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The most incredible state of India, which means the land of rajas and Maharajas, Rajasthan is the largest state of the Republic of India which is located in the northwest of India, covering an area of 342239 square kilometers with a population of 68548437. It involves 22 kingdoms of princely states that are merged under a common name 'Rajasthan' on 30 March 1949. The capital of Rajasthan is Jaipur (Pink City) and shares its boundary with 5 states Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat.
Rajasthan has a unique layout i.e., the west consists of infertile land (mainly desert), and the east consists of fertile land. It is a colorful state with warmhearted locals, exquisite delicacies, and pure spices with chronicled fables of the province and is one of the enchanting states which attracts a vast number of tourists.
This article describes 6 days tour covering Rajasthan’s 3 cities with family, individually or for a couple too. The route which we cover is Jaipur-Udaipur-Mount Abu-Jaisalmer spending 1 night and 2 days in each city. The most important thing we consider in this article is the most favorable time to visit Rajasthan. i.e., October to March because of a sunny day with cooler nights and the weather is not too humid.
……. let’s start the mesmerizing journey……
JAIPUR
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is the largest city and the capital of Rajasthan. This city is named after its founder Maharaja Jai Singh and is a most liked destination in the country mainly for its famous heritage sights like forts, regional food, the Pinkish color of walls and buildings, and whatnot.
Also, the interesting fact is that it is India's first planned city. To explore the whole of Jaipur in just two days is a little hard but we can explore most of the things if we plan.
WAYS TO REACH
Delhi is the center of the route when we planned a trip to Rajasthan.
BY AIR
The city has a domestic Airport known as, Jaipur International Airport which is well connected to major cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, etc. Domestic Airlines operate regular flights from major cities of India.
Delhi to Jaipur- time takes around 1hour
Mumbai to Jaipur- time takes around, 2 hours 30 minutes
Chandigarh to Jaipur- takes time around, 6 hours 20 minutes
The recommended way to reach Jaipur by Chandigarh is by train or road.
BY TRAIN
Jaipur is well connected by trains and different railway Stations.
Delhi to Jaipur - 4 hours 30 minutes
Chandigarh to Jaipur - 12hours 20 minutes
BY ROAD
The city is well connected by road to different cities of the country.
There are State and private buses run from Delhi or other cities.
Delhi to Jaipur - 280km
Chandigarh to Jaipur - 518km
DAY 1
HAWA MAHAL
Hawa Mahal, or we can say "Place of Winds", was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh especially for royal ladies to watch everyday street scenes from windows. Sunrise from that palace is fascinating to watch as windows of the Hawa Mahal light up with the sun, and one can have breakfast of kachori in front of Hawa Mahal as there are many shops.
Also, it looks beautiful at night as it lights up. You can reach the place through a local bus or cab.
ENTRY FEE:
Indian visitors- 20Rs. per person
Foreign visitors- 50Rs. per person
TIMING
9:30am – 4:30pm
AMER FORT
It is located 11km North of central Jaipur
Amer is one of the most visited places in Jaipur as your trip is incomplete without visiting the Amer fort.
Tourism of India has listed the Fort in the 47 iconic sites.
It is a UNESCO world heritage site and is a part of "hills forts of the Rajasthan".
Amer Fort is famous for its artistic elements like large different gates, cobbled paths, Matota lake.
The magnificent architecture of the place reflects Mughal and Rajput styles. There are many sights in Amer to see like Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-E-Khas, Zenana Deori, Sheela Mata Mandir, etc.
To explore Amer Fort, there is a ticket for that, the details of which are- 100Rs. for Indian Visitors, 10Rs. for Indian Students; 500Rs. for foreign Visitors, 100Rs. for foreign students. {carry students identity card is important.
TIMING
8 am – 5:30 pm
JAL MAHAL
Jal Mahal is located on the main road that leads to Amer. Visitors like to visit Jal Mahal and Amer together. It is the most photography friendly spot for tourists. You are not allowed to go in the water or near the Mahal but you can watch the beautiful symmetrical Mahal in the center of Sagar lake.
JAIGARH FORT
Jaigarh Fort was built in 1726 AD by Sawai Jai Singh and the main reason to build it was to protect the Amer Fort. There are many attractions to see within the fort like Laxmi Villas, Lalit Mandir, Vilas mandir but mainly people visit the fort to see the Cannon; world's Largest Cannon on wheels called "Jaivana Cannon". You can visit Jaigarh Fort either by the Tunnel connected by Amer fort, the length of which is 7km, or you can take an autorickshaw or cab from Amer.
ENTREE FEE
Indian visitors- 50Rs. per person
Indian student/child (5-12)- 30Rs. per person
Foreign visitors- 100Rs. per person
Foreign Student/child (5-12)- 60Rs.
NAHARGARH FORT
Nahargarh Fort is one of the famous of the three forts; it was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh for the defense system for Jaipur. This magnificent fort is situated on Aravalli hills. This Fort is mainly famous for its scenic and amazing views of Jaipur, and its architecture.
There is also the Jaipur Wax Museum in the Fort. You can also visit Nahargarh biological park located within the fort premises.
ENTREE FEE
For Indian visitors- 50Rs. per person
For Indian Students- 5Rs. per person (valid identity card)
Foreign visitors- 200Rs. per person
TIMING
10:00AM – 5:30PM
VISIT DURATION
2-3 hours
CHOKHI DHANI
If you are visiting Rajasthan, Chokhi Dhani is a must on the bucket list. It is nearly 25km away from Jaipur city. Chokhi Dhani village resort has everything to offer under one roof to know the Rajasthani heritage or culture. This resort is most famous for its Rajasthani thali and the unique serving.
But you will feel highly connected to culture right from the gate of the resort, with the beautiful Diya wall, and welcome ceremony with tilak. It's the best place to visit with family. When you start exploring the entire resort, or I can say city, you will see that it is joyful for everyone, no matter how old they are. Traditional dances in Rajasthani dresses is a major attraction, and you can also dance with them or sit down and enjoy a bonfire, puppet shows, elephant rides, camel rides, get photographed in traditional attire, mehndi design, Museum visit, shopping, artifact shop, all in one place.
And the dinner at Choki Dhani is the most tasteful Rajasthani traditional food you can ever have.
The dining facilities are extremely good.
ENTREE FEE
Adult: 750Rs. per person
Child: 450Rs. per person
TIMING
5:00PM TO 11:00 PM
Day 2
TEMPLES TO VISIT
Moti Dungri Ganesh Ji Temple, Birla Mandir, Akshardham Mandir, Govind Dev Ji Temple.
CITY PALACE
The City Palace is popular with tourists especially first-timers. It was established at the time of Jaipur by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. The architecture of the palace shows the Mughal, Rajput, and European styles. The Royal Family still lives in the palace but that part is private and not open to the public. It is famous for its buildings, fortresses, history, and culture.
There are so many attraction points within the city palace so if you want the full tour of the palace it will take some time.
Mubarak Mahal, Pritam Niwas Chowk, Chandra Mahal, Maharani Palace, Peacock Gate, Rose Gate, Lotus Gate, Chandeliers of Diwan-I-Khas, etc.
The small part of the palace form into the museum. Mubarak Mahal is also a part of it which showcases the Rajasthani textiles or clothes worn by Kings and Queens.
ENTREE FEE
The entry fees of City palace Jaipur vary depending on what kind of sights and facilities you want, like visiting the museum during day or night.
For Indian visitors- 200Rs.
For child or Indian student (with identity card) or senior citizen/defence- 100Rs.
Foreign visitors- 700Rs.
Child(5-12years)/ student with valid ID- 400Rs.
Senior citizen/ disabled- 430Rs.
Time duration- 2 hours
MARKETS TO EXPLORE
Bapu Bazar (for all Jaipuri items), Johri Bazar (Famous for jewellery), Tripolia Bazar (Famous for bangles), Chandpol Bazar (for handicrafts) In the evening time, you can leave for Udaipur.
ACCOMMODATION
There are several hotels, guesthouses, and hostels available in Jaipur with the ranges according to the facilities, views, and security.
The price for guest houses ranges from 500Rs. to 800Rs. per person per night and the hotel prices vary from 800rs. To 10,000rs or may be higher than this according to the hotels and facilities.
UDAIPUR – THE VENICE OF THE EAST
Udaipur, the capital of Mewar, Rajasthan also known as the city of lakes is known for its amazing locations, rich cultural background, and grand architecture from the period of Rajputs.
The city is famous for its ancient palaces, massive forts, breath-taking lakes, beautiful lush green gardens, age-old temples, romantic locations and so much more. The city looks mesmerizing as it is designed by the bygone era palatial architecture. The city is a perfect example of how magnificent nature can be.
Udaipur comes with a rich history as it is the historic capital of the kingdom of
Mewar in the former Rajputana Agency. It was founded back in the year 1558 by Udai Singh II of the Sisodia clan of Rajput when he shifted his capital from the city of Chittorgarh to Udaipur after Chittorgarh was besieged by Akbar.
A better stay always gives you a better experience on your trip. So, to ensure that you always get a better experience, you can book your rooms at the hotels of Udaipur having the amazing lake view of the Fateh Sagar Lake and Lake Pichola ranging from ₹ 2500 –₹10000 (Breakfast complimentary), and Guesthouse and dormitory stay price ranges from ₹600 - ₹3000.
Here are some places you must explore in Udaipur and you can simply not miss...
THE CITY PALACE
After you have checked into a hotel in Udaipur, the first place you must visit is the City Palace which is famous for its History, Architecture, and photography.
HISTORY OF THE PLACE
City Palace was constructed by Maharana Udai Mirza Singh in the year 1559. It is located on the banks of Pichola Lake. It is the perfect blend of European, Medieval, and Chinese styles of architecture.
City Palace has 11 magnificent palaces and they were all constructed by various rulers at different periods. The size of the palace is breathtaking with courtyards, terraces, pavilions, hanging gardens, and much more. Everything about the palace is eye-catching be it the architecture, the antique pieces, or the exclusive paintings hanging on the walls.
Activities you can do there –
Enjoy the palace tour (entry fee- 30INR for adults and 15INR for children)
Visit the museums of the city palace where charges are separate.
Enjoy the beauty of nearby Lake Pichola during the sunset.
You can spend 1-2 hours in the city palace after which you can visit Lake Pichola which is nearby.
LAKE PICHOLA
The best time of the day to visit Lake Pichola is during sunset time when you can enjoy the beautiful scenic beauty of the lake which is hard to forget.
HISTORY OF THE PLACE
Lake Pichola was created in 1362 AD. Rana Udai Singh II extended the lake in the 16th century.
The lake is surrounded by huge hills, temples, and bathing ghats.
Activities you can do there:
You can enjoy a boating ride in the lake during the sunset.
Visit the lake palace and lake garden palace.
And end your day on a beautiful note
Next-Day in the morning, the first place you should explore is one of the most famous places of Udaipur, The SajjanGarh palace.
SAJJANGARH PALACE
This palace, also known as the monsoon palace is 944m above sea level, located on the top of the Bansdara Mountain which is overlooking the Pichola lake.
This palace is known for its rich architecture and history. The palace was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1884 with the motive of people to enjoy watching the monsoon clouds gathering auspiciously in the sky and was used by Mewar kings as their retreats in summer. It will take you around 3 to 4 hours to explore the entire palace and its scenic beauty.
FATEH SAGAR LAKE
After visiting the SajjanGarh palace your next stop could be Fateh Sagar lake, a sparkling lake surrounded by Aravalli hills. Its scenic beauty makes it one of the most famous tourist attractions. You can drive through the Moti Magri road and get an amazing view of the entire lake. You can also try boating and other water sports there.
The lake is spread over an area of 1 square kilometre and is divided into three islands ... the largest island, Nehru Park is also an attraction as it comes with a boat-shaped restaurant and zoo for the kids. The Fateh Sagar lake can be a perfect weekend destination for you and will promise you a weekend you got never before.
Apart from palaces and lakes, Udaipur is also famous for its cafes located on the Banks of the lakes. So, what better way than ending your day with such a cafe. Here’s a cafe you must visit...
JHEELS GINGER COFFEE BAR AND BAKERY
This beautiful cafe is situated on the banks of Lake Pichola. and can give you a Perfect evening with a cup of coffee and your favourite food. The cafe will give you the perfect relaxing and chill vibes and will compliment your evening perfectly.
MOUNT ABU
In your day 4, you can travel to Mount Abu, a picturesque hill station in western India’s Rajasthan state, near the Gujarat border which is located on a high rocky plateau in the Aravalli Range and is surrounded by lush green forest, its climate is relatively cool and it has the views over the arid plains below, from Udaipur.
The cheapest way to reach from Udaipur to Mt Abu is by bus as it takes 3h 10m and ticket prices start from ₹280. The fastest way to reach from Udaipur to Mt Abu is by cab and it takes 1h 40m with a maximum of four people with prices starting from ₹9 per km. The recommended way to reach from Udaipur to Mt Abu is by bus which takes 3h 10m.
The hotels in Mt. Abu come with an amazing view of Aravalli hills surrounded by lush green trees, ranging from ₹ 2000-₹ 7000 and guest house prices ranging from ₹600- ₹3500.
You can never run out of places to visit in Mt. Abu as the place comes up with pristine lakes and beautiful temples.
The best tourist attractions of the city are the Dilwara Jain Temple, Mt. Abu wildlife sanctuary, Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, Achalgarh fort, Peace Park, Honeymoon Point, and many more which will make your weekend worth remembering.
Mount Abu comes with a lot of local street food options starting from --
Dal Bati Churma
Laal Maas.
Mohan Maas
Gatte Ki Khichdi
Bajre Ki Roti
Ghevar
Malpua
Pyaz ki Kachori. And much more
The best way to end your day in Mt. Abu is to watch the sunset from Sunset Point, MT. Abu is just 15 minutes’ drive from the Nakki lake.
INFORMATION FOR THE VISITORS
The speciality of the place – Photography, admiring nature, and seeking experience.
Visiting time – Sunset to sunrise
Visit Duration – 1 hour
No entrance fees.
JAISALMER CITY
‘An epitome of Rajasthan’s culture and traditions’
Jaisalmer city, situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, also known as the ‘Golden City’ of India, is named so because the city stands on a reef of golden-yellowish sandstone. Everything on the move from the folk houses to the tombs, palaces, and temples are magnificently carved and the architecture uses golden-yellow sandstone. From witnessing the glory of the majestic forts and palaces to indulging in some fun and adventure activities at the Sam sand dunes, the city holds an abundance of options to relish. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations placed in the north-western state of Rajasthan. The distance from Jaipur city is around 550km and from Udaipur city is 492.4km. The easiest and fastest way to reach Jaisalmer from Udaipur is the bus which takes around 8 hours 10 minutes. Apart from this, there are 2 more ways, that is, by train which takes a minimum of 13 hours and by air which also takes around 13-14 hours… that’s why we are not recommending these 2 options.
THINGS TO DO IN JAISALMER
Jaisalmer majesty can be explored in 2 days tour
DAY 5- MONARCHIC CITY TOUR
DAY 6- INSANE DESERT TOUR
DAY 5 MONARCHIC CITY TOUR
Jaisalmer Fort (Nathmal Ki haveli- Gadisar lake)
JAISALMER FORT ESSENCE OF …. JAISALMER……
It is counted amongst one of the largest forts in the world, Jaisalmer Fort or 'Sonar Killa' was built in 1156; Maharaja Rawal Jaiswal was the creator of this fort. It stands on a ridge at an elevation of 250 feet, the base of the fort has 15 feet tall walls creating the outermost ring with its triple ring defence structure. It is the only fort in the world where we can stay inside a fort and is home to over 3000 people. It’s a city within a city. This gigantic fort houses hotels, restaurants, museums, temples, small palaces, and various shops lined along the loop narrow path.
VISIT DURATION: 2-3 hours (vary according to the personal interest)
VISITING TIME- 6 AM TO 5 PM (daily)
ENTRY FEE – free of cost
NATHMAL KI HAVELI- …. MAJESTY OF ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE……
At a distance of 500m from Jaisalmer fort, Nathmal Ki Haveli was built by two architect brothers who started constructing different facets of the haveli together. The interesting part is figuring out the difference because the left and right framework of the building appear to look the same from distance but if we stare intently the carvings are different. This historic museum which depicts the lifestyle of Rajasthan and the artwork of the past, relish a panoramic view of the haveli complex, treasure ancient artwork like mirror work, paintings, magnificent carving, arches and many more things which attract the tourists towards the haveli.
ENTRY FEE- no entry fee
VISIT DURATION- around 1-2 hours
VISITING TIME- every day 8 AM to 7 PM
GADISAR LAKE- AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE BUSTLE OF THE CITY….
2.3km away from Nathmal Ki haveli, the lake is a water conservation tank manufactured by Maharaja of Jaisalmer in 1480 and is one of the most valuable assets to the Jaisalmer city. The mesmerizing thing about this lake is that tourists can spend some quiet and tranquil moments. They can go for a boat ride in the lake and capture astounding photographs as well. During the winters, this lake also sees some fascinating migratory birds as the Bharatpur bird sanctuary is close to it. Missing this spot will not do justice to this captivating and amazing city in Rajasthan.
ENTRY FEE- No fee for entry but the boat rides are chargeable at Rs.10 for a rowboat, Rs. 50 for paddleboat, and Rs. 100 for a shikara.
VISIT DURATION- 1-2 hours
VISITING TIME- can visit the lake at any time, but the boats are accessible from 8 AM TO 8 PM.
Looking for a captivating and delightful night stay?
Around 45 km from Jaisalmer city is Sam sand dunes in the desert area located amid Thar desert. The best way to start a desert experience is by booking accommodation in the desert camp and stay a night. The camp provides every amenity and enthralling roaring campfire, music, folk dance, puppet shows, and the aromatic Rajasthani cuisine. There are different types of night camps from average to luxury with the price of around Rs 750 to Rs 7000 per head which includes the packages including cuisine, desert safari, group dance DJ party, campfire, and many more.
DAY 6 INSANE DESERT TOUR
CAMEL SAFARI
Camel safari is the enthralling ride to explore the Thar desert on the soft sand and relish the steady inclines and slopes of the wavy, magnificent dunes on the back of a camel. The route covers traversing villages, temples which help in experiencing a taste of the history and culture of Rajasthan.
The best time for a camel safari is from 5 to 7 PM due to the stunning sunset.
Time duration varies on a particular interest.
DUNE BASHING
It gives a perfect experience for an adventure lover; a dune bashing tour is a unique sporting spectacle as the best dunes in India are found in Jaisalmer which makes the tour enthralling.
Best time to indulge in dune bashing in the early morning (4 AM TO 6 AM) or evening (4 PM TO 7 PM).
The ticket price is around Rs2600 per head to RS 3500.
PARASAILING
If you want to explore dazzling views from the top by taking adventure to the next level then Parasailing is for you. It feels like a flying bird. It is conducted on the ground under the vigilant eyes of qualified parasailing instructors and can be undertaken by all age groups (5 years onwards).
Activity timing is 10 AM TO 5:30 PM.
The duration of the activity is around 30 minutes.
The charges range from Rs. 1500- Rs. 2500.
ACCOMMODATION:
As Rajasthan is known for its royalty and eminence, tourists can experience the leisure of Jaisalmer city by staying in luxury hotels ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 25,000 or more, depending on the facilities, security, cozy ambience, and most importantly, the budget. The city also has lowly priced to average priced hotels, guest houses, and rooms in the fort that varies from Rs. 500 to Rs. 8000 considering the different needs and wants of tourists.
THE LAVISH ARCHITECTURE, ALLURING LANDSCAPE, CAMEL SAFARIS, THRILLING ADVENTURE, VIBRANT ART AND CRAFT, AND DELICIOUS FOOD MAKE JAISALMER A MUST VISIT PLACE.
By Urvi Chauhan, Sonia, Anushka Raychowdhury, Rishabh Raj & Shubham Shah.
