Rajasthan Tour Packages: What’s Included and What’s Not

Rajasthan, a state filled with history, culture, and adventure, is one of the top tourist destinations in India. Visitors come here to experience its majestic forts, stunning palaces, and unique desert landscapes. Many tour operators offer Rajasthan tour packages, but what exactly do these packages include? In this article, we’ll break down what’s commonly included and what’s not, with a special focus on activities like desert safaris and camel rides, as well as visits to famous forts and palaces.

What’s Typically Included in Rajasthan Tour Packages

1. Accommodation
   Most Rajasthan tour packages will cover your accommodation. You’ll have a variety of options to choose from, depending on the type of package you book. Budget packages usually offer 2 or 3-star hotels, while mid-range and luxury packages will give you a stay in 4 or 5-star hotels, including heritage hotels that were once palaces. These heritage hotels give you a royal experience, which many tourists seek when visiting Rajasthan.

2. Meals
   Many packages will include breakfast at the hotel. In some cases, lunch and dinner may also be part of the package, especially in all-inclusive or luxury tours. However, for budget tours, lunch and dinner are often not included, allowing tourists to explore local restaurants at their own pace.

3. Transport
   One of the biggest conveniences of booking a Rajasthan tour package is that transportation within the state is typically included. Whether it’s airport or railway station pick-up and drop-off, intercity travel, or guided tours within a city, most tour packages provide a car or coach, depending on the size of the group. Some even offer the option of private cars for small groups or families.

4. Sightseeing
   A key feature of all tour packages is the inclusion of guided sightseeing tours. You’ll be taken to major attractions in cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer. This usually includes visits to:

• Forts and Palaces: Rajasthan is known for its grand forts and palaces, and most packages will take you to top landmarks like the Amber Fort in Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, and the City Palace in Udaipur. In Jaisalmer, you’ll get to see the Golden Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Temples and Lakes: Most packages will also include visits to famous temples like the Brahma Temple in Pushkar or the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu. You’ll likely also get to see scenic lakes like Lake Pichola in Udaipur or the Sambhar Salt Lake.

5. Desert Safari and Camel Rides
   If you’re visiting Jaisalmer or Bikaner, many packages include desert activities like a desert safari or a camel safari. These activities are highlights for most travelers. A desert safari in Jaisalmer, for example, usually includes a 4x4 jeep ride through the sand dunes of the Thar Desert. Camel rides are often included as part of this experience, giving you a chance to explore the desert in a more traditional way.
   These safaris typically take place during the evening, allowing you to enjoy the sunset over the dunes. Some luxury tour packages may even offer an overnight stay in a desert camp, where you can enjoy local Rajasthani food and cultural performances under the stars.

6. Cultural Shows and Folk Dances
   Rajasthan is famous for its vibrant culture, and many tour packages will include opportunities to experience it firsthand. This may involve attending folk dance performances like the Kalbeliya dance, puppet shows, or listening to traditional Rajasthani music, usually offered as part of evening entertainment at desert camps or hotels.

What’s Not Typically Included in Rajasthan Tour Packages

While Rajasthan tour packages cover a lot, there are some things that are generally not included. It’s important to be aware of these so you can budget accordingly.

1. Entry Fees to Monuments
   Although the tour will take you to many famous landmarks, the entry fees to these forts, palaces, and temples are usually not included. You’ll need to pay for these separately. In popular cities like Jaipur or Udaipur, these fees can add up, so make sure to check the costs in advance.

2. Personal Expenses
   Any shopping you do, tips you give to guides or drivers, or personal expenses like laundry or room service at the hotel are typically not covered in the Rajasthan package. These are costs you’ll need to bear yourself.

3. Flights or Train Tickets
   Most  Best Rajasthan tour packages do not include your transportation to and from Rajasthan. Whether you’re flying into Jaipur, Udaipur, or Jodhpur, or arriving by train, these costs are usually excluded from the package price. However, some operators may offer assistance with booking these tickets for an additional fee.

4. Optional Activities
   There are a number of optional activities that are often not part of the standard package but can be added for an extra cost. These might include hot air balloon rides over Jaipur, boat rides on Lake Pichola, or elephant rides at Amber Fort. While these experiences can enhance your trip, they are not included in most basic tour packages.

5. Meals Not Mentioned in the Itinerary
   As mentioned earlier, breakfast is usually included in most packages, but lunch and dinner are often not. In cities like Jaipur or Jodhpur, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore local restaurants and try traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri. If meals are not included in your package, this gives you more freedom to try different places.

6. Travel Insurance
   Most tour packages do not include travel insurance, which is an important consideration, especially if you’re booking an extended or adventurous trip. It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance separately to cover any unexpected events, such as flight delays, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

7. Special Permits
   Some areas in Rajasthan, particularly near the international border, may require special permits for foreign visitors. These are usually not included in the package and will need to be arranged separately if you plan to visit restricted areas.

Conclusion

Best Rajasthan tour packages offer a convenient and comprehensive way to explore this beautiful state, with inclusions like accommodation, transport, and sightseeing. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip or a luxury experience, there’s something for everyone. Popular activities like desert safari in Rajasthan, camel rides, and visits to famous forts and palaces are often included, making it easy to enjoy the best of Rajasthan. However, it’s important to be aware of what’s not included, such as entry fees, meals, and personal expenses, so you can plan your trip accordingly.

If you’re dreaming of a Rajasthan adventure, a well-planned tour package can help you make the most of your time in this royal land.