Rajasthan, the Land of Kings, may be known for its golden deserts, royal palaces, and colorful traditions, but during Christmas, the state transforms into a delightful blend of culture, festivity, and warmth. From the shimmering lights of Udaipur’s lakeside palaces to the musical nights of Jaisalmer’s dunes, Rajasthan offers a truly unique Christmas experience. Here are some of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Rajasthan.
1. Jaipur – The Pink City’s Royal Christmas
Jaipur, with its blend of heritage and modernity, is one of the most vibrant places to celebrate Christmas in Rajasthan. The city’s luxury hotels like Rambagh Palace, Fairmont Jaipur, and Rajputana Sheraton host grand Christmas Eve dinners and parties, complete with live music, carols, and themed buffets.
Malls such as World Trade Park and GT Central sparkle with Christmas décor, while cafes in C-Scheme and MI Road serve special festive menus. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and St. Andrew’s Church hold midnight masses, attended by locals and tourists alike. A walk through the beautifully lit streets of the Pink City, with the aroma of plum cakes and cinnamon in the air, makes for a magical Christmas night.
2. Udaipur – The City of Lakes and Lights
Udaipur is undoubtedly one of the most romantic destinations in India, and during Christmas, it becomes even more enchanting. The City of Lakes dazzles with fairy lights reflecting off the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola.
Luxury resorts such as The Leela Palace, Taj Lake Palace, and Fateh Prakash Palace offer candle-lit Christmas dinners on lakeside terraces, complete with Rajasthani folk music and Christmas carols. The town’s cafes and bakeries, like Jheel’s and Café Edelweiss, prepare delightful Christmas treats. The local churches, especially Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral, host midnight masses that blend spirituality with festive joy. For a memorable evening, a boat ride on Lake Pichola under the starry sky is simply unforgettable.
3. Jaisalmer – A Desert Christmas Under the Stars
If you want an offbeat Christmas celebration, head to Jaisalmer. Imagine celebrating Christmas in the middle of the Thar Desert, surrounded by golden sand dunes and a sky full of stars. Desert camps such as Suryagarh, Sam Sand Dunes Desert Camp, and Prince Desert Camp organize Christmas-themed bonfires, folk dances, and fusion music nights.
Guests can savor Rajasthani delicacies and festive desserts while enjoying camel rides and stargazing sessions. The old fort area of Jaisalmer glows with lanterns and decorations, creating a surreal backdrop for a Christmas celebration that feels both royal and adventurous.
4. Mount Abu – A Hill Station Christmas
Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu, provides a cool and cozy Christmas experience. With misty mornings and chilly evenings, it’s perfect for a winter holiday. Nakki Lake and the surrounding market come alive with lights, and hotels arrange Christmas parties with bonfires, cakes, and live music.
The St. Mary’s Church in Mount Abu is beautifully decorated and holds an inspiring midnight mass that attracts both locals and visitors. Enjoying a warm cup of coffee by the lake after mass, with the chill of the Aravallis around you, makes for a serene and memorable Christmas moment.
5. Jodhpur – A Royal Blue Christmas
The Blue City, Jodhpur, combines regal charm with festive cheer during Christmas. Mehrangarh Fort, lit up at night, provides a majestic backdrop for holiday celebrations. Luxury hotels like Umaid Bhawan Palace and Raas Jodhpur host grand feasts and cultural performances.
Christmas markets pop up around Clock Tower, selling handicrafts, sweets, and ornaments. The Sacred Heart Church conducts a traditional midnight mass followed by community celebrations. For an authentic experience, enjoy a rooftop dinner overlooking the blue lanes of the old city while fireworks light up the night sky.