I never expected Rajasthan to change me. But somewhere in between the stillness of a desert night and the shimmer of a lake at sunset, it did.
Udaipur
It all started with Udaipur, the City of Lakes—a place that feels like poetry carved in marble and mirrored in water.
On our first evening, we took a boat across Lake Pichola, and I cannot forget how the sun melted behind the domes of Jag Mandir. The lake reflected everything: the palaces, the sky, even the peacefulness. It felt like the city was telling us its little secrets in whispers of light and shadow. I wasn’t a tourist Just a listener.
Things I enjoyed while in Udaipur:
The City Palace – Grand and scenic, overlooking the Lake.
Lake Pichola boat ride – Especially at sunset.
Jagmandir – This palace known as Jag mandir or Jag Island Palace and is located on the southern side of the lake and occupies the island with the same name known as Jag Island.
Taj Lake Palace – Known for its enthralling beauty and extraordinary architecture. It is a lavish place overlooking the majestic views of Machla Hills, City Palace, and Jag Mandir.
Bagore Ki Haveli – Evening folk dance and puppet show.
Saheliyon Ki Bari – Garden of the maidens.
Food you must try when here:
Gatte ki Khichdi – Comfort food!
Dal Bhaati Churma again—because every city makes it differently.
Malai Ghewar and Moong Dal Halwa.
Thali at Natraj Dining Hall – Unlimited, authentic Rajasthani meals.
Jaisalmer
After my venture in Udaipur, came Jaisalmer, another unforgettable memory.
The calm waters were replaced with the rustle of sand, the vastness of the Thar Desert, and the warmth of people who call it home. That night in the desert, under a sky littered with stars, something ancient wrapped itself around me. We were on the camel safari, but it felt more like time travel something that I so longed as a little girl.
Then we had the campfire, locals sang folk songs—raw, soulful—and the air was thick with smoke, laughter, and something I couldn’t name but will never forget. The tour guides cooked an excellent meal that we relished. Later, we laid cozy on a thin mattress under the open sky, realizing the purest silence we’d ever heard.
When in Jaisalmer things not to be missed:
Jaisalmer Fort– A living fort with homes, temples, and shops.
Patwon Ki Haveli – Ornate havelis in the old city.
Luxurious Tent Camping – Camp in a luxurious tent with dinner and folk dance
Sam Sand Dunes safari –
do you enjoy sleeping under the starry night then you must try this!
overnight desert camp.
Under the stars Camping
Gadisar Lake – Serene spot with temples and ghats.
Food to Try:
– Gatte ki Sabzi – Gram flour dumplings in curry.
–Bajre ka Sogra with jaggery and ghee.
– Desert camp food – Simple, earthy, and delicious.
Jaipur
Lastly My journey ended with Jaipur, but the city felt more like a beginning than an end.
Hawa Mahal—the Palace of Winds—stood like a pink dream in the chaos of the city. I stared at it longer than I meant to. I imagined the royal women who once looked out from its windows, watching life pass by, unseen. I wandered through markets bursting with colors and sounds—textiles, spices, jewelry, and the music of bargaining. Jaipur was loud and beautiful and alive, and somehow, it mirrored the way I felt by the end of my journey: filled with layers I was just starting to understand.
Things to Do:
-Amber Fort – Stunning hilltop fort with elephant rides or jeep access.
– Hawa Mahal – The iconic “Palace of Winds.”
– City Palace – A blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture.
– Jantar Mantar – UNESCO World Heritage astronomical site.
– Local bazaars – Johari Bazaar for jewelry, Bapu Bazaar for textiles.
Food to Try:
Laal Maas – Spicy mutton curry (if you enjoy non-veg).
Ghewar – Traditional Rajasthani sweet.
Lassi at Lassiwala (MI Road) – Iconic and refreshing.
Each city was something different.
Udaipur was serene.
While Jaisalmer made me wonder.
And Jaipur, paused me in time .
But Rajasthan as a whole gave me presence. A way to slow down, tune in, and feel deeply. It reminded me that every place has a soul—and if you’re quiet enough, it might just speak to yours.
I didn’t just take a trip. I took a piece of Rajasthan with me.
Travel Tips:
If you would like to book a trip like mine, you can try the below itinerary: Udaipur to Jaipur – 7 N/8 D tour
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