Why Rajasthan by Self-Drive?
Rajasthan has some of India's best highways — smooth, straight, and fast. The distances between major cities are manageable (200-350 km), and the landscapes change dramatically from city to desert to lake to mountain. A self-drive car gives you the freedom to stop at roadside dhabas, photograph desert sunsets, and explore hidden temples.
Best Car for Rajasthan
Top pick: Hyundai Creta (Diesel, Automatic) — Highway comfort, good AC (essential in Rajasthan heat), diesel mileage for long distances, and enough ground clearance for village roads.
Budget pick: Maruti Swift Dzire — Great mileage, comfortable boot, handles highways perfectly.
Premium pick: Toyota Fortuner — For the royal experience to match the royal state.
The Itinerary
Day 1-2: Jaipur — The Pink City
Start here. Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Nahargarh Fort (sunset views), and Jal Mahal. The old city's pink buildings are stunning. Stay in a heritage haveli for the full experience.
Day 3: Jaipur to Pushkar — 145 km, 3 hours
The sacred city with the only Brahma Temple in the world. Pushkar Lake, camel fair grounds, and hippie cafes on the ghats. Small, walkable, and deeply spiritual.
Day 4: Pushkar to Jodhpur — 185 km, 3.5 hours
The Blue City. Mehrangarh Fort is India's most impressive fort — towering over the blue-painted old city. Visit the Toorji Ka Jhalra stepwell, clock tower market, and Umaid Bhawan Palace. The food here is incredible — try mirchi vada and makhaniya lassi.
Day 5-6: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer — 285 km, 5 hours
The Golden City. The last stretch passes through the Thar Desert — the landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic. Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort (people still live inside). Do a desert safari with camel ride and sleep under the stars at Sam Sand Dunes.
Day 7: Jaisalmer to Udaipur — 560 km, 9 hours (or break at Mount Abu)
Long drive day. We recommend breaking at Mount Abu (Rajasthan's only hill station) for an overnight stay. The Dilwara Temples here are architectural masterpieces. Next morning, drive to Udaipur (185 km, 3.5 hours).
Day 8-9: Udaipur — The City of Lakes
The most romantic city in India. Lake Pichola, City Palace, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and a sunset boat ride. The old city has amazing restaurants overlooking the lake. Udaipur deserves at least 2 nights.
Day 10: Udaipur to Jaipur (or Delhi) — 400 km, 6.5 hours
Return drive via Chittorgarh (stop for the massive fort) and Ajmer. Reach Jaipur by evening, or continue to Delhi (another 270 km).
Estimated Costs (10-day trip, 2 people)
- Self-drive rental (10 days): ₹15,000-30,000
- Fuel (total ~2,000 km): ₹10,000-14,000
- Tolls: ₹1,500-2,000
- Accommodation (9 nights): ₹15,000-40,000
- Food & activities: ₹8,000-15,000
- Total: ₹50,000-1,00,000 (for 2 people)
Tips for Rajasthan Self-Drive
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and at least 3 litres of water per person in the car
- AC is non-negotiable — check it works before you leave
- Best season: October to March (avoid April-June — extreme heat)
- Rajasthan highways are fast but watch for camels, cattle, and tractors
- Fill fuel at every major city — petrol pumps can be far apart in desert stretches
Written by
Carsavaar Editorial Team
Editorial Team, Carsavaar
Reviewed by Carsavaar operations
Articles published under the Carsavaar Editorial Team are researched by our content team and reviewed by senior operations members for accuracy on pricing, policy and process details. We update guides quarterly to reflect current rates, document requirements, and route conditions across India.