Winter is the favourite, but every season has its own Rajasthan. A simple guide to weather, festivals and crowds through the year.
Jaipur and Jaisalmer sit in very different landscapes, one a busy royal capital and the other a golden city at the edge of the Thar. The weather shapes how each one feels, so here is how we suggest choosing your month.
October to March: peak season
Days are warm and sunny, nights are cool, and in the desert they can get cold in December and January, so pack a light jacket. This is the best time for forts, city walks and desert camps. It is also the busiest, so book hotels and camps early, especially around Diwali, Christmas and New Year.
Festivals worth planning around
- Diwali (October or November) lights up Jaipur's bazaars.
- The Jaisalmer Desert Festival (usually February) brings camel races, folk music and turban tying contests.
- Holi (March) is colourful and joyful, best enjoyed with a local guide.
April to June: hot but quiet
Temperatures often cross 40°C, especially in Jaisalmer. If you travel now, keep sightseeing to early mornings and evenings, choose hotels with a pool, and expect lower rates and fewer crowds.
July to September: monsoon green
Rain is light in Jaisalmer and moderate in Jaipur. The countryside turns green, the air cools a little and the lakes fill up. It is a good season for photographers and travellers on a budget, though some desert camps close.
Our pick
For a first visit, November and February are hard to beat: pleasant weather, clear skies and the full desert camp experience. Tell us your dates and we will suggest the best plan for that season.
