore

1. City Palace

After admiring the stunning architecture of Hawa Mahal, head to the nearby City Palace, a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles.

The palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards and gardens of Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal. It also houses a museum displaying the artefacts of the royal family.

• Timings: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 190 (Indians); ₹ 500 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Hawa Mahal

In the afternoon, head to the city centre to explore the stunning Hawa Mahal, an iconic pink sandstone structure with intricate honeycomb-like windows. Constructed in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this palace is an essential destination for visitors in Jaipur.

• Timings: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm; Everyday
• Entry Fee: ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 200 (Foreign Nationals)

3. Jantar Mantar

Don’t forget to visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory nearby, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest stone observatory in the world.

• Timings: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 200 (Foreign Nationals).

4. Albert Hall Museum

After arriving in Jaipur, check in to your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Albert Hall Museum, a stunning museum showcasing the rich history and culture of Rajasthan. Explore the incredible collection of artefacts and displays, and learn about the rich history and culture of the state.

• Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 20 (Indians);  ₹ 150 (Foreign Nationals).

5. Birla Mandir

After visiting the museum, head to the nearby Birla Mandir, a stunning Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning murals make the temple famous.

Timings: 6:00 am to 12:00 pm, 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm; all days of the week.

6. Vibrant Markets of Jaipur

In the evening, head to the vibrant markets of Jaipur, including the Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, to indulge in some retail therapy and enjoy the local delicacies.

Try the famous Rajasthani sweets and snacks like Ghewar, Pyaaz Kachori, and Dal Baati Churma, and shop for souvenirs like colourful textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts.

Day 2: Discovering the rich History & Culture of Jaipur

1. Amer Fort

Start your day early and visit the Amer Fort, a magnificent fort complex on a hilltop overlooking the Maota Lake.

The fort was built in the 16th century by Maharaja Man Singh I and showcases a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles.

Explore the stunning palaces, courtyards, and gardens of the fort complex, and don’t forget to take an elephant ride to the main entrance.

• Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 100 (Indians); ₹ 550 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Jal Mahal

Jal Mahal is a palace in Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur. Its five floors make it appear to be floating on the water.

The palace is a remarkable instance of Rajput architecture, and it is visually stunning. It was once used as a duck-hunting retreat by the king of Jaipur.

While close to visitors, you can still enjoy its beauty by boat-riding on the lake.

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm; all days of the week.

3. Nahargarh Fort

Head to the nearby Nahargarh Fort, another stunning hilltop fort with panoramic city views. The fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and served as a retreat for the royal family.

Explore the fort complex, admire the stunning architecture, and take in the breathtaking views of Jaipur.

• Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 200 (Foreign Nationals)

If you’re not interested in forts or the Jal Mahal, consider taking a half-day tour of Chokhi Dhani for a cultural experience.

Chokhi Dhani is a cultural village showcasing Rajasthan’s rich culture and traditions.

Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner, watch cultural performances like puppet shows, folk dances, and music, and participate in activities like camel rides, pottery making, and mehndi art.

Day 3: Travelling to Udaipur

Leave early morning from Jaipur and journey towards Udaipur, popularly known as the “City of Lakes”

How to reach Udaipur from Jaipur:

There are several transportation options:

By Road: The distance is approximately 400 kilometres; the journey takes 6-7 hours.

Route: You can take the NH48 (National Highway 48), which connects Jaipur and Udaipur. The route passes through cities like Ajmer and Beawar.

By Car: You can either drive your own car or hire a taxi. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for a long journey.

By Bus: Various private and state-run buses operate between Jaipur and Udaipur. Book a bus ticket in advance for a comfortable journey. Check your Volvo bus options on Red Bus.

By Train: Several trains connect Jaipur to Udaipur, including the Mewar Express and Chetak Express. It takes about 6-7 hours, depending on your chosen train.

Check the availability and book your tickets on Rail Yatri.

By Flight: Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) is well-connected to Jaipur’s Jaipur International Airport (JAI). You can book a domestic flight for a quick journey. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. You could opt for this mode if you are short on time and have a tight budget. Check Skyscanner for good deals on flights.

Places to explore on Day 4: The Royal Palaces and Forts of Udaipur

1. City Palace

In the afternoon, head to the City Palace, a stunning complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens overlooking Lake Pichola.

The palace was built over 400 years ago by various kings and showcased a blend of Mughal, Rajput, and European architectural styles. Explore the complex’s stunning palaces, museums, and galleries, and don’t forget to take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to enjoy the spectacular views of the palace and the surrounding hills.

• Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 30 (Indians); ₹ 300 (Foreign Nationals)

2. Jagdish Temple

After visiting the City Palace, head to the nearby Jagdish Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple was built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh and is famous for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Stroll through the old town’s narrow streets and explore the local markets to shop for souvenirs like colourful textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts.

Timings: 4:30 am to 1:00 pm and 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm; all days of the week.

3. Monsoon Palace

In the evening, head to the nearby Monsoon Palace, a stunning hilltop palace built in the 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh.

The palace offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.

• Timings: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 110 (Indians); ₹ 300 (Foreign Nationals).

Day 4: Enjoying the Scenic Beauty of Udaipur and Its Lakes

Places to Explore on Day 4: Natural beauty and Udaipur Lakes

1 Fateh Sagar Lake

Located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, Fateh Sagar Lake is a captivating attraction worth visiting. The Aravalli Hills surround the serene and scenic artificial lake, offering a perfect escape for locals and tourists.

Some activities near Fateh Sagar Lake include taking a boat ride, enjoying the Nehru Garden, and spending time at Ambrai Ghat.

2. Saheliyon Ki Bari

After visiting the Lake Palace, head to the nearby Saheliyon Ki Bari, a stunning garden Maharana Sangram Singh built in the 18th century.

The garden is well-known for its beautiful fountains, intricate marble elephants, and stunning architecture. It is a favourite destination for picnics and relaxation.

• Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 10 (Indians); ₹ 50-100 (Foreign Nationals).

3. Lake Pichola

In the late afternoon, enjoy stunning views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and the surrounding hills on a boat ride through Lake Pichola.

Don’t forget to visit the Jag Mandir Island Palace, a stunning palace built in the middle of the lake and famous for its stunning architecture and gardens.

• Timings (Jagmandir): 1:00 am to 6:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee (Jagmandir): There is no entry fee but only a boat ride fee, which is ₹ 450 (Indians); ₹ 500+ (Foreign Nationals).

4. Bahubali Hills

In the evening (or early morning), visit Bahubali Hills, nestled on the outskirts of Udaipur. Bahubali Hills is a charming spot that attracts nature lovers. It takes its name from the renowned Bahubali statue that adorns this scenic spot.

Bahubali Hills offers a panoramic and calming vista of Badi Lake, with the Aravali mountain range as a majestic backdrop, providing a complete 360-degree view.

Day 5: Travelling to Jaisalmer and Experiencing the Desert life

Jaisalmer is a stunning city located in the heart of the Thar Desert.

How to reach Jaisalmer from Udaipur:

There are primarily two ways to travel between Udaipur and Jaisalmer: by road or train.

By Road (Bus or Car):

By car: Udaipur to Jaisalmer by road is approximately 440-500 kilometres, depending on your route. If you’re driving, you can follow the NH62 and NH68 highways, which connect the two cities. The journey can take around 7-9 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

By Bus: It takes about 11 hours, depending on the traffic. Check the availability and book tickets either on Red Bus or RSRTC.

By Train: Jaisalmer is well-connected to Udaipur by train. The train journey usually takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the type of train and stops. Note that there are no direct flights to Jaisalmer from Udaipur.

Places to Explore on Day 5: Forts and Lake

1. Jaisalmer Fort

In the afternoon, head to the Jaisalmer Fort, a stunning fort built in the 12th century by Rawal Jaisal. Explore the fort’s stunning palaces, temples, and courtyards, and admire the spectacular views of the city and the surrounding desert.

• Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 250 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Patwon Ki Havelipa

The Patwon Ki Haveli is Jaisalmer’s biggest and most important Haveli. It was constructed in the 18th century by a wealthy merchant and is now a popular tourist destination in the city.

The Haveli is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning murals.

• Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 20 (Indians); ₹ 100 (Foreign Nationals).

3. Gadsisar Lake

One of the most tranquil places to see on your Jaisalmer itinerary is Gadisar Lake. The lake exudes spirituality, and the temples, seemingly floating on the water, add to its enchantment.

The lake is surrounded by stunning temples, ghats, and chhatris and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.

4. Go Rooftop Bars/Café Hopping

Jaisalmer is a city packed with unique rooftop bars and restaurants, all offering stunning views of the Golden City.

Our top picks for rooftops are Kuku Coffee Shop and Free Tibet Restaurant. However, there are so many excellent options inside and outside the fort that you can’t go wrong.

Day 6: Sand Dunes/Camel Safaris in Jaisalmer

1. Bada Bagh

Bada Bagh is a stunning garden complex on Jaisalmer’s outskirts (12 km).

It is famous for its stunning cenotaphs, built in memory of the royal family. It is one of the best places to see the sunset!

• Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee: ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 100 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Sam Sand Dunes

In the evening, head to Sam Sand Dunes. Sam Sand Dunes, located in the Thar Desert, are 42 km from Jaisalmer and among Rajasthan’s most famous sand dunes.  

Enjoy a camel ride, witness a mesmerising sunset over the dunes, and indulge in local delicacies like Ker Sangri and Laal Maas.

3. Thar Heritage Museum

After the safari, head to the nearby  (around 3 km) Thar Heritage Museum, a stunning museum showcasing the rich history and culture of the Thar Desert.

Learn about the local customs, traditions, and lifestyle of the people living in the desert, and admire the stunning collection of artefacts and displays.

ALV Recommendations of additional places:

If you have enough time and if it interests you, I recommend visiting these places:

1. Kuldhara Village

A stunning but abandoned village on Jaisalmer’s outskirts.

The village was abandoned in the 19th century by the Paliwal Brahmins, a community of traders, and is now a popular spot for tourists to explore the stunning architecture and learn about the rich history and culture of the village.

2. Jain Temples

You can head to the Jain Temples, a group of stunning temples dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras.

The temples were built between the 12th and 15th centuries, showcasing a blend of Hindu and Jain architectural styles.

3. Visit Khaba Fort

Khaba Fort is an intriguing attraction located in the desert outside Jaisalmer (30-40 minutes away).

It dates back to the 13th century and was once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins. The fort and neighbouring village were abandoned 200 years ago.

Day 7: Leave From Jaisalmer

Concluding our “Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer Itinerary,” on day 7, depart from Jaisalmer for your flight back home, carrying cherished memories with you.

Where to Stay in Jaipur

Best Area to Stay

Jaipur, a city in India, boasts numerous hotels and havelis that are well-spread across the city. The good news is that many are located near heritage sites and landmarks. Some of the popular areas to consider for your stay in Jaipur include Old City (home to many of Jaipur’s most famous attractions), C Scheme (known for its upscale hotels), Raja Park (famous for shopping and dining), and Bani Park (a peaceful and budget-friendly option).

Accommodation Options:

If you are looking for hostels, Jaipur has numerous hostels that provide affordable accommodations for backpackers and budget-conscious travellers. Some popular hostels include Zostel Jaipur, The Hosteller Jaipur, and Moustache Hostel, Hotel Sarang Palace.

For mid-range, consider staying at places like Shahapura Hotel, Lemon Tree Premier, Park Inn by Radisson. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, Jaipur offers several mid-range resorts with swimming pools, spas, and lush gardens. Check out resorts like Pride Amber Vilas Resort.

For Luxury Experience: Jaipur is famous for its heritage hotels, once palaces or havelis converted into luxurious accommodations. Staying in these properties is a royal experience. Some iconic ones include The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jai Mahal Palace, Rambagh Palace, The Leela Palace, and Samode Haveli.

Jaipur also offers luxurious resorts like The Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Chokhi Dhani Resort, and ITC Rajputana for those seeking a tranquil escape outside the city.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Best Area to Stay

The best area to stay in Udaipur is the Old City. This area offers the largest selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars. Moreover, you can easily access most of Udaipur’s tourist attractions on foot or by public transportation.

For Budget travellers: Zostel, Hotel Padmini Palace, Hotel Krishan Niwas, Karohi Haveli.

If you are a on a mid-range budget, consider: Bloom Boutique, Lake Pichola, Hotel Mahendra Prakash, Old City, Akshay Niwas, Lake Pichola, Ram Pratap Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake.

If you wish to experience Luxury, consider : Taj Lake Palace, The Leela Palace, The Oberoi Udaivillas, Amet Haveli.

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

If you are a on a mid-range budget, consider: The Hosteller, Moustache, hotel himmat niwas,

For Mid-range: Prince Desert Camp, Hotel Prithvi Palace, Countryside resort (Sam Dunes).

For Luxury experience: Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa, Suryagargh Palace, Hotel Heritage House, Sujan The Serai (desert camp).

Getting Around

If you need to travel within the city, there are several modes of transportation available for you to choose from, including auto-rickshaws, tuk-tuks, and cabs. Auto-rickshaws can also be hired for an entire day for your convenience. Additionally, you can avail the services of Ola and Uber operators who operate in Jaipur and Udaipur. However, please note that no Ola or Uber services are available in Jaisalmer.

I hope this blog helps you to plan your perfect Rajasthan trip! 😊

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