Royal Rajasthan: A 5-Day Journey through Jodhpur's Blue Hues and Jaisalmer's Golden Sands

Travel Adventure

Royal Rajasthan: A 5-Day Journey through Jodhpur's Blue Hues and Jaisalmer's Golden Sands

Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences

5
Days
28
Activities
1
Traveler
1

Day 1: Arrival in Jodhpur & The Majestic Mehrangarh

Friday, November 14, 2025
+3
Activities
7

Overnight Train Journey from Delhi to Jodhpur

Jodhpur Junction Railway Station (JU)
It's highly recommended to book your train tickets on IRCTC well in advance (at least 1-2 months), especially for AC classes. The Mandore Express (12461) is a popular and reliable option.

Check-in to a Heritage Haveli

Old City, Jodhpur
Consider staying in a property with a rooftop that offers views of Mehrangarh Fort. Options like Pal Haveli or RAAS Jodhpur offer great experiences across different budgets.

Explore the Mighty Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Wear comfortable walking shoes as there's a lot of ground to cover. The fort also has a zip-lining activity (Flying Fox) for adventure enthusiasts, which should be booked in advance.

Lunch with a Fort View

Near Mehrangarh Fort Exit
Chokelao Mahal Terrace or Mehran Terrace are great options inside the fort complex for a scenic, albeit pricier, meal.

Visit Jaswant Thada

Jaswant Thada, Jodhpur
The thin marble sheets emit a warm glow when illuminated by the sun, making it a beautiful spot for photography in the afternoon light.

Wander Through the Blue City (Brahmapuri)

Navchokiya, Brahmapuri, Jodhpur
Be respectful of residents as you are walking through their neighborhoods. A simple smile and 'Namaste' goes a long way.

Rooftop Dinner Overlooking the Illuminated Fort

Indique Restaurant or The Step Well House Cafe
Book a table in advance, especially for a fort-facing seat. Try the Laal Maas (a fiery mutton curry) if you enjoy spicy food.
2

Day 2: Palaces, Markets & Journey to the Gold

Saturday, November 15, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Visit Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
The palace is a bit far from the old city, so hire an auto-rickshaw or cab for the trip. Plan for about 1.5-2 hours for the visit.

Authentic Rajasthani Thali Lunch

Gypsy Restaurant or Janta Sweet Home
Come with a big appetite! The hospitality is such that they will keep refilling your bowls until you are completely full.

Explore Sardar Market & Ghanta Ghar

Ghanta Ghar, Jodhpur
Bargaining is common and expected. The market is a great place to buy souvenirs like Bandhani (tie-dye) fabrics and Mojari (leather footwear).

Travel from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

Jodhpur Junction (JU)
The Ranikhet Express (15014) is a good option. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi for a faster (4-5 hours) but more expensive journey. A taxi allows for stops at Osian or Ramdevra temple en route.

Check-in to Jaisalmer Hotel

Jaisalmer Fort or nearby
Staying inside the fort is atmospheric but be aware that vehicles can only go up to a certain point, requiring a short walk. For more modern amenities, choose a hotel outside the fort walls.
3

Day 3: The Living Fort & Ornate Havelis

Sunday, November 16, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Explore Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)

Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
The fort is home to thousands of people, so you'll find shops, cafes, and guesthouses within its walls. The entry to the fort is free, but there are fees for the palace and temples.

Lunch Inside the Fort

Jaisalmer Fort
Try a restaurant like 'The Trio' or 'Kuku Coffee Shop' for good food and even better views. Don't miss trying the local 'Ghotua Ladoo' sweet.

Discover the Grand Havelis

Near Jaisalmer Fort
All three havelis are within walking distance of each other and the fort. A combined ticket might be available. The craftsmanship is incredibly detailed, so take your time.

Sunset at Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer
You can hire a paddleboat or a shikara for a ride on the lake. The golden hues of the setting sun on the fort and the lake are a photographer's delight.

Traditional Rajasthani Dinner

Saffron Restaurant or Desert Boy's Dhani
Desert Boy's Dhani offers a cultural experience with folk music and dance along with dinner, providing a taste of what's to come in the desert.
4

Day 4: Sunset Safari in the Thar Desert

Monday, November 17, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Optional: Visit Kuldhara Abandoned Village

Kuldhara Village, near Jaisalmer
Most desert safari packages can include this stop for a small extra charge. It adds a unique, historical element to your desert journey.

Drive to Sam Sand Dunes

Sam Sand Dunes
This travel is usually included in the desert camp package. Confirm the pickup point and time with your camp operator in advance.

Check-in to Desert Camp

Sam Sand Dunes
Packages typically include the camel safari, evening entertainment, dinner, overnight stay, and breakfast. Book a reputable camp for a better experience.

Sunset Camel Safari

Sam Sand Dunes
Wear comfortable clothing and sunglasses. Hold on tight! For a more thrilling experience, some operators offer jeep dune bashing as an alternative or add-on.

Cultural Evening and Dinner

Desert Camp
The night sky in the desert is incredibly clear. After dinner, step away from the camp lights to do some stargazing. Backup: In case of a rare sandstorm, the cultural program is usually moved to a covered hall.
5

Day 5: Desert Sunrise & Farewell

Tuesday, November 18, 2025
+2
Activities
6

Sunrise Over the Dunes

Sam Sand Dunes
It can be chilly in the morning, so carry a jacket or shawl. Ask your camp staff for the best spot to view the sunrise.

Breakfast at the Camp

Desert Camp
Most camps serve a breakfast of parathas, toast, eggs, and tea/coffee.

Return to Jaisalmer City

Jaisalmer
You can store your main luggage at your Jaisalmer hotel from the previous day while you go to the desert, and pick it up upon your return.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Jaisalmer Local Markets
The government-run Bhang shop near the fort gate is a quirky, legal, and famous local spot to visit (consumption at your own discretion).

Farewell Lunch

Jaisalmer
Choose a restaurant close to the station or on the way to avoid any last-minute rush.

Overnight Train to Delhi

Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM)
The Jaisalmer Delhi Express (14660) is the primary train for this route. Ensure your tickets are booked well in advance. Pack some snacks and water for the journey.