A Journey Through The Majestic Land Of Kings
When one thinks of Rajasthan, vivid images of royal palaces, colorful bazaars, historic forts, and the golden sands of the Thar Desert spring to mind. This 10-day tour through Rajasthan, often called the “Land of Kings,” is the perfect introduction to India’s cultural richness and historical grandeur. From the bustling streets of Jaipur to the peaceful sands of Jaisalmer and the serene lakes of Udaipur, this journey will take you through Rajasthan’s most treasured gems.
| Day | Destination | Sightseeing/Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Jaipur (Arrival) | Arrival, Local Markets Exploration (optional) |
| Day 2 | Jaipur | Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace |
| Day 3 | Bikaner | Junagarh Fort, Karni Mata Temple |
| Day 4 | Jaisalmer (Desert Camp) | Sam Sand Dunes, Camel Safari, Sunset in the Desert |
| Day 5 | Jaisalmer (City) | Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake |
| Day 6 | Jodhpur | Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan Palace |
| Day 7 | Mount Abu | Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, Sunset Point |
| Day 8 | Udaipur via Ranakpur | City Palace, Lake Pichola, Saheliyon Ki Bari |
| Day 9 | Pushkar via Chittorgarh & Ajmer | Ajmer Dargah Sharif, Pushkar (Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake) |
| Day 10 | Jaipur (Departure) via Damping Yard | Drop-off at Jaipur |
Total Night Stays:
- Jaipur: 2 Nights
- Bikaner: 1 Night
- Jaisalmer: 1 Night in Desert Camp + 1 Night in the City
- Jodhpur: 1 Night
- Mount Abu: 1 Night
- Udaipur: 1 Night
- Pushkar: 1 Night
Day 1: Arrival in Jaipur – The Pink City
Your journey begins in Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City due to its rose-colored architecture. Upon arrival at the airport or railway station, you’ll be greeted with a warm Rajasthani welcome and transferred to your hotel.
In the evening, you can either relax at the hotel or explore the vibrant local markets, where you’ll find traditional textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise, offering a chance to bring home souvenirs that carry the essence of Rajasthan.
Day 2: Jaipur Sightseeing – A Glimpse Into Royalty
Jaipur is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, and today’s sightseeing tour will immerse you in the city’s regal past:
- Amer Fort: Perched on a hilltop, this majestic fort is known for its intricate mirror work and the grand Sheesh Mahal. The elephant ride to the fort’s entrance is an experience worth indulging in.
- Hawa Mahal: This honeycomb-like palace, known as the Palace of Winds, offers an iconic view of Jaipur.
- Jantar Mantar: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this astronomical observatory showcases ancient instruments that measure time and celestial bodies.
- City Palace: The residence of the royal family, this complex is a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, with museums displaying artifacts from Rajasthan’s glorious past.
Day 3: Bikaner – The Camel Country
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll drive to Bikaner, another gem in Rajasthan’s crown. Known for its camel festival, Bikaner is a city steeped in history.
- Junagarh Fort: Built in the 16th century, this imposing fort is surrounded by a moat and boasts stunning courtyards, balconies, and temples.
- Karni Mata Temple: Famously known as the Rat Temple, this unique shrine is home to thousands of rats, considered sacred by locals.
Day 4: Jaisalmer – Into the Golden Desert
Today, you’ll head to Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City due to the yellow sandstone used in its construction. As you approach the city, the landscape begins to change, preparing you for the vast Thar Desert.
- Sam Sand Dunes: The highlight of any trip to Jaisalmer, the sand dunes offer a magical experience of camel rides, cultural performances, and a breathtaking sunset over the desert.
After an adventurous day, you’ll spend the night in a desert camp under the starlit sky, adding a touch of romance and mystery to the journey.
Day 5: Jaisalmer Local Sightseeing
Wake up in the desert and head back to the city for a full day of sightseeing in Jaisalmer:
- Jaisalmer Fort: Also known as Sonar Qila or the Golden Fort, this is one of the few living forts in the world where people still reside. Its narrow lanes are lined with shops and havelis (mansions).
- Patwon Ki Haveli: An architectural masterpiece, this haveli showcases the grandeur and wealth of the past merchants of Jaisalmer.
- Gadisar Lake: A peaceful oasis amidst the desert, where you can enjoy a boat ride and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Day 6: Jodhpur Sightseeing – The Blue City
Next, you’ll drive to Jodhpur, known for its blue-painted houses and stunning fortifications.
- Mehrangarh Fort: One of India’s largest forts, it offers panoramic views of the blue city and houses museums showcasing royal memorabilia.
- Jaswant Thada: A beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.
- Umaid Bhawan Palace: Partly a luxury hotel, this grand palace still serves as the royal residence of the Jodhpur Maharaja.
Day 7: Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s Only Hill Station
Leaving behind the arid landscapes, you’ll journey to Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s only hill station nestled in the Aravalli Range.
- Dilwara Temples: Renowned for their marble carvings, these Jain temples are a visual treat for any art lover.
- Nakki Lake: A serene lake perfect for a boat ride, surrounded by scenic hills.
- Sunset Point: A must-visit to capture the beautiful hues of the sun setting over the Aravalli hills.
Day 8: Udaipur Sightseeing – The City of Lakes
Udaipur is often called the Venice of the East, and it will enchant you with its lakes and palaces.
- City Palace: Situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, this palace complex is a fine example of Rajasthani architecture.
- Lake Pichola: Enjoy a boat ride here and visit the iconic Jag Mandir in the middle of the lake.
- Saheliyon Ki Bari: A garden built for royal maidens, featuring fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions.
Day 9: Pushkar via Chittorgarh & Ajmer
Today, you will journey through some of Rajasthan’s most spiritual places:
- Ajmer: Visit the sacred Dargah Sharif of Moinuddin Chishti, a pilgrimage site for people of all faiths.
- Pushkar: Known for its annual camel fair, Pushkar is home to one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma and the sacred Pushkar Lake.
Day 10: Jaipur via Damping Yard and Drop
On your final day, you’ll return to Jaipur for a quick stop at the Damping Yard before being dropped off at the airport or railway station for your journey back home, filled with memories of an unforgettable Rajasthan adventure.
Conclusion
The Royal Rajasthan Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime journey through one of India’s most historically and culturally rich states. From majestic palaces to golden deserts and tranquil lakes, this trip offers a glimpse into the royal past of India while showcasing the vibrant and welcoming spirit of Rajasthan.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Rajasthan?
- The best time to visit Rajasthan is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
- How should I prepare for desert camping in Jaisalmer?
- Carry warm clothing for the chilly desert nights, stay hydrated, and keep a flashlight handy for your desert camp adventure.
- What are the must-try Rajasthani dishes during this tour?
- Don’t miss trying dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas – staples of Rajasthani cuisine!
- Are the drives between cities comfortable?
- Yes, the drives are generally comfortable with well-maintained roads, but it’s advisable to keep water, snacks, and entertainment handy for long journeys.
- How to stay connected during the trip?
- Most cities have good network coverage, but internet connectivity might be limited in remote desert areas like Jaisalmer. It’s wise to have offline maps and important information saved.
Royal Rajasthan Tour (09N/10D)
When one thinks of Rajasthan, vivid images of royal palaces, colorful bazaars, historic forts, and the golden sands of the Thar Desert spring to mind. This 10-day tour through Rajasthan, often called the “Land of Kings,” is the perfect introduction to India’s cultural richness and historical grandeur.
