How to Explore Rajasthan on a Budget

In December 2018, I traveled to Rajasthan with my friends, experiencing the journey through a mix of train rides, road trips, and cab rides. I must say it was one of the best experiences of my life, and I should really love to visit again.

Luckily, we found a person online who provides tour packages and essential information for each location in Rajasthan, India. I covered Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, and Jaisalmer in 8 days.

I’d love to share my itinerary here as a handy guide for anyone looking for how to explore Rajasthan on a budget.

Quick itinerary: Jaipur (4N) → Alwar → Jaisalmer (2N) → Jodhpur (1N)
Our Budget: 15000 Rs/person

Here’s a quick breakdown of our journey:

The beauty of the desert, vibrant markets, and peaceful evenings made this journey one of the most memorable travel experiences of my life.

A journey through Rajasthan is a colorful ride through royal forts. Aashh Subba / Unsplash

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: We started our journey by train from Bandra Terminus, Mumbai, on 12th Dec 2018 by DEE Garib Rath in 3A; it had charges of around 1000 Rs per person.

We had 16 persons, so we booked 4 cabs to reach the station. The train leaves Mumbai station at 12:00 PM and reaches Jaipur the next day at 5:55 AM.

Day 2: Arrival in Jaipur

We had pre-booked a travel to reach our hotel, which was just 2 km from the station. We started our first morning in Jaipur with breakfast at Hotel Nirwana Hometel, where we stayed for ₹3,000 per person booked through Agoda.

After freshening up, we left for Jal Mahal, Amber Fort and the Central Museum. Nighttime is best to see Hawa Mahal. We enjoyed a lively rooftop musical performance at Jaipur Adda, located within the same hotel.

The entry fee was ₹500 per person, and the vibrant ambiance made it a memorable evening. The next day we left the hotel at 10 AM.

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Day 3: Jaipur Sightseeing & Local Flavors

We spent the entire day soaking in the lively vibe of Jaipur’s markets. In the afternoon, we took a relaxed stroll through the colorful Johari Bazaar, famous for its sparkling jewelry, traditional textiles, and vibrant energy, perfect for some window shopping and souvenir hunting.

At Chokhi Dhani, women in traditional attire perform graceful Rajasthani folk dances. Photo Gallery

By evening, we headed to Chokhi Dhani, a cultural village experience that gave us a true taste of Rajasthani hospitality. The entry was ₹3,000 per person, and it was totally worth it!

Our group especially loved the dal baati churma, along with a collection of other traditional dishes served in the grand Rajasthani style.

After a fun-filled evening, we boarded our overnight travel and rested up for the next day’s adventure.

Day 4: Exploring the Mystique of Bhangarh Fort

We started our journey to Alwar early in the morning and reached the iconic Bhangarh Fort by around 7:00 AM, one of the most mysterious and fascinating historical sites in India.

Bathed in the soft morning light, the fort’s ancient ruins and surrounding Aravalli hills created a magical and slightly eerie atmosphere perfect for soaking in its folklore and mystery. The entry fee was just ₹50, making it a budget-friendly yet unforgettable experience.

After exploring the fort and its surroundings, we headed back to Jaipur for an overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with adventure and heritage.

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Amber Palace is a majestic hilltop fort in Jaipur. Shivani Sonkar / Unsplash

Day 5: Discovering Jaipur’s Royal Heritage

Day five was dedicated to uncovering the vibrant cultural essence of Jaipur. We began with a visit to the majestic City Palace, a beautiful blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture that offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle. The intricate courtyards, museums, and royal artifacts left us in awe.

Next, we walked over to the nearby Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fascinating astronomical instruments. It was truly impressive to see how advanced timekeeping and celestial calculations were centuries ago.

Day 6: Exploring the Historic City of Jaisalmer

The next leg of our adventure took us to the majestic desert city of Jaisalmer. We checked in at the beautiful Narayan Niwas Palace, a heritage hotel that instantly transported us to a royal era with its regal architecture and grand interiors.

Our sightseeing began with a visit to the awe-inspiring Jain temples inside the Sonar Quila (Golden Fort), an architectural marvel made entirely of yellow sandstone, glowing golden under the sun.

Next, we wandered through the lanes of Jaisalmer to explore its historic Havelis, including the stunning Patwon Ki Haveli. With its delicately carved façades and artistic lattice windows, it offered a peek into the opulent lifestyle of Jaisalmer’s wealthy merchants. (Entry fee: ₹100)

We ended our day with a peaceful visit to Gadisar Lake, a serene, picturesque spot with no entry fee, perfect for relaxing, watching birds, and capturing beautiful sunset photos.

Day 7: Jaisalmer Sightseeing & Desert Adventure

This was easily one of the most memorable days of our trip! We started the morning by visiting the iconic Jaisalmer Fort (entry fee ₹50), also known as Sonar Quila.

Later, we hopped on a local bus to Khuri, a small village about 50 km deep into the Thar Desert. From there, we headed toward the stunning Sam Desert for our desert adventure.

There’s no entry fee to visit the dunes, but you can enjoy a camel safari (₹20–₹200) or a jeep safari (₹500–₹1,500) for a thrilling ride across the sands.

By evening, we arrived at Helsinki Desert Camp, run by Badal Singh. The package cost ₹1,000 per person and included a cozy stay, delicious meals, and a camel ride.

As the sun set, the magic began; folk music, traditional Rajasthani dance, and live singing around a bonfire created the perfect desert vibe. We spent the night under the open sky, stargazing in the freezing December cold.

Note: Don’t miss any activity in the desert.

Museums, and royal artifacts that showcase Jaipur’s royal heritage. Danielle Barnes / Unsplash

Day 8: From Haunted Legends to the Blue City

We began our day with a visit to the mysterious Kuldhara Village, located about 22 km from Sam Desert. Known for its eerie silence and abandoned charm, it gave us a fascinating glimpse into Rajasthan’s legends..

After soaking in the ghost-town vibes, we hit the road and made our way toward the vibrant city of Jodhpur, ready for the next adventure.

Day 9: Royal Welcome to Jodhpur

Our journey continued from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, where our first stop was the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace, famous not just for its royal charm but also as the wedding venue of Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas.

We then explored the serene Jaswant Thada and the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, both offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into the city’s regal history.

Day 10: Wrapping Up the Journey

On the night of 21st December 2018, we made our way back to Jaipur and caught our train to Mumbai, taking with us lasting memories of Rajasthan’s vibrant colors, rich culture, warm hospitality, and the kindness of its people.

The official tourism portal for Rajasthan is Tourism Department, Government of Rajasthan – tourism.rajasthan.gov.in

Additionally, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) offers travel packages and accommodation at heritage hotels: rtdc.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in

Best Time to visit

The best time to visit Rajasthan is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is at its most pleasant. With temperatures ranging between 10°C and 27°C, the cool, comfortable climate makes it ideal for exploring Rajasthan’s rich heritage, vibrant cities, and vast desert landscapes.

Our experience was a horribly cold weather night in December in the Sam desert. It is also the peak tourist season, bringing events like the Pushkar Camel Fair, the Jaipur Literature Festival, and the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, which showcase the state’s culture and traditions.

Winter is perfect for camel safaris in Thar Desert Jaisalmer, sightseeing at Jaipur’s Amber Fort, and boat rides on Udaipur’s serene lakes. Winter remains the most favorable for a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

Colorful Camel Festival is a vibrant celebration of desert life. Mahesh Patel / Unsplash

Budget Friendly Backpackers

How Much it Cost to Travel Rajasthan?

If you prefer luxury travel, Rajasthan offers opulent heritage hotels, fine dining, and premium experiences such as private guided tours and luxury train rides like the Palace on Wheels.

Daily expenses in this category can range between INR 10,000 and 25,000 or more, depending on the level of indulgence. Overall, Rajasthan caters to all budgets, making it an accessible destination for every traveler.

Money-Saving Tips for Your Rajasthan Trip: Budget-Friendly Advice

Traveling During the Off-Season

Planning your trip to Rajasthan during the off-season is one of the smartest ways to save money and enjoy a unique travel experience. With fewer tourists around, accommodation and transportation costs drop significantly compared to the peak season, which typically runs from October to March.

The reduced crowds also give you better bargaining power, whether in bustling markets or when negotiating room rates. Traveling during the monsoon brings a refreshing twist to exploring Rajasthan, transforming its usually arid landscapes into lush, green scenery and offering a calm, enchanting atmosphere that’s unlike any other season.

FAQs

What is the best time to explore Rajasthan on a budget?

The best time to visit Rajasthan on a budget is between July and September or late January to March. During these months, hotel prices are lower, tourist crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy pleasant weather in many cities.

How many days are enough for a budget trip to Rajasthan?

A 7 to 10-day trip is ideal for exploring Rajasthan on a budget. It gives you enough time to visit popular destinations like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Pushkar, and Jaisalmer without rushing.

Which are the cheapest cities to visit in Rajasthan for travelers?

Pushkar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner are some of the most affordable cities in Rajasthan. These destinations offer budget hostels, cheap local food, and many free or low-cost attractions.

How can I travel around Rajasthan at a low cost?

You can save money by using Rajasthan State Transport buses, sleeper trains, shared taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Overnight trains are especially helpful for reducing accommodation costs.

Are hostels and budget hotels easily available in Rajasthan?

Yes, Rajasthan has many affordable hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels for backpackers and solo travelers. Popular tourist cities offer clean stays starting from budget-friendly prices.

What are the best budget-friendly foods to try in Rajasthan?

Rajasthan is famous for affordable and delicious street food like kachori, dal baati churma, mirchi vada, poha, and ghewar. Local eateries and street stalls are perfect for budget travelers.

Is Rajasthan safe for solo female travelers on a budget trip?

Yes, Rajasthan is generally safe for solo female travelers if basic precautions are followed. Staying in trusted accommodations, avoiding isolated places at night, and using verified transport can help ensure a safe journey.

What are the free or low-cost attractions to visit in Rajasthan?

Many attractions in Rajasthan are affordable, including local markets, lakes, temples, desert sunsets, and heritage streets. Places like Jal Mahal, Pushkar Lake, and local bazaars can be explored at little to no cost.

How much money is needed for a 7-day budget trip to Rajasthan?

A budget traveler can explore Rajasthan for around ₹12,000 to ₹25,000 for 7 days, depending on accommodation style, transport choices, and activities.

What are the best budget travel tips for first-time visitors to Rajasthan?

Book train tickets early, travel during off-season months, stay in hostels, eat at local restaurants, use public transport, and plan your itinerary smartly to save money while enjoying Rajasthan fully.

Hello!

Hi, I’m Pooja Mokashi, a passionate storyteller and travel content creator behind Travel Meet World. Based in Mumbai, I love discovering local cultures and helping travelers explore the world with confidence and smart planning.