Which Rajasthan Places Are Best for First-Time Travellers?

If you are planning your first trip to Rajasthan from Punjab, let us tell you one thing—this journey will stay in your heart forever. Here, you’ll find a perfect mix of royalty, vibrant colours, desert views, and the warmth of its people. If it’s your very first time, we know you may be confused:

  • Which places should I visit first?
  • How much travel time is needed between the cities?
  • Should I hire a taxi or rent a car to explore better?
  • Which routes are comfortable for a family trip?

We understand these concerns because many of our clients from Punjab ask us the same. That’s why we’ve created this travel-friendly guide for you. This blog will tell you the best places in Rajasthan for first-time visitors, along with distances between cities, so you can plan better.

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First-Time Travellers

Punjab to Rajasthan Travel Plan

From Punjab (say Ludhiana, Amritsar, or Jalandhar), the closest entry point to Rajasthan is Jaipur, which is also known as the “Pink City.” You can book a taxi or rent a car in Punjab for Jaipur, which is around 500–600 km, depending on your city. The drive takes about 9–10 hours.

Why start with Jaipur? Because Jaipur is well-connected, easy to reach, and gives you the true royal feel of Rajasthan right from the beginning.

1. Jaipur – The Pink City

Top Attractions:

  • Amber Fort – A magnificent fortress perched on a hilltop, located about 11 km from Jaipur’s city centre.
  • City Palace – An impressive complex that beautifully combines Rajasthani and Mughal design styles.
  • Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) – A world-famous five-story structure, known for its countless small windows that let in cool breezes.
  • Jantar Mantar – A UNESCO heritage site for astronomy lovers.
  • Local Markets (Johri Bazar & Bapu Bazar) – Perfect for handicrafts, jewellery, and souvenirs.

Why Jaipur First?
It sets the mood for Rajasthan. The food (dal baati churma, ghewar, kachori) is delicious, and the city is easy to explore by car.

Distance to Next Stop:
From Jaipur, you can easily travel to Ajmer (135 km, 2.5–3 hours) or Pushkar (150 km, 3 hours).

2. Ajmer – A Spiritual Stop

Ajmer is known for the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Many travellers stop here for spiritual blessings before exploring more of Rajasthan.

Top Attractions:

  • Ajmer Sharif Dargah – A holy place visited by people of all religions.
  • Ana Sagar Lake – A peaceful spot for evening relaxation.
  • Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra – A historical mosque with unique architecture.

Distance to Next Stop:
Pushkar is only about 15 km from Ajmer, making it a quick 30-minute drive.

3. Pushkar – The Holy City with Charm

Pushkar is a small town but very famous for its Brahma Temple (the only one in India) and Pushkar Lake. It’s also popular for its vibrant bazaars and camel rides.

Why Pushkar?
If you want to experience both spirituality and local culture in one place, Pushkar is perfect. Many foreign tourists also come here.

Distance to Next Stop:
From Pushkar to Jodhpur, it’s around 210 km (4–5 hours).

4. Jodhpur – The Blue City

Jodhpur is another must-visit for first-timers. The city gets its name “Blue City” from the large number of houses painted in shades of blue.

Top Attractions:

  • Mehrangarh Fort – Among the biggest and most majestic forts in India.
  • Jaswant Thada – A marble memorial near the fort.
  • Umaid Bhawan Palace – A royal palace, part of which is still home to the royal family.
  • Clock Tower Market – Famous for spices, handicrafts, and sweets.

Why Jodhpur?
It gives you a true Rajasthani feel – from forts to food. Don’t miss mirchi vada and mawa kachori here.

Distance to Next Stop:
From Jodhpur, Jaisalmer is about 280 km (5–6 hours).

5. Jaisalmer – The Golden City & Desert Safari

For first-time travellers, Jaisalmer is a dream destination. The city is built in the middle of the desert and is famous for its golden sandstone architecture.

Top Attractions:

  • Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila) – A living fort where people still stay inside.
  • Patwon Ki Haveli – A masterpiece of carvings and design.
  • Desert Safari at Sam Sand Dunes – The highlight of the Jaisalmer trip. You can ride camels, enjoy a jeep safari, and stay in desert camps under starry skies.

Why Jaisalmer?
It’s an experience you will never forget. The desert vibe is completely different from Punjab.

Distance to Next Stop:
From Jaisalmer to Udaipur, it’s long – around 490 km (9–10 hours). Many people prefer stopping back in Jodhpur and then going to Udaipur.

6. Udaipur – The City of Lakes

Udaipur is considered the most romantic city of Rajasthan. With its lakes and palaces all around, the city looks as if it has come straight out of a painting.

Top Attractions:

  • City Palace – A breathtaking royal complex offering splendid views of Lake Pichola.
  • Lake Pichola & Fateh Sagar Lake – Perfect for boat rides.
  • Saheliyon Ki Bari – A royal garden.
  • Local Handicraft Markets – For Rajasthani artwork and fabrics.

Why Udaipur?
After exploring deserts and forts, Udaipur welcomes you with serene lakes and lush greenery, offering a sense of calm.

Distance Back to Punjab:
From Udaipur to Punjab (Ludhiana/Amritsar), it’s around 750–800 km (13–14 hours).

Best Travel Route for First-Time Travellers

If you’re coming from Punjab, here’s a simple route we suggest:
Punjab → Jaipur → Ajmer → Pushkar → Jodhpur → Jaisalmer → Jodhpur → Udaipur → Punjab
This route covers major highlights, avoids unnecessary backtracking, and balances long and short drives.

Tips for First-Time Travellers from Punjab

  • Plan 7–10 Days: Rajasthan is huge; don’t try to cover everything in 4–5 days.
  • Carry Light Woollens: Nights in the Jaisalmer desert can be cold even in winter.
  • Book Hotels in Advance: Popular cities like Jaipur and Udaipur get full quickly.
  • Try Local Food: Don’t miss dal baati churma, ghewar, mirchi vada, and pyaaz kachori.
  • Respect Local Culture: People in Rajasthan are friendly and hospitable, and even a simple smile can make a big difference.

Final Words

Your first Rajasthan trip will give you lots of happy memories to cherish. We recommend a clear route, manageable travel distances, and the comfort of a reliable car rental or taxi service in Punjab. From Jaipur’s palaces to Jaisalmer’s desert and Udaipur’s lakes – Rajasthan is waiting to welcome you.

So, if you are travelling from Punjab, book your car or taxi with Eagle Eye Car Rentals and enjoy Rajasthan the way it should be – with comfort, freedom, and peace of mind.