Some people come to Rajasthan for the palaces. Others come for the desert — the dunes, the camels, the forts standing alone against enormous skies. This trip is for the second kind.
It runs through the heart of the Thar, taking in three desert cities that each do something different, and building in real time in the dunes rather than a rushed hour at sunset.
The route
From Jaipur, head into the desert to Bikaner, less visited than its neighbours and all the better for it — the vast Junagarh Fort, and the extraordinary camel breeding farm on the city’s edge.
Then to Jaisalmer, the golden city, for its living fort, its carved havelis, and a night at a Sam dunes desert camp — camel safari, sunset over the dunes, and folk performances after dark.
Finish in Jodhpur, the blue city, where Mehrangarh Fort looks down over the old town from its rocky perch. A fitting end to a desert run.
What’s included: private air-conditioned car with driver, hotels with breakfast, a desert camp night with camel safari, and all driving. Guides, monument entry and the camel safari upgrades can be added.
Questions about this trip
What's the difference between this and the Royal Rajasthan tour?
This circuit focuses on the desert — Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur — with more dune time and no Udaipur. Royal Rajasthan adds Udaipur and the lakes but spends less time in the desert. Choose based on whether you're here for sand or for palaces.
Is Bikaner worth including?
Yes, if you like places that aren't overrun. Junagarh Fort is superb and the camel farm is unique in India. It's a genuine desert town without the tourist polish of Jaisalmer.
When is the best time for a desert trip?
October to March. Desert days are pleasant in winter but nights get genuinely cold, so pack a jacket. Avoid the summer months, when daytime desert heat is extreme.
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