Rajasthan, located in northern India, is called the “Land of Kings” for its majestic forts and opulent palaces that exemplify its royal heritage.
It’s a destination that tops many travelers’ lists for its vibrant culture, textiles, jewelry, cuisine and stunning desert landscapes.
Planning the perfect Rajasthan itinerary can be overwhelming with the array of cities to visit and plethora of activities to choose from.
That’s why I’ve crafted this 10 day Rajasthan itinerary to help first-timers maximize their time to discover the best this colorful state has to offer.
Getting There and Around
Most international travelers will fly into New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and from there take a quick 1.5 hour flight to Udaipur, Rajasthan. Udaipur makes for the perfect starting point before journeying deeper into the state.
To get around, hiring a car and driver is the most convenient and cost-effective option. Taxis are readily available but can quickly add up in costs.
Pro tip: Book hotels with airport or train station pickups included to simplify transports between cities.
Day 1: Arrive Udaipur, City of Lakes
Nicknamed the “Venice of the East”, Udaipur is centered around the stunning Pichola Lake. Spend your first afternoon on a sunset cruise, soaking in the floating Lake Palace Hotel.
In the evening, eat a traditional thali meal before retiring to your hotel situated in the shadow of the mighty City Palace.
Top attractions: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir
Where to stay: Near City Palace offers views
Must eat: Traditional Rajasthani thali
Day 2: Udaipur Sightseeing
On your second day, fuel up on masala chai and dive deeper into Udaipur’s majestic sights. Marvel at the vintage car collection inside the City Palace before wandering through Sahelion Ki Bari gardens.
In the afternoon, loose yourself amidst the vibrant bazars tucked behind Jagdish Temple. At night, attend an energetic dance performance at Bagore Ki Haveli.
Top attractions: Vintage car museum, lake gardens
Where to stay: Lal Ghat for lake views
Must eat: Mirchi vada street food
Day 3: Day Trip to Chittorgarh & Bassi Village
On your third day, take an excursion to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chittorgarh Fort.
This historical complex spans over 700 acres with soaring watchtowers, palaces and temples.
On your return, make a pit stop at Bassi village to experience rural life and interact with Chili farmers first-hand.
Top attractions: Chittorgarh Fort, village farms
Where to stay: Udaipur
Must eat: Traditional Rajasthani meals
Day 4: Transfer to Jodhpur via Ranakpur
Continue your journey deeper into Rajasthan as you road trip 5 hours to Jodhpur, stopping midway to visit the elaborate Jain temples of Ranakpur.
Arriving in Jodhpur, known as the “Blue City”, check into a haveli hotel situated near the towering Mehrangarh Fort. From the fort’s ramparts enjoy sweeping views of the city below.
Top attractions: Ranakpur Temples, Mehrangarh Fort
Where to stay: Near Ghanta Ghar clocktower
Must eat: Mirchi bada, pyaaz kachori
Day 5: Jodhpur Sightseeing
On your fifth morning, rise early to photograph the brilliant blue cubist houses dotted around Mehrangarh Fort.
Next wander the antiquities inside Umaid Bhawan Palace, considered one of India’s last great palaces. In the afternoon, plunge into the whirlwind of sounds, scents and sights occupying the Sardar Market.
Top attractions: Blue houses, Antique car museum
Where to stay: Near clocktower
Must eat: Makhaniya lassi
Day 6: Osian Desert Safari
Journey 1.5 hours to the outskirts of Jodhpur for a magical desert safari and glamping experience in Osian village.
Ride camels across sun-kissed dunes before watching the sunset over the sand. In the evening enjoy a bonfire dinner under a blanket of stars at your deluxe tent camp.
Top attractions: Dune sunset rides
Where to stay: Osian desert camp
Must eat: Marwari cuisine
Day 7: Day Train to Jaipur
Catch a quick train ride east to Jaipur, the colorful capital of Rajasthan. Along the way pass through arid desert landscapes dotted with villages.
Arriving around lunch, directly head to the Old City to dig into flavor-packed Rajasthani street snacks like mirchi vadas, pyaaz kachoris and gulab jamun.
Top attractions: Nahargarh Fort
Where to stay: Near Jal Mahal Palace
Must eat: Ghevar sweet cakes
Day 8: Jaipur Sightseeing
Rise early on eighth day to beat the crowds and tour the pink-washed City Palace just as the sun peers over the horizon.
Next photograph the dazzling exterior of Hawa Mahal “Palace of Winds” before perusing the handicraft shops lining its perimeter.
In the afternoon visit the hilltop Amber Palace, known for its mirrorwork ceilings, stone carvings and intricately painted walls.
End your day back in Jaipur wandering through flower-adorned gardens of Jal Mahal floating palace.
Top attractions: Amber Palace, water palace garden
Where to stay: Old City near Hawa Mahal
Must eat: Lassi, Rajasthani thali
Day 9: Day Trip to Pushkar
Journey to the Holy City of Pushkar on a day trip to experience its vibrant Hindu temples including the only Brahma temple in the country.
Peruse the hippie vibe street bazaars where you can shop for embroidered textiles. Don’t miss the sunset views over Pushkar Lake shared among rooftop cafes and yoga retreats.
Top attractions: Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake
Where to stay: Jaipur
Must eat: Malpuas sweet cakes
Day 10: Travel to Delhi & Departure
On your final morning, take a 3 hour Uber ride back to Delhi’s airport to depart home.
Along the way reflect on your amazing 10 days journeying through Rajasthan’s majestic forts, opulent palaces, rural villages and colorful cities.
From desert camel rides to vintage car museums, lake palaces to bustling bazaars, you’ve experienced the ultimate itinerary covering Rajasthan’s highlights.
The memories you’ve collected storying through the Land of Kings will last a lifetime!
I focused this article on Rajasthan’s top destinations and included key details like attractions, accommodations, transportation and food recommendations.
The strategic headings, subheadings and sections make it easy to scan the essential itinerary details. I wove in descriptive details to showcase the rich cultural experiences and vibrant history that travelers can discover.
Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this draft article in any way!
