Rajasthan, which literally translates to “The Abode of Kings,” is a land where every grain of sand whispers tales of valor and sacrifice. The foundation of modern Rajasthan was laid on March 15, 1949, when the powerful princely states of Rajputana began to merge.
Before this unification, the region consisted of 19 princely states and three chiefships (Lava, Neemrana, and Kushalgarh). The cultural diversity of this land is fascinating—ranging from the Yadav rulers in Dholpur-Karauli to the Muslim princely state of Tonk and the Jat rulers of Bharatpur.
Uniting these scattered states after independence from British rule was a Herculean task. Many rulers demanded ‘Independent State’ status to retain their power. However, the vision and grit of India’s Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and his secretary, V.P. Menon, made the impossible possible.
The unification process, which began on March 18, 1948, concluded in seven stages by November 1, 1956, giving birth to the present-day Rajasthan with 26 districts.
Today, this historic land invites travelers through its 21 National Highways and seamless connectivity. If you wish to witness this land of warriors on a modest budget of Rs.4,000–Rs.6,000, these five iconic cities are ready to welcome you.
“Padharo Mhare Des!” (Welcome to my land!) — This isn’t just a slogan; it is the soul of Rajasthan that draws every traveler inward. Usually, the name Rajasthan conjures images of opulent palaces, camel safaris, and an expensive royal lifestyle. But did you know that Rajasthan is one of the few places in India where you can travel like a King on a Backpacker’s budget?
If you are someone who wants to collect royal memories without breaking the bank, this special guide by RoadTipper is for you. Let’s talk about the 5 cities of Rajasthan that you can easily explore within Rs.4,000 to Rs.6,000.
1. Jaipur
If Rajasthan is a royal necklace, Jaipur is its most brilliant diamond. Calling it just the ‘Pink City’ would be an understatement; Jaipur is an emotion—a beautiful blend of old-world grace and modern-day pace.
When you first step into the lanes of Jaipur, the terracotta-pink walls make you feel as though you’ve stepped back into a King’s court. The beauty of Jaipur lies not just in the Hawa Mahal or Amer Fort, but in the aroma of fresh morning Kachoris, the clinking of Mojaris in the markets, and the warm “Khamma Ghani” greeted by the locals.
Budget Travel Tips for Jaipur:
- Affordable Transit: Dozens of buses and trains run daily from Delhi. A sleeper class ticket costs only ₹150–₹300.
- Budget Stay: Opt for backpacker hostels like Zostel or Moustache, where a bed costs around ₹400.
- Must Visit: Amer Fort, Nahargarh (best for sunset), and Hawa Mahal. Pro Tip: Carry your Student ID for massive discounts on entry tickets.
Food: Try the famous Rawat’s Pyaaz Kachori. Local dhabas near Mall Road offer full Thalis for just ₹100
2. Pushkar
If Jaipur is the pride of Rajasthan, Pushkar is its soul. Tucked away in the Ajmer hills, this tiny town feels like a mystical realm. The moment you enter Pushkar, the scent of incense and the chime of temple bells transport you to a different world.
Pushkar is famous for the world’s only Brahma Temple, but its true magic lies in the peace found on the ghats of Pushkar Lake. At sunset, as the Maha Aarti begins and hundreds of lamps dance on the water, all your worries seem to fade away. The streets are narrow, colorful, and filled with vibrant cafes and old bookstores.
Budget Travel Tips for Pushkar:
How to Reach: Take a train to Ajmer (₹200–₹400) and then a local bus for just ₹20 to reach Pushkar.
Affordable Stay: Guesthouses are available for ₹300–₹500. The town is famous for its cheap and vibrant Israeli cafe culture.
Highlight: The trek to Savitri Mata Temple for a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Taste: Don’t miss the Malpua and Lassi—they are legendary!
3. Udaipur
Udaipur is like a beautiful oasis in the heart of the desert. While it’s often called the ‘Venice of the East,’ Udaipur has a royal charm that is entirely its own.
It’s like fine wine; the more you see it, the more you fall in love with it.
Imagine sitting by Lake Pichola, watching the white marble Lake Palace float on the water while the Aravalli hills embrace the city.
Udaipur’s beauty isn’t just in its lakes; it’s in the silence of its alleys and the grandeur of the City Palace, which still echoes stories of Mewar’s bravery.
Budget Travel Tips for Udaipur:
- Budget Stay: While lakeside hotels are pricey, the Chandpole area offers great hostels for around ₹500.
- Commute: Autos can be expensive. Rent a scooter for ₹400/day to explore at your own pace.
- Free Views: Watching the sunset at Gangaur Ghat is free and better than any 5-star experience.
Food: Enjoy a Kulhad Coffee at Fateh Sagar Lake for a few rupees.
4. Jodhpur
As you enter the gateway to the Thar desert, the mighty Mehrangarh Fort looms over you like a giant protector. Looking down from the fort’s ramparts, the sea of blue houses—the Blue City—makes you feel like you are in another dimension.
Jodhpur is a city of sweetness—both in its food and its language. Walking through the blue lanes, you feel that every stone has a story to tell. The local Marwari dialect is so polite that you’ll feel at home instantly.
Budget Travel Tips for Jodhpur:
- Affordable Stay: Stay near the Clock Tower (Old City). You can find old haveli-style guesthouses for ₹400–₹600.
- Mehrangarh Fort: While entering the museum costs money, wandering through the Blue City lanes at the base of the fort is free and perfect for photography.
Food: Jodhpur’s Mirchi Vada and Makhaniya Lassi are world-famous and very cheap.
5. Chittorgarh
If you think history only exists in books, step into Chittorgarh. The air here still smells of honor and sacrifice. This isn’t just a city; it’s the ultimate symbol of Indian self-respect.
The Chittorgarh Fort, sprawling across a hilltop, is one of the largest in India. It is the land of Queen Padmini’s courage, Meera Bai’s devotion, and Panna Dhay’s sacrifice. When the Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) glows in the evening light, it screams the story of Mewar’s triumph.
Budget Travel Tips for Chittorgarh:
- The Fort: The entry ticket is very cheap. Use a sharing auto to explore the vast fort area.
Expenses: Food and stay here are nearly 30% cheaper than in other tourist cities. You can have a fantastic day here for under ₹1,000.
Category | Estimated Cost |
Travel (Trains/Buses) | ₹1,500 |
Stay (Hostels/Dorms – 4 Nights) | ₹1,600 |
Food (Street Food/Thalis) | ₹1,500 |
Local Transport (Buses/Walking) | ₹600 |
Tickets & Misc | ₹400 |
Total | ~₹5,600 |
RoadTipper Special: Pro-Tips for Budget Travelers
- Public Transport: Use RSRTC (Rajasthan Roadways) buses. They are frequent, reliable, and much cheaper than private taxis.
- Street Food over Fine Dining: The real taste of Rajasthan is at roadside dhabas and local sweet shops. A Dal-Baati-Churma thali for ₹150 is a steal!
- Travel Overnight: Take night buses or trains between cities to save on one night’s hotel cost.
- Save Water: Rajasthan is a water-scarce region. Carry your own bottle and refill it at ‘Thanda Jal’ counters found at stations and markets.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal. Monsoon (July-Sept) is also beautiful. Avoid the scorching heat of May and June.
Conclusion
Rajasthan is not just a state of palaces; it is a state of stories scattered in every alley. A budget of ₹5,000–₹6,000 is more than enough to soak in the culture, taste, and history of this land. Wealth isn’t about how much money you have; it’s about the richness of your travel experiences.
So, pack your bags, lace up your shoes, and lose yourself in the colorful streets of Rajasthan. Believe me, Rajasthan will never disappoint you!
Happy Traveling!
Did you find this guide helpful? If you have any questions or want a detailed itinerary for a specific city, let me know in the comments!