Rajasthan Road Trip: A Ride to explore the Royal Cities and Hidden Gems

Rajasthan is a great place for road trips, with a mix of history, culture, and beautiful scenery. From Jaipur's lively streets to Jaisalmer's sandy dunes, each spot has its unique vibe. You can visit stunning palaces, ancient forts, peaceful lakes, and busy markets. The landscapes range from desert to green hills, giving you a taste of local life. Plus, the highway dhabas serve delicious Rajasthani food, adding to the experience. Whether looking for adventure or a laid-back trip, Rajasthan’s open roads have something for everyone.

Starting Point: Jaipur - The Pink City

Kick off your journey in Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, which is easily accessible by road from Delhi or Agra.

Jaipur is a city of palaces, forts, and lively markets. Explore the breathtaking Hawa Mahal, the impressive Amer Fort, and the opulent City Palace. The Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a fascinating insight into ancient Indian astronomy. Jaipur is also renowned for its shopping, with traditional jewellery, textiles, and handicrafts available at local bazaars. Make a stop at Sharma Dhaba near Kukas for traditional Rajasthani delicacies like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi, all served with generous helpings of desi ghee.

Next Stop: Pushkar - The Holy Town

A 150-kilometer drive from Jaipur (about 3 hours) will take you to Pushkar, a tranquil town known for its religious significance and serene atmosphere.

Pushkar is home to the sacred Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. A peaceful walk around the lake's ghats is a must, and if you're visiting in November, the Pushkar Camel Fair is a major attraction. The town also offers scenic views from the Savitri Temple, located on a hilltop, accessible by a short trek. Stop at Krishna Dhaba near Kishangarh on the Jaipur-Pushkar highway for a delicious vegetarian meal.

Continue to: Jodhpur - The Blue City

From Pushkar, drive 190 kilometres (around 4 hours) to reach Jodhpur, famous for its blue-hued old city and massive fort.

Dominating the skyline is Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India, offering sweeping views of the city. Inside the fort, explore the palatial courtyards, museums, and galleries. Other key attractions include the elegant Umaid Bhawan Palace, the serene Jaswant Thada, and the bustling Sardar Market, where you can shop for handicrafts and spices. En route to Jodhpur, stop at Midway Dhaba near Ajmer for simple, flavourful Rajasthani food or Chaudhary Bhojnalaya near Pali for traditional vegetarian fare.

Next Destination: Udaipur - The City of Lakes

From Jodhpur, embark on a 250-kilometre (around 5 hours) drive to Udaipur, Rajasthan's crown jewel, known for its stunning lakes and palaces.

Udaipur’s charm lies in its peaceful lakes and grand palaces. The City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is an architectural marvel that reflects Rajasthan's royal heritage. A boat ride on the lake during sunset is a serene experience. Other must-visits include Jag Mandir, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and the Fateh Sagar Lake. Udaipur also offers a glimpse into local culture at the Bagore Ki Haveli Museum with its folk dance performances. Between Jodhpur and Udaipur, try Sharma Bhojnalaya near Nathdwara for delicious, home-cooked meals, or RK Highway Dhaba for a more rustic dining experience.

Next Stop: Mount Abu - Rajasthan’s Hill Station

From Udaipur, take a 165-kilometer (3-hour) drive to Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s only hill station, nestled in the Aravalli range.

A refreshing change from the desert landscapes, Mount Abu offers cool weather and lush greenery. The town is known for the stunning Dilwara Temples, which feature intricate marble carvings. Don’t miss the sunset from Sunset Point, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Nakki Lake. The Achalgarh Fort and Guru Shikhar (the highest point in Rajasthan) are also worth visiting. On the Udaipur-Mount Abu route, stop at Abu Road Dhabas like Maharana Dhabha for hearty meals with a view of the hills.

Final Stop: Jaisalmer - The Golden City

From Mount Abu, head 440 kilometres (about 8 hours) to the desert city of Jaisalmer, known for its golden-hued architecture.

In Jaisalmer, visit the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila, which rises like a mirage from the Thar Desert. Explore the intricately carved Patwon ki Haveli and Salim Singh ki Haveli. For a unique desert experience, spend a night at the Sam Sand Dunes, enjoying camel rides and traditional Rajasthani cultural performances under the stars. On the way to Jaisalmer, make a pit stop at Pokhran Dhabha, known for its simple yet flavourful local dishes, including bajra roti and kadhi.

Road Trip Tips:

Best Time to Visit: August to March, when the weather is most comfortable.

What to Pack: Light cotton clothing and woollens if travelling in the cold months, sunscreen, and a good camera to capture the scenic beauty of Rajasthan

Road Conditions: Rajasthan's highways are generally in good condition, but it's always a good idea to check local road updates before your trip.

Stay Options: Consider staying in heritage hotels, havelis, and desert camps to enhance your local experience.