Five days is enough for a good first look at Rajasthan if you pick two cities and accept that you will leave things out. This itinerary pairs Jaipur and Udaipur, which give contrasting experiences: a busy fort city and a calmer lake city.
Who it suits: couples, families and first-time visitors who do not want long drives. What it leaves out: Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Pushkar and Ranthambore, which need more time. For those, see the 7-day itinerary.
Seasonal tweaks: from October to March the plan is as written. In the monsoon, Udaipur is lovely and Jaipur is manageable; in summer, shift sightseeing to early morning and late afternoon. During festivals such as the Jaipur Literature Festival or Pushkar Fair, book early.
The transfer. Jaipur to Udaipur is about 400 km, a six to seven hour drive. A flight or express train saves time, but needs early booking. Driving gives you the chance to stop at Ajmer or Chittorgarh. Day 3 absorbs this transfer so you do not lose a day.
Getting around. A private car with driver is the simplest way to cover Jaipur's forts and Udaipur's palaces. Tickets are paid separately. Want a version priced for your dates? See the Jaipur and Udaipur honeymoon or ask for a custom plan.
