1. Jaipur – A Royal Welcome to the Pink City

Our adventure kicked off in Jaipur, the heart of Rajasthan and famously known as the Pink City—thanks to its gorgeous terracotta-colored buildings that give the whole place a rosy glow. From the moment we arrived, the city wrapped us in its royal charm—lively markets, stunning architecture, and some of the warmest people you’ll ever meet.

One of our first stops was the Hawa Mahal, or “Palace of Winds.” It’s this incredible five-story building with 953 tiny windows—designed so royal women could watch the street celebrations without being seen. Then we wandered through the City Palace, which gave us a glimpse into the luxurious lives of Jaipur’s royalty. And Jantar Mantar completely blew our minds—it’s a centuries-old observatory with giant instruments that still track time and stars. Super cool, especially if you’re into astronomy!

If you love shopping, don’t skip Bapu Bazaar and Johari Bazaar. They’re packed with colorful textiles, traditional jewelry, and handmade Rajasthani goodies. And whatever you do, please try the dal baati churma and ghewar—Rajasthan’s comfort food at its best.

2. Udaipur – Lakes, Hills, and a Whole Lot of Romance

Our next stop was Udaipur—and wow, what a change of pace. Often called the “Venice of the East,” this dreamy city is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and filled with serene lakes that make you want to slow down and soak it all in.

One of the most unforgettable moments? A sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola. Gliding across the calm water, with the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir reflecting in the golden light—it honestly felt like something out of a movie. The breeze was cool, the views were stunning, and for a while, everything just felt… peaceful.

We also wandered through the City Palace, a grand blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. Every corner had something to admire—ornate balconies, intricate mirror work, colorful paintings, and those sweeping views of the lake below. You could almost hear the stories of kings and queens echoing through the halls.

If you love beautiful scenery, historic vibes, or just want to sip chai by the water and watch the world go by, Udaipur is your kind of place.

3. Jodhpur – The Blue City Beneath the Mighty Fort

From the peaceful lakes of Udaipur, we made our way to Jodhpur—and let me tell you, this city pops with personality. Nicknamed the Blue City, it’s famous for the sea of indigo-painted houses that stretch out beneath the massive Mehrangarh Fort. The contrast between the bold blue homes and the golden desert surroundings is something you really have to see in person.

Exploring Mehrangarh Fort was like stepping into a living history book. It’s one of the largest forts in India, and it’s incredibly well-preserved. As we wandered through its grand halls and courtyards, we heard stories of Rajput warriors, epic battles, and royal legends that still feel alive in the walls. And that view from the top? Absolutely unreal—the whole blue city laid out beneath you like a painting.

We also stopped by Jaswant Thada, a peaceful marble memorial that glows in the sunlight, and then made our way to the Clock Tower Market. It’s a colorful, chaotic mix of spices, fabrics, trinkets, and people—perfect if you love a good local shopping experience (or just want to snack on something spicy while you browse!).

If you’re into dramatic architecture, vibrant culture, and stories that stick with you, Jodhpur is a must-visit.

4. Jaisalmer – Where the Desert Turns to Gold

No trip to Rajasthan feels complete without a stop in Jaisalmer—the Golden City. Tucked away near the edge of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer has its own kind of magic. The whole city is built from golden sandstone, and when the sun hits just right, everything glows like it’s straight out of a fairytale.

We started our visit at the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, and this one’s special—it’s one of the few living forts in the world. People still live and work inside its ancient walls, which makes exploring it feel both historic and alive. Around every corner, we stumbled upon tiny shops, local homes, and temples buzzing with everyday life.

We also visited the Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli—both absolute works of art. Their intricate carvings and delicate architecture are jaw-dropping, especially if you love history or craftsmanship.

But the real highlight? The desert safari out at the Sam Sand Dunes. We rode camels across rolling sands, watched the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of orange, and ended the night under a sky full of stars, listening to traditional Rajasthani music by the fire. It honestly felt like something out of a movie.

If you’re craving adventure, wide open landscapes, and a totally different kind of beauty, Jaisalmer will steal your heart.

5. Pushkar – A Spiritual Pause with a Lot of Heart

We wrapped up our Rajasthan journey in Pushkar—a small town that may not look flashy on the surface, but wow, does it have soul. Centered around the sacred Pushkar Lake, this peaceful little place was the perfect way to wind down after days of forts, palaces, and desert adventures.

Pushkar is one of the few places in the world with a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, which makes it incredibly special for many pilgrims. We spent time just strolling along the ghats—those stone steps leading down to the water—watching locals and visitors alike offer prayers, light diyas, and take part in age-old rituals. There’s something about the calm energy of the lake that makes you slow down and reflect.

The town itself has a vibrant, bohemian vibe. The Pushkar Market is full of color—flowy clothes, handmade jewelry, spiritual trinkets, and the kind of street food that makes you stop every few feet. (Don’t miss the malpua—sweet, sticky, and totally worth the sugar rush.)

Even though Pushkar is small, it leaves a big impression. It’s the kind of place that gets under your skin in the best way—and stays with you, quietly, long after you’ve moved on.