7 Days in Rajasthan: A Perfect Itinerary for Exploring the Land of Maharajas
Welcome to the enchanting land of Rajasthan, where history, culture, and grandeur blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable travel experience. Known as the “Land of Maharajas,” Rajasthan is a vibrant state in India that boasts magnificent palaces, majestic forts, and a rich heritage that dates back centuries. A visit to Rajasthan is like stepping into a fairy tale, where every corner exudes regal splendor and tales of valor. Without a doubt, Rajasthan attracts a sizable number of tourists due to its vibrant cities. Men enjoy the colourful turbans that ladies wear, and even the names of the cities Jaipur (Pink City), Udaipur (White City), and Jodhpur (Blue City) have colours linked with them. The most renowned annual camel market in Pushkar, which takes place in the months of October to November, is the best place to view all these colours in action. In its territory count the most beautiful attractions of India with its impenetrable forts, the magnificent havelis, as well as a richness of cut and traditions that have no equal. With so many reasons to visit, is it any question that this place serves as the perfect destination to introduce your kids to the wonderfully rich past of their country? A Rajasthan itinerary is an ideal way to bond with your loved ones and have a memorable time. It is advised that you schedule your trip to Rajasthan during the winter months if you want to visit the most picturesque locations there. It would be best to schedule your trip for the months of November through February. Extreme summer and winter temperatures are typical in Rajasthan. Planning a trip to Rajasthan can be overwhelming due to the plethora of attractions and cities it offers. Literally any city can be considered as the starting point of your Rajasthan trip. However, we’ve given you an ideal travel plan to follow in this travel guide to Rajasthan. To help you make the most of your time, we have crafted a perfect 7-day itinerary that will take you through the must-visit destinations in Rajasthan. Day 1: Arrival in Jaipur – The Pink City Your journey begins in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan and famously known as the “Pink City” due to its pink-hued buildings. Start your day by visiting the iconic Hawa Mahal, a stunning palace known for its intricate honeycomb-like facade. Explore the grandeur of the City Palace, which houses various museums showcasing Rajasthani art and artifacts. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture at the bustling bazaars of Jaipur. Visit the Johri Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar to shop for vibrant textiles, handicrafts, and precious gemstones. Don’t miss the chance to savor the mouthwatering Rajasthani cuisine, known for its rich flavors and royal heritage. Credit: Unsplash Day 2: Jaipur – Beyond the City Walls On your second day, venture beyond the city walls of Jaipur to explore the magnificent Amber Fort. Located on a hilltop, this fortress offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can either trek up to the fort or opt for an elephant ride for an authentic experience. In the afternoon, visit the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built in the 18th century. Marvel at the impressive instruments that were used to measure time and track celestial bodies. End your day with a visit to the serene Jal Mahal, a palace situated in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake, offering a picturesque sight. Credit: Unsplash Day 3: Jodhpur – The Blue City Leave Jaipur behind and travel to Jodhpur, famously known as the “Blue City” due to its blue-colored houses. Start your exploration with a visit to the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. This imposing fort stands on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the city. Explore its palaces, courtyards, and museum, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts. Afterward, wander through the narrow streets of the old city and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the bustling Sardar Market, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Don’t forget to try the local delicacy, “Makhaniya Lassi,” a creamy yogurt-based drink that is a specialty of Jodhpur. Credit: Unsplash Day 4: Jaisalmer – The Golden City Embark on a scenic drive to Jaisalmer, known as the “Golden City” due to its golden sandstone architecture that seems to glow in the sunlight. Explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow lanes, discover intricately carved havelis (mansions), and soak in the stunning views of the city. In the evening, head to the famous Sam Sand Dunes, located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer. Enjoy a camel safari across the desert, witness a mesmerizing sunset, and indulge in a traditional Rajasthani dinner accompanied by folk music and dance performances. Credit: Unsplash Day 5: Jaisalmer – Beyond the Fort On your fifth day, explore the hidden gems of Jaisalmer beyond the fort. This settlement, which resembles a fairytale village from the Thar Desert, was established by Raja Jaisal about 800 years ago. Due to its advantageous location along the camel trade routes, the city played a significant role as a commerce hub. The golden yellow sandstone havelis are still in fantastic shape. The Trikuta Hill, which is about 80 metres high, is where the Jaisalmer Fort is located. There are many stunning Jain temples in the fort. Additionally, you can schedule a trip to Jaisalmer for the annual Desert Festival that takes place in January and February. Both colour and activities abound at the festival. The area is renowned for its rugs, camel safaris, masonry, Rajasthani mirror work, and needlework. The famed Sam sand dunes tour can then be continued. The distance between it and Jaisalmer is 42 km. The closest vantage point for the sandy desert is likewise provided by the dunes. You can also see the patterns and themes that
7 Unique Things to Do in Rajasthan for a Great Vacay (2022)
Rajasthan is a land of delights, and there are many ways to have fun here. It is known for its palaces, forts, and dancing women, but there is much more to this state than these great tourist attractions, and there are many aspects to Rajasthan that will not only astound you but will also provide you with an incomparable experience of the region. The land has many magnificent places in all of its locations, including local districts and even towns, where you may observe many strange things that are unique to the globe. Rajasthan is a lovely destination to visit and find many beautiful and strange things, and one may explore a large area to do so. It is not only because the state belongs to the royals, and the state’s culture flashes glimpses of those royalties at every turn, but also because the people of this state are deeply religious, and they believe in many things and events that are traditionally associated with faith, and these beliefs have remained strong to this day. Things to Do in Rajasthan There are a bundle of unique things to do in Rajasthan. These are as follows: Meeting unseen ghosts and knowing their stories A hot air balloon ride Having Laal Maas Spending night at Golden Sands Staying in a Royal Residence Visiting Bullet Baba Temple Exploring Wildlife 01. Meet the Unseen Ghosts and learn about their stories Rajasthan is the state having the greatest number of locations associated with ghost stories and unexplained events. There are a variety of locales that are known for their eerie legends and unexplained happenings, ranging from the stories of the legendary Bhangarh Fort to the abandoned Kuldhara village. And it is for these reasons that they are more appealing and attract a big number of people to visit them to learn the truth. Every single individual who visits these locations remembers to tell their experiences for the rest of their lives. So whether it’s the princess and the magician story of Bhangarh Palace or the abandoned town of Kuldhara that was flooded with people in a single night, they’re both terrifying and may frighten people if you travel back in time. The Archaeological Survey of India maintains the Bhangarh Palace, and there is a restriction sign prohibiting visitors from entering the fort before sunrise or after sunset due to strange occurrences inside the fort, such as fearful cries, strange scents, and unusual sounds. When it comes to the Brijraj Bhawan, which is a hotel, there is a section of the hotel that is haunted and linked to a British haunting spirit, and the Jagatpura, which is also renowned for its roaming witches and white pictures. 02. A Hot Air Balloon Ride will take you to new heights Hot Air Balloon Excursions are one of the most exciting activities available in Rajasthan, and these rides are not limited to just one city; travelers may enjoy hot balloon rides in other cities to see the state’s natural beauty. The capital city of Jaipur, which is the center of balloon rides, is the perfect place for fliers to start. The experiences are unforgettable, and only those who fly high enough may enjoy the spellbinding pleasure of viewing the city from above. Following Jaipur, travelers may have good balloon flights in Udaipur, where they can enjoy a soaring experience of about 45 minutes on the high balloon rides to explore the lakes and palaces. Hot balloon flights are not only accessible in these locations, but also in Pushkar, a lovely religious city where you may soar over the sacred Pushkar Lake and a plethora of temples. This may be one of the ideal adventures for honeymoon couples visiting Rajasthan for their romantic vacation, and they should not miss out on the high-altitude flights. 03. Lal Maas (Delicious Lal Maas) Laal maas is a royal delicacy found in the state of Rajasthan. You can have it in other parts of India, but it should not be left in the state where Lal Maas was born. This traditional cuisine, which originated in the state’s Royal kitchens, is cooked with red hot chilies in a rich stew mixed with local spices and served with naan or missi rotis. There are several opulent establishments in Rajasthan’s numerous cities where you may sample this delicacy, and the meal is cooked with desi ghee, which adds a layer of richness to the dish and makes it more filling. Lal Maas is one of the greatest non-vegetarian options in Rajasthan, and it is served with every sumptuous meal or dining experience in the state. After a rigorous tour of any part of the city, the menu is just what you need to refuel your energy, and the spicy flavor will stimulate all of your senses. 04. Spending a Night on the Golden Sands Spending the night under the stars and on the beautiful dunes of the Thar Desert will be an unforgettable experience. You may choose from a variety of night safari campgrounds where you can camp and have fun overnight. The best place for a night desert safari in Jaisalmer, and no one should miss out on the chance to sleep in the dunes. It’s no less than an adventure, and it’s unquestionably entertaining. Your night stay will be filled with unique dinners, and various tourism service providers will organize folk dancing and music, which will be complemented by bonfires and the greatest luxury camp stays. You may select from a variety of desert safari camps offered by various service providers, and they are priced to fit your budget. Your night stay will be escorted by expert guides, and you may also go on a camel safari on the dunes before or after the night stay if you choose. 05. Staying at a
RAJASTHAN ON ROAD
THE MESMERIZING ART OF PUPPETRY Ralph Waldo Emerson justly said that “It’s the journey and not the destination”, that matters, so here I take a trip down the memory lane and reminisce about my road trip from The City Of Lakes to The Golden City (Udaipur to Jaisalmer). THE BEGINNING My journey began on a beautiful and cold winter morning, where we all got loaded up in our car, ready to explore the roads while the music and the magnificent Aravali Hills kept us company, while we paved our way out of “Mewar” (the south-central part of Rajasthan). The 490 km long journey was no less than an adventure, as we got a chance to experience the grandeur of the majestic mountains, the spectacular landscapes, and the glowing dunes. After a 5- hour not-so-tiring journey we bid goodbye to the serene views of Mewar and landed in “Marwar” (south-western part of Rajasthan), The word itself means, “The Land of Deserts”. Here, we began our journey to explore the real Rajasthan in its raw form, the state of Marwar, welcoming us with its beautiful colors and prints, which is the essence of Rajasthan. People adorned in beautiful turbans and women with the authentic traditional “lehengas”, left us in awe of them. Read more about travel experience in Rajasthan in the blog written by Sophie THE MUST VISIT STOPS You won’t imagine such a temple exists! While drooling over the amazing culture and heritage of the state we paved our way and reached our first destination, THE BULLET BABA TEMPLE, located about 40kms from Jodhpur. Here, the devotees gather to worship a Royal Enfield Bullet (Motorbike), which is decorated and encased in a glass case. On speaking with the locals here, we got to know that there is a fascinating piece of history associated with this temple. It is said that a local youth, Om Banna died in a motorcycle accident and since then his soul protects people from the same fate. People worship here for a safe journey. Locals also claim that they have seen the ghost of Om Banna! The bike is also believed to have supernatural powers, which intrigued us. I’m not drooling you are!!! After worshipping at the temple, we moved forward and took a stop to enjoy the very famous delicacy of the state, “Kachori“, a seasoned deep-fried bite. It was astounding to watch the oil-dripping kachoris landing directly from the stove on our plates. The burst of flavors in my mouth is something that I will treasure forever. After refreshing ourselves with a blast of flavors, we got back on wheels and moved towards Jodhpur, The capital of the Kingdom Of Marwar, to sink deep into the mysteries, to hear tales of triumphs and battles, to get mixed into the culture and heritage of the city and to surrender to the delicious cuisines the state has to offer. MEHRANGARH FORT (CITADEL OF SUN) Image credits:- Makm Photography on Unsplash) The Sun City We reached Jodhpur at the onset of dusk, where we were welcomed by traditional Rajasthani folk music, which was like a prayer to our ears. The environment was full of soothing lights, bonfires, and melodious tunes. After relaxing in the evening. We started our exploration early next morning, our first destination being the “MEHRANGARH FORT” (Citadel of Sun) which stands on a perpendicular cliff, about 400 feet above the skyline of Jodhpur, is a majestic citadel of colossal proportions. Burnished in red sandstone, the fort presents a strangely haunting yet beautiful view. Walking through the fort and reading the tales of valor made me admire the culture more. The local artists performing at the fort and the beautiful shops added to the beauty of the fort. The fort has an amazing view, which makes me wonder how exciting it would have been to be a king! A little slice of heaven For lunch, we decided to devour the flavors of the city and tried out “Laal Maas”, a mutton curry prepared in a sauce of yogurt and hot spices, along with “Missi Roti”, a Rajasthani bread made of wheat and gram flour. After a sumptuous lunch, we went on to explore the local market, where we enjoyed shopping for souvenirs. For dinner, we enjoyed the famous,” Dhani Dinner”, a village-themed dinner where we enjoyed the local delicacies Kair Sangri, Gatta Curry, Missi Roti, Dal bati churma. The local food was engrossed with a variety of flavors, which played hide and seek with my taste buds. The Golden City After spending the night, we bid goodbye and moved towards the Golden city. A four hour journey which was spent driving through the beautiful roads admiring the beauty of the dunes, we reached our final destination Jaisalmer. JAISALMER FORT (SONAR QILA) We made our first stop at the mesmerizing Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). The fort rises from the sand itself and the setting sun adds its magic and shrouds the fort with mystique. It is one of the first living forts of India which has a dwelling of human settlements inside it, giving it a more aesthetic appeal. The fort is adorned with beautiful carvings which depict the culture in a never known way. Ghost Village (Ghost Police on the way!!) We then made our way towards the famous village of Kuldhara, which is also known as the “Ghost Village”, the village is believed to be the home of Paliwal Brahmins, who were forced to leave the village, when they did not submit to the wishes of Salim Ali, who was a powerful prime minister of the state. But, it is believed that the Paliwals cursed the village such that nobody would be able to settle there and to date, the village remains barren. The walls of the houses here depict a story of pain and sadness. The village tells the tales of a struggle adding to the history
An offbeat Rajasthani Village near Jaisalmer
Khuri (locally pronounced as Khuhdhi) is a small village in the Thar Desert. It is located around 48 kilometers from the historical town of Jaisalmer, towards the southwest. It is a small village of laborious people, thriving on minimum subsistence, yet with a smile. It has found its way to satisfaction without hoarding itself in the run of securing urban comfort. The people here have a different philosophy of life. Their primary objective is to enjoy their days of presence on this beautiful planet, their village in particular. The people here have identified their USP in keeping the village off the grid of far-fetched luxurious hotels and comfortable and focusing on minimalistic, cozy, and traditional huts as homestays for their guests. House to serene sunsets, Khuri is the place to go for offbeat travelers. Image credit: Rahul Chakraborty on Unsplash Due to being uniquely away from the main tourist trails, this little village helps you find solace away from crowded cities. The number of activities you get to enjoy here is less. Meals are not as fancy, largely centered towards the Rajasthani traditional cuisine. The means of commuting to and from Jaisalmer are not as many. Yet, this place is sought by many travelers for its ability to captivate the soul. The joyous demeanor of the people is welcoming, they are always friendly with outsiders, enticing that you’re one of them. It should be mentioned explicitly that you won’t feel away from home in this small village. Their compassion and hospitality will level a bond between you and the villagers that will always etch in your memory. For those seeking an offbeat stay within close proximity of the famous Khuri Sand Dunes and a calming fascination in their travel itinerary, this place is a must-go. How to reach Khuri Village? Khuri is a small village falling under the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. For coming to the village, you will have to first reach Jaisalmer. From there, you can either board a public bus ( that is the cheaper alternative), suitable for budget travelers, or hire a taxi from Jaisalmer. Air: The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport in Jaisalmer. It is at a distance of about 50 kilometers from Khuri Village. You can book a private taxi to your accommodation from the airport costing around INR 500-1000. However, Jaisalmer Airport does not receive regular flights from major Indian cities. Alternatively, you can book a flight to Jodhpur Airport which is about 280 kilometers away from Khuri. You can easily book a taxi from the airport to the village at negotiable prices. Railway: The neighboring city of Jaisalmer has its own railway station which is well connected by trains from popular cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata. The station is at a distance of 48 kilometers from Khuri village and you can either book a private taxi which is going to cost around INR 500 or board a local bus from Gadisar Chowk during the day. Road: This small, and unpopular village can be accessed by road via NH 11. NH 11 connects it with Jaisalmer. You can reach Jaisalmer easily from major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ajmer. Further, you can stretch your road trip towards this beautiful village at the south-western border of Jaisalmer. Typically, the distance of 48 kilometers between Khuri and the main city will take less than one hour to complete. What to expect? This Rajasthani village is known all for its unconventional experience. If you’re looking for a stay that is centered on the rural lives of India, this is definitely something meaningful to you. In other words, this is an uncanny village experience, devoid of the glittery resorts and hullabaloo of a big city, and without many things to do. There won’t be any fancy restaurant serving multitudes of cuisines, or places to go shopping. But, the level of joy, and tranquility is what makes this place worth exploring. The long walk through the village streets, interacting with locals, learning about their lifestyles, culture, traditional practices, and challenges, the captivating sunset at the Khuri desert dunes make it more special than most crowded destinations of Rajasthan. Life moves slow in this desert village. Image credit: @manojchoudharyphotography on Instagram What sets the bar higher here in terms of providing perspective is the simplicity and enriched lives that the people here have happily subjected themselves to. You will be amazed that this village has no urban materialistic channel of thought. The houses are simple, the type of food they eat is usually the traditional cuisine. The modern signs of development are hard to find. People are religious, a little superstitious too. They are warm and can spend hours with you in free willing conversations with some valuable life lessons from their limited experiences and knowledge about their lives in this primitive village. What can you explore during your stay at Khuri Village? The village has a lot to offer that will leave you spellbound. The slow and culturally rooted life here is one such attraction. There are innumerable instances that will expose you to the peaceful life that the villagers have adapted themselves to. Their humble smile is a reflection of how deeper things matter in human lives, that we often overlook. The village elderly, women, men, and children welcome you like a family member. Another famous element that can and should find a place in your itinerary is the desert dunes and the moments of dusk and dawn. We all are fans of either watching the sun coming over or bidding adieu to us or both sometimes. The Khuri Desert Dunes are famous for the sunset. You can trek towards the famous spot or take a bumpy camel ride to the sunset spot. Also, the sunrise (if you are a fan) is as serene as the sunset. So, if you are one for waking up early and seeking the pinkish-red east sky, head towards
