8 - Day Rajasthan Desert Tour – Jodhpur, Jaisalmer & Bikaner.

Day 1: Arrival in Jodhpur – Gateway to the Thar Desert

Arrive in Jodhpur, the famed Blue City of Rajasthan. On arrival, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel (stay at Jee Ri Haveli).

In the afternoon, begin exploring the highlights of Jodhpur:

· Mehrangarh Fort – Rising 400 feet above the city, this colossal fort is one of the most magnificent in India. Explore its sprawling courtyards, palaces decorated with intricate carvings, and museum collections of royal costumes, weapons, and artifacts. The panoramic view of the blue-painted old city from the ramparts is unforgettable.

· Jaswant Thada – A serene white marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, surrounded by gardens and offering a peaceful retreat.

Evening free for leisure or a short walk in the old lanes of Jodhpur. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

Day 2: Jodhpur – Bishnoi Village Safari, Umaid Bhawan Palace & Local Markets

After breakfast, enjoy a Jeep safari through Bishnoi Village, where you will witness the unique eco-friendly lifestyle of the Bishnoi community, known for their conservation of nature and wildlife. Highlights include:

· Khejri Trees & Guda Lake – Spot blackbucks, peacocks, and migratory birds.

· Singasani Village – Learn about traditional mud hut architecture and local handicrafts.

· Lunch with locals – Experience true Rajasthani hospitality with a homemade meal.

Return to Jodhpur and visit:

· Umaid Bhawan Palace – A magnificent 20th-century palace that is still home to the royal family. Part of the palace is now a museum with royal memorabilia, vintage cars, and art deco interiors.

· Clock Tower & Sadar Market – End your day with a vibrant walk through Jodhpur’s old market, filled with spices, handicrafts, textiles, and antiques.

Overnight stay at Jee Ri Haveli, Jodhpur.

Day 3: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer Desert Camp (320 km / 6 hrs)

After breakfast, drive across the desert roads to Jaisalmer, the Golden City. En route, stop at:

· Kuldhara Village – An abandoned village with a haunting story, believed to have been deserted overnight by its residents centuries ago.

On arrival at Sam Sand Dunes, check into your desert camp and enjoy a magical desert evening:

· Camel Safari & Jeep Ride – Experience the desert’s charm while riding through sand dunes.

· Sunset View – Watch the sun paint the desert skies in golden hues.

· Cultural Evening – Enjoy Rajasthani folk dance, music, and local cuisine around a bonfire under the starlit sky.

Overnight stay at a desert camp in Jaisalmer.

Day 4: Jaisalmer Excursion – Longewala & Tanot Mata Temple

After an early breakfast, head west to visit:

· Longewala War Memorial – A fascinating museum that recounts the 1971 Indo-Pak war. See original bunkers, tanks, and artillery, and learn about the legendary battle fought here.

· Tanot Mata Temple – A sacred temple close to the border, revered for the miracles where bombs dropped during the war never exploded. The temple is managed by the Border Security Force and holds deep faith for locals and soldiers alike.

Return to Jaisalmer and check into a city hotel. Evening free at leisure. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

Day 5: Jaisalmer City Tour – Forts, Havelis & Sunset at the Dunes

After breakfast, explore the treasures of Jaisalmer:

· Jaisalmer Fort (Golden Fort) – A living fort where people still reside. Explore Jain temples, colorful houses, and bustling markets inside the fort.

· Patwon Ki Haveli – A stunning mansion built by a wealthy merchant, famous for its intricate balconies and detailed carvings.

· Nathmalji Ki Haveli & Salim Singh Ki Haveli – Known for unique facades and fine stonework.

· Bada Bagh – A royal cenotaph complex on the outskirts, offering scenic views at sunset.

In the evening, return to Sam Sand Dunes for another enchanting sunset in the Thar Desert before heading back to your hotel in Jaisalmer. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer city.

Day 6: Jaisalmer to Bikaner (330 km / 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Bikaner, a vibrant desert city. On arrival, check into your hotel and visit the unique:

· Camel Breeding Center (open 2 PM – 6 PM) – An extraordinary facility where you can learn about camel breeding, see different breeds of camels, and even try camel milk products like kulfi and ice cream.

Overnight stay in Bikaner.

Day 7: Bikaner Sightseeing – Junagarh Fort & Karni Mata Temple

After breakfast, explore:

· Junagarh Fort – Built in the 16th century, this massive fort houses beautifully decorated palaces, courtyards, temples, and museums. Its architecture reflects Mughal, Gujarati, and Rajput influences.

· Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple) – Located in Deshnok, this unusual temple is home to thousands of holy rats, considered sacred and believed to bring good fortune.

Evening free for shopping in Bikaner’s bustling local markets, famous for Bikaneri bhujia, sweets, leather goods, and handicrafts. Overnight stay in Bikaner.

Day 8: Departure from Bikaner

After breakfast, transfer to Bikaner Railway Station or Airport for your onward journey, concluding your 8-day Rajasthan Desert Tour filled with forts, palaces, temples, dunes, and vibrant desert culture.