Key takeaways
- Visit between October and March for comfortable weather and festivals.
- Jaipur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer make an ideal 7–9 day first trip.
- Book heritage hotels early for December and January.
- A night in a desert camp is the experience most travellers remember.
Rajasthan is India at its most theatrical — golden forts on rocky ridges, palaces floating on lakes and bazaars bursting with colour. With so much to see, planning a first trip can feel overwhelming. Here is how we recommend travellers approach it.
1. Jaipur — the Pink City
Start in Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital and a comfortable base to ease into the state. Spend a morning at Amer Fort, then walk through the old city to Hawa Mahal, the City Palace and Jantar Mantar.
- Amer Fort and Sheesh Mahal
- Hawa Mahal and City Palace
- Nahargarh Fort at sunset
- Johari Bazaar for jewellery and textiles
2. Udaipur — the City of Lakes
Udaipur slows everything down. The City Palace towers over Lake Pichola, and evenings are best spent on a boat or at a rooftop restaurant watching the palace glow.
3. Jaisalmer — the Golden City
Jaisalmer’s sandstone fort is still lived in, with homes and cafés inside its walls. Head out to Sam dunes in the afternoon for a camel safari and stay the night at a desert camp.
When to go
October to March is peak season with pleasant days and cool nights. Summers are extremely hot, while the monsoon brings green hills and fewer crowds.
Suggested itinerary
- 1Days 1–2: Jaipur
- 2Day 3: Drive to Jodhpur
- 3Days 4–5: Udaipur
- 4Days 6–7: Jaisalmer and the desert (or fly home)
Rajasthan rewards the traveller who slows down — leave an afternoon free in every city.
— Meera Sharma
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need for Rajasthan?
Seven to nine days is ideal for Jaipur, Udaipur and either Jodhpur or Jaisalmer.
Is Rajasthan safe for solo women travellers?
Yes, with normal precautions. We recommend booking reputable hotels and pre-arranged transport.
