Rajasthan Travel Guide

In the 10 days we spent in Rajasthan, we only scratched the surface of this diverse part of India. We wanted to do things at a slower pace and therefore we visited only 3 places – but visited them properly.

Rajasthan is a vast province in India with several unique villages and towns to visit. (By vast I mean a measly  342,239 square kilometres).  You can spend months here to see all the acclaimed sites. However, if you are like me with a few weeks to visit, then the below will be relevant to you:

Itinanery – Delhi > Jodhpur > Pushkar >Jaipur > Delhi (We flew from Delhi to Jodhpur and then rented a car to cover Pushark and Jaipur. From Jaipur we flew back to Delhi. There are several airlines that fly to and from Delhi to Jodhpur and Jaipur)

Most recommended place – Pushkar. Let this sacred town absorb you with it’s numerous temples and scents. (If you can’t live without meat or alcohol thought, this might not be the place for you. Albeit, if this is true, then this is likely the challenge you need to rebalance your life)

Top Experience – Playing drums in Pushkar. Every evening a musician leads a drumming group by the lake at sunset. Everyone is welcome to join and there is no cost. The feeling is inclusive and rythmic instantly makes you feel like you are a part of this sacred town. Please don’t forget that this is a dry and vegetarian town….not good for stag do or hen party!

Top Attraction – Stepwells. I am just amazed by these incredible massive carveouts in the earth that are then perfected into symmetrical heavens. They remind me of one of Esher’s drawings. There are several in Rajasthan, however you can’t walk on the steps of all.  These are also a great photo opportunity for the family photo wall!

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Transportation– We flew to Jodhpur and from there onwards hired a car (which comes with a driver!). I would really recommend this option as it gives you the flexibility to stop and explore at your own leisure. Remember that in India, the rental cars come with driver.

Top Tip– Make sure that the sight seeing is done first thing in the morning before rush hour

Key towns visited (in the order of preference)

Pushkar– Given the vast number of impressive sites to visit in Rajasthan, Pushkar is often deprioritised due to being a smaller town with no particular fort or palace. However, given the number of forts and palaces in Rajasthan, Pushkar provides a great balance and a change of pace.

Jodhpur – This is a rustic, tradition and chaotic Rajasthani city. If you can embrace it, then you will LOVE it!  For avoidance of doubt, by embracing it, I mean…welcome the chaotic streets, the overwhelming senses, the stray dogs intimidating you, the old heritage houses mesmerising you and the smell of spices sticking to you.  If you can handle this and not expect the traditional but foreign luxiourious treatment everywhere, then you will love Jodhpur.  If you want to have a local sensory experience, then stay at one of “Heritage Haveli” guest houses in town with forgiving prices (but bring your own ear plugs if you are a light sleeper).  If you wish to experience the other extreme of Jodhpur, stay at Raas Haveli (www.raasjodhpur.com ), where you will be treated like royalty. 

Jaipur – I don’t mean to undermine Jaipur, but at a first glance , it is a like many popular and busy cities, such as London, Paris or New York. You could dismiss it at a quick glass, but you need to spend some time to look for the gems. One of the gems is its old city, also known as the “pink city”.  It is located in the middle of Jaipur is a lot bigger than one might think.  It has the main palace, the famous “Hawa Mahal” and an abundance of character.   Bear in mind though, it is super hectic and if you senses can actually focus, then you stand a chance of experiencing what the city has to offer.   Further to the pink city, there are 2 more unexpected pleasant surprise: (1) The “Monkey Temple” or also known as “Galta-ji temple”.  It is on the outskirts of Jaipur and I recommend going there towards dusk to avoid the crowds and soak up the atmosphere!  If you are not comfortables with monkey’s around you though, make sure you are in a group or with friends.

Another must do for Jaipur is the Amer Fort.  But make sure to set that alarm and get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds!

I am sure no matter, what you select in Rajasthan, you will be delighted by you discovery, eventhough your initial delight may be overwhelmed by competing sensory distraction – EMRBACE IT….as it all a part of the experience.