Royal Rajasthan: A Family Adventure in Jodhpur & Jaisalmer
Complete Journey Overview
Royal Rajasthan: A Family Adventure in Jodhpur & Jaisalmer
Day 1 - Arrival in the Blue City
Arrival at Jodhpur Airport (JDH)
Welcome to Rajasthan! Upon arrival at Jodhpur Airport, you will be greeted by your pre-booked driver who will assist with your luggage.
Check-in at a Heritage Hotel
Check into your family-friendly hotel. We recommend a heritage property like Ajit Bhawan or RAAS Jodhpur, which offer a blend of royal comfort and modern amenities, often with pools that kids enjoy.
Relaxed Evening at Toorji Ka Jhalra
Visit Toorji Ka Jhalra, a beautifully restored 18th-century stepwell. It's a fascinating piece of architecture and a great spot for photos. The surrounding area has trendy cafes and shops, making it a gentle introduction to the city.
Welcome Dinner at On The Rocks
Enjoy a family dinner at On The Rocks, a garden restaurant with a pleasant ambiance. It offers a multi-cuisine menu, including authentic Rajasthani dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone in the family.
Day 2 - The Majesty of Mehrangarh
Explore Mehrangarh Fort
Visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, one of India's largest and best-preserved forts. The audio guide is excellent and tells captivating stories of the fort's history, which will engage both adults and children. The views of the Blue City from the top are breathtaking.
Visit Jaswant Thada
Located a short walk from the fort, this is a stunning marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Its intricate carvings and peaceful garden setting offer a serene contrast to the imposing fort.
Lunch with a View
Have lunch at a restaurant near the fort. Options like 'Chokelao Mahal Terrace' inside the fort or other nearby cafes offer good food with fantastic views.
Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum
Visit the museum section of the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace, which is still a royal residence. The museum showcases the 20th-century history of the Jodhpur royal family and has a fascinating collection of vintage cars, clocks, and photographs.
Dinner Overlooking the Fort
Enjoy a memorable dinner at Indique, the rooftop restaurant at Pal Haveli. It offers one of the best views of the illuminated Mehrangarh Fort at night. The food is a mix of Indian and local Rajasthani specialties.
Day 3 - Journey to the Golden City
Drive from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
After a leisurely breakfast, check out and begin your road trip to Jaisalmer. The journey through the Thar Desert landscape is scenic, with chances to spot local wildlife like chinkaras (Indian gazelles).
Check-in at Jaisalmer Hotel
Arrive in the Golden City of Jaisalmer and check into your hotel. Options range from luxurious forts like Suryagarh to charming haveli hotels within the city, such as The Gulaal or Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa.
Sunset Boating at Gadisar Lake
In the evening, head to the serene Gadisar Lake, a 14th-century artificial lake surrounded by temples and shrines. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride as the sun sets, casting a golden glow on the architecture. It's a relaxing and picturesque experience for the whole family.
Dinner at Trio Restaurant
Dine at Trio, a well-regarded restaurant known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine and romantic, tented ambiance. It offers great views and live folk music, providing a wonderful cultural dining experience.
Day 4 - The Living Fort & Golden Havelis
Explore Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)
Spend the morning exploring Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few 'living forts' in the world, with a quarter of the city's population residing within its walls. Wander through its narrow, winding lanes, visit the intricate Jain Temples, and explore the Maharaja's Palace.
Lunch at a Rooftop Cafe
Enjoy lunch at one of the many rooftop cafes inside the fort, such as Kuku Coffee Shop or German Bakery. They offer simple food with unparalleled views of the golden city below.
Marvel at Patwon Ki Haveli
Visit Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five havelis that are the most elaborate and magnificent in Jaisalmer. The intricate architecture, with countless balconies, jharokhas, and detailed carvings, is a testament to the wealth of the merchants who built them. One of the havelis is a museum showcasing the lifestyle of the era.
Evening Shopping in the Local Market
Spend the evening exploring the bustling markets around the fort, such as Sadar Bazaar. It's a great place to shop for local handicrafts, leather goods, colorful textiles, and puppets. It's a vibrant and engaging experience for the whole family.
Day 5 - Desert Adventure at Sam Sand Dunes
Travel to Sam Sand Dunes
After a relaxed morning, check out from your hotel (you can store your main luggage) and drive towards the famous Sam Sand Dunes in the Thar Desert.
Check-in to a Desert Camp
Check into a pre-booked desert camp. These camps offer comfortable 'Swiss Tents' with attached bathrooms, providing a glamping experience. Reputable options include The Serai, Royal Desert Camp, or Winds Desert Camp.
Sunset Camel Safari
Embark on the quintessential desert experience: a camel safari across the sand dunes. The slow, rhythmic pace of the camel and the vast expanse of the desert are magical. The highlight is watching the spectacular sunset over the dunes.
Cultural Evening and Dinner
Return to the camp for an evening of cultural entertainment. Sit around a bonfire and enjoy traditional Rajasthani folk music and Kalbelia dance performances. This is followed by a delicious buffet dinner of local cuisine.
Day 6 - Desert Sunrise and Departure
Sunrise Over the Dunes
Wake up early to witness the serene and beautiful sunrise over the Thar Desert. The changing colors of the sky and the tranquil atmosphere are a perfect start to the day.
Breakfast at the Camp
Enjoy a final breakfast at the desert camp before checking out.
Return to Jaisalmer & Transfer to Airport
Drive back to Jaisalmer city. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a quick visit to Bada Bagh, a garden complex with royal cenotaphs.
Q.What is the best time to visit Jodhpur and Jaisalmer?
The best time to visit is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant and ideal for sightse...
Q.How to reach Jodhpur and Jaisalmer?
Jodhpur has its own airport (JDH) with good connectivity to major Indian cities. Jaisalmer also has an airport (JSA) wit...
Q.What are some famous food items to try?
You must try Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Ker Sangri for vegetarian options. For non-vegetarians, Laal Maas is ...
Q.What should I pack for a January trip?
Pack layers. Light sweaters or jackets for the daytime, and a warmer jacket or fleece for the cool evenings and early mo...
Q.Are there any local tips or customs to be aware of?
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Bargaining is common in local mark...
Q.What about currency and costs?
The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but it's esse...
Q.What are some backup options for weather-dependent activities?
The main weather-dependent activity is the desert safari. While sandstorms are rare in January, if it's not possible, yo...
