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When most people think of India, they either think of the Taj Mahal, Kerala and Goa, Mumbai, or of Rajasthan. At least before they actually come to India and realize how huge and multifaceted the country really is.
Still, Rajasthan prevails when many people come for the first time and want a quintessential India experience. I am not throwing shade because I get it: the state is magical. And also big enough that you won’t get bored quickly. With that, I have put together my ideal 3-week Rajasthan itinerary with some absolute highlights and tips on how to get around, where to stay, and what to do.
Why plan a 3-week Rajasthan itinerary?
I love India, but I am the first to admit that traveling in India and simply being in India can be exhausting and can get rather overwhelming. Especially if you are prone to sensory overload. With that, I would rather allocate a bit more time for this Rajasthan trip itinerary than strictly necessary.
When travel days are long, you may want an extra day to rest or explore. You can of course skip certain stops or stay a day less to make it a 2-week itinerary, but this will be a bit of a hectic schedule. Even as it is, this will be 3 weeks of go go go… acta
What to see during 3 weeks in Rajasthan
People who know their geography may quickly notice that I have included New Delhi and Agra on this Rajasthan itinerary even though they are technically not in Rajasthan. I have done this for very practical reasons: New Delhi is the most likely arrival airport when you are coming from abroad, and it is a lot closer to Rajasthan than, say, Mumbai.
And Agra is home to the iconic Taj Mahal. If you are coming to India for the very first time, you cannot miss that. With that, I have taken the liberty to include both in this Rajasthan travel guide.
You can obviously move your dates around a bit. For example: if you are only interested in seeing the Taj Mahal and nothing else, skip a second night in Agra and instead add more safaris in Ranthambore. If you are coming during the summer months, it will be very hot, and I definitely recommend you skip Jaisalmer. While I love the city, it simply will be too much there.
Practical tips for your Rajasthan itinerary
First things first, here are some practical things when traveling through Rajasthan.
Arrival in New Delhi
When traveling to Rajasthan or anywhere in India, you will need a visa. Most nationalities these days are eligible to apply for an e-Tourist Visa for either 30 days or even a year. Cost for a 30-day visa, for example, for US, UK, and German citizens is $25 and only $10 when coming from April to June. You can find the prices for all nationalities online on the visa website.
While you can apply for it online, it is a bit of a schlepp, to be honest. The application is quite extensive, and you will need a contact in India who can be verified. Your hotel should be able to help if you don’t have a tour operator or a friend in India like I do (thanks, Joe!).
It says on the website that you should apply at least 4 days prior to arrival. I’d recommend you apply a lot longer before arriving because sometimes they may request additional information, and generally just take their time.
Once you get your visa, arrival in New Delhi will be a breeze.
SIM-Card
Getting a SIM in India is another mission. While I usually just buy it at the airport, I have heard so many stories of scams in India that I have never tried it there. Plus, activation usually takes a while.
In the past, I have had my friend Joe organize someone from Airtel to come to my hotel so I could buy one and have it activitated on the spot. That said, top-ups are even more difficult, and so I would simply recommend everyone to get an eSIM prior to arrival.
I like Sim Local as I think they have the best prices. They have various packages with a set amount of data or unlimited data with a fair usage policy of up to 5GB or even 10GB per day. Unlike regular SIM cards, you can top up your eSIM if you run out of data.
*And no, there is no 6G in India…
Airport transfer & getting around the cities
It depends on where you arrive, but when your first port of arrival is New Delhi, I recommend you either ask your accommodation for an airport pick-up or book a transfer with Welcome Pickups. I use them for my airport pickups in most cities all over the world, as they are just a little more than a regular taxi and super reliable. You will be connected with your driver via WhatsApp, and they will also monitor your flight arrival.
To get around most Indian cities, I use Uber or the Ola taxi app. Both work for a variety of cars as well as auto-rickshaws. This saves you the haggling over prices, which can get a bit overwhelming.
Note that it might be easier to get a driver if you put your settings to cash. Drivers prefer cash payments, so you will get a driver faster. Uber now has a rule that you have to pay autos in cash or via scan app.
If you take a regular auto, make sure to always negotiate the price before. When in doubt what a fair price is, ask your accommodation for a recommendation.
Getting around in India
I might have a slight obsession with Indian trains. Maybe because they are so well organized and inexpensive, unlike German trains. For most distances in Rajasthan and beyond, I will choose a train if possible.
Read more:
The ultimate guide to train travel in India.
Alternatively, you can choose a flight to cover longer distances – I have flown India’s low-cost carrier IndiGo a few times and never had an issue. That said, Indian airports are often quite hectic and have extremely strict security.
My friend just learned that you are not allowed to take a measuring tape or masking tape in your hand luggage, powders and spices are also tricky!
If trains or flying are not an option, you can usually take a bus or book a private car. To be honest, buses are my least favorite mode of transport, both when it comes to safety and convenience. When I have to drive, I usually find a private driver, a very affordable option in India, even more so when you can split with someone.
One thing to keep in mind: many cars in India are using CNG these days to save on fuel costs. A downside is the big tank in the boot – especially if you are traveling with a few people and/or have a lot of luggage; space is something to consider when choosing the type of car for your transfer.
Either ask your accommodation to recommend a driver or check and compare the various options on 12Go.
Money
India’s currency is the Indian Rupee, shown as INR or ₹ (you can find the current exchange rate here). While you can pay cashless for a lot of things these days, the majority of payments are done with scan-apps, and those are not available for foreigners. Still, you will usually be able to go quite far paying with a credit card.
That said, you will need a bit of cash, and I recommend you get it at the airport, drawing money from an ATM with your credit card. Yes, you can go to a money exchange, but if you do, make sure to use one outside of the airport for a better rate.
Especially when traveling to smaller cities in Rajasthan, it is better to come prepared with cash as ATMs can be hard to come by.
The best time to visit Rajasthan
Two years ago, I decided it would be a great idea to visit Rajasthan in June. Well, it wasn’t. I was the only white person stupid enough to come during the summer months and while I had most tour guides all to myself, it was way too hot. I am usually not one to complain, but Rajasthan in summer, from April to June, is crazy and very dry. Expect temperatures around 40°C–45°C (104°F–113°F) and don’t even think of visiting Jaisalmer in the desert.
Honestly, the visa fees you save are not worth it!
After you will have a few months of monsoon season, though this is not as extreme in Rajasthan as in other parts of India. That said, it will be quite humid and there can be flooding.
For the perfect travel season in Rajasthan, wait for October or even better November when it gets dry and cooler. Don’t worry – cool in Rajasthan is not cold and you can still expect temperatures around 21-29°C (70-85°F).
Food in Rajasthan
Rajasthan is full of delicious dishes, and many cities will have their own specialities that you should definitely try. I have added a few foodie tips for each of your stops on your Rajasthan itinerary.
Don’t miss Rajasthani specialties like my favorite Laal Maas and Ker Sangri. Laal Maas is a tender mutton (or goat) curry with Mathania chilis, and Ker Sangri, a dish from the Thar Desert, is made from wild berries and bean pods. It sounds a bit odd and looks like soaked rosemary, but gosh, it is delicious!
Read more:
Exploring India one bite at a time & avoid getting sick.
What to wear in Rajasthan?
Rajasthan is still a pretty traditional state, which you will notice quickly when it comes to clothing. Now, I have never had any issues even as a blonde woman traveling on my own, but I make a point to blend in. Well, as much as that is possible for me. I do cover up, though, and will usually wear long pants or loose jeans, a caftan on top or a t-shirt with a cotton scarf for a bit of extra coverage, or a really long, loose dress.
I also make sure that none of my clothing is see-through or shows too much cleavage. I prefer thin cotton or other natural fabrics because even in winter, it can get pretty warm.
My friend Mariellen, who has lived in India for many years, swears by just dressing like a local.
I guess men can take a bit more liberties when dressing, though I would also forego tank tops and shorts.
3 weeks in Rajasthan – Day-by-day
Day 1& 2: New Delhi
For most visitors, their Rajasthan itinerary will start in India’s capital, New Delhi. To be very honest with you, Delhi is not my favorite Indian city by a long shot. If I had to visit a metropolis, I’d always prefer Mumbai over Delhi.
However, you probably just had a long flight, and with that, Delhi might be a nice place to settle in and acclimatize. In addition, you should see some of the city’s most important sights.
What to do in New Delhi:
- Visit the Red Fort.
- Have and make lunch at the Sikh Temple.
- Visit Majnu-ka-tilla, the Tibetan settlement, for the best momos in town.
- Full day city tour in Old and New Delhi.
- Private Shopping Tour with Local Guide.
Foodie tip: Do a food tour in Old Delhi with A Chef’s Tour – a perfect introduction to Indian cuisine.
Where to stay in New Delhi:
Read more:
How to plan the ultimate Delhi itinerary.
How to get from New Delhi to Agra
Getting from Delhi to Agra is pretty straightforward. The train will take about 2,5 hours, and there are various trains from the different stations in Delhi leaving. Alternatively, you can also get a private car, which doesn’t cost a fortune, especially if you are not traveling on your own.
Day 3 & 4: Agra
No India trip would be complete without seeing the world-famous Taj Mahal. Come early to minimize the crowds as much as possible, and don’t forget to visit the Moonlight Garden for a different view.
If you are staying a bit longer, the Agra Fort is also worth a visit, but generally, I don’t think Agra is a place you need to linger.
What to do in Agra:
Foodie tip: Eat at Sheroes Hangout Cafe, a place run by the survivors of acid attacks.
Where to stay in Agra:
- Homestay: The Coral House Homestay by the Taj on Booking / Agoda
- Cute guesthouse: Inara House on Booking / Agoda
- Luxury hotel with Taj views: The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra on Booking / Agoda
Read more:
A Taj Mahal visit – Seeing a place of broken hearts.
How to get from Agra to Ranthambore
From Agra to Jaipur it is about 4,5 hours by train. To be honest, I found Jaipur train station a bit overwhelming, but there are plenty of tuk-tuks waiting to pick you up – just check with your hotel how much you should pay for a transfer and negotiate appropriately.
Day 5: Ranthambore national Park
Ranthambore National Park is home to an estimated 70-80 Royal Bengal Tigers. You can also see leopards (though even more elusive), wild boars, various deer, sloth bears, crocodiles, and many bird species.
The park spans almost 400 km2 and is divided into different buffer zones for safaris. Safaris run twice daily between October and June, in the morning and afternoon. You can choose either a 6-seater Gypsy or a 20-seater Canter. The Gypsy is slightly more expensive, but the seats are more comfortable and you have a better view, there are also some areas where a Canter can’t go.
Your hotel can organize your safari permit, or you can book it through operators like Viator, usually 90 to 120 days in advance. Safaris take about 3 hours.
What to pack: Muted clothes are recommended, and a hat and/or mask/buff can be a good idea as it can get quite dusty. Also take your water bottle. Safaris do go ahead in light rain, and you will need a poncho – all vehicles are open. You can usually buy hats and ponchos before you head into the park as there are always a few vendors around.
Make sure to bring your passport as it will be checked at the entrance. Camera and binoculars are fine; however, cellphones are not allowed in Ranthambore after the official entrance. On my recent trip, we were bummed out because we weren’t told about this rule beforehand.
My tip: If seeing tigers is on your bucket list, make sure to get permits for zones 3 and 4, allegedly the best ones. And book more safaris than you think – while your chances of seeing a tiger are really good in Ranthambore, it is still up to nature.
What to do in Ranthambore: I don’t think people come to Ranthambore for any reason other than a tiger safari. If you don’t want to spend the night, you can also take a day trip to Ranthambore from Jaipur.
Foodie tip: You are allowed to take snacks on your safari, and since this isn’t an African safari with G&Ts and such, I would take full advantage of it.
Where to stay in Ranthambore:
We stayed at Ranthambore Tiger Machan, which was okay and well-priced. I reckon next time I will splurge and stay at the Taj Sawai instead, though.
How to get from Ranthambore to Jaipur
From Ranthambore to Jaipur, it is about 2,5 hours by train or car. To be honest, I found Jaipur train station a bit overwhelming, but there are plenty of tuk-tuks waiting to pick you up – just check with your hotel how much you should pay for a transfer and negotiate appropriately.
Day 6 – 8: Jaipur
Next up, your Rajasthan trip itinerary will start properly – welcome to the Pink City of Jaipur! Jaipur is a beauty and easy to love. Temples, forts, palaces – they are nowhere quite as pretty as in Jaipur. Get up early to see the sunrise over the Jal Mahal, visit the world-famous Hawa Mahal, go crazy in Jaipur’s bazaars, and just enjoy this wonderful, somewhat chaotic city.
What to do in Jaipur:
- Visit the incredible Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal.
- Jaipur Sunrise: Flower Market, Morning Temple & Masala Chai
- Cultural walk and street food tour in Jaipur.
- Explore Jaipur from a female perspective.
Foodie tip: Eat at the Sarvato at the City Palace for an unforgettable evening.
Where to stay in Jaipur:
- Hostel: Moustache Jaipur on Booking / Agoda
- Haveli: Jaipur Haveli on Booking / Agoda
- Luxurious stay: Padmaa Jaipur on Booking / Agoda
Read more:
The unique city guide to Jaipur, India.
How to get from Jaipur to Udaipur
The train ride from Jaipur to Udaipur is quite long, and you will need to plan at least 6 hours. This is definitely the time when I would splurge for a first-class ticket or the fanciest chair car I can get. They also have a few overnight trains; however, make sure it arrives at a decent time – some get to Udaipur at 4 am, a rather inconvenient time.
Alternatively, you can take a flight, which will be more expensive but only takes an hour.
Day 9 – 11: Udaipur
From the Pink City to the White City, next on your Rajasthan travel itinerary is Udaipur. It is yet another stunner thanks to its location right on the shores of Lake Pichola. If Jaipur was a bit too much for you, Udaipur will be like a breath of fresh air. It is distinctly more chilled and easy to explore on foot.
What to do in Udaipur:
- Take a boat trip on Lake Pichola and visit the ghats. Public boats leave here and are less than ₹400 for foreigners.
- Go back in history when visiting the City Palace.
- Do the Udaipur’s Wisdom Walk with Nishtha to learn more about the everyday life of women in Udaipur.
Foodie tip: Eat at the Sheesh Mahal at the Leela Palace with an incredible view of the lake and if you are craving something fresh, have a yoghurt or smoothie bowl from Pap’s Juice.
Where to stay in Udaipur:
- Hostel: Moustache Udaipur on Booking / Agoda
- Luxury on the lake: The Leela Palace on Booking / Agoda
How to get from Udaipur to Pushkar
If you want to get from Udaipur to Pushkar, you will have to take a train to Ajmer first. This train takes about 5 hours. In Ajmer, you will take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Pushkar, another 30-minute drive. I will usually ask the hotel to organize the transfer for me. This way, I meet my driver at the station platform and don’t have to worry about haggling with the local taxis.
Day 12 – 14: Pushkar
Pushkar is considered one of India’s holiest cities and pilgrimage sites thanks to its unique Brahma Temple, one of only a few in the world. Sacred is also Pushkar Lake and its 52 ghats, where devoted Hindus will come and take a dip. Pushkar is also home to the famous Pushkar Mela, the annual camel fair.
What to do in Pushkar:
- Visit the ghats on the shore of Pushkar Lake.
- Do a city tour with the Pushkar Route.
Foodie tip: Due to its holy status, you cannot consume alcohol, meat, and eggs within the city – a rule that goes for everyone!
Where to stay in Pushkar:
Read more:
How to visit the Pushkar Camel Fair 2026.
How to get from Pushkar to Jodhpur
To get from Pushkar to Jodhpur, you will need to take a car or tuk-tuk to Ajmer first. From Ajmer, you will take a train to Jodhpur, which takes about 4 hours.
Day 15 – 17: Jodhpur
From pink to white to blue – Jodhpur is a stop not to be missed during your Rajasthan itinerary. It is probably best known for the Navchowkiya, the old blue part of town that resembles Chefchouen in Morocco. It is full of murals and street art now – don’t forget your camera! Also, make sure to visit the Toorji Ka Jhalra, the famous stepwell in Jodhpur and eat some blue icecream at the cafe next to it.
What to do in Jodhpur:
- Visit Mehrangarh Fort.
- Jodhpur camel safari.
- Jodhpur city tour to explore the Blue City.
Foodie tip: Eat at one of the many rooftop restaurants in Jodhpur and come early enough for a sundowner with a view of the fort.
Where to stay in Jodhpur:
- Haveli: The Arch Boutique Homestay on Booking / Agoda
- Modern luxury: RAAS Jodhpur on Booking / Agoda
Read more:
Jodhpur Itinerary – Visiting India’s Blue City.
How to get from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
Another long travel day awaits when you are driving from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer. The train will take about 6 hours, though you may get the tail end of some delay, as this train has already crossed most of India.
Day 18 – 20: Jaisalmer
Whether you add Jaisalmer to your itinerary for Rajasthan will depend on your schedule – Jaisalmer is pretty far west at the border of the Thar Desert. That said, if you do have enough time, the detour is well worth it – Jaisalmer is yet another beauty, this time drenched in golden hues.
What to do in Jaisalmer:
- See the beautiful havelis in town.
- Meander through the famous fort and see Jain temples and the Raj Mahal Palace.
- Head to the Bada Bagh gardens and cenotaphs during sunset.
- Do an overnight camel safari.
- Eat your way through town on a Jaisalmer food tour.
Foodie tip: Try Ker Sagari, a typical dish from Jaisalmer made from desert beans and berries – it is delicious!
Where to stay in Jaisalmer:
Read more:
Visit the Golden City of Jaisalmer.
How to get from Jaisalmer to New Delhi
By now, you know your way around the Indian train system, and it is time for your first overnight train ride back to New Delhi. The train from Jaisalmer takes about 15 hours. I recommend you go for the 2AC sleeper class, which is comfortable, inexpensive, and feels safe – even if you are traveling on your own as a woman (get the upstairs bunk when making your reservation).
That said, if you don’t want to bother, you can also board a quick flight from Jaisalmer’s tiny airport. It takes 1,5 hours to New Delhi.
Day 21: New Delhi
Back in Delhi, it is time for a final Butter Chicken before you head to the airport. If you are arriving early by train and have a late flight, it might be worth checking into a hotel for the day so you can relax and shower. Airport hotels in Delhi are a bit tricky (I think the majority use spam pictures), so I would recommend you head back to your original guesthouse or hotel, and allocate enough time for a taxi to the airport.
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One comment
Really enjoyed reading this Rajasthan itinerary! It gives a nice idea of how to explore the beautiful places, culture, and history of Rajasthan. Thanks for sharing these helpful travel tips!