Day 1: Arrival in Mandawa – Fresco Town Exploration

Arrive in Mandawa, a charming town in the Shekhawati region, often called the “Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan.” Check into a heritage haveli-turned-hotel and enjoy a traditional welcome. Post-lunch, set out to explore the town’s famous painted havelis including Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli and Jhunjhunwala Haveli, known for their detailed frescoes depicting mythological tales and colonial influences.

Take a guided walking tour through the dusty lanes lined with ornate mansions, ancient wells, and intricately carved wooden doors. Don’t miss the Mandawa Fort, offering panoramic views and royal architecture. Stop for masala chai and snacks at a vintage-style local café. In the evening, relax under the stars with cultural folk music or a bonfire at your haveli. Overnight stay in Mandawa.

Day 2: Mandawa to Jhunjhunu – Artistic Heritage & Temples

After breakfast, drive to Jhunjhunu, another Shekhawati gem famed for its heritage buildings and spiritual sites. Begin your exploration with the grand Rani Sati Temple, dedicated to feminine power and spiritual devotion. Next, visit Khetri Mahal, an airy palace known for its arches and unique architectural design. Continue to Modi and Tibrewal Havelis, richly adorned with Shekhawati-style frescoes and traditional motifs.

Stop by the Kamruddin Shah Dargah or explore the colorful bazaars for handicrafts and traditional tie-dye fabrics. Enjoy a lunch featuring local dishes like kadhi and bajre ki roti. In the evening, relax at your heritage hotel or take a nature walk along the village outskirts, where peacocks and camels roam freely. Dinner and overnight stay in Jhunjhunu.

Day 3: Jhunjhunu to Bikaner – Royal Forts & Bazaars

Depart after breakfast for Bikaner, the desert city founded by Rao Bika, rich in history and camel culture. Upon arrival, check into a heritage hotel or palace stay. Post-lunch, head to Junagarh Fort, a massive sandstone structure with ornately decorated palaces, courtyards, and museums. Explore Anup Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Chandra Mahal, each echoing opulence and Rajput grandeur.

Later, stroll through the narrow lanes of the old city to experience local life and shop for bhujia, handicrafts, and colorful mojris. Visit the Bhandasar Jain Temple, known for its intricate carvings and gold leaf work. End the day with a desert-themed dinner at a traditional restaurant or inside your palace stay, enjoying local dishes like gatte ki sabzi and churma. Overnight in Bikaner.

Day 4: Bikaner Sightseeing – Camels & Karni Mata Temple

Start your morning with a visit to the unique National Research Centre on Camel, where you can learn about different camel breeds and even enjoy camel milk ice cream or lassi. Continue to the famous Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok, about 30 km from Bikaner, famously known as the “Rat Temple” due to thousands of revered rats believed to bring good luck.

Return to the city for a Rajasthani lunch and visit Ganga Singh Museum to see artifacts from the royal era. In the afternoon, explore Rampuria Havelis, showcasing rich red sandstone facades and Rajput-Mughal architectural brilliance. Wrap up the day with a tuk-tuk ride through Bikaner’s bustling markets or relax with evening tea at your hotel courtyard. Overnight stay in Bikaner.

Day 5: Bikaner to Khimsar – Desert Tranquility

After breakfast, drive toward Khimsar, a desert hamlet famous for its majestic fort and sand dunes. Check into the Khimsar Fort Heritage Hotel, nestled on the edge of the Thar Desert. After a delicious lunch, explore the fort’s sprawling courtyards, canons, and royal rooms that have hosted Maharajas and British officers alike.

In the late afternoon, embark on a jeep safari through the Khimsar Sand Dunes. Witness the golden sunset across the desert horizon, followed by tea and snacks in a rustic open-air setting. Enjoy a camel ride or simply soak in the desert peace. Return to your fort hotel for a grand Rajasthani dinner with folk music and traditional dances. Overnight in Khimsar.

Day 6: Explore Khimsar & Village Life

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast and walk around the peaceful Khimsar village. Interact with local artisans and witness rural Rajasthani life up close. Visit nearby temples or the scenic Khimsar Lake for birdwatching and quiet contemplation. The region is perfect for photographers looking to capture rustic textures and golden desert light.

Post lunch, unwind at the fort’s spa or enjoy a swim in the heritage pool. In the evening, take a short walk to the dunes again or participate in a desert cooking session arranged by the resort. End the day with a relaxed candlelight dinner under the stars, celebrating the magic of desert nights. Overnight stay in Khimsar.

Day 7: Departure to Jodhpur 

Enjoy a final traditional breakfast at the fort before departing for Jodhpur, your nearest major departure point. On the way, enjoy scenic views of the semi-arid desert terrain dotted with dhanis (hamlets), goats, and ancient trees. You may opt for a brief stop at Osian Temples or for local craft shopping near Jodhpur outskirts.

Carry along handcrafted souvenirs and heartwarming memories of royal havelis, sacred temples, camel rides, and the peaceful desert charm that defines this lesser-known but unforgettable side of Rajasthan.