From Pink Palaces to Golden Sands: Monika’s Heartfelt Tour of Rajasthan with Thrillophilia
When my husband and I finally decided to take a break from our hectic work routine in Mumbai, we found Rajasthan calling out to us. We’d talked about it for years, enchanted by the royal history, the colours, and the culture we’d heard so much about. Our plan for a vacation was simple - exploring Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer - each promising a unique side of Rajasthan. With tickets booked, bags packed, and hearts full of excitement, we set off on an adventure that exceeded all our expectations.
We reached out to Thrillophilia who would look after every travel arrangement as we wanted to explore and immerse ourselves in the overall experience without any worries. They patiently listened to our choices, addressed our queries and provided us with a perfect itinerary that would bring out the best essence of Rajasthan before us.
Our First Stop: Jaipur
Our adventure in Rajasthan began in Jaipur, the famous Pink City. Stepping into Jaipur felt like we’d entered a world filled with centuries-old palaces and vibrant bazaars. On our first morning, we made our way to the Hawa Mahal, its honeycomb structure glistening under the morning sun. The intricate pink sandstone carvings were mesmerizing, and as we climbed to the top, we got a perfect view of the bustling streets below.
The next highlight was the Amber Fort. We chose to take a jeep ride up to the fort’s entrance, which added a dash of thrill to the experience. Inside, each courtyard was grander than the last. The mirror-studded Sheesh Mahal was particularly dazzling, with every bit of glass catching and reflecting the sunlight like a thousand tiny stars.
After an afternoon of exploring, we spent the evening at Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort. It was the perfect end to our day, with traditional food served on huge platters, dancers in colourful attire, and puppet shows. One of the best delicacies that we tried was Dal Bati Churma, an authentic Rajasthan delicacy served with a spicy Lehsun ki Chutney. Watching my husband try his hand at folk dancing (and failing spectacularly) had us both laughing until our stomachs hurt.
Jodhpur: The Blue City
Next, we travelled to Jodhpur, known as the Blue City for its indigo coloured houses. Our first stop here was the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, which looms over the city from a cliff. Walking through its grand gates felt almost surreal. The fort's history came alive through tales of battles, and inside, the museum offered glimpses of royal life, showcasing swords, palanquins, and even a collection of baby cradles used by the royal families.
In the afternoon, we visited the Jaswant Thada, a serene white marble monument close to the fort. Its delicate lattice screens and peaceful surroundings made it feel like an oasis. As the sun set, we watched the city below transform with a warm, golden glow cast over the sea of blue houses.
We spent the evening at the bustling Sardar Market, which was an experience in itself. The market was lively, with vendors selling everything from spices to handcrafted items. After browsing, we sampled some famous Rajasthani snacks like mirchi bada and mawa kachori, each bite bursting with flavours.
“I never thought chilli could be used for making such a lip-smacking snack”, Monika said.
“Yes, it is absolutely incredible how the tastes and food choices of the people change with every mile in our country”, her husband added.
Jaisalmer: The Golden City
Our last stop was the Golden City of Jaisalmer, known for its sandstone architecture that seems to glow in the sunlight. As we drove closer to the city, the vast Thar Desert stretched before us, making the landscape feel almost surreal.
Our first stop was tThe Jaisalmer Fort which was unlike any fort we'd seen before - it was a living fort, with people residing inside its walls, operating shops, cafes, and even hotels. We wandered through its narrow lanes, stumbling upon beautifully decorated havelis and enjoying the friendly chats with shopkeepers who sold everything from embroidered textiles to silver jewellery.
The highlight of Jaisalmer, though, was our desert safari in the Sand Dunes. As we rode camels into the endless sand dunes, a calmness settled over us. The colours of the desert shifted from golden to amber as the sun began to set, and watching it dip below the horizon felt nothing short of magical.
We spent the night in a desert camp, complete with folk music, dance performances, and a starlit dinner. Sitting under the vast night sky, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. The vastness and beauty of the desert around us were humbling, and we both felt a profound sense of peace.
Wrapping Up with Memories and Gratitude
As our Rajasthan trip came to an end, my husband and I couldn’t stop recounting each special moment. Jaipur’s palaces, Jodhpur’s blue hues, and Jaisalmer’s golden sands had left imprints on us, and we knew these memories would stay with us forever. Every part of this trip had a unique charm, from the vibrant markets to the tranquil desert nights.
Our Rajasthan adventure was more than a vacation; it was a journey through history, culture, and beauty that reminded us of the diversity and richness of India. We left with hearts full of gratitude, promising ourselves we’d return someday to experience more of this incredible land.
Read More: Thrillophilia Rajasthan Reviews