Enchanting Rajasthan Itinerary: Options For 1 or 2 Weeks

Rajasthan is one of the most famous destinations in India, especially among foreign travelers, due to the popularity of the Golden Triangle itinerary, which consists of Delhi, Agra/Taj Mahal, and Jaipur. However, Rajasthan has tons to offer tourists outside of the just the capital city of Jaipur.

My first trip to India included stops in Jaipur and Jodhpur, and I have since been back to the state for several other trips where I explored Udaipur, Pushkar, and more.

I have several route recommendations, which you can choose from based on your interests and travel style. You can go at a slower pace and experience more of a city and its nearby villages or you can hit the highlights and see more unique cities within Rajasthan.

1 Week Rajasthan Itinerary

The most famous cities in Rajasthan are Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur, which are located in a triangle within the state, that makes the order in which you visit each place flexible.

I recommend starting in Jaipur because it is the biggest and has the most transportation options. It’s also closest to Delhi, so depending on where you are coming from, it’s easy to land at Delhi for international flights. If flying domestically, you can land directly at Jaipur airport.

1 Week Rajasthan Itinerary Overview

Days 1-2: Jaipur (2 nights)
Day 3: Travel day from Jaipur to Udaipur
Days 4-5: Udaipur (3 nights)
Days 6-7: Jodhpur (2 nights)

Days 1-2: Jaipur

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is Rajasthan’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its stunning forts, colorful bazaars, and royal palaces make it a must-visit.

Top Things To Do:

• Amber Fort: Start your visit with this majestic hilltop fort. Explore the intricate Mirror Palace (Sheesh Mahal) and take in panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
  
• City Palace: A royal residence blending Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Don’t miss the museums showcasing textiles and artifacts.
  
• Hawa Mahal: Famous for its honeycomb design, this “Palace of Winds” offers fantastic photo opportunities.
  
• Jantar Mantar: An astronomical observatory that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  
• Local Bazaars: Shop for colorful textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs in Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar.

Helpful Tips:

• You can hire an auto for the day or rent a car with a driver for convenience.
• Grab a coffee or snack at The Tattoo Cafe, which is a rooftop restaurant across the street from the Hawa Mahal.

Where To Stay In Jaipur

📍Jai Mahal Palace: This former royal residence offers a serene escape in the heart of the city. Guests can enjoy its beautifully maintained grounds, historic charm, and an array of cultural experiences, from traditional Rajasthani performances to authentic dining options. I toured this hotel as an option for my wedding venue; it’s really nice! We ended up having our wedding in Slovenia, but this was one of my top picks for India locations.

📍Samode Haveli: Samode Haveli is a 200-year-old mansion turned boutique hotel. I stayed here on my first trip to Jaipur and it’s a great little hotel. It’s unique style plus great service really impressed me, especially for the price.

📍Shahpura House: This family-run heritage hotel features tastefully decorated rooms with traditional frescoes and antique furnishings. The rooftop terrace provides breathtaking views of Jaipur.

📍The Oberoi Rajvilas: A sanctuary of luxury on the outskirts of Jaipur. Spread over 32 acres, the property is designed like a traditional Rajasthani fort, complete with Mughal-style gardens. You can enjoy curated experiences such as yoga, spa treatments, and private dining

Day 3: Travel Day

From Jaipur you can opt to go to either Udaipur or Jodphur next because the 3 cities are in a triangle in the middle of the state. I recommend

If you have more than 1 week this is when you would add a stop at Pushkar.

Jaipur to Udaipur:

• Fly: 1 hour flight
• Drive: Hire a car and driver for scenic 6-7 hour drive
• Train: 6-7 hour train ride (Udaipur City Express)

Days 4-5: Udaipur

Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is celebrated for its romantic ambiance, serene lakes, and stunning palaces. It’s one of the most picturesque cities in Rajasthan.

Spend all of Day 4 exploring the sights in Udaipur. Day 5 you should take the morning and afternoon to finish up with the highlights you didn’t get to the day before. Then, in the late afternoon/evening you should travel to Jodhpur.

The old city, including areas like Chandpole, Gangaur Ghat, and Jagdish Chowk, is best explored on foot. These narrow streets are packed with shops, cafes, and interesting architecture, but they’re often too tight for even an auto-rickshaw to maneuver.

Top Things To Do:

• City Palace: A sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and museums offering a glimpse into royal life.
  
• Lake Pichola: Take a sunset boat ride to admire views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir.
  
• Jagdish Temple: A stunning 17th-century temple with intricate carvings.
  
• Saheliyon-ki-Bari: A lush garden retreat with fountains and marble pavilions.
  
• Monsoon Palace: Perched on a hill, this palace offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Helpful Tips:

• Instead of navigating Udaipur on your own, you can book a local guide to take you to the top highlights.
• Gallery Cafe at Lake Pichola Hotel has a cute lakeside overhang where you can enjoy drinks and appetizers. Call ahead for opening times.
• Eat at Ambrai for a lakeside meal
• Comfortable shoes are a must, as the narrow cobblestone paths can be uneven.

Where To Stay In Udaipur

Where you stay in Udaipur can greatly affect your experience of the city. Staying within the old city, near Gangaur Ghat or the City Palace, immerses you in the lively atmosphere but requires walking through narrow streets. Many boutique hotels and guesthouses here don’t allow direct vehicle access, so be prepared to walk a short distance from where your auto or taxi drops you off.

On the other hand, accommodations near Fatehsagar Lake or in newer parts of the city offer easier access by car but may lack the old-world charm of the central areas.

Be sure to understand where your hotel is located within the city so you can balance convenience with ambiance based on your preferences for exploring Udaipur’s enchanting streets.

Pro Traveler Tip: If you’re staying in the old city and arriving by car, confirm with your hotel if they offer pickup or have a nearby parking arrangement. It can save you significant hassle in navigating Udaipur’s tight lanes.

📍Taj Lake Palace: If you want to splurge, this magnificent luxury hotel looks like it’s floating in the middle of Lake Pichola. It’s the height of royal elegance in Udaipur and comes with the price tag. It’s on my bucket list to stay here one day.

📍Taj Fateh Prakash Palace Udaipur: Another luxury hotel option, also run by Taj. This lakeside hotel is also on the pricier side but still significantly less expensive than the Lake Palace.

📍Little Garden Guest House: This boutique hotel is centrally located and family run.

📍Hotel Amet Haveli: Lakeside hotel

📍Moustache Udaipur Luxuria: I stayed here for a couple nights and had a pleasant stay. It’s not right on the lake but has lake views. I especially enjoyed the rooftop views of the lake. We had some drinks and watched the sun set over the lake.

Days 6-7: Jodhpur

The Blue City is famous for its indigo-colored houses, imposing Mehrangarh Fort, and vibrant street markets.

Top Things To Do:

• Mehrangarh Fort: One of India’s most impressive forts with panoramic views of the city. The museum inside showcases royal artifacts.
  
• Jaswant Thada: A marble cenotaph with stunning architecture and serene gardens.
  
• Clock Tower and Sardar Market: A busy marketplace for spices, textiles, and more.
  
• Mandore Gardens: Explore ancient cenotaphs and gardens.
  
• Toorji Ka Jhalra: A historic stepwell, a cool spot for photography.

Helpful Tips:

• Watch the sunset from Pachetia Hill (wear comfortable shoes for the walk up)
• Plan a dinner at Indique for rooftop dining with fort views

Where To Stay In Jodhpur

📍Vivanta by Taj Hari Mahal: I stayed here on my first trip to Rajasthan and highly recommend it. They provided great service and had lots of nice little touches for Diwali on my visit.

📍RAAS Jodhpur: Luxury Haveli style hotel with beautiful views of the Mehrangarh Fort. Unfortunately this hotel was booked up on my trip, but I still made dinner reservations to enjoy a meal and a drink at their rooftop bar with a great view of the lit up Fort at night.

2 Week Rajasthan Itinerary

In addition to the “Big 3” of Rajasthan, there are smaller cities worth seeing and other cool sights. You can visit these other locations as alternatives to Jaipur, Udaipur, or Jodhpur. Or you can visit them as well as those 3 popular cities.

2 Week Rajasthan Itinerary Overview

Days 1-2: Jaipur (2 nights)
Days 3-4: Ranthambore National Park (2 nights)
Days 5-6: Pushkar (2 nights)
Days 7-8: Udaipur (3 nights)
Day 9: Travel day from Udaipur to Jodhpur
Days 10-11: Jodhpur (3 nights)
Days 12: Travel Day from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
Days 13-14: Jaisalmer (2 nights)

Ranthambore National Park

If you’re a nature and wildlife lover, you should include a stop at Ranthambore National Park. Known for its tiger population, this is one of the best places in India for wildlife safaris. You can spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Best Time to Visit Ranthambore:

October to June is the open season for safaris. The best chances for tiger sightings are from March to May when the dry heat draws animals to water sources. The park is closed from July to September due to heavy rains.

Ranthambore Safari Tips:

• The park is divided into 10 safari zones, each offering unique chances for wildlife sightings. Zones 1-5 are popular for tiger sightings, but all zones are scenic.
  
• Book your safari in advance to secure your spot. Safaris can sell out quickly, especially in peak months, so book at least 4-6 weeks in advance.
  
• Book through the official Rajasthan Forest Department website or through your hotel.
  
• There are generally 2 safari time slots per day; morning (6:30–10:30 AM) and afternoon (2:30–6:30 PM). The early morning safaris offer cooler weather and are great for wildlife activity.

Where To Stay At Ranthambore:

Book your hotel well in advance as they tend to get get booked out. Also, be sure to check with your hotel on the safari options they offer and ensure there is availability for safaris before booking your stay.

📍Ranthambore Regency: A mid-range hotel blending comfort and affordability. It has a cozy atmosphere and excellent hospitality.

📍Taj Sawai, Ranthambore: A former hunting lodge of the Jaipur royal family, Taj Sawai combines history and comfort effortlessly. I stayed at another Taj property at Panna National Park and had an incredible experience.

📍Nahargarh Ranthambhore: a heritage-style property with tranquil ambiance for a relaxing base after an adventurous day of tiger spotting.

📍The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort: This luxurious retreat offers exquisite tented accommodations with private gardens and opulent interiors. It’s known for impeccable service and proximity to the park. It’s expensive but if you a “treat yourself” budget, then I highly recommend a couple nights here. You’re sure to have an amazing stay!

📍Khem Villas: This boutique and eco-conscious property is designed to blend with its natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy organic meals, spot wildlife from the property itself, and stay in spacious cottages, tents, or villas that feel private yet connected to the environment.

Pushkar

Add Pushkar into your itinerary after Jaipur. You can stop here on the road to either Jodhpur or Udaipur. Alternatively, you could take a train to Ajmer and a short taxi ride to Pushkar.

Pushkar, one of India’s oldest cities, is famous for its spiritual atmosphere and the annual Pushkar Camel Fair. It’s home to the sacred Pushkar Lake and one of the world’s few Brahma Temples.

The town’s laid-back vibe is perfect for a short stay. Its unique blend of spirituality and bohemian charm makes it stand out from other Rajasthani destinations.

Top Things To Do:

• Pushkar Lake: Walk around the ghats, observe local rituals, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  
• Brahma Temple: Visit this rare temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator in Hindu mythology.
  
• Savitri Temple: Take a short hike or cable car ride to this hilltop temple for stunning sunset views.
  
• Shop for unique Rajasthani crafts, jewelry, and clothing. I saw a lot of little home goods shops with cool home accessories that I would have loved to buy from but didn’t have any room in my luggage and wasn’t going directly home after my visit to Pushkar.

Helpful Tips:

• The Laughing Buddha Cafe is a great option for delicious vegan meals.
• Sunset Café has lots of seating that faces out toward the lake so it’s a great spot to rest, grab a snack, and watch the sun set.
• Café Lake View is a rooftop cafe with nice lake views.

Where To Stay In Pushkar

📍Pratap Mahal, Ajmer – IHCL SeleQtions: Located between Pushkar and Ajmer, Pratap Mahal is surrounded by the serene Aravalli Hills. The gardens and pool area make it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring Pushkar’s temples and markets. The hotel can arrange a car and guide to take you into the city. When I stayed here that’s how I explored Pushkar.

📍The Westin Pushkar Resort & Spa: This luxury resort is ideal for relaxation. It has views of the Aravalli Hills, private villas, and great dining.

📍Inn Seventh Heaven: Centrally located so you don’t have to take a taxi or auto to get into town – you can easily come and go from your room to explore. Since it is right in town, you sometimes get the city noise so if you’re looking for a truly peaceful experience, check out the hotels a little outside of town like the Pratap Mahal.

Jaisalmer

Add Jaisalmer to the end of your Rajasthan itinerary for Days 12-13.

Jaisalmer, the Golden City, is a desert paradise with a magical sandstone fort, historic havelis, and the sprawling Thar Desert. A visit here feels like stepping back in time.

The golden hues of the city at sunset, combined with the vastness of the desert, make Jaisalmer a photographer’s dream.

Top Things To Do:

• Jaisalmer Fort: Unlike most forts, this is a “living fort” with shops, homes, and temples inside its walls. Don’t miss the Jain Temples and Laxminath Temple.
  
• Patwon Ki Haveli: Explore this beautifully carved haveli, a testament to Jaisalmer’s rich architectural heritage.
  
• Desert Safari: Spend an evening in the Thar Desert, complete with cultural performances and stargazing.
  
• Gadisar Lake: Visit this serene lake surrounded by temples and ghats, ideal for a peaceful morning walk.

Helpful Tips:

• The Jaisal Treat: Restaurant with a mix of traditional Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine. Its flavorful thalis and relaxing ambiance make it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists.
• Desert Boy’s Dhani: A garden-style restaurant serving authentic Rajasthani dishes, it’s perfect for those seeking a cultural dining experience with folk music and a cozy, rustic setting.
• Cafe The Kaku: Famous for its panoramic views of Jaisalmer’s sandstone architecture, this hilltop cafe serves a mix of Indian, Rajasthani, and Continental dishes, making it a favorite for sunset dinners.

Where To Stay In

📍Suryagarh Jaisalmer: Luxury heritage hotel

📍SUJÁN The Serai Jaisalmer: Luxury desert camp that will provide a memorable experience

14 Day+ Rajasthan Itinerary

If you have more than 2 weeks, here are even more destinations within Rajasthan worth visiting. These hidden gems and off the beaten path travel destinations can make for a truly special experience.

Mount Abu

Located in the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station and a striking contrast to the state’s otherwise arid desert landscape. With its cool climate, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage, Mount Abu is a favorite retreat for locals and tourists alike.

Bikaner

Unlike some of Rajasthan’s busier cities, Bikaner retains a quieter, less commercialized charm, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore authentic Rajasthani heritage. Known as the “Camel City,” Bikaner boasts stunning forts, intricate temples, and its world-famous camel breeding farm.

The streets of Bikaner’s old city are lined with havelis adorned with intricate frescoes. Don’t miss Rampuria Haveli, often called the “Pride of Bikaner.”

Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and Karni Mata Temple (known as the “Rat Temple”) are all interesting highlights worth checking out.

Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh offers a deep dive into Rajasthan’s historical and cultural legacy, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a sprawling hilltop fort. Attend the annual Jauhar Mela to witness local traditions honoring the fort’s heroic past.

Bhilwara

Bhilwara is a hidden gem in Rajasthan that combines industrial prowess with historical and cultural richness. Known for its vibrant textile industry, particularly the world-famous Phad paintings, Bhilwara is an offbeat destination. This city has a mix of art, architecture, and spirituality. It’s a great stop for travelers seeking to explore Rajasthan beyond its popular tourist spots.

How To Get To Rajasthan

Whether you’re coming from within India or traveling from abroad there are a lot of options for how to get to this popular state.

Airports

Rajasthan has three main airports:

• Jaipur International Airport (JAI): The largest and most connected, with both domestic and international flights.
• Udaipur Airport (UDR): Mostly domestic flights, ideal for those heading straight to the city of lakes.
• Jodhpur Airport (JDH): Limited domestic routes, primarily connected to major Indian cities.

International travelers can fly directly to Jaipur from cities like Dubai, Sharjah, and Kuala Lumpur. If Jaipur isn’t an option, fly into Delhi (DEL), a major international hub, and then connect via a domestic flight or other transportation.

Major carriers like Indigo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular flights to Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. Book early for better fares, especially during Rajasthan’s peak tourist season (October to March).

Trains

Rajasthan’s cities are well-connected by Indian Railways. Book tickets in advance, especially for luxury trains like the Palace on Wheels.

Popular Routes:

• Delhi to Jaipur (4–6 hours, Shatabdi or Vande Bharat Express are faster options).
• Mumbai to Udaipur (overnight trains like the Mewar Express).
• Delhi to Jodhpur (overnight options like Mandor Express).

Driving

Rent a car with a driver for a seamless experience. This is a great option if you want to stop at smaller towns or attractions along the way.

• From Delhi, Jaipur is a 5-6 hour drive via NH48.
• Agra to Jaipur takes about 4 hours via NH21.

How To Get Around Rajasthan

Getting around this sprawling state can feel overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with the options. Depending on your schedule and budget there are a variety of transportation options worth considering for your trip.

Trains: best for long distances

Rajasthan is well-connected by India’s vast rail network. Major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner are all accessible by train. Here’s what you should know:

• Book in Advance: Train tickets can sell out weeks ahead, especially for popular routes like Delhi to Jaipur or Jaipur to Jodhpur. Use platforms like IRCTC or third-party apps like Trainman or Cleartrip.
• Choose Your Class: For comfort, opt for AC Chair Car (short journeys) or 2AC/3AC Sleeper (overnight). Sleeper Class is cheaper but less private.
• Station Transfers: Major stations have signage in English, but smaller ones can be confusing. If unsure, ask a railway staff member.

Car/Private Taxis: best for comfort and flexibility

This is how I traveled between cities in Rajasthan. If prioritize convenience or are traveling in a group, hiring a private taxi is an excellent option.

• How to Book: I often request the hotel I’m staying at help me arrange a car/taxi. The only watchout here is that sometimes this will be a bit more costly.
• Pricing: Expect to pay ₹2,000–₹4,000 per day, depending on the car type and distance. Agree on prices beforehand, including tolls and driver allowances.
• Driver Tips: A good driver doubles as a local guide. Clarify your expectations upfront and tip for exceptional service.

Auto Rickshaws: best for short distances

An easy option for getting from place to place within a city. In cities like Jaipur and Jodhpur, auto rickshaws are a common way to get around.

• Haggling Required: Auto fares are rarely metered in Rajasthan so you’ll need to negotiate before boarding.
• Ola and Uber are available in larger cities for auto rides with standardized pricing.

Domestic flights within the state are quick but the most expensive option. If you’re short on time, consider flying between cities. Rajasthan’s main airports are in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.

• Airlines: Indigo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate regular flights.
• Routes: Jaipur to Udaipur and Jaipur to Jodhpur are common. Book early for better rates.

Self-Driving: adventurous but doable

Driving in Rajasthan gives you the freedom to explore remote areas at your pace, but I don’t recommend it for most international tourists. The rules of the road aren’t as strictly adhered to in India and can make driving stressful for those without experience driving in the country.

• Car Rentals: Zoomcar offer self-drive options. Ensure your rental includes insurance.
• Road Conditions: Highways between major cities are generally good, but rural roads can be challenging. GPS works well in cities but may be unreliable in remote areas, so keep offline maps handy.

Bus Travel: affordable and extensive

Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates a reliable network of buses. Buses are budget-friendly but can be crowded during peak times. Night buses are available, but roads in rural areas can be bumpy.

• Types of Buses: RSRTC offers options ranging from local (basic seating) to Volvo AC coaches (comfortable for long hauls). Private operators like RedBus provide additional choices.
• Ticket Booking: For government buses, book on the RSRTC website or at the bus station. Private operators allow online booking via apps.
• Popular Routes: Jaipur to Udaipur, Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, and Jaipur to Ajmer are well-served.

Rajasthan Itinerary Map

For those of you who are visual thinkers, like myself, here’s where all the places worth adding to your 1 or 2 week itinerary are located.

TLDR: Rajasthan Itinerary Options For 1 Week and 2 Weeks

Rajasthan’s royal culture, majestic architecture, and stunning landscapes make it a bucket-list destination in India. These itineraries balance cultural exploration, relaxation, and adventure, ensuring you experience the best the region has to offer. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Land of Maharajas!

If you have more time in India, consider visiting the beautiful South Indian state of Kerala, or some other unique itineraries that take you beyond the Golden Triangle (the most popular spots for international travelers in India).