This Rajasthan self-drive trip takes you to five vibrant cities of the state. The astounding beauty of City Palace, Amber Fort, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal in Jaipur would make you never want to leave the place. A visit to the famed Chokhi Dhani will surely make the evening soul enriching. Jaipur compel you to stay, yet head to Bikaner in order to discover other jewels of Rajasthan. Upon reaching here, be stunned by the magnificence of Junagarh Fort, and go on a joyride on the back of a camel.

The impressive Nagaur Fort awaits your visit near Khimsar, whereas the wondrous Mehrangarh Fort adorns the city of Jodhpur. Discover your spiritual side in the divine city of Pushkar by paying homage at the famous Brahma Temple and taking a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake. On this Rajasthan self-drive tour you will be staying in palatial forts and splendid palaces. Indulge yourself and revel in the feeling of being treated like a royal at these properties. At the end of the expedition, head back to Delhi.

Itinerary:

Day 01: Delhi to Jaipur (260 km/approx. 5 hours) | Sightseeing

Start the Rajasthan self drive trip early in the morning so that the heavy traffic on National Highway 8 can be avoided. After reaching Jaipur, complete the check-in formalities at the hotel and then relish lunch. Thereafter, a native guide will take you on a short tour of the city.

Start by visiting the awe-inspiring City Palace, one of the most visited tourist attractions here. This palatial complex is comprised of elegant courtyards, palace buildings and well-manicured gardens. Showcasing a splendid amalgamation of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, the structure magnificently stands in the heart of Jaipur.

Although there is no dearth of historical structures in all of Rajasthan, Hawa Mahal, which you will explore next, is probably the most distinctive of them all. The 953 windows of this palace are elaborately designed and adorned with intricate carvings. Rajput architecture in its most exquisite expression can be appreciated in the form of Hawa Mahal.

Thereafter, move to the world-renowned Jantar Mantar, a proof of the scientific wisdom possessed by the valiant Rajasthani rulers. One of the largest observatories in the world, Jantar Mantar holds immense astronomical importance. Also explore the colourful and bustling bazaars of this vibrant city, and remember to buy some incredible handicrafts produced here. In the evening, talented folk singers and dancers will entertain you and bring you closer to their native culture. Later, enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 02: Sightseeing in Jaipur

Wake up early in the morning, and get ready to visit the majestic Amber Fort. An elephant will take you to this picture-perfect architectural gem on its back. Enjoy the ride, and later marvel at the intricate designs, covering the interior surfaces of the fortress. The grandeur of the Rajput rule comes alive in the form of this grand site.

In the afternoon, take a break for lunch, and later proceed to see the imposing Jaigarh Fort. Located on a hilltop, which overlooks the city of Jaipur, Jaigarh Fort was built to protect the fortress of Amber.

After sightseeing, return to the hotel and get some rest before heading out again. In the evening, you will be visiting the renowned Chokhi Dhani. An insight into the colourful and enthralling culture of Rajasthan can be gained here. Later, retreat to the hotel to enjoy a relaxing overnight stay.

Day 03: Jaipur to Bikaner (340 km/approx. 5 hours)

To fully enjoy the picturesque route through the desert, start the drive to Bikaner early in the morning. Reach the destination by lunch time and check-in at the hotel. The hotel is noteworthy as it is a stately heritage property. Named Gajner Palace, this approximately 25 square km estate earlier used to be a hunting resort for the British imperialists. Lavish and regal, the palace is surrounded by lushness, and it has managed to retain its authentic grandeur. Post checking-in here; spend a few hours of repose.

Later, go out to witness the vibrant and lively spirit of Bikaner, found in its Bazaars and streets. Return for an extravagant dinner at the hotel, and then retire for the night.

Day 04: Sightseeing in Bikaner

The earlier half of this day is reserved for a memorable experience of visiting the splendid Junagarh Fort. Rajput architecture drew heavily from the Mughal style, and its proof can be found in the exquisiteness of this fortress. Lying amidst the Thar Desert, Junagarh Fort houses various spectacular palaces and temples within its premises that you can explore. Following a delicious lunch, go on a camel safari to access a vast expanse of the Thar Desert. At the end of this action-packed day, head back to the resort for a lavish dinner and pleasant overnight stay.

Day 05: Bikaner to Khimsar (154 km/approx. 2.5 hours)

Resume the Rajasthan self drive tour by travelling to Khimsar. On reaching the destination by lunch time, check-in at the Khimsar Fort & Dunes resort. The construction of this extraordinary heritage property started in the year 1523. A witness to bygone centuries, the historical structure still stands in all its magnificence. Be prepared to be awed with the royal treatment, which you will receive here. Later, head out to explore the local markets and the area. Post shopping, return to the hotel for a hearty dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 06: Sightseeing in the Area

Wake up to the savoury aromas of a sumptuous breakfast, prepared for you. After the indulgence, head out to visit Nagaur Fort, also known as Ahhichatragarh. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the region, this historical structure holds staggering heritage value. The architecture of the fortress is among the finest examples of the fusion of the Mughal and Rajput styles.

Explore the many palaces and pools within the premises that ooze with a timeless charm. Following the tour of Nagaur Fort, embark on a Jeep safari to see the gleaming sand dunes of the Thar Desert. Later, return to the hotel for a peaceful sleep.

Day 07: Khimsar to Jodhpur (100 km/approx. 2 hours)

The next destination on this Rajasthan self drive trip is the Blue City, Jodhpur. The journey from Khimsar to Jodhpur will take somewhere around two hours. Upon reaching here, complete the check-in formalities at the hotel. Following a filling lunch, head out with a local guide to take a tour of this enchanting city. Later, come back to the hotel for a scrumptious dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 08: Sightseeing in Jodhpur

One of the most important of all historical structures in Jodhpur, the majestic Mehrangarh Fort is on the list of the attractions to be visited today. This colossal epitome of mind-boggling Rajput architecture keeps a watchful eye on the skyline of the Sun City from an imposing height. You can also glide over the impressive landscape of the city via a zip line or explore the local markets for gifts and souvenirs to take back home. Later, head back to the hotel for a mouth-watering dinner and peaceful overnight stay.

Day 09: Jodhpur to Pushkar (285 km/approx. 4 hours)

To complete the final leg of this Rajasthan desert drive tour, head to the sacred land of Pushkar. Upon reaching here, pay obeisance at the revered Brahma Temple, and bathe in the holy waters of Pushkar Lake. Thereafter, transfer to the hotel and enjoy an overnight stay.

Day 10: Pushkar to Delhi (400 km/approx. 7.5 hours)

The sojourn in the culturally rich state of Rajasthan ends today. Begin your drive to Delhi, which will take around eight hours, and on reaching the metropolis, disperse.