সোনার কেল্লা: The Golden Fortress, Jaisalmer

After exploring the "Blue City" of Jodhpur, we reach Jaisalmer - the "Golden City" of Rajasthan which shimmers like a mirage amidst the vast expanse of the Thar Desert. Its yellow sandstone ramparts, kissed golden by the desert sun, rise majestically above the dunes, whispering tales of a glorious past. But Jaisalmer is more than just a postcard-perfect desert paradise; it's a living tapestry woven with threads of history, culture and captivating charm.

Sunrise Camel Ride at Sam Dunes of Thar Desert

We head to the Thar desert of Rajasthan after a memorable visit to Jodhpur. We spend two nights in a tent camp at Sam sand dunes from where we ride camels and ATVs and experience a little of the ancient and rich culture of Rajasthan. In the next post, we also explore the epic living golden fortress-city of Jaisalmer.

Entrance of Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur (composite)

After checking out the Taj Mahal in dense smog, we drive off from Agra for a 600 km 12-hour drive to explore Jodhpur, Rajasthan which is often referred to as the "Sun City" or the "Blue City".

Monkeys at east gate of Taj Mahal

After spending christmas day exploring Kolkata, we take a Vistara flight to Delhi and hop into a minivan to drive the world-class 6-lane 165.5 KM long Yamuna Expressway toll road to Agra. We visit the Taj Mahal early next morning in the dense winter smog of southern Asia before continuing our journey to Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

Sign at Kumartuli, Kolkata roughly translates to "no nuisance in front of the goddess (Kali)"

We reach Kolkata on the morning of December 24 after almost two full days of travel that started with a drive from our home in Washington, DC to New York's JFK to catch Kuwait Airlines' Dreamliners to New Delhi via Kuwait City followed by a Vistara Airlines A320-neo connecting to Kolkata.

The sun sets on Jim Corbett National Park

The Journey Begins: Kolkata to Delhi ✈️

We woke up early to catch our flight from Kolkata to Delhi, feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation. As the plane soared into the sky, we looked down at the sprawling city of Kolkata - a place full of vibrant history and the chaotic charm we love. Two hours later, we landed in Delhi, India’s bustling capital, filled with history, culture, and food that can make your mouth water just thinking about it.

Kolkata to Delhi flight

Travel Tip: If you're flying from Kolkata, grab some famous rosogollas at the airport! They make for a sweet send-off.