Rajasthan is a land where history breathes through its forts, palaces, and colorful streets. For many, exploring Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur is a dream — but often, the budget becomes a roadblock. The good news? You can cover these three iconic cities comfortably in ₹10,000 or less without missing out on the royal experience. With a little planning, budget-friendly travel choices, and smart hacks, you can enjoy Rajasthan’s rich culture, food, and architecture without draining your wallet.
In this guide, we’ll break down your trip day-by-day, including bus routes, stay suggestions, food options, and estimated costs for a complete budget itinerary.
Why Choose Jaipur, Jodhpur & Udaipur Together?
These three cities are the perfect golden triangle of Rajasthan beyond Delhi–Agra. Jaipur (the Pink City) is full of forts and heritage charm, Jodhpur (the Blue City) is a photographer’s paradise, and Udaipur (the City of Lakes) offers serene beauty and romantic vibes. Their proximity allows for easy travel between them, especially by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) buses, which are budget-friendly and safe.
What to Pack for a Budget Rajasthan Trip
When traveling with a tight budget, packing smart is just as important as planning your itinerary. Rajasthan can get quite sunny during the day, so carry a light cotton scarf or cap for sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes are essential since you’ll be exploring forts and hilly paths. A reusable water bottle will save you money and reduce plastic waste. Don’t forget to pack a light jacket or sweater if you’re visiting in winter, as nights in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur can get chilly. A small backpack for day trips helps keep essentials like snacks, a power bank, and sunglasses handy.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Experiences
While exploring Rajasthan, respecting local customs adds depth to your journey. At religious sites, cover your head (for women) and remove footwear when entering temples. Bargaining in local markets is common, but keep it polite and friendly. If you have extra time, consider joining free walking tours in Jaipur or Jodhpur that are run by locals — they’re informative and help you see hidden gems beyond the tourist map. Attending a folk dance show or listening to Rajasthani folk music in Udaipur can also enrich your experience without stretching your budget.
How to Stretch Your ₹10K Even Further
If you want to make your ₹10,000 trip feel like a ₹15,000 experience, focus on small but impactful money-saving hacks. Book your intercity buses at least a week in advance for better rates. Travel with a group of two or three to share the cost of auto rides and hotel rooms. Choose “combo tickets” for certain attractions that cover multiple sites in one fee, such as Jaipur’s composite ticket for major monuments. And most importantly, balance paid experiences with free ones — for example, follow up a day of fort visits with a relaxing evening at a free lakeside ghat in Udaipur.
Budget Breakdown for ₹10,000
Here’s how your budget might look for a 6-day trip covering all three cities:
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (₹) |
Intercity Bus Travel | 1,500 |
Local Transport | 800 |
Stay (5 Nights) | 3,000 |
Food & Drinks | 2,200 |
Entry Fees | 1,200 |
Miscellaneous | 1,300 |
Total | 10,000 |
Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather for sightseeing.
- Avoid peak winter (Dec–Jan) if you’re sensitive to cold.
- Summers (Apr–Jun) are extremely hot and not ideal for budget travelers.
Day 1: Arrive in Jaipur (Pink City)
If you’re starting from Delhi, take a RSRTC Volvo bus or a private sleeper bus from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate to Jaipur.
- Fare: ₹400–₹500 (Non-AC Sleeper) or ₹600–₹700 (AC Sleeper)
- Duration: 5–6 hours
Stay:
Book budget hostels like:
- Zostel Jaipur – ₹500/night
- Moustache Jaipur – ₹450/night
Sightseeing:
- Hawa Mahal (₹50 entry)
- City Palace (₹200)
- Jantar Mantar (₹50)
- Evening stroll at Albert Hall Museum (₹40)
Food:
- Breakfast: Kachori at Rawat Mishthan Bhandar – ₹40
- Lunch: Veg Thali at LMB (Lakshmi Misthan Bhandar) – ₹250
- Dinner: Rajasthani snacks at Gulab Ji Chaiwala – ₹80
Local Travel:
Use shared e-rickshaws or city buses. Day expense ~ ₹150.
Day 2: Jaipur Forts & Local Life
Morning:
Take a city bus (₹20) to Amer Fort (₹100 entry). Explore the grandeur and panoramic views.
Walk or take a shared jeep (₹50) to Jaigarh Fort (₹70 entry).
Afternoon:
Visit Nahargarh Fort (₹50 entry) for sunset views.
Evening:
Explore Bapu Bazaar & Johari Bazaar for handicrafts.
Food:
- Breakfast: Poha at local stall – ₹30
- Lunch: Dal Baati Churma at Thali House – ₹200
- Dinner: Street food (Pav Bhaji, Jalebi) – ₹100
Day 3: Jaipur to Jodhpur (Blue City)
Take an overnight RSRTC Sleeper bus from Jaipur to Jodhpur.
- Fare: ₹500 (Non-AC Sleeper) / ₹650 (AC Sleeper)
- Duration: 8–9 hours
Stay:
- Zostel Jodhpur – ₹450/night
- Moustache Jodhpur – ₹400/night
Sightseeing:
- Mehrangarh Fort (₹100 entry)
- Jaswant Thada (₹50)
- Clock Tower & Sardar Market (free entry)
Food:
- Breakfast: Makhaniya Lassi – ₹40
- Lunch: Rajasthani Thali – ₹180
- Dinner: Mirchi Bada & Pyaaz Kachori – ₹70
Day 4: Jodhpur’s Culture & Blue Streets
Morning:
Stroll through the blue-painted alleys around Brahmpuri. Free and perfect for photography.
Afternoon:
Visit Mandore Gardens (Free) and Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum (₹30 entry).
Evening:
Sunset from Pachetia Hill – free but unforgettable.
Local Travel:
Share autos – ₹10–₹20 per ride.
Day 5: Jodhpur to Udaipur (City of Lakes)
Take an early morning RSRTC bus to Udaipur.
- Fare: ₹400–₹500
- Duration: 6–7 hours
Stay:
- Bunkyard Hostel – ₹500/night (Lake view)
- GoStops Udaipur – ₹450/night
Sightseeing:
- City Palace (₹300)
- Lake Pichola boat ride (₹150)
- Bagore Ki Haveli (₹100 + ₹90 for cultural show)
Food:
- Breakfast: Poha – ₹30
- Lunch: Aloo Paratha – ₹60
- Dinner: Budget Rajasthani thali – ₹180
Day 6: Udaipur’s Lakes & Markets
Morning:
Visit Saheliyon Ki Bari (₹20) & Fateh Sagar Lake (free).
Afternoon:
Relax at Ambrai Ghat or shop at Hathi Pol Bazaar for souvenirs.
Evening:
Watch sunset from Karni Mata Temple via ropeway (₹100).
Dinner:
Budget rooftop cafés with lake views – ₹200.
Bus Route Summary
- Delhi → Jaipur – RSRTC Volvo/Sleeper from Kashmere Gate
- Jaipur → Jodhpur – RSRTC AC Sleeper / Private bus
- Jodhpur → Udaipur – RSRTC Express bus
- Udaipur → Delhi – RSRTC Volvo/Sleeper from Udaipur Bus Stand
Smart Tips to Stay Under ₹10K
- Book buses online via RSRTC official site for cheaper fares.
- Travel overnight to save on stay costs.
- Stay in hostels — they’re cheaper and social.
- Eat local — street food is both affordable and authentic.
- Carry a student ID — many monuments have discounted entry for students.
- Use shared autos/buses instead of cabs.
Sample 6-Day Cost Calculation
- Travel: ₹1,500 (buses between cities)
- Stay: ₹3,000 (5 nights @ ₹500 avg)
- Food: ₹2,200 (₹350/day)
- Entry Fees: ₹1,200
- Local Transport: ₹800
- Miscellaneous/Souvenirs: ₹1,300
Total = ₹10,000