Rajasthan is one of the most historically fascinating, culturally rich, and diverse states in India. Spending a month traveling around here really showed me how much beauty, history, and culture this region has to offer. Every city feels different. Some are loud, chaotic, and full of energy, while others are calm, peaceful, and almost magical. You can see endless sand dunes in the desert, get lost in the busy streets of colorful cities, relax by beautiful lakes, or spend time in quiet mountain towns surrounded by nature.
What I loved most about Rajasthan was how much love and warmth I felt everywhere I went. It is the kind of place that pulls you in and makes you want to keep exploring. From the grand forts and palaces that hold so much history, to the small villages where life feels slower, to the people I met in hostels who became good friends, every stop along the way left me with something special.
Traveling around Rajasthan is also pretty easy, with plenty of trains and buses running between cities. There is a small but really nice backpacking crowd here too, which makes it easy to meet people, find good hostels, and share experiences. In this guide I want to share my favorite places in Rajasthan, what makes them special, how long I recommend staying, where to stay, and the best ways to get there. These places were the highlights of my trip, and I think they will make your experience just as unforgettable.
When to Visit Rajasthan
The best time to visit Rajasthan is October to March, when the days are sunny and pleasant without being uncomfortably hot. This is the peak season, so you can expect more tourists during this time, especially in popular cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer.
Jaipur
Time to spend: At least 3 days
Where to stay: Moustache Hostel, Chillout Hotel & Rooftop Restaurant, Rajasthan Palace (for some castle vibes that Jaipur does really well)
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is one of the most vibrant and lively places in Rajasthan. Within the city walls, every building is painted in the same shade of pink. While it was once a much deeper rose color, time, sun, and pollution have faded it into more of an orange-pink tone. Still, the effect is striking and gives Jaipur its unique character. The walled city is buzzing with energy, filled with markets, gemstone shops, street food stalls, and streets that are chaotic but full of charm. Color is everywhere here, from the walls to the fabrics to the plates of food, and it makes the city feel alive in a way that is hard to put into words.
There is so much to explore in Jaipur, and the culture and history really shine through in every corner. Shopping for jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts is an experience in itself, as the local artistry is some of the most impressive in Rajasthan. You can even try a unique aura reading to discover which gemstone best matches your energy. For sightseeing, highlights include Amer Fort, perched on a hillside with incredible views, and the Monkey Temple, where hundreds of monkeys wander freely. Within the city itself, the Jaipur City Palace and the iconic Hawa Mahal are absolute must-sees. Simply wandering the bazaars is one of the best things to do, as you’ll find endless stalls selling colorful fabrics, spices, and snacks. Do not leave without trying some traditional Rajasthani food and sipping street-side chai—it is part of the Jaipur experience.
The city has a fascinating mix of history and creativity that makes it stand out. Between the grand palaces, lively streets, and unique experiences, Jaipur leaves a lasting impression on almost everyone who visits.
How to get there:
- Delhi to Jaipur: 4–6 hours by train or bus
- Pushkar to Jaipur: 2–3 hours by bus or car
- Udaipur to Jaipur: 7–8 hours by bus or train
- Agra to Jaipur: 4–5 hours by train or bus
Pushkar
How long to spend: At least 2 days (though most people end up staying longer once they fall in love with the vibes)
Where to stay: Moustache Hostel. I seriously cannot recommend this hostel enough. It is about a 15-minute walk from the main market, but that distance adds to the peaceful atmosphere. The outdoor space is perfect for relaxing, there is a pool to cool off in, a café with an open-air feel, and it is surrounded by beautiful nature. Staying here really adds to the Pushkar experience and makes the trip even more memorable.
Pushkar is known for being peaceful, laid-back, and deeply spiritual. At the heart of the town is Pushkar Lake, one of the holiest lakes in India. Pilgrims travel from across the country and around the world to bathe in its waters, believing that it brings blessings and washes away bad karma. Around the lake you will find ghats where rituals and prayers take place daily, and simply sitting at one of the lakeside cafés gives you a chance to watch these spiritual practices unfold. The energy here feels calm, kind, and full of wisdom, and it is the perfect place to slow down, enjoy good food, and just be present.
There is also plenty to do in Pushkar if you want to mix relaxation with activity. The colorful market is a highlight, full of unique fabrics, jewelry, hippie-inspired clothes, and handicrafts you will not find anywhere else. Hiking up to the Savitri Temple for sunset is a must, as the views over the lake and town are incredible. Many travelers also come here for yoga or meditation classes, and if you happen to visit in November, you can experience the famous Pushkar Camel Fair, one of the most unique festivals in Rajasthan.
Pushkar balances its spiritual roots with a very creative, open-minded, and hippie backpacker crowd. It is a super chill, super welcoming place where it is easy to connect with people, share ideas, and feel inspired. For many, including myself, it is the kind of town you can get stuck in for much longer than you planned.
How to get there:
The nearest major city is Ajmer, located about 45 minutes away. Most trains and buses arrive in Ajmer, and from there you can take a local bus or rickshaw into Pushkar.
- Jaipur to Ajmer: 2 hours by train or bus
- Udaipur to Ajmer: 6 hours by train or bus
- Jaisalmer to Ajmer: 8–10 hours by train or bus
- Jodhpur to Ajmer: 4 hours by train or bus
Udaipur
How long to stay: At least 3 days
Where to stay: Dreamyard Hostel and Hostel Mantra are both great backpacker options with social vibes and good locations. If you are looking to splurge and experience true royal luxury, the Taj Lake Palace offers one of the most iconic stays in India, located right in the middle of Lake Pichola and only accessible by boat.
Udaipur is one of the most beautiful and relaxed cities in Rajasthan, often called the City of Lakes. The entire city rises up around Lake Pichola, with stunning white buildings, palaces, and temples reflecting off the water. The lake itself feels magical, with several islands in the middle, some of which are home to grand hotels that seem to float on the water. The vibe of Udaipur is peaceful, romantic, and very artistic. Everything from the architecture to the colors and artwork around the city feels inspiring and almost dreamlike.
Walking around Udaipur is a joy in itself. You will find rooftop cafés with sweeping views of the lake, narrow streets lined with shops selling miniature paintings, and lakeside ghats where locals and travelers come to relax. A boat ride on Lake Pichola is one of the best ways to see the city from a new perspective, especially at sunset when the buildings glow golden. Important highlights include the Jagdish Temple, Ambrai Ghat, and especially the Udaipur City Palace, which is India’s second-largest palace. The palace is absolutely stunning, filled with courtyards, balconies, and halls that showcase centuries of history, luxury, and royal design.
Beyond the lake and the palaces, Udaipur also offers opportunities for adventure. You can head out into the nearby hills for hiking, or simply spend your days enjoying chai on a rooftop and soaking in the relaxed and romantic atmosphere. It is a city that encourages you to slow down and take it all in.
How to get there:
- Jaipur to Udaipur: 7–8 hours by bus or train
- Jodhpur to Udaipur: 5–6 hours by bus or train
- Pushkar/Ajmer to Udaipur: 6–7 hours by bus or train
- Jaisalmer to Udaipur: 8–9 hours by bus or train
Jaisalmer
How long to stay: At least 2–3 days
Where to stay: Jaisalmer Hostel Crowd (clean, social, with amazing fort views and desert safari options), Hostel Little Prince (budget, family-run, colorful rooftop café with great vibes), or splurge on one of the luxury hotels inside the fort for a truly unique stay.
Jaisalmer, often called the Golden City, is one of the most magical places in Rajasthan. The entire city is built from golden sandstone, which glows beautifully in the sunlight and gives the city its name. Sitting on the edge of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer feels laid-back yet full of history, with narrow streets, colorful markets, and a fort that looks like something out of a fairytale. Compared to bigger cities, it is smaller and easy to explore, and the vibe is calm and welcoming.
The highlight for most travelers is an overnight desert safari. Just an hour outside the city, you can find yourself among endless golden sand dunes. Most safaris include camel rides, dinner cooked by the fire, and a night sleeping under the stars. Whether you choose a more comfortable desert camp with music and performances, or a raw and off-the-grid experience where you sleep directly on the sand, it is something you will never forget.
Within the city, the Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Qila) is a must. It is one of the only living forts in the world, with homes, temples, shops, and cafés all inside its walls. You can also visit Gadisar Lake for a peaceful sunrise or sunset, wander the vibrant markets full of patchwork textiles and jewelry, or take a trip to Kuldhara, the abandoned ghost village just outside of town. Jaisalmer may be small, but it is packed with beauty, culture, and charm, and it is one of those places that makes you want to slow down and stay longer than you planned.
How to get there:
- Jodhpur to Jaisalmer: 5–6 hours by train or bus
- Udaipur to Jaisalmer: 8–9 hours by overnight bus or train
- Jaipur to Jaisalmer: 12–14 hours by train or bus
- Delhi to Jaisalmer: overnight train or flight to Jodhpur + connection
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