Royal Rajasthan: A 5-Day Journey through Jodhpur & Jaisalmer
Complete Journey Overview
Royal Rajasthan: A 5-Day Journey through Jodhpur & Jaisalmer
Day 1 - Arrival in Jodhpur, the Blue City
Arrival in Jodhpur
Arrive at Jodhpur Airport (JDH) or Jodhpur Junction Railway Station. A pre-booked taxi or a ride-hailing service like Uber/Ola is the most convenient way to reach your hotel.
Check-in to a Heritage Haveli
Check into your hotel. For an authentic experience, consider staying in a restored haveli (traditional mansion) in the old city, offering stunning views of Mehrangarh Fort.
Lunch at Indique
Enjoy a delicious Rajasthani lunch with a breathtaking panoramic view of Mehrangarh Fort. Try their Laal Maas (spicy mutton curry) or a vegetarian thali.
Explore Mehrangarh Fort
Visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, one of India's largest and best-preserved forts. Explore its palaces, courtyards, and museum. The audio guide is highly recommended for its detailed stories.
Visit Jaswant Thada
A short walk from the fort, this stunning white marble cenotaph was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. It's known as the 'Taj Mahal of Marwar' and offers a peaceful atmosphere and great views of the fort.
Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant
Dine at a rooftop restaurant in the old city, enjoying the view of the illuminated Mehrangarh Fort. Many places offer a mix of Indian and continental cuisine.
Day 2 - Palaces, Blue Lanes & Journey to the Golden City
Visit Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum
Explore the museum section of this grand palace, which is still the residence of the royal family. The museum showcases the 20th-century history of the Jodhpur royals and has a vintage car collection.
Blue City Heritage Walk
Take a guided or self-guided walk through the narrow, winding lanes of Brahmapuri, the old Brahmin quarter behind the fort. This is the best way to experience the iconic blue houses and local life up close.
Quick Lunch & Local Snacks
Grab a quick lunch near the railway station. Don't miss trying Jodhpur's famous street food like Mirchi Bada (chili fritter) and Mawa Kachori (sweet pastry) from a local shop like Janta Sweet Home.
Train Journey to Jaisalmer
Board an afternoon train to Jaisalmer. The journey takes you through the starkly beautiful Thar Desert landscape, offering a unique travel experience.
Check-in to Jaisalmer Hotel
Arrive in Jaisalmer and transfer to your hotel. You can choose to stay inside the living fort for a unique experience or in a hotel outside with fort views.
Late Dinner in Jaisalmer
Have a relaxed, late dinner at your hotel's restaurant or a nearby place to unwind after your journey.
Day 3 - The Golden Fort & Desert Safari Adventure
Explore Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)
Discover the 'Golden Fort', a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few living forts in the world. Wander through its narrow lanes, visit the intricately carved Jain Temples, and see the Raj Mahal (Royal Palace).
Marvel at Patwon Ki Haveli
Visit this cluster of five havelis, the most elaborate and magnificent in Jaisalmer. Admire the stunning architecture, intricate mirror work, and beautiful paintings. One of the havelis has been converted into a museum.
Lunch at a Rooftop Cafe in the Fort
Enjoy lunch with a stunning view of the Golden City from one of the many rooftop cafes inside Jaisalmer Fort. Try some local Ker Sangri curry.
Drive to Sam Sand Dunes
Check out from your city hotel and drive towards the Sam Sand Dunes in the Thar Desert. The journey itself is scenic as the landscape becomes more arid.
Sunset Camel Safari
Embark on a classic camel safari across the sweeping sand dunes. Witness a magical sunset over the Thar Desert, a truly unforgettable experience.
Overnight at a Desert Camp
Experience Rajasthani hospitality at a desert camp. Enjoy a cultural evening with folk music and Kalbelia dance performances around a bonfire, followed by a traditional buffet dinner. Stay overnight in a comfortable Swiss tent.
Day 4 - Desert Sunrise, a Ghost Village & Lakeside Serenity
Desert Sunrise and Breakfast
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the sand dunes. After soaking in the morning serenity, enjoy breakfast at the camp.
Return to Jaisalmer via Kuldhara Village
Travel back towards Jaisalmer city. On the way, stop at Kuldhara, an eerie and fascinating abandoned village with a mysterious history. It's known as the 'ghost village' of Rajasthan.
Check-in and Relax
Check back into your hotel in Jaisalmer. Take some time to rest and freshen up after the desert experience.
Lunch at Trio Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Trio, one of Jaisalmer's most famous restaurants, known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine and royal ambiance with live folk music in the evenings.
Relax at Gadisar Lake
Spend a peaceful afternoon at Gadisar Lake, a man-made reservoir. You can take a boat ride, visit the temples on its banks, and admire the beautiful Tilon-ki-Pol gateway. It's a great spot for bird watching in winter.
Evening Market Exploration
Wander through the local markets near the fort, such as Sadar Bazaar and Manak Chowk. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs like leather goods, puppets, colorful textiles, and silver jewelry.
Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with a view of the beautifully illuminated Jaisalmer Fort, reminiscing about your desert adventures.
Day 5 - Royal Cenotaphs & Departure
Visit Bada Bagh
Visit Bada Bagh, which means 'Big Garden'. It's a garden complex with a set of royal cenotaphs (chhatris) of Jaisalmer's Maharajas. The golden chhatris against the blue sky are a photographer's delight.
Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping
Use the remaining time for any last-minute souvenir shopping or to revisit a favorite spot in the city.
Final Rajasthani Lunch
Enjoy one last authentic Rajasthani meal before you head for your departure.
Departure from Jaisalmer
Check out from your hotel and transfer to Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) or the railway station for your onward journey.
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 a well-connected airport (JDH) and railway station. Jaisalmer also has an airport (JSA) with limited flights...
Q.What are the must-try food items?
Don't miss out on authentic Rajasthani cuisine. In Jodhpur, try Mirchi Bada and Mawa Kachori. In both cities, savor Dal ...
Q.What are some local tips and do’s/don’ts?
Do: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water. Bargain...
Q.What is the local currency and cost of travel?
The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available in both cities. A mid-range budget would be around ₹40...
Q.What should I pack for a trip in January?
Pack light woolens, jackets, or shawls as evenings and nights, especially in the desert, can be very cold. During the da...
