Rajasthan is India’s most iconic travel destination, known for its majestic palaces, forts, bazaars, and vibrant old cities. This Colourful Rajasthan Tour by Indian Panorama covers Jaipur, the Taj Mahal in Agra, Pushkar’s Brahma Temple and Akbar’s Palace, and off-beat destinations. Our 16 days Colourful Rajasthan itinerary blends heritage, culture, and local experiences.
Detailed Itineary
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Day 1 : Arrival in Delhi
You’ll be warmly welcomed by our Indian Panorama representative on arrival at Delhi Airport and assisted with your transfer to the hotel. As the capital of India, Delhi is a fascinating mix of ancient heritage and vibrant modernity. With its centuries-old monuments, bustling markets, and diverse culture, Delhi offers the perfect start to your India holiday itinerary. Explore Delhi’s dynamic charm – a true gateway to India’s colourful past and exciting present.
Overnight stay in Delhi.
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Day 2 : Delhi
Begin your Delhi city tour with a full day of sightseeing. Discover the rich heritage of Old Delhi with visits to iconic landmarks such as Red Fort, the Jama Masjid, and Humayun’s Tomb. Continue with a panoramic drive past New Delhi’s attractions - Rajpath, India Gate, Parliament House, and the President's Residence. If time permits, you can also include Qutub Minar, though it may require skipping other stops due to Delhi’s traffic.
Overnight stay in Delhi.
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Day 3 : Delhi – Agra
Start your road trip with a relaxed 3-hour drive from Delhi to Neemrana, home to the iconic Neemrana Fort Palace, one of the finest heritage hotels in Rajasthan. After check-in, unwind and soak in the regal charm.
Later, explore offbeat Rajasthan destinations like the 11-tier stepwell, Kesroli Fort, and enjoy an authentic village tour - perfect for a true Rural Rajasthan holiday experience.
Overnight stay at Neemrana.
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Day 4 : Agra - Jaipur
While the Taj Mahal is famed for its sunrise views, Agra’s air quality often obscures the early morning light. Instead, enjoy a relaxed breakfast and visit the Taj Mahal mid-morning, when crowds are thinner and the view is still magical.
After this unmissable Taj Mahal tour, drive towards Jaipur, stopping en route at the abandoned Mughal capital Fatehpur Sikri - a stunning example of Mughal architecture preserved in near-perfect condition.
If time permits, make a worthwhile detour to Abhaneri, home to Chand Baori, one of the most spectacular and ancient stepwells in India. Later, continue your Agra to Jaipur road trip, and check in at your hotel in Jaipur.
Overnight stay in Jaipur.
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Day 5 : Jaipur
The Pink City of Jaipur is Rajasthan’s largest city as well as its present-day capital. Start your day with visits to iconic city landmarks like the City Palace Jaipur, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), and Jantar Mantar. By afternoon, head out to the majestic Amer Fort Jaipur, a masterpiece begun by Emperor Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Jai Singh.
Beyond the monuments, a true highlight of your Rajasthan cultural tour is exploring the colourful chaos of Jaipur’s walled city market. A guided Jaipur local market walk is the best way to discover hidden gems - from glittering gemstones to handcrafted textiles.
Overnight stay in Jaipur.
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Day 6 : Jaipur - Pushkar
Begin the morning with an optional early stroll through the old streets of Pink City Jaipur, before heading on a 3-hour drive to Pushkar, a serene town nestled around the sacred Pushkar Lake. Known for its rich spiritual history and as the site of one of the only Brahma temples in India, Pushkar is a peaceful destination ideal for relaxed exploration.
Most of the year, Pushkar offers a tranquil vibe, perfect for walking without a fixed schedule. But in early November, the town bursts to life during the world-famous Pushkar Camel Fair, attracting pilgrims, cattle traders, and curious travellers.
Overnight stay in Pushkar.
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Day 7 : Pushkar - Udaipur
Start your day with a guided Pushkar sightseeing tour, visiting the iconic Brahma Temple and the sacred Pushkar Lake Ghats, rich with spiritual ambience. After soaking in the morning serenity, drive south through the scenic Aravalli Hills towards Udaipur, the City of Lakes.
For those interested in Rajasthan fort tours, an optional detour to the majestic Chittorgarh Fort - one of the largest forts in India - adds a historic twist to your journey. By evening, arrive in picturesque Udaipur.
Overnight stay in Udaipur.
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Day 8 : Udaipur
Start your Udaipur sightseeing with visits to iconic landmarks like the intricately carved Jagdish Temple, the grand City Palace Udaipur, and the peaceful Saheliyon ki Bari gardens. Spend your afternoon wandering the charming lanes of the old city, perfect for soaking in Udaipur’s timeless atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, offering unforgettable views of palaces and temples mirrored in the water.
Overnight stay in Udaipur.
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Day 9 : Udaipur - Jojawar
Depart Udaipur by mid-morning and enjoy a scenic drive through the Aravalli Hills to the awe-inspiring Ranakpur Jain Temples - famous for their intricate marble carvings and spiritual ambience. Although guides aren't allowed inside, the peaceful setting makes it a truly memorable stop.
Continue your journey to the lesser-known gem of Jojawar, one of the most charming offbeat Rajasthan destinations. Check in at Rawla Jojawar, a beautifully restored heritage hotel in Rajasthan that was once a royal residence.
Later, explore the local countryside on a thrilling Jojawar jeep safari or enjoy peaceful bird watching in Rajasthan’s rural heartland.
Overnight stay in Jojawar.
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Day 10 : Jojawar - Jodhpur
Start your day with a charming Aravalli Hill train ride, offering a picturesque glimpse into local life and the rural landscapes of Rajasthan. This unique Rajasthan rural train journey is a treat for railway enthusiasts, thanks to the impressive track engineering through the hills.
Afterwards, drive toward Jodhpur with a must-stop in Rohet village, home to one of Rajasthan’s most iconic street food stalls, famous for its deep-fried, mint-and-potato stuffed sweet peppers. Long queues, but absolutely worth it!
Arrive in Jodhpur and spend your evening exploring the vibrant lanes of the old city, packed with colour, culture, and charm.
Overnight stay in Jodhpur.
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Day 11 : Jodhpur
The Blue City of Jodhpur, where the indigo-painted houses are said to repel mosquitoes - feel free to test that theory! Start your day exploring the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s most magnificent hilltop forts.
Wander through the old city of Jodhpur, known for its vibrant textile and spice markets, narrow alleys, and bustling local life. Don’t miss the beautifully restored stepwell in Jodhpur, now a lively community space.
Visit some of the many NGO-supported craft boutiques and cooperative stores, where you can shop ethically for handcrafted goods.
Overnight stay in Jodhpur.
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Day 12 : Jodhpur - Jaisalmer
Leave behind the semi-arid terrain of Jodhpur and journey deeper into the Thar Desert as you head to the iconic Golden City of Jaisalmer - a scenic Rajasthan desert drive of around 5 hours. Unlike most forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort, still inhabited and buzzing with life, offering a truly unique experience. Due to ecological concerns, we avoid accommodations within the fort to support eco-friendly travel in Rajasthan - the ancient drainage system struggles under modern water usage, threatening the structure.
Instead, enjoy a charming heritage stay in Jaisalmer outside the fort walls, giving you the perfect balance of comfort and cultural immersion. Your afternoon is free to relax or explore the local area.
Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
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Day 13 : Jaisalmer
Begin your day with immersive Jaisalmer sightseeing, starting at the majestic Jaisalmer Fort - a vibrant, living monument filled with life. Wander its ancient alleys, interact with local artisans, musicians, and street food vendors, and soak in the unique charm of this living fort in India.
Continue to the stunning heritage havelis near the fort, known for their intricate sandstone architecture. In the afternoon, head to the mysterious Kuldhara ghost village, a place steeped in legend and eerie beauty.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to Khuri for a magical Thar Desert sunset. Enjoy a traditional camel safari in Jaisalmer, followed by a lively cultural show in Rajasthan and a delicious desert dinner experience under the stars.
Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
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Day 14 : Jaisalmer – Bikaner
Begin your eastward journey from the western edge of Rajasthan with a scenic drive from Jaisalmer to Bikaner (approximately 4 hours). Bikaner, a charming desert city in Rajasthan, is known for its magnificent Junagarh Fort, bustling local markets, and the famous Bikaner camel breeding farm.
Explore these highlights in the afternoon, soaking in the city’s rich heritage. For the curious, an optional detour to Karnimata Temple in Deshnok - often referred to as the rat temple of Bikaner - offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Overnight stay in Bikaner.
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Day 15 : Bikaner – Mandawa
Travel from Bikaner to Mandawa, a charming town in the heart of the Shekhawati region, often called the largest open-air art gallery in India. This culturally rich area is renowned for its ornate havelis, where vibrant mural paintings beautifully depict scenes of desert life, folklore, and Rajasthani traditions.
Spend your day wandering through Mandawa’s heritage streets, discovering its artistic treasures and timeless architecture.
Overnight stay in Mandawa.
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Day 16 : Mandawa – Delhi
Begin your morning with a final glimpse of the Shekhawati region, exploring the art-laden streets and colourful havelis that make this region the open-air art gallery of Rajasthan.
As your Rajasthan cultural tour comes to a close, embark on a 6 to 7-hour scenic drive from Mandawa to Delhi, reflecting on the vivid memories, royal forts, and desert charm that have defined your journey.
Whether you're catching a late-night flight or spending one more night in the capital, your incredible 16-day Colourful Rajasthan Tour with Indian Panorama ends with unforgettable experiences and stories worth sharing.
Overnight in Delhi or late evening departure.
