A 10-day Rajasthan itinerary offers an expansive tour through the royal heart of India. This desert state boasts much more than just sand dunes. From listening to the tales of valour whispered within princely palaces and forts to admiring the intricate beauty of ancient temples and sleeping under a canopy of stars in the vast desert, Rajasthan promises an unforgettable adventure.
This carefully curated 10-day Rajasthan Itinerary will take you through Rajasthan’s colour-coded cities — the blue of Jodhpur, the pink of Jaipur, and the golden majesty of Jaisalmer. Along the way, you’ll delve into Rajasthan’s rich history, explore its vibrant cities, savour delicious food, and experience timeless traditions.
Best time to visit Rajasthan
The best time to visit Rajasthan is from October to March. Walking through the unshaded ramparts and palace sprawls and spending a night in the desert is easy in cooler weather. The temperature during these months varies between 10°C and 27°C, making sightseeing in your Rajasthan itinerary an enjoyable experience. This period also coincides with several vibrant festivities, offering a cultural feast. However, if you enjoy the monsoon, visiting between July and September can be magical, as the rain brings fresh life to the arid landscapes, albeit with fewer tourists.
You can also sidestep the heat by visiting these charming hill stations in Rajasthan.
Navigating Rajasthan
Reaching Jaipur: Most international flights arrive at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, approximately 250 km and an easy 4-hour drive from Jaipur. While a few international flights land directly in Jaipur, the state is well connected by trains and domestic flights.
Local commute: Prepaid taxis can be booked directly from the airport. In Jaipur, rideshare apps like Ola and Uber often provide more competitive rates than prepaid taxi counters at airports and hotels. The best option to include in your Rajasthan itinerary is hiring a car through a travel agency for the entire duration of your trip. This ensures hassle-free travel with greater flexibility and efficiency.
The ultimate 10-day Rajasthan itinerary
Days 1-2: Jaipur and Mandawa
Begin day 1 of your Rajasthan itinerary by visiting the iconic Hawa Mahal. Then, proceed to the City Palace to check out the ancient astronomical observatory, the Jantar Mantar. We recommend taking a guided tour to understand these ancient scientific instruments.
Sign up for an early morning hot air balloon ride with Skywaltz on day 2. Visit the trio of forts in Jaipur: Amber Fort, Jaigarh, and Nahargarh.
Alternatively, on the second day, you can opt for a day trip to Mandawa, known for its richly frescoed havelis, offering a glimpse into the 18th century. The trip is approximately 170 km from Jaipur, equating to a 3-4 hour drive one way. The most convenient way to travel to Mandawa for a day trip is by hiring a private car or taxi.
Places to stay: The Rambagh Palace, The Hyatt Regency Mansarovar and The Johri. If you prefer to be away from the hustle and have a personal vehicle for commuting, consider The Leela Palace, Jaipur, or Fairmont on the outskirts of Kukas. These properties offer expansive, resort-like environments but are situated away from the city centre.
Book your stay at The Leela Palace, Jaipur via Agoda.com
Book your stay at The Leela Palace, Jaipur via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Rambagh Palace, Jaipur via Agoda.com
Book your stay at The Rambagh Palace, Jaipur via Bookingcom
Where to shop: Visit Bapu Bazaar for souvenirs and Johri Bazaar for traditional outfits and textiles. Explore more with our comprehensive guide to shopping in Jaipur.
Where to eat: Chokhi Dhani, Thali, and More for various Rajasthani platters or the Jaipur Pavilion at ITC Rajputana for a luxurious dining experience. You can also try modern lounges like the Swinton House, Paro and Nouba. Explore our selection of Jaipur’s unmissable street food gems.
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Rajasthan itinerary days 3 and 4: Jodhpur
On day 3 of your Rajasthan Itinerary, depart early by taxi from Jaipur to Jodhpur. The drive will take approximately 5-6 hours. Arrive in Jodhpur and explore the Clock Tower area in the evening.
Start day 4 early by visiting the Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s largest forts. Explore its palaces, and museums, and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Blue City below. Your next stop is Jaswant Thada, a stunning marble memorial. Spend your afternoon exploring Umaid Bhawan Palace, a magnificent royal residence and one of the world’s largest private residences.
Places to stay: Umaid Bhawan Palace, RAAS Jodhpur, The House of Rohet and Ajit Bhawan.
Book your stay at Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur via Agoda.com
Book your stay at Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur via Booking.com
Book your stay at RAAS Jodhpur via Agoda.com
Book your stay at RAAS Jodhpur via Booking.com
Where to shop: Visit the Clock Tower and Sardar Market for jewellery, handicrafts, and textiles.
Where to eat: Jodhpur is known for its street food. You must try Gulab Halwa, Makhaniya Lassi, Motu Jalebi, and Mawa Kachori on the street food trail.
Days 5-7: Exploring Jaisalmer’s dunes and city
The next leg of your Rajasthan itinerary will take you to Jaisalmer, approximately 6 hours from Jodhpur. The journey is divided into two halves: staying in the desert and the city.
Upon reaching Jaisalmer on day 5, check into one of the numerous desert camps around the city that cater to different preferences. From backpacker-style camps to luxurious resort-style glamping accommodations, staying in a desert camp is a must-do activity in your Rajasthan itinerary, particularly during winter. The best desert camps in Jaisalmer are Sujan and Serai, Kanak Jaisalmer and Desert Adventure Capital.
Relax and enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner inside your camp, and sleep under the stars.
On day 6, wake up early to see the sun rise over the desert. Desert camps offer various activities like camel safari, jeep safari, quad biking, dune bashing and more.
Check out of the camp on day 7 and check into a hotel. Visit the Jaisalmer Fort, the only living fort in the world. Stroll inside its narrow lanes whilst seeing Jain Temples and the Palace Museum. Head to Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five beautifully carved havelis. Explore the haunted village of Kuldhara.
Places to stay: Consider staying in Suryagarh or Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa.
Book your stay at Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa via Agoda.com
Book your stay at Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa via Booking.com
Where to Shop: Sonoran Ka Baas is located within Jaisalmer Fort, with shops selling a variety of traditional handicrafts, jewellery, textiles, and souvenirs. Manak Chowk, located at the main entrance of Jaisalmer Fort, is known for its colourful embroidered garments, camel leather goods, and decorative items.
Where to eat: Cafe De Kuku, Gaji’s Restaurant, and Jaisalmer Dunes Restaurant.
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Rajasthan itinerary days 8, 9 and 10: Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur
On day 8, depart for Udaipur, an approximately 9-hour drive from Jaisalmer. Enjoy a sunset boating trip to Lake Pichola and pre-book your dinner at the Jagmandir Palace.
Take a day trip to Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur on day 9. Depart from Udaipur early in the morning for Ranakpur (approximately 3 hours away). Visit the famous Ranakpur Jain Temple, renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate marble carvings, and 1,444 beautifully crafted marble pillars. Visit the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort complex is known for its longest walls, bastions, gates, and many temples and palaces. Return to Udaipur.
Alternatively, based on how much time you have left on your Rajasthan itinerary, explore Udaipur with our exclusive 2-day itinerary.
We recommend adjusting plans for day 10 of your Rajasthan itinerary according to your departure timings. Take a guided tour of the City Palace of Udaipur, a sprawling complex with stunning architecture, courtyards, and museums. Walk through the Saheliyon ki Bari gardens amidst fountains and marble pavilions. Take a ropeway to the Savitri Mata Temple for panoramic city views. In the evening, explore the ghat and the waterfront of Ambrai inside the old city. Pre-book a dinner at the Ambrai Restaurant, known for its waterfront views of the city and the water palaces. Explore more with our ultimate Udaipur travel guide.
Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport offers direct domestic flights to a few cities. Alternatively, drive back to Jaipur, approximately 400 km and a seven-hour drive from here.
Places to stay: Taj Lake Palace, The Oberoi Udaivilas and Fateh Prakash Palace
Book your stay at Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur via Agoda.com
Book your stay at Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur via Booking.com
Where to shop: Hathi Pol Bazaar, Located near the City Palace, is known for its colourful textiles. Bada Bazaar is ideal for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and artefacts.
Where to eat: Ambrai Restaurant, Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel, Natraj Dining Hall (known for its authentic Rajasthani thali), Upre by 1559 AD. Explore our selection of the best rooftop restaurants in Udaipur to savour breathtaking city views.
Shop the best travel experiences here.
(Feature Image Credit: Dmitry Rukhlenko/Shutterstock)
Related: Swayed By Susegad: Unwind With A 10-Day Leisurely Goa Itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-How many days should I spend in Rajasthan?
The ideal duration for a trip to Rajasthan depends on the places you want to visit and the experiences you want to have. A minimum of 7-10 days is recommended to cover some of Rajasthan’s major cities and attractions.
-Are there any day trips I can take from Rajasthan?
Yes, there are several day trip options from different cities in Rajasthan. For example, you can take a day trip from Jaipur to Ajmer, Pushkar, or Mandawa. You can visit Kumbhalgarh Fort or Ranakpur Jain Temple from Udaipur for a day trip.
-What should I pack for my trip to Rajasthan?
When packing for Rajasthan, consider bringing lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for hot and dry weather, especially during the summer. In winter, a lightweight jacket and layering of clothes help. Remember, it should be packed with comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
-How do I get to a city from another city in Rajasthan?
Rajasthan is well-connected by all modes of transport, including road, rail, and air. Some cities also have domestic airports with regular flights connecting major cities in India.
-What are the best cities in Rajasthan that are famous for their culinary delights?
Jaipur, Jodhpur and Bikaner are three cities with a rich food scene.
-What are must-try cuisines in Rajasthan?
Some must-try cuisines in Rajasthan include Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas, Gatte ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, and Rajasthani Thali.
-Where can I enjoy a desert safari in Rajasthan?
Jaisalmer is the most popular destination for desert safaris in Rajasthan. There are smaller dunes in Churu, Pushkar, and Jodhpur, where you can go on a desert safari.
-What are some adventure activities to try in Rajasthan?
In addition to desert safaris, Rajasthan offers adventure activities like hot air ballooning in Jaipur, zip-lining in Mehrangarh Fort, trekking in the Aravalli Hills, and wildlife safaris in Ranthambore National Park.
-Which city in Rajasthan has the best historical attractions?
Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer are known for their rich historical attractions, including forts, palaces, and heritage sites. Mandawa, Bikaner, and Bundi are lesser-known towns with incredible histories and ancient architecture.
What activities are available in Rajasthan besides sightseeing?
Rajasthan is a traveller’s paradise, offering more than just sightseeing. You can immerse yourself in activities like shopping for handicrafts and textiles in local markets and attending cultural festivals such as Teej, Gangaur, the Jaipur Literature Festival, and the Desert Festival. The regional cuisine of Rajasthan is rich and diverse, so sign up for food walks and trails to explore the culinary scene of the state. Besides Ranthambore, many towns offer wildlife safaris where you can spot various animals, from blackbucks to leopards and exotic birds, enriching your Rajasthan itinerary.
Written By
Shalbha Sarda
Shalbha Sarda is an architect-turned-journalist and travel writer from India. She loves to talk about travel, food, lifestyle, culture, design and architecture through inflight magazines, newspaper columns, travel publications and her Instagram feed. When not crafting words, you can find her cosied up in bed, indulging in a cheesy romantic comedy or immersed in period dramas or BBC documentaries, particularly those narrated by David Attenborough.
